It is one of the most fascinating spots in North America. The Columbia River Gorge separates the states of Washington and Oregon, with mountains rising right up along its banks. From Portland, the capital city of Oregon, it takes just an hour and a half by car to reach Hood River, dubbed also the windsurfing capital of the world. According to the rules of nature, a little less than one kilometer wide river flows into the sea, while the wind here blows in the very opposite direction. The current, meeting strong crosswind, forms sharp crested waves that are great for windsurfing tricks. Unfortunately, after three years spent in Portland, I manage to go back to Hood River just occasionally. Yet, apart from Hawaii beaches, no other place in American continent can match up to it! Pretty peculiar weather conditions are characteristic to this place - it seems that it's raining almost daily in Oregon, whereas on the other side of the river the sun is shining and the weather is dry. Up in the mountains (Mt. Hood), not far from the Hood River, you can also go for some skiing or a snowboarding. The local windsurfing industry has spread along the river with lots of shops, equipment rentals and hotels. Moreover, price level is reasonable, too. Worth a visit is a local brewery, housing also a museum and a restaurant.