Seattle is surrounded by mountains, lakes, streams and evergreens. The city has a close connection with the outdoors. the tight connection can become a bit strained during the famous September to April rainy season, there are plenty of things to do indoors as well. With hundreds of pubs, bars and restaurants, coupled with the theatre and other arts, there's enough in Seattle to keep you busy indoors for a rainy day or two.
Two famous companies, Microsoft and Boeing, anchor the Seattle economy, even though Boeing headquarters have defected to Chicago. Its location on the edge of the Pacific rim is also lending Seattle increasing importance as a gateway to Asia. Seattle tourism is important to the area, making hotel reservations in Seattle almost essential during the summer.
The "Emerald City" has come a long way since the founding of the Washington territory in 1853. A young city even by American standards, Seattle has moved into the national consciousness as a setting for movies and TV series, and high tech industry. If it hasn't already, Seattle will soon join the list of "must see" American cities.
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