CULTURAL CASCADES

Two countries and five cities have come together in a groundbreaking cultural tourism venture, Cultural Cascades. Portland and Eugene, Oregon; Seattle and Tacoma, Washington; and Vancouver, British Columbia, have launched this collaborative marketing campaign that creates a travel corridor designed to draw visitors to their respective cities. The Web site and the print materials emphasize four themes: On View -- museums, galleries and exhibitions; On Stage -- performing arts; On the Table -- cuisine and libations; On Fire -- glass art and metal works such as jewelry; and On Board -- a partnership with Amtrak to bring visitors to each city. These themes draw on the unique characteristics of the region's rich traditions of wine and food, as well as its world-renowned reputation as a center for glass and ceramics. Links to each city give visitors an in-depth opportunity to explore these and other cultural offerings.