Seattle generally has a wet climate, with the most rain falling between January and May and October and December, but daytime temperatures are mild throughout the year. June to August is the warmest and driest time of year, with summer temperatures averaging about 75°F (24°C), while winter temperatures rarely drop below 32°F (0°C) with little snowfall. April to November is the best time to visit with less chance of rain and long summer days.

Dining in Seattle is much like the city itself, a cosmopolitan affair born from the fruits of the wilderness. The surrounding Puget Sound, with reserves from Alaska, is one large barrel of seafood and when coupled with produce grown from many small local farms, lets restaurants use the ingredients, rather than fanciful preparation, to make masterful dishes. Added to traditional Northwestern cuisine like wild salmon or dungeness crab is a strong Asian influence, both from the large Asian-American communities and Seattle's importance as a trade port on the Pacific Rim. Restaurants are helped by great views of the sea and many funky neighbourhoods giving either a quiet romantic or fun and festive ambiance to a meal. Some of the best areas for eating out in Seattle are the waterfront district near Pike's Place Market, a long line of fine dining along 1st and 2nd Ave, and Capitol Hill. In general the Northwest's formality is a little toned down and most top restaurants don't required a jacket. Tipping is between 15 to 20 percent and most places require a reservation.

Seattle city centre is well serviced by public transport with an excellent bus system, historic streetcars along the waterfront, and a high-speed elevated Monorail which links downtown to the Seattle Center and offers views over the harbour and beyond. There is also the Washington State Ferry system that offers scenic excursions outside the city limits. The bus system is the most extensive and runs throughout the night, but less frequently after 8pm. Buses provide free transport within the downtown area between the Waterfront and 6th Avenue and Pioneer Square and Battery Street, from 6am to 7pm. The Ride Free Area also includes the Metro Tunnel, which goes underneath the city avoiding traffic congestion. In addition there are the old-fashioned Waterfront streetcars or trams that are of more use to tourists than commuters, allowing passengers to hop on and off with an all day ticket at the various tourist attractions along its route. Fares on buses and trams are slightly more expensive during peak hours and there are no services on Sundays. Taxis can be hailed from taxi ranks or ordered by telephone. Parking in Seattle is expensive and limited, but traffic isn't too bad outside of rush hour and the city is fairly easy to navigate. Renting a car for excursions outside the city is a good option; a minimum age of 25 years, an International Driving Permit (national drivers license sometimes accepted) and a credit card are required.

It may not be the most thrilling city in the United States, but kids on holiday in the rainy city of Seattle will have a fabulous time exploring all the sights on offer. Take a trip to the Seattle Aquarium where children can learn and be mesmerized by the exquisite displays of fish and marine life, or head over to the Woodland Park Zoo to meet some furry friends. More active children will love a day out at the Olympic National Park where glacier-capped mountains meet lush green forest where they can stretch their legs and take in a hike, walk or even mountain bike. Little boys will love the Museum of Flight, while little girls should visit the Rosalie Whyel Museum of Doll Art. On days when the rain sets in and outdoor activities with the kids are not an option, head to the Children's Museum with the little ones, while older kids will love the Experience Music Project, even if just for the zany design of the pink building.

English is the most common language but Spanish is often spoken in south-western states.

The US Dollar (USD) is the unit of currency and is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards and travellers cheques are widely accepted. Travellers cheques should be taken in US Dollars to avoid hassles. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.

Making a name for itself on the international music scene with its grunge explosion in the early 1990s, some of Seattle's best nightlife and entertainment have nothing to do with music. Amongst the ubiquitous live music clubs there are scores of local bars, Irish bars, dive bars, posh lounges, clubs and trendy eateries to enjoy. After catching a sunset at the waterfront, Bell Street Pier or Myrtle Edwards Park, head to Pioneer Square where bars, live music and nightclubs prevail. Those planning to spend their evenings here should get the Pioneer Square Club Stamp, which lets patrons pay one admission to get into six clubs, though it is worth taking note that this area can attract quite a rowdy frat crowd. Belltown is also a popular spot for young and hip nightclubs while in Capitol Hill the gay scene is always buzzing. Culture vultures should check out the Seattle Opera, which is ranked at the top of companies in the country while the renowned Seattle Symphony is also worth checking out. The Seattle Repertory Fringe Theatre is great for the more avant-garde productions. It's worth picking up a copy of Seattle Weeklyor the Seattle Timeson Fridays as this includes a section called 'Ticket' listing all the week's arts and entertainment offerings.

Shopping in Seattle is underrated. Famed for Grunge music and Seattle coffee companies, this city also has excellent retail outlets. The prime spots include Downtown Seattle, Fremont, the International District, Pike Place and the University District. Downtown Seattle is a square of several blocks with large outlets such as Urban Outfitters, Nordstrom and Gap. This is also the site of Westlake Center Plaza and Pacific Place, both large malls. The International District encompasses a vast area featuring numerous Asian shops, while Pike Place Market is a waterfront shopping area offering local produce, fresh fish and various restaurants. There are many bargains to be found at the retro and vintage stores of the Fremont Market on Sundays, and districts like Fremont, Ballard, Capitol Hill, Wallingford and West Seattle, all of which have independently owned shops and specialty stores to entice shoppers. Tax refunds can be applied for by foreign visitors.

Seattle's skyline, with the prominent Space Needle, is one of America's most recognisable cityscapes which hints at the eclectic attractions below. The attractions in Seattle both celebrate and preserve various roles in history, alternating from aviation and shipbuilding industries, music epicentre and Native American and contemporary art centre. Other attractions just let visitors enjoy the moment, including three sports stadiums, an aquarium, zoo, music laboratory and festive city districts. Sightseeing Seattle's watery attributes can be enjoyed criss-crossing Puget Sound in state ferries (recently enjoying a spotlight from Grey's Anatomy) or from the lively waterfront bizarre and shopping area Pikes Place Market. Among the other highlights are especially great museums showcasing variously the history of flight, contemporary art, an ode to Rock 'n Roll at the Experience the Music Project's architectural wonder, and of course, the views from the Space Needle. Yet perhaps the best thing to do is follow the locals out of the city and into the surrounding nature.