1. Spouse and I would like to take an Oregon Coast type vacation sometime in the fall - weekend, maybe 4 days depending on if/when we can get childcare. What's the easiest way to get there from Portland if one does not have a car? I've heard rumors of a bus from the Amtrak station but I don't remember specifics.
2. I would like an MP3 player, ideally one that also plays videos.
I do not (DO NOT) want an iPod. Been there, done that, not especially satisfied. Apple and I are divorced and the parting wasn't especially pleasant.
As far as I can tell all that's available is the Creative series, which seems good - any opinions? Are there other options I haven't considered?