Welcome to Portland/Vancouver (Washington - not that Canadian city...). Portland proper has decent public transportation and so if you are car-less I would stay downtown - a great waterfront city. With a car I'd still opt for central but check parking costs (outlying areas no cost). The Heathman in Vancouver is nice - but lots of freeway intersection construction currently nearby. The Columbia River Gorge is a must-drive. So much to see. Write for more info if you wish.