Plus Size Travel Tips…

New year, new adventures, which may mean plus size travel.

As a plus-size person, travel can be daunting but it’s possible. Search the hashtag #plussizetravel on Instagram and you’ll see tons of images of plus-size people traveling and seeing the world. 

Your size should never stop you from traveling and getting out there in the world.

So we reached out to the following plus-size travel bloggers to share their travel tips, along with some tips from myself, who at a size 26/28 with 66” hips, has traveled the world too!

• Adrienne from Traveling Adrienne & co-host of the Plus Size Traveler Podcast
• Jeff from Chubby Diaries
• Seth from The Model Father
• Raphael from Big, Tall & Abroad
• Annette from Fat Girls Traveling and From Annette With Love
• Fabiane from The Curvy Girl Traveler
• Sarah from Travel Beyond Size
• Kenisha from Curvy Girl Travels

We hope these plus size travel tips will inspire you to book that ticket and just go!

#1: Research your trip before you go.

“Everyone can travel regardless of size. The key is to research your method of travel, destination and activities you want to do. Visit SeatGuru if you’re wanting to find the width and pitch of an airplane seat and The Man In Seat 61 for train seat configurations.  For destination and activity information, TripAdvisor and YouTube are great starting points in planning your trip.”  – Adrienne

“My #1 tip for plus size travelers is research, research, research!!! When you do the research, you can learn about weight restrictions, accommodations, and also first-hand accounts of other plus-size people to whatever destination that you visit. I believe that if you know what you are getting yourself into then you can manage your expectations. I personally visit Nomadic Matt, Travel Noire and check airline policies.” – Jeff

“There are many plus-size travel bloggers that share their travel experiences in-depth, which can be a huge help.  You can also listen to the Plus Size Traveler Podcast, the first podcast dedicated to curvy travel.  Each episode, the Plus Size Traveler Podcast invites a fellow curvy travel blogger or body positive influencer to be their guest go-host to talk about a domestic or international travel destination and an essential travel item or topic.” – Adrienne

#2: Look into seating prior to traveling.

“My favorite plus size travel tip is to research the type of seats your plane offers. Most every plane I’ve ever flown on has an armrest in the aisle seat that has a special release button that allows it to fold all the way back. They have to be down during take-off and landing, and you need to watch for carts, but on a five-hour flight, it can give you the extra space you need to be comfortable without encroaching on the person next to you. – Seth

“If you’re worried about the width of your seat on an airplane, if you will have in-flight entertainment during your international flight, or if your window seat actually has a window, SeatGuru can help you. SeatGuru is an online resource that details the layout of most planes. It’s easy to search by airline and flight number. 

You’ll be able to find the dimensions of your seat and legroom. You’ll know where to find the nearest restroom and if it makes sense to upgrade for more space. The gold is actually in the Guest Reviews. This is where you’ll learn if your tray is stored in the armrest or on the seat in front of you. You’ll also be able to find out if your entertainment monitor is having issues or if you’re the one window seat without a window to peer out of.”   – Annette

“When you select a seat during your ticket purchase, purchase an aisle seat. For me personally, I love the window seat because I can look outside. However, if the flight is going to be crowded, I take comfort over the scenery any day! You’ll have more arm space when you’re sitting in the aisle. Not only that but the armrest at times is movable in the aisle seat. Which gives you more space! Just watch out for the food carts.” – Raphael

“It’s also important to make sure that you ask about stationary plates between seats. I’ve made the mistake a couple of times by picking a front row or exit row seat, however, Frontier has metal plates that don’t move in between each seat and dug into my hips for 5 hours.” – Seth

“Did you know that Southwest’s Customer of Size Policy allows plus-size travelers to request additional seats so that they are comfortable while flying the friendly skies? The thing that makes it even friendlier is that they offer additional seats for FREE! 

There are two ways to go about it. You can call before your flight and ask to use the Customer of Size Policy. They will charge you for the additional seat/s but will reimburse you when you contact them after your flight. The other option is to request to use the Customer of Size policy once you arrive at your gate on the day of your flight. However, with this option, there is the risk that the flight is sold out and there are no additional seats. In that case, you can wait for the next flight with ample space so that you can fly comfortably.”  – Annette

#3: Dress comfortably.

“Wear shoes that slip on and off easily but you can run in if you need to.” – Seth

“Wear clothing that’s comfortable and soft, with stretch. Also, make sure you bring a sweater or light jacket for those times when it gets chilly on the plane. That sweater can also double as a blanket, pillow (rolled up) or even as a mock tray folded on top of your purse/bag on your lap, leaning toward the back of the seat in front of you. I also make sure I am wearing pull-on pants so if I need to use the restroom on the plane, I can be able to pull my pants down and up easily in a very small space.” – Marcy 

#4: Wear compression socks.

“A must for me is to wear good compression socks. Especially on long flights, you don’t move much so compression socks help your blood to circulate, which is going to reduce the amount of swelling and achiness in your legs, as well as protect you from clots. It’s just a good idea all the way around!” – Seth

“It’s not good for us to travel and sit for a long time. Compression socks will help reduce leg swelling, discomfort, and blood clots from forming near the skin’s surface.” – Raphael

#5: Do not be afraid to ask for a seat belt extender!

“For the most part, all airlines have seat belt extenders, which allows the plus-size traveler to safely wear their seatbelt by extending the one that’s on the chair. All you have to do is ask the flight attendant. But if you’re like me and try to be prepared for anything, you can easily purchase a seatbelt extender online on Amazon.” – Raphael

#6: Pack the essentials.

“Pack an empty water bottle and your own snacks, and keep things that you need to access easily (like aspirin, gum, chapstick, headphones) in a small bag under your seat.” – Seth

“Always pack your chafing cream! A good chafing cream can save you thighs from that horrible thigh rubbing on a hot humid site-seeing day. No need to feel confined to always wearing long pants, free yourself, rock dresses and shorts anytime you want. My go-to cream is the Monistat Chafing Powder Gel. Perfect carry-on size! Pro tip: it can also double as a makeup primer.”  – Kenisha

“As a curvy traveler, it’s so important to me to be comfortable while traveling. Nothing ruins my mood more than being in a situation where I am far from home and I am not fully comfortable! There are three things I need in order to have an amazing time while traveling. First, comfortable walking shoes. I will choose comfort over style any day! Especially when I am traveling and plan on doing a lot of walking.

Second, I always pack my Mega Babe Thigh Rescue, which has been a total game-changer for me. I have tried so many products out there and old wives’ tales; I’ve even tried deodorant and nothing has worked as well as this product! Third, I always pack a great camera! Now that I am feeling confident, I want to be able to snap pictures and enjoy the experience. Traveling already takes you out of your comfort zone, the last thing anyone needs is to feel uncomfortable physically as well! That’s why it is so important to be prepared with things that will make your trip so much more enjoyable.” – Fabiane

“Comfortable shoes are key! I personally love Vionic, Vivobarefoot, Teva and Merrell for walking long distances and sightseeing. When I travel to an event for work, I always figure out a way to incorporate my sneakers into my look. I usually go for Adidas, PUMA or Steve Madden, which always has fun colors and prints to choose from, while being very comfy as I stand for hours.

I also pack an outfit in my carry-on along with with some underwear, an extra bra and an extra pair of shoes, in case my checked-in luggage gets lost. It’s tough to find plus size clothing in a foreign country but if you have an extra outfit, you can always wash your clothes in your hotel room and create a few outfits from 2 looks (the one you wore on the plane and the one you packed). I always carry some makeup, lotion, my allergy medication and my tech stuff with me in my carry-on as well.” – Marcy

#7: Call the airline prior to booking your ticket.

“As a plus-size traveler, I am very honest and will call the airline directly before purchasing a flight. I’ll let the airline know that I am a plus-size traveler and I’ll ask if they have any services that will ease and make my travel experience comfortable. Certain airlines do cater to the plus-size traveler, such as Southwest with their Customer of Size policy.” – Raphael

#8: Don’t be afraid to ask! Look into weight/size restrictions before your trip, when it comes to activity/hotel stays.

“Before booking day trips and excursions, double-check for weight and size restrictions. Some activities like zip-lining, parasailing and even kayaking, can have weight restrictions. There’s nothing more humiliating than arriving at an activity excited and ready, only to be told you’re over the weight or size restrictions and unable to be accommodated. So do the work and reach out to the tour operator to get all of the information you need before you book.”  – Annette

“Need a bigger size in the hotel robe? Just ask. Unsure if the exciting travel activity has a weight limit? Just ask. Feel like you might not be able to handle the group hike? – ask how many steps it is. For years, I was often scared and embarrassed to ask for what I needed and would make decisions about travel based on fear or not wanting to leave my comfort zone.

Sometimes we limit ourselves for fear of asking a simple question that may alleviate anxiety or solve an issue. Sometimes it’s because of embarrassment, fear of revealing yourself, or perceived weakness. But information is power and that’s why seeing plus-size ladies in the travel industry asking these questions, researching these possibilities and showing how exciting and limitless this world of travel is for people of all shapes sizes and abilities is so important. Instead of limiting yourself by convincing yourself that something isn’t for you or you won’t be able to do it, just ask! You may be pleasantly surprised more often than not.” – Sarah

#9: Arrive early at the airport.

“If you give yourself time at the airport, you’re not rushed and can use the bathroom before you board — especially if you don’t want to use the smallish airplane bathrooms. I also bring an empty water bottle with me that I can refill near the bathrooms, where most airports have a filtered water fountain.

You can also take advantage of pre-boarding, meant for passengers with young children and anyone who needs extra assistance or time getting onto the flight. This will give you time to get comfortable/settled and ask for a seat extender as you board.” – Marcy

#10: Don’t worry about what others are saying or thinking of you. Enjoy your trip!

“I’ve been to countries where people immediately stare at me or mock me because of my size. Don’t let them bother you during your trip. Enjoy the sights. I mean, I’m not going to see these people ever in my life again so why would I let their ignorance bother me?” – Raphael

Now that you are armed with all these amazing plus size travel tips and information, what are you waiting for? Travel and see the world in 2020!

Where would you like to travel to in 2020? Follow us on social media and let us know: @plusmodelmag:  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  Twitter

Featured image: Michael Poley of Poley Creative for AllGo, publisher of free stock photos featuring plus-size people

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In 2008, UNESCO recognized the importance of Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) by adding the holiday to its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

As practiced by the indigenous communities of Mexico, el Día de los Muertos commemorates the transitory return to Earth of deceased relatives and loved ones. The festivities take place each year at the end of October to the beginning of November.

From quiet candlelit cemeteries to experience the ancestral tradition to big parades and concerts, there are many intriguing things to do for Day of the Dead.

Here are some ways to celebrate this festive holiday throughout Mexico including a Dia de Los Muertos women-only group trip in Mexico City to a special Dia de Los Muertos tarot card reading dinner in San Miguel de Allende and more. And if you can’t make the festivities this year, it’s never too early to plan ahead for 2020!

Mexico City

The Day of the Dead festivities begin in Mexico City on the Saturday before Dia de Los Muertos as the parade rolls through the capital. The night of October 31st kicks off a 3-day string of Day of the Dead activities in Mexico City. Though you can catch the party in Zocalo, you’ll find a far more authentic celebration southeast of the city center, in San Andrew Mixquic. The ex-convent and church bedecks its main cemetery with thousands of candles and marigolds, and midnight processions bring thousands of capitalinos to the altar-lined streets. The Day of the Dead parade on November 2nd in Mexico City is actually a relatively new tradition, as it began in 2016. The parade is said to have been inspired by the 2015 James Bond film, Spectre. In the movie, the opening scene shows Daniel Craig as James Bond at a Day of the Dead parade in Mexico City.

Where to Stay

Stay in the beloved Colonia Roma neighborhood at Ignacia Guest House, a trendy eco-friendly bed and breakfast. Featuring just five unique suites, the hotel’s namesake is Ignacia, the housekeeper who took care of this 1913 colonial mansion for more than 70 years. In celebration of Dia de Los Muertos, the chef will bake the traditional holiday bread for breakfast that week – Pan de Muertos or “bread of the dead”, a slightly sweet, brioche-like bread covered with orange blossom water and anise seeds. A beautiful marigold altar will be put up in honor of Ignacia. A “calaverita” (skull shaped candy) will be waiting for guests in their suites who check-in on October 31s, November 1st and 2nd. Guests can enjoy calabaza en tacha, a typical Dia de los Muertos candied pumpkin. For the daily cocktail hour in the garden, the chef will create cocktails with the flavors of this festive holiday, including anise and pumpkin. Nightly rates for the suites range from $315USD – $440USD in double occupancy and include complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast, daily cocktail hour in the garden and more. For more information, visit www.ignacia.mx or email hola@ignacia.mx.

What to Eat

Foodies will love Eat Like a Local Mexico City’s special Dia de Los Muertos food tour where founder and sustainable tourism expert Rocio Vazquez Landeta shares her personal approach to the celebration. Start the day with coffee, sweet bread, and street tacos with a visit to the flower market to enjoy delicious food while shopping for candy skulls, flowers, candles, colorful papers, and more. Visit Rocio’s home, a late 1800 house in Roma Norte to celebrate with mezcal cocktails and snacks while setting up the altar on the rooftop. Sharing childhood memories and the meaning of each item at the altar, Rocio invites guests to join her celebration to honor the dead. Eat Like a Local’s Immersive Day of the Dead Experience is offered from October 26th through November 1st, 2019. The five-hour tour starts at 10am daily and costs $150USD per person. For more information, visit www.eatlikealocal.com.mx or email info@eatlikealocal.com.mx.

What to Do

Join Wild Terrains Mexico City Experience and support female entrepreneurs and women-owned businesses in Mexico City. Wild Terrains curates women-only small group trips that meet, support and learn about the local female-owned businesses within a destination. Wild Terrains leads an awesome Dia de Los Muertos group trip and they’ve recently announced their 2020 Dia de Los Muertos trip set for October 28-November 1, 2020 and sign-ups are available now! Focusing on vibrant and culturally rich destinations for the creative-minded, Wild Terrains is the only travel company leading women-only group trips that support female entrepreneurs in Mexico City and Portugal. All trip itineraries include accommodations at female-owned hotels, meals prepared by up-and-coming female chefs, and experiences that connect travelers with local women entrepreneurs, artists, and designers. Wild Terrains’ popular Mexico City itineraries features stays at the super chic Ignacia Guest House, a five-suite boutique hideaway in Colonia Roma, an insider tour of Mexico City’s sprawling street food scene with sustainable tourism expert Rocio Vazquez Landeta with Eat Like a Local and so much more.

Insider Tip: Receive $150USD off any Wild Terrains trip with code HELLOFALL at checkout. Expires October 31st, 2019 at 11:59pm EST. Limited to one use per customer. Cannot be combined with any other discount or offer and cannot be applied to any previously booked trip. For information, visit www.wildterrains.com or hello@wildterrains.com.

San Miguel de Allende

While most towns have at least a few processions for Day of the Dead, San Miguel de Allende hosts the colorful 5-day La Calaca Festival. The main attraction is the annual Catrinas Parade which draws crowds from near and far. The highlight of the parade is the towering Catrina and Catrine puppets. But it doesn’t stop there. Professional makeup artists are plentiful and can be hired beforehand to paint your face into a beautiful skull, and feel free to get decked out from head to toe as there will be a costume contest. La Calaca Festival is a participatory arts festival that brings together interactive arts installations, local businesses, individuals and arts organizations and visitors from Mexico and around the world come together to witness art and creativity inspired by Dia de Los Muertos in a town rich in culture, heritage and art.

Where to Stay

Opened in April 2019, Casa Delphine is one of San Miguel de Allende’s newest hotels – a thoughtfully curated five-suite boutique hotel set on a quiet cobblestone street just minutes from the main plaza in the heart of this charming town. Owned and beautifully designed by Los Angeles designer Amanda Keidan, the spacious suites feature cantera fireplaces, hand designed furniture from local artists, warm accents, eclectic textures and colors and balconies that overlook the private courtyard and more. With its great room, dining room, private courtyards and herb garden, Casa Delphine is the perfect setting for private dinners, mezcal and wine tastings, celebrations and guests can take over the entire hotel for bigger events. For Dia de Los Muertos, Casa Delphine is hosting a special tarot card reading dinner themed “As You Were”. On October 29th, 2019 at 7pm, come dressed as you were in a past life for a four-course dinner, delicious themed starter with cocktails and wine and mini-reading by tarot card historian Miguel Canseco. This special Dia de Los Muertos dinner is $125USD per person with a maximum of 15 guests. An altar for deceased relatives of staff and guests will be displayed at the hotel and a make-up artist will offer Calaca make-up for guests on Saturday as part of the festivities.

Insider Tip: Book 2 nights and get the 3rd night at a 30% discount from now until October 31st, 2019. Rates start at $265USD per night, double occupancy. For information, visit www.casadelphine.com or reservas@casadelphine.com.

Being Puerto Rican and living in the US since the age of nine you see the island differently than if you lived there. As much as your family tries to embrace the culture, you are bound to lose some of the details so when Suzanne Ujaque approached me some years back to join her on special projects, I jumped at the opportunity. I wanted to be there, be involved and learn about the culture first hand.

This year my dreams truly came true when I joined forces with fellow Latinas Sandra Negron and Darlene Lebron in Puerto Rico with one of my favorite brands City Chic.

City Chic is the number one plus size brand in Australia and has been supporting PLUS Model Magazine for 15 years.

Ever since they started to sell clothing in the US my closet has been pretty full with sexy tops, great fitting jeans, and dresses that are sure to make an impression.

Our mission was to showcase Puerto Rico as more than just a beautiful island with great food and exotic vacation spots. We wanted to celebrate the culture and get to know ourselves and our lineage in a more intimate way while looking FABULOUS in City Chic. We had a full schedule leading up to the SuStyle Expo where City Chic would be featured on the runway for the very first time.

We landed in Puerto Rico early in the morning and headed to the SuStyle Expo Press Event at Plaza Las Americas which is a huge mall in San Juan. After the press event, Suzanne Ujaque took us on a little shopping spree around the mall. We were able to see City Chic in Macy’s and meet their representative who looked absolutely lovely in City Chic.

Sexy Swim

First things first, we needed some leisure time to pool hang, we knew we had some very busy days ahead.

The one thing I must have in a swimsuit is great support. City Chic swimsuits come with great support without sacrificing style.

Loiza

Loiza is a town in Puerto Rico not known as a big tourist destination but rather holds the riches of our history, culture and how everything on the island has been influenced from our Indian, Arab and African descendants. David from www.igottourspr.com created an amazing tour for us that was life-changing.

We visited the Parque Histórico Cueva María de la Cruz which included a tour of the museum, tree of life, lunch and a dance lesson (you will have to view the video to see it for yourself)

After this amazing experience, we visited with Loiza artist Samuel Lind whose art installations depict the Puerto Rican history, culture, and history. He gave us a tour of his art studio and shared so much about his process with us.

My look: I chose a faux wrap top in an orange hue and paired it with super sexy distressed jeans.

Chilled Coconut was the perfect way to end our Loiza experience.

La Placita

La Placita is like a farmers market with restaurants in the perimeter of the market. It also features live events and is a very popular destination for locals and tourist alike. While we were there we visited with a naturalist where you can buy herbs to add to your food intake.

Giving back

While I was handling City Chic business at the Centro de Convenciones during the dress rehearsal, Sandra and Darlene took bags and bags of food and supplies to the ‘Loiza Home For The Elderly’.

While the island seems to be doing better after devasting hurricane Maria, there are still many parts of the island that are in recovery. Our elderly and young children are at risk and thanks to City Chic we were able to bring so many items necessary to their daily life.

Our History In Music

Knowing our history in a deeper way was our goal and we had to immerse ourselves with the locals and stay open to learning about our culture in many forms. Music plays a big part in the Puerto Rican culture and how history continues to be weaved into our lives. Partying until the early morning hours was like nothing I’ve experienced… everyone partied together. Young, old, gay, straight skinny or fat everyone parties together. It’s not about what you look like, it’s about celebrating your culture and your history.

Becoming Caretakers

One of the things that many people do not know is that Puerto Rico has one of the largest rescue centers in the Caribbean. The Puerto Rico Manatee Conservation Center rescues turtles, birds, and other wildlife who are not able to be in their natural habitat due to physical ailments.

We were taught what it is to be a caretaker, measure food, take their temperature, and learn about what each animal was challenged with and why they were there.

If you are interested in taking the tour or donating visit manatipr.org

SuStyle Expo

The SuStyle Expo is the number one event in Puerto Rico which celebrates lifestyle, health, beauty, and fashion. Suzanne Ujaque is the creator of the event and works tirelessly throughout the year to promote plus size fashion, diversity in fashion, confidence and living your life without apologies.

This year was the very first year City Chic participated in the fashion show and they ROCKED IT! (Must See The Video)

I would like to thank City Chic for allowing us this experience to discover so much about ourselves and come back to our lives renewed in mind, body, and spirit.

Don’t forget to visit www.citychiconline and shop our LOOKS here.

Many thanks to Suzanne Ujaque and her staff for all their support throughout our stay and for opening their doors to the US market.

Click here to shop our looks at CityChicOnline.com

Last but not least we want to thank Enrique Nieves who spent many days with us documenting all of our incentives. His dedication to our goals was 100% and we can’t thank him enough for assisting us with this project. Follow Enrique on IG @el_boin

I’ve been traveling a lot more in recent years and to say I’ve seen myself in complicated situations is an understatement.

From not feeling well and catching a bug on the plane to sharing a bathroom with various other people, there are ways we can make a quick work trip a lot easier.

Below I’ve listed some items that have made my travels seamless and safe.

Miamica TSA Compliant Travel Bottles and Toiletry Bag Kit, 12 piece, Multi-Stripe

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6 pcs Luggage Packing Organizers Packing Cubes Set for Travel

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Electronic/Universal Cable Organizer

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Poo-Pourri Before-You-Go Toilet Spray

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PurSteam Garment Steamer For Clothes, Elite Powerful 7-1 Fabric Steamer For Home/Travel

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Anker PowerCore 5000, Ultra-Compact 5000mAh External Battery with High-Speed Charging Technology

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Vitamin C 1000mg – Airborne Citrus Chewable Tablets, 96 count

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Care Touch Alcohol Free Hand Sanitizer Wipes

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Affiliate Links

We LOVE to Travel!

Here are a few of our favorite travel essentials to make getting around the globe a bit easier…

6 Set Travel Storage Bags Multi-functional

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Travel Shoe Bags Set of 4 Waterproof

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Travel Bottles

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Large Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag

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Electronics Organizer

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RFID Blocking Neck Stash Passport

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Woolite Travel Laundry Kit

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Floating Waterproof Pouch

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Samsonite Memory Foam Pillow with Pouch

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This ‘About Town’ segment features Plus Size Fashion and Fun in Portland, OR!

Join Valery Amador, Co-founder of PLUS Model Magazine, to learn more about the plus size fashion scene and best things for curvy girls to do in Portland, OR!

Valery Shares…

Having lived in the ‘Great Northwest’ since the 90’s, I have spent a lot of time in Portland and can definitely say that it is a unique, amusing and a size-friendly place to visit!

“Keep Portland Weird…” is the beloved motto of this quirky, eclectic, eco-friendly city.

While many cities demand a specific look/style/size to fit in, PDX is just the opposite. With a creative spirit, young vibe and ‘come as you are’ personality, this city welcomes all body types and fashion statements. As long as you ‘own your look’ Portland will welcome you with open arms.

Best Books to Read or Movie/TV Shows to Watch Prior to Visiting

Catch up on some episodes of Portlandia and Grimm… You will totally get why we say, “Keep Portland Weird!”

Best Quirks About Portland

They seriously have a ‘thing’ about the carpet at the airport, which even has its’ own Instagram account @thepdxproject. Portland also has the distinction of being recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as having the world’s smallest park – Mills End Park – literally 452 square inches. Oh, and be on the lookout for the infamous ‘Big Foot’ – could be worth a selfie!

What to Wear in Portland

My best advice is to keep it casual, creative and feel free to make a statement! Jeans and graphic tees can be worn most places. Dresses with sneakers or sandals – and – boots are appropriate any time of year. Yes, it can rain so bring a quirky hat, as Portlanders don’t do umbrellas… seriously, it will make you look like a tourist.

Plus Style Inspiration

Here are some looks that fit the mood of the PDX Style-Vibe!

My Desire Red Gingham Shirt

Available at City Chic Online

Dress it up or dress it down. Add a quirky hat and you are ready to hit the town!

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Speak Love Tee

Available at Forever 21

Statement tees are always in fashion in Portland. Pack your favs and hit the streets to share your personality.

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Floral Ruffle Cold Shoulder Top

Embrace your inner PDX hippy with flowers and feminine style.

Available at Eloquii

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Multi-Color Floral Print Smocked Challis Midi Dress

A pair of sandals or high tops are the perfect compliment to this pretty little number.

Available at Torrid

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Olive Drape Front Twill Anorak Jacket

Looking for an alternative to the denim jacket? This anorak is completely versatile with jeans or a dress.

Available at Torrid

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Best Places to Shop for Plus Fashion in Portland

Union Rose
Artisan and Locally Made
unionrosepdx.com

Amelia
Independent Designers from Across the Country
helloamelia.com

Fat Fancy
Vintage and New
fatfancyfashions.com

Savvy Plus
Resale and New
savvyplus.com

Portland also has national brands like Lane Bryant, Torrid, Forever 21, Catherine’s, Roz & Ali

Online Shops That Best Embrace the Portland Style

• Torrid
• Forever 21
• SWAK
• City Chic

Add These Things to Your Portland To-Do List

• A Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour is a great way to get oriented and stops at many of the iconic PDX sites
• Powell’s Books
• Saturday’s Market (Seasonal from March through December 31)
• Portland Farmer’s Market (Seasonal)
• The Rose Garden
• Portland Japanese Garden
• Oregon Zoo
• Lan Su Chinese Garden
• Portland Art Museum
• The Shanghai Tunnels
• BrewCycle
• OMSI
• Ride the Aerial Tram
• Walk over the Tilikim Bridge
• Catch a Show at The Armory Theatre
• You can also see the oldest Drag Queen at the infamous Darcelle XV Showplace

Day Trips: The Coast, Mount Hood, Columbia River Gorge, Multnomah Falls or the beautiful Willamette Valley Winery

Visit viator.com for activities, tours and experiences.

Places to Stay in Portland

Go for ‘out of the ordinary’ in one of these downtown locations:

• Hotel Lucia
• The Nines
• Hotel Rose
• Hotel Monaco
• Dossier
• McMenamins Crystal Hotel
• The Heathman
• VRBO and AIRBNB readily available

Check TripAdvisor.com for hotel rates, reviews and availability.

Foods To Try

Portland has a passion for coffee, doughnuts, food carts, craft brews, wine and artisanal spirits.

• Voodoo Doughnuts
• Stumptown Coffee Roasters
• Salt & Straw
• Pok Pok
• Tasty & Sons
• Bollywood Theatre
• Por Que No?
• Pine State Biscuits
• Pambiche
• Portland City Grill (amazing view!)
• Deschutes Brewery and Public House
• For the latest in food carts, visit foodcartsportland.com

If Flying Into Portland

PDX Airport

How to Get Around

You won’t need to rent a car if staying in downtown Portland. You can take the MAX train from the airport to downtown. Uber and Lyft are also readily available.

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