Taking the long look west, the New York Times assesses Seattle as a travel destination and returns with a glowing review. (Nothing like the sweet taste of validation in the morning!) With an eye toward our city’s kid-friendly potential, the review is an interesting read, if only for the entertainment of seeing the city through someone else’s eyes:

Rain. Coffee. A snow-capped volcano looming over the skyline and a chilly inland sea spread at its feet. At first glance, Seattle’s claims to fame may not look all that enticing to those with children in tow. But glance again. Despite the damp, Seattle envelops children in a warm embrace. [nyt]

Aside from the humor of reading about the “slightly seedier Pioneer Square” and other clever neighborhood descriptors, the article might be a good one to file away for the next time guests with children drop into town and your struggling for suggestions.