Hi Zach
I'm up here on the rainy coast of British Columbia. I believe the climate here is similar to WA. While our weather isn't as sunny and warm as Phoenix there are still a few months of good growing weather. Springs are cool and damp but June July August and Sept can be good. Some years we can get some really hot weather. Others not so much.
I'm growing Basjoo, ensete maurelli, EE's, Cannas, etc. So don't be too sad. There are lots of other tropicalesque plants that you'll be able to grow in WA. There may be some new techniques to learn in regards to wintering and storing too. I've learned a lot over the past 3 years so it can be done. I assure you that you aren't the only one with the tropical bug up here.
The fun part comes when your new neighbors and friends see the plants you are growing and can't believe it.
(As far as transporting your plants I really can't say. I've never tried.)
Good luck
Sam