Phoenix , General info:
10/10

Phoenix is the capital and the most populous city of the U.S. state of Arizona and the county seat of Maricopa County, as well as being the largest state capital in the United States by population. It is the largest city in the American Southwest and the Mountain Time Zone, and is the region's primary government, cultural, economic, and transportation center. Phoenix is located along the banks of the now normally dry Salt River.

Phoenix has an arid climate, and its average annual maximum temperature is the highest of any major US city. The temperature reaches or exceeds 100°F (38°C) on an average of 89 days during the year, including most days from early June through early September.

The Phoenix airport, called Sky Harbor International Airport, is the sixth busiest airport in the country.

Phoenix , Cheap stuff:
10/10

Cost of living in Arizona is cheaper than in other major U.S. cities but that the salaries are lower

Phoenix , Different stuff:
9/10

The main Heard Museum is located on Central Avenue in Phoenix. The Heard has grown in size and stature to where now it is recognized internationally for the quality of its collections, its educational programming and its festivals. The current collection of the Heard Museum consists of over 40,000 items and it has over 130,000 square feet (12,000 m²) of gallery, classroom and performance space.

Phoenix , Don't miss:
9/10

The Phoenix Zoo, opened in 1962, is the largest non-profit zoo in the United States. The zoo operates on 125 acres of land in the Papago Park area of Phoenix. The zoo has approximately 1,200 animals on display, 2.5 miles (4.0 km) of walking trails, and other attractions.

Also don't miss to see a saguaro cactus .

Phoenix , Food:
9/10

There are thousands of restaurants in the Phoenix, Arizona area and choosing the perfect one can sometimes be difficult task. Like all other mayor cities in the U.S. Phoenix has it all, from American Traditional, to Chineese, European Mexican and Latin food.

Phoenix , Hotels:
10/10

JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa, Ritz Carlton Phoenix, Royal Palms Hotel And Spa, Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa... And for those who like going out of town, The Phoenician, Boulders Resort and Golden Door Spa, Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa.

Portland , General info:
9/10

Portland is a city located near the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia rivers in the U.S. state of Oregon. It is Oregon's most populous city, and the third most populous city in the Pacific Northwest, after Seattle, Washington and Vancouver, British Columbia. Approximately two million people live in Portland metropolitan area, the 23rd most populous in the United States as of July 2006.

Portland , Cheap stuff:
10/10

Most things are pretty affordable in Portland! Apartments are pretty cheap for a city, public transit is very cheap and dining out is just as affordable!

Portland , Different stuff:
10/10

Portland's climate is ideal for growing roses, and for more than a century Portland has been known as "The City of Roses," with many rose gardens – most prominently the International Rose Test Garden.

Portland , Don't miss:
10/10

Pedalpalooza, an annual month long bike centered festival involving many group bike rides, including some like the burrito ride or the midnight mystery ride. POWELLS BOOKS is the LARGEST book store in north america. Yup, thats right the biggest one! Its in downtown on Burnside st. Set aside a few hours, if you come with friends make a meeting place cause this multi-floor 'city of books' is amazing for all! Queer folk come to Portland as there is a thriving queer community and really its a great place for people of all walks of life to come find a community of some kind.

Portland , Food:
10/10

During most months of spring summer and fall there is plentiful berry and fruits to be picked on Sauvie Island a short drive or healthy bike ride from downtown. Take your basket and go out to pick (and eat) as many blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, peaches, plums etc as you can. Also, Portland has famously delicious micro-brewed beer. Check out the Portland based brewery/restaurant/theatre spots of McMenimans. Youll find them around the city and nestled in historic buildings and old saloons. Most offer great food and delicious beers while a few of McMenimans even offer a heated pool, movies and live music. But really, any bar will have a local brew, just ask whats on tap. Portland is also voted the country's most "Vegan Friendly Town". Most restaurants have vegan and certainly vegetarian options in this town.

Portland , Hotels:
8/10

Check out the Jupiter Hotel for a wild take on hospitality, its adjoining restaurant the Doug Fir has fabulous food day and night, a fully stocked bar and great live music in the evening. Downtown offers many of the same hotels found in most cities around the country and world.

Portland , Safety:
9/10

Portland is a city, like any other but people are generally quite friendly and crime is not quite that high. Downtown is safe and the east side of town is mostly neighborhood based shopping areas, with no threat of crime apparent at all. This town is also BIKE FRIENDLY. But please be advised that helmets and proper front and back lights are suggested to make this safe. Bike lanes can be found all around the city and you can make it from one end of town to the other in just over an hour.