Most Seattle residents commute by using public transit, on foot, or by bicycle. The Link light rail is a favorite between downtown and the airport and buses cover most neighborhoods. Walking is easy in neighborhoods such as Capitol Hill and Downtown since everything is within walking distance. Biking is common as well with wide bicycle lanes. Others use ridesharing or taxis at night. Cars are a possibility as well, but traffic and parking are a pain. It just depends on where you are going and how quickly you need to get there.

Seattle companies are free to refuse to accept cash payments, except where local legislation is in force. No city ordinance requires companies to accept cash payments, though basic services like utilities and government services have certain regulations in place so that services are made accessible. Cashless policies are problematic for people who use physical currency, but prepaid cards and digital wallets are provided as alternatives. Cash is legal tender, yet companies are free to determine their own payment policies, except where local legislation is in force. While debate rages over cashless policies, Seattle may one day introduce new legislation for business owners and customers.

Seattle has several pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods with easy access to public transportation, restaurants, and shops. Downtown is one of the most pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods with crosswalks and sidewalks and many things to walk to. Another pedestrian-friendly neighborhood would be the Capitol Hill with its coffee houses, night life, and parks within walking distance. Belltown and Pioneer Square are easy to get around without a car. While there are steep hills in a handful of neighborhoods, most neighborhoods are pedestrian-friendly and make Seattle a walkable city.

Seattle has neighborhoods to fit every type of traveler. The downtown area is home to attractions like Pike Place Market, public transit and much, much more to choose from in terms of dining. Capitol Hill and Ballard, on the other hand, showcase a residential feel with unique dining, nightlife and outdoor spaces. For budget accommodations, consider Queen Anne and the University District. No matter if you prefer a busy, downtown location or something a bit more serene, the city has something that will fit your needs. The right area will depend on convenience, cost and the experience you are after.

Tourists can conveniently and easily take a taxi from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to downtown Seattle. The fare is normally between $40 and $55, depending on traffic and the location. Tolls, additional passengers, or night pickups may have additional fees. The trip is normally between 20 and 30 minutes, though rush hour may make it longer. Taxis are available at official stands within the airport, and a handful of visitors like rideshare or public transportation for a cheaper solution.

Seattle Taxi prices can be extremely high, particularly when compared with public transport or through rideshare services. The base fare is around $2.60, plus a per-mile charge of $2.50 to $3.00. Airport pickups, travel in the evening and late-night trips, and time delays are subject to additional charges. While taxis provide a direct, convenient way to travel as a group, buses or the light rail are often far cheaper. Travelers may be able to use knowledge of these add-ons to help them decide whether a taxi is a good transportation option for them.

Uber is a reputable transportation service in Seattle that offers convenient rides within the city. Popular areas that are well-covered include Capitol Hill and Belltown, though more out-of-the-way places may have longer wait times. Travelers heading to Sea-Tac Airport have designated pick-up points for convenient arrival and departure. Seattle offers a variety of services from Uber that range from UberX to UberXL and Uber Black to accommodate group size and preference. While public transit is a budget-friendly choice, Uber is convenient when there is a tight schedule. Estimation of fares through the app can prevent one from being surprised at peak hours or on major event days in the city.

Seattle is renowned for its coffee culture, but you pay what you get. A simple drip coffee at a neighborhood café will run you $3 to $4, while a latte or specialty coffee will cost between $5 and $7. Popular coffee houses such as Starbucks will be a bit pricier, particularly in tourist areas. Smaller independent coffee houses have specialty blends for the same prices. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, some diners and chain restaurants serve coffee for a little less.

A $300,000-a-year income in Seattle would seem to more than cover the costs of a comfortable lifestyle, but the high cost of living in the city can quickly deflate the income’s value. Housing cost, taxes, and everyday purchases all mean that budgeting is imperative. Although this salary is comfortable for some, for families, or those with high living costs, it may be too conservative. Learning how far $300,000 can go in Seattle can assist you in making the right financial decisions and planning for the future.

In unique ways, Seattle's food scene combines comfort and inventiveness. Though many people find it shocking, cream cheese on hot dogs is still a local favorite. From smoked salmon to Dungeness crab, Seattle's fresh seafood from nearby waters brings strong tastes straight forward. On cold afternoons, warm bowls of clam chowder provide comfort. Teriyaki stores provide simple but filling meals. For those seeing the city, Piroshkies offers a flaky, substantial snack. Sweet treats like fresh pastries and Fran's chocolates add decadent tastes to Seattle's active coffee scene. Every mouthful tells a tale molded by custom and new ideas.

Though it seems to be always changing, the rhythm of Seattle seems to be always consistent. Though coffee shops remain warm and full of quiet chats and the aroma of roasted beans, the rain keeps falling regularly. Perched atop all else, the Space Needle is unchangeable against the always-shifting skies. At Pike Place Market, there is always activity, including musicians playing for groups walking by and fresh seafood thrown into the air. Tech behemoths are flourishing, but Seattle's small stores and peaceful views help the city to keep its own appeal.

Seattle has a lot of wonderful neighborhoods, each with its own character. Queen Anne is famous for its quiet streets and incredible city views. Capitol Hill combines nightlife, parks, and old homes. Ballard combines waterfront views, hip restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere. Fremont is artsy and lively, and Madison Park exudes an upscale but casual vibe. Whatever you desire - walkable streets, great food, or quiet parks, there is a neighborhood for different interests and lifestyles.

The Seattle Center is a landmark for its iconic buildings, live events and cultural attractions. Constructed for the 1962 World's Fair, it is still hugely popular with locals and tourists alike. It includes the Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture, Climate Pledge Arena and Chihuly Garden and Glass. As The Seattle Center hosts events, festivals, and cultural experiences year-round, it easily ranks among the most familiar tourist destinations in the city.

Depending on your location and activity, New York or Seattle may or may not be a safer place to be. Because of its size, New York has a lot of crime in some neighborhoods while others feel very safe. Despite its tiny size, Seattle is known for its homelessness and property crime problems. You can stroll about both towns without any worries, but there are some areas where you might want to be on guard.

Seattle's tap water comes from mountain watersheds, goes through reservoirs, and ends up at water treatment facilities. The city does everything it can to keep it clean, but sometimes, everything doesn't go according to plan. Some may taste chlorine, and some do not like tiny particles to be left behind. Most drink from the faucet without a second thought, and some choose to have extra filtration. Reading water reports and home testing put residents in the know. Seattle's tap water is among the country's best, but there's always a tiny bit of risk, and being in the know makes a difference in making a decision.

While Seattle is an exciting and beautiful destination, solo female travelers should take some precautions to stay safe. Seattle is a city of distinct and varied neighborhoods, some of which are more unsafe than others, but there are great options like Capitol Hill and Queen Anne. Public transportation is usually trustworthy, though it pays to be careful, particularly after dark. Staying in highly reviewed accommodations, paying attention to surroundings, using trusted rideshare services, can help ensure a smooth trip. Women traveling alone here can safely experience Seattle’s rich culture, stunning vistas and everything else this city has to offer with a little foresight and some simple precautions.

Seattle can be a whirlwind stopover or a leisurely stay, whatever you prefer. One day packs iconic attractions into a whirlwind experience and passes by in a blur. Two days leave time to view sites without zipping from one to another. Three days feel just right with time for touring and relaxation. Longer, and there's no set itinerary, with time for day trips and off-the-beaten-path attractions. Some prefer to travel quickly, some prefer to take it easy. No one solution fits everyone. The perfect trip length is determined by whether you want to check off sites or immerse in the city's energy.