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Seattle: Know Before You Go Part of the Places of a Lifetime series from Traveler magazine

Local experts recommend books, music, and films that give you a feel for the city. Also: travel basics, the best websites and local media, cultural tips, recipes, advice on shopping for local handicrafts, and walking tours of the city.

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From the Bremerton Ferry, a blurry cityscape of Elliot Bay and downtown Seattle begins to come into focus.
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The Basics
Nuts-and-bolts information to plan your trip, plus a checklist of essentials to include when you pack.
Get the Basics

Cultural Tips
Cultural dos and don’ts, plus a handy phrase book that introduces you to the language and local argot.
Learn Seattle Cultural Tips

Books
Great reading that provides a sense of the city, from the Traveler online Ultimate Travel Library.
Get a Reading List

Music
Compilations and classic songs that put you in mind of the city, from our city playlist.
Experience the Sounds of Seattle

Movies and TV Shows
Movies and television programs that capture the atmosphere of the city.
Get Movie and TV Show List

Recipes
A sampling of signature regional dishes, with complete instructions for preparation.

Links and Media
Our favorite Web links and the best local media.
Get Links and Media

Authentic Shopping Guide
The best local handicrafts and artisanal items, from our online worldwide Authentic Shopping Guide
View Shopping List

Walking Tours
Three select walks that reveal the best of the city.

Seattle Multimedia

Know Before You Go: Seattle

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Seattle: The Basics

Traveler magazine gives you some nuts-and-bolts information to plan your trip, plus a checklist of essentials to include when you pack.

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Sacred Places of A Lifetime

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Visiting 500 of the most sacred destinations, this book answers the call of the spiritual traveler.