Last updated: October 1, 2025
Explore Washington State (“EWS”) is a reader‑supported, independent platform that highlights the people, places, and stories shaping life in the Pacific Northwest.
To keep the site free and to support storytelling, we sometimes use affiliate links. Below is what that means, how we use them, and why you can trust our recommendations.
What You Should Know (Quick Summary)
- These links may earn us a small commission — but they cost you nothing extra.
- We only partner with brands and services we believe in.
- Affiliate commissions don’t influence what we write or recommend.
- We’ll clearly label posts that include affiliate links, usually near the top.
- You can always reach out with questions (see “Contact” below).
What Are Affiliate Links?
Affiliate links are special URLs that track referrals. If you click one and make a purchase or booking, we may receive a commission from the vendor — at no extra cost to you.
This helps fund the time, travel, hosting, and other costs needed to keep EWS running.
Why We Use Affiliate Links
We use them so we can:
- Sustain the cost of operations (hosting, writing, photography, travel)
- Avoid cluttering the site with aggressive advertising or paywalls
- Maintain editorial independence — we won’t accept commissions in exchange for positive reviews
We only link to products, travel services, gear, or experiences we’ve vetted, would use ourselves, or that come recommended by trusted sources.
Our Affiliate Partners & Relationships
Currently, we participate in affiliate programs such as Rock Porch, Stay 22, and other travel, gear, or local-experience networks.
This list may change over time.
Regardless of affiliate relationships, we always reserve the right to refuse or remove a partnership if it conflicts with our values or editorial standards.
How & Where We Disclose
- When a blog post or page includes affiliate links, we’ll add a disclosure above the first link, generally in or near the first two paragraphs.
- The wording will be something like: This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something through them, we may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you.
- We will never cloak or mislabel links; a “learn more” or “view site” link must clearly show where it leads.
Special Notes & Changes
Affiliate programs may change, or companies may change their terms. If a partner changes or no longer aligns with our values, we may remove their links or revoke participation.
We will strive to keep this page and all disclosures up to date.
Legal & Compliance
This disclosure is made in accordance with FTC guidelines requiring clear and conspicuous disclosure of affiliate relationships.
Although we strive for accuracy, you should always verify terms, prices, or availability with the vendor directly.
Contact Us / Questions
If you have any questions about affiliate links or our revenue model, you’re welcome to reach out:
scott@explorewashingtonstate.com
Thank you for supporting Explore Washington State. Your trust and clicks help fuel independent storytelling and meaningful connection across the region.