Oregon Programs

Welcome to Calvin Presbyterian Church and the great Pacific Northwest region. Portland is one of the most beautiful cities in America and Oregon is certainly the most beautiful state (we think). Where else can you walk on the beach or ski down a mountain slope on virtually the same day.

Portland is located at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. Downtown Portland is an exciting destination of its own with the Classic Chinese Garden, Japanese Garden and the world’s largest bookstore—Powell’s City of Books. Coffee houses are on every corner and interesting neighborhoods invite the visitor to explore this fascinating city.

Mt. Hood and winter sports are a little over one hour from Portland. Everything from excellent downhill skiing to sitting by the fire at Timberline Lodge can make a Christmas vacation truly memorable. The fabulous Oregon coast is a little over an hour in the other direction. It may not be sunbathing weather in December, but every Oregonian loves watching winter storms pound sandy and rocky beaches alike.

During the Christmas season, Portland puts up the lights in some very creative ways. There is the Zoolights display at the Washington Park Zoo, the Festival of Lights at the Grotto, the Winter Wonderland drive-through display at the Portland International Raceway, and the unique Portland tradition of the Christmas Ship Parade along the river.

There is much to do here, but more important than the sights are the people. The people of Oregon and especially Calvin Presbyterian Church are open, friendly, and ready to host our international guests. Come spend your Christmas vacation with us and we’ll all be glad you did.

Program Size	4 students
Program Type	Homes
Accommodations	Single (Male and Female)
Dress	Warm clothes – hat, gloves, boots, scarf, waterproof warm coat
Suggested cash for optional personal expenses	Approximately $100 for skiing, basketball or hockey game tickets etc. Personal expenses
Program Dates	December 18, 2007 to January 2, 2008
Airport	Portland Oregon International (PDX)
Train Depot	Portland, Oregon (AMTRAK)
Weather	Typically wet and cool, possibility of snow
Local Attractions	Skiing, beachcombing, Columbia River Gorge, Powell’s City of Books, professional sports, concerts and drama