As meetings and conventions shift toward more transformational experiences, Portland, Oregon, is distinguishing itself with a unique blend of vibrant city life and stunning natural surroundings.

The Rose City prides itself in offering more than just venues by delivering unforgettable, transformational experiences. From urban adventures in lush green spaces to a vibrant culinary scene and a culture brimming with creativity, Portland is built to inspire.

Factor in the LEED Platinum-certified Oregon Convention Center, a $2 billion airport transformation, and Oregon’s 0% sales tax, and you’ve got a destination that’s not just exciting—but also sustainable, savvy, and easy on the budget. Today’s meeting planners want places that truly prioritize equity, diversity, and inclusion—and Travel Portland makes it easy by connecting them with BIPOC-owned businesses and culturally immersive experiences.

Portland’s “people-first” vibe doesn’t just welcome visitors—it inspires them to stay. Just ask Felix, Travel Portland’s newest ambassador at the brand-new Downtown Visitor Center, who perfectly captures the city’s spirit of warmth, inclusivity, and community-centered hospitality.

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LIFE BLEND HUB sat down with Felix, an immigrant from Venezuela who found his heart—and home—in Portland, drawn in by its lively spirit and deep bond with nature. His love for the city and enthusiasm for helping visitors craft unforgettable experiences shine a light on what makes Portland a standout destination for meetings and events.

Take us inside Portland’s “People-First” approach to hospitality:

FELIX: Portland is full of people that are welcoming and friendly. Portlanders are very proud of their city, and sometimes they can be very shy. They may be reserved at first, but I have found that they are always welcome to help to explore and navigate the city.”

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What I find delightful about the people here is their authenticity; everyone can really be themself. They can mix their genuine personality with a special kindness; a humble way to make everybody feel welcome.

When I explore the city, I find amazing storytellers. People with a lot of knowledge of Portland’s history, or someone who wants to share the best options for delicious food (they are so proud of the food carts), share the best option for breweries or talk about art galleries and events. Portlander’s love exploring the outdoors- ask for the best trail and they will give you lots of recommendations.

For example, when I go out for my favorite burger in downtown the place is full of stickers, the music is normally loud- heavy metal, punk, grunge. There is no uniform; the staff expresses their own unique style with their clothes, tattoos and colorful hair. I can feel that rebel energy- it makes me feel nostalgic for 90’s grunge music. At the same time, with all of rebellious energy, a kind cashier with greets me kindly and conscientiously: “Hey! What can I do for you today, my friend? “… it’s a nice encapsulation of Portland’s hospitality.

How did you find your home in Portland?

I moved from San Diego, California to Portland two years ago. When I arrived, it was a cold winter afternoon. When I crossed the steel bridge, I saw the majesty of the Willamette River, arriving downtown surrounded by beautiful architecture, so much artwork in their streets blended with the green trees over the hills. It was love at first sight.

Portland is a city with a small-town vibe- coffee shops everywhere and the river just a few blocks from home. Living here is like a dream come true. I remember the first time I was hiking at Washington Park, I closed my eyes and felt so grateful for being here. It felt like home to me.

What are some experiences in Portland that must be experienced in person?

• Walking around more than 10,000 roses at the International Rose Test Garden (June-September)
• Visit Washington Park to hike the trails in Hoyt Arboretum
• Wandering around the streets, admiring the buildings, finding random beautiful places. There are always beautiful buildings and amazing parks throughout the city
• Crossing the bridges around the city, including Hawthorne, Tilikum and St Johns bridge
• Going to Powel’s and immersing yourself in books
• Eating at all of the food carts
• Enjoying the stunning view from the Pittock Mansion
• Taking a tour to the Gorge and seeing all of the waterfalls
• Navigating the Willamette River
• Going to a Thorns or Timbers game
• Drinking some tea at the Chinese garden

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Tell us about the diversity in Portland.

Although the prevailing opinion and portrayal in the media is that Portland lacks diversity, living here has let me see things from a different perspective.

Portland’s restaurant scene includes diverse gastronomy from all over the world. A good way to experience the diversity of a city is through the food, and Portland is a great place for it.

I also think that Portland is a city making amazing efforts to create a community. It is a city of artists, and you can find events and activities that involve a lot of communities. Explore the different neighborhoods and you can always find a festival, exhibition, live music, or a museum that makes Portland’s diversity more accessible.

What’s is been like working with the Downtown Visitor Center?

I am very blessed to work with an amazing team at the Visitor Center. It’s a team effort every day. Everybody who works at the Visitor Center loves the city, has a deep knowledge of its offerings, and does their best to help visitors find everything that is special about Portland. That is the key to a great personalized experience.

Being respectful and creating empathy makes visitors feel welcome. By understanding their unique needs and requests and answering their questions with the most honest and updated information possible, we help them enjoy their time in Portland as much as possible.

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We have resources, guides, technology, and digital tools to improve their experiences, But by prioritizing connecting as human beings, as visitors, and as travelers, we can give them an extra level of service. We do our best to make them feel that everybody is welcome in Portland and that every experience is unique. Active listening, storytelling based on personal experiences, and a friendly smile are always great ingredients too.