Bellingham is a great town if you like outdoor adventure and a fresh, Northwest perspective. It's not real big (about 70,000 people) and Bohemian at heart (just stroll through the Fairhaven district or visit a locally owned coffee shop). This town grew up on the water and is located near the San Juan Islands, Mt. Baker (snowboard heaven) and is between Seattle and Vancouver. If you like sailing, hiking, skiing, kayaking, mountain biking or just miles of parks and trails, this place has it. And very dog friendly too! It's a college town (Western Washington University)and has a number of cultural amenities, though not on the caliber of the bigger cities nearby (which is good). As such, the nighlife tends to favor the 20-25 age bracket, with noteable exceptions like the Wild Buffalo and the Nightlife Lounge.