I am convinced that Seattle has it all—beaches, mountains, forests, art, culture, coffee, tech—the list could go on.

This past spring break some of my best friends and I packed ourselves into a five seat sedan and drove up the west coast to visit this unforgettably vibrant city. I haven’t been to Seattle since I was about two (and that barely even counts), so my memories of this modern metropolis were spotty at best. I had the preconceived notion that this was “just another city of skyrises.” Needless to say, I was terribly wrong.

From laughing conversations over coffee to meeting the owner of the Queen Anne bookshop, I fell in love with Seattle and its ability to emphasize the simplicity of everyday things done well. A latte to kickstart your day? Done, topped to milk foam perfection. An appreciation for food and flowers in full bloom? Spend your morning at Pike Place Market. There is something to do or try for just about everyone.

And for me, Seattle was a much-needed break from the stress of Berkeley. I will definitely be back.