Travelers may also consider purchasing ready-to-eat "travel meals" in advance from stores such as

Hospitality & Hotel Accommodations Near Kesser Israel

We would like to think that it is the growing fame of Kesser Israel, and the desire of people to attend our services in a Shomer Shabbos manner. Perhaps it is also connected with the fact that we often have fellow Jews who must be in Portland for several reasons over Shabbos, and would like to be near an Orthodox shul. At this time, as you will see in our schedule, we are in temporary quarters and there is no nearby hotel. We are still evaluating some choices for not-too-far ones, but for now, about the only option is home hospitality, which may be limited.

As far as Shabbos meals are concerned, the main items of concern are the Friday night meal and the Shabbos Lunch. Again, choices come down to home hospitality. We'll do our best for you, as we always try to welcome guests, but do contact us to see what's possible.

Hotel Info

We have not evaluated the quality of motels near our temporary location (Multnomah Arts Center), where Shabbos and Yontif services will be held, but there are two motels within a two mile walk of this location. Online reviews of the first one suggest it's pretty basic, the second perhaps may be a bit better. We hope to have updated information in the coming weeks:

Aladdin Motor Inn -- 0.6 miles (1 km) from Multnomah Arts Center

8905 SW 30th Ave

Portland, OR 97219 - 3956

(800) 292-4466 or (503) 246-8241

and

Hospitality Inn -- 1.4 miles (2.3 km) from Multnomah Arts Center

10155 SW Capitol Hwy

Portland, 97219

(503) 244-6684 (503) 244-8255

There are some choices available near our OLD location, which is still occasionally used.

University Place Accommodations

Our favorite hotel used to be the DoubleTree. But they have just gone out of business. Their successor, University Place is now available. The University Place at 310 SW Lincoln, Portland, OR 97201, while dealing mostly with university conference rooming, will also rent to the general public. Kesser Israel has arranged with University Place for the same terms and conditions we previously had with the DoubleTree. The discounted room rate is $79 plus tax. Car parking in their parking lot is $12 per day. But you can park free near the Synagogue (our Meade Street location) on the street during the week end. Parking is restricted on the street during week days. The staff will let you into your room and late night (after sundown) checkout will be provided on a room-available basis. Ask for it upon making reservations and verify availability upon check in. You need to identify yourself as being with Kesser Israel when you make reservations. This is done directly with University Place at (503)221-0140. You will find information on this facility at the web site www.uplace.pdx.edu.

In addition to a good price, late check out on Shabbos and a short walk, the University Place is also providing Kesser Israel with help when we bring in special guests for the congregation. Please make sure to identify yourself as visiting Kesser Israel when you make reservations and upon registration in order to receive these advantages.

Shabbos issues.

Portland does not have an eruv.

University Place, like most hotels, uses electronic card keys. The "key" actuates a magnetic latch that connects the outside door handle so the door can be opened. An LED type light turns on when the door is ready to be opened. Obviously, a Jewish person may not do this on Shabbos or Yom Tov.

However, we have explained to the hotel what our needs are in getting into the room, and they will have trained staff available at all times, so that you will merely need to mention that "I would like to enter my room", and they will know to accompany you to the room and open the door for you with no further explanations necessary. An Orthodox rabbi (such as our Rabbi Brodkin) can be contacted for a full explanation of the factors that he considered in the decision that the door may be opened for you, even though you may not do it yourself. The fact that the light is LED and not incandescent, hence not mavier; the fact that there are small time delays and actions that cause other actions as the key is inserted; the fact that our "contract" with the hotel includes this service, all contribute to the halachic questions. It is most critical to note that the handle inside the room is always mechanically connected and no electrical signals are generated when the door is opened from the inside.

Housekeeping should be informed to not turn off any lights that you leave on over Shabbos. Also the people who let you into the room have been trained to ask if you are comfortable with the lighting and act upon any "hint" that you give to the contrary. You may also note that the hotel will ensure that you have tissues that are not connected to each other and thus can be removed for used on Shabbos.

Travelodge

The Travelodge, previously known as the Caravan, is located at 2401 SW 4th Ave. Direct phone number (503)226-1121. Central Travelodge reservations is at 800-578-7878. The cost is less than University Place or Marriott, running from low $60s to mid $70s depending on the room you choose. Prices are lower via central reservations and they sometimes have an internet special. There is no late check, but there is no charge for parking and many rooms have a refrigerator. Ask for one when reserving room and/or at check in. Keys are electronic and the staff knows to let you in on Shabbos.

Walking Distances from our old location [to/from our current locations, about 4.5 miles. Sorry!]

Travelodge: 5 - 10 minutes
University Place: 10 -15 minutes

Visit Us

We hope that you enjoy your stay in Portland, and join us for Torah and Teffilah at our shul. Please contact us if we can be of additional help or for further clarification at (503) 222-1239.