Seattle, Washington was never on my list of must-see cities. In fact, when given the opportunity to visit it a while back, my chief - and possibly only - concern was getting to visit the original Starbucks.

I traveled there on a school trip and stayed for only a few days, but despite my short visit, I really feel like I got a feel of the city. And what a city it is!

When I first arrived I was completely taken aback by the gorgeous skyline. Before I even landed, I was greeted by stunning skyscrapers saying hello. I was completely in awe. Every mile closer to the city center I got from the airport, I was amazed at the incredible way that the urban world and mother nature coexist so well in this city. It was this beautiful marriage that helped inspire Seattle’s earthy, natural vibe. The metropolis was full of make-your-own salad bars and gluten free smoothie places. While I don’t normally partake in the healthier menu, my insides probably thanked me for all the greens.

Between presentations at the conference that I was originally there to attend, I managed to venture to the Space Needle and The University of Washington - two of the most gorgeous sites I’ve ever laid eyes on. It really is too bad that I didn’t know about that campus sooner. Washington Uni might have given even Roger a run for its money. Atop the Space Needle I took probably one of the corniest photos I’ve ever taken of myself standing in front of a green, but some of the most gorgeous city photos I’ve ever had the pleasure of snapping.

And while I made it my mission to see Seattle for more than just a good cup of coffee, admittedly, there was rarely a moment that went by that I didn’t have something from Starbucks in my hand. I even managed to take my pilgrimage to the OG Starbucks, as well as the OG Starbucks Reserve - two absolute life goals of mine. Amazing to think that now I have a Starbucks Reserve right in my back yard. I felt like a rockstar ordering from the elite Reserve menu. I tried some of the craziest combinations I could find. The honey tea latte was a win for sure - just another thing that Starbucks is doing right.

From the second I set foot off the plane, Seattle stole my heart. I fell in love with the welcoming people and the semi-familiar rainy and overcast weather - which were both beautiful reminders of my time in the UK.

When it was time to take flight back out East, my heart was sad to leave such a lively and lovely place. I always figured when I said goodbye I’d miss the coffee, but I had no idea how much I’d miss the city itself.