I know. I've already shared with you lots and lots of picture from Washington, D.C.
But consider this post a helpful how-to guide to navigate this nation's capital.
If you find yourself in D.C., consider these tips:
If I had checked my camera, there would be pictures of a giant basket of perfectly steamed shrimp, seasoned with Old Bay and lemon zest, next to plates of fried cod, hand-cut potato wedges, homemade cole slaw, and corn-on-the-cob. Husband said our meal was really tasty. He never compliments food. Ever.
I arrived before the park was open, but I entertained myself by taking pictures with my camera's self-timer. It was ridiculous and silly. I also recommend the boat cruise on the Potomac River. The view of George Washington's mansion is incredible.
Anyone who visits D.C. must go to Arlington National Cemetery and watch the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. I have goosebumps just thinking about my experience. You can't NOT go to Arlington.
But don't wear brand new shoes. I purchased a pair of athletic/walking shoes the day before we left and had blisters within hours of first slipping them on. Not my brightest moment, to say the least. Break those puppies in .... before your trip!!!!!
Seriously, I cannot promote METRO enough. For $9 I had an unlimited pass for the entire day and I zippy-do-daa'd all over the place. Transitioning from one train to another is super easy and really quick. Honest-to-goodness, I never waited more than 5 minutes to board.
Being in D.C. (or any city) during the work week is a huge advantage. People who live and work in the area are out and about and very eager to help. I can't tell you the number of people I politely asked, "May I ask you a question?" and they gently pointed me in the direction of my destination. Around lunchtime, look for people carrying their cell phone and to-go box. Avoid someone (such as Yours Truly) with a tote bag and holding a street map.
No offense to restaurant chains, but I avoid them at all cost ~ especially when traveling to new cities. In fact, I spent several days prior to our departure seeking out places to eat. Husband and I dined at Steamer's and Woodmont Grill in Bethesda and Copper Canyon in Gaithersburg. During my solo adventures, I ate at the Mount Vernon Inn, Old Ebbitt Grill, and Ping Pong. I recommend all of them and wish they were in my backyard!
I got turned around, made several U-turns, and even cussed a few times when I did not arrive at my anticipated destination. However, I was never lost or scared or anxious. Somehow, at the end of the day, I always made it back (safely) to Husband. The only time
I was really frustrated was the afternoon I had planned to visit the National Geographic Museum. I left Ping Pong restaurant and found the correct street, but I walked in the opposite direction. Instead of seeing the museum, I perused Embassy Row. Yep, I waved to the neighbors and viewed more than 75 properties belonging to dignitaries and secretaries of foreign countries along Massachusetts Avenue. When I saw the sculpture of Mahatma Ghandi in front of India's embassy, I took a deep breath and accepted the fact that my tour had taken a detour and everything was A-okay. Be the change you want to see ...
If you're in Washington, D.C., you have to see the documents that created this country.
The original Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, and Bill of Rights are on display. It was quite magical seeing that John Hancock signature!!! However, access to the gallery is limited to a specific number of visitors at a time. I waited outside before the building open to ensure my spot in the first group. An hour later, when I left the archives, the line stretched around the building and down the street.
Sure, I can watch IMAX films in Texas, but now I've watched an IMAX film about coral reefs in the South Pacific at Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History. I'm special and
I know it.
I know I've already mentioned food, but I tried dim sum (little steamed parcels of deliciousness) for the first time in D.C. and I'm head-over-heels in LOVE with the cuisine. I've already "friend-ed" the owner on Twitter and Facebook and begged him to open a restaurant in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
I'm not saying you have to invite every stranger on the street to Christmas dinner, but you'd be surprised what a warm smile and genuine conversation will get you in unfamiliar territory. The facility where Husband and I stayed had incredible staff, Miss Veronica was my grandmother-figure for the week and Shuman (pronounced Shoe-Man) was my chauffeur to the METRO station and provided driving directions to Gaithersburg. I had excellent wait staff at every restaurant, and they were all helpful with my food allergy and extremely personable. They're all invited to Texas for sweet tea.
Duh - why do you think I've written this blog post?! A few things to remember:
- The unlimited METRO pass is only valid after 9:30am.
- Keep a water bottle in your purse. Refill often.
- If bathroom facilities are available, use them!
- Avoid large and bulky souvenirs. I prefer refrigerator magnets that are small and easy to pack in carry-0n luggage. Plus, it's a daily reminder of my trip.
- Have a small amount of cash in your wallet for a taxi. Just. In. Case.
- Allow extra time for traveling from point A to point B ... rental car return and lines through airport security often take longer than expected. If you decide to drive to your destination, remember rush-hour traffic periods and obey parking signs.
Well, that's an obvious statement. Seriously, enjoy every moment because you'll eventually return home with a suitcase full of dirty clothes and 864 emails that require your attention.
Isn't she just great? Stick around for more guest posts from my wonderful summer time sponsors! The high in West Tennessee today is supposed to be around 106 so everyone in my neck of the woods PLEASE stay hydrated and cool! If you haven't visited Jenna and participated in her challenge then head on over and join in for day 4!
She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. Proverbs 31:25
