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Above: Seattle as seen from across West Seattle

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Above: The quintessential Seattle symbol, the Space Needle

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Above: The Olympic Mountain range across from Eliott Bay

Scenes from West Seattle

West Seattle is actually the oldest part of Seattle and the birthplace of the city. This is where the original settlers met chief Seattle - the city is named after this native American chieftain. Nowadays, the area is a laid-back residential spot.

The sandy strip of Alki Beach is popular with volleyball players, kayakers and sunbathers, while its coastal path has views of Puget Sound and the Seattle skyline. West Seattle Junction is the area's commercial heart, with casual eateries, coffeehouses and funky stores. Lincoln Park has walking and biking trails on a bluff above the Sound, and a heated saltwater pool.

Have you been to West Seattle?