In a weekend - Washington D.C
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
6th July 2014
Washington D.C is a city flecked with illustrious marble, granite, limestone monuments of past presidents and memorials honouring soldiers. The landscape is preen and green with manicured garden scenery, almost like a reflection of Paris, giving certain areas of Washington D.C a European ambient touch.
A city built for those with a love for the outdoors, people can be seen running along the trails of the river, doing yoga poses in the parks and cycling the bike friendly streets. Cycling is a great way to visit all the landmarks on your list, if crowded bus tours isn't your thing. A bike can be picked up from any 'Capital Bikeshare' station, conveniently located in over 300 areas, spread throughout D.C. All that's required is a credit card to get you going. One of the many benefits of Capital Bikeshare is that you can return your bike back at any station, wherever your plans take you for the day.
The Lincoln Memorial is a rectangular building, encircled with pillars and it's not until you approach close enough to see, that the structure is mammoth in size housing a sitting statue, in honour of the 16th President Abraham Lincoln with engravings of his notable speeches on the walls, that makes it all awe-inspiring.
At the top of the stairs before you leave, it is only natural to look out across the reflecting pool and admire the scenery that lies ahead and where many tourist are engrossed in taking photos, but before you descend down the stairs to leave, look down for the spot where Martin Luther King, Jr. stood and made his famous speech in August, 28th 1963, appropriately marked with the words 'I have a dream.'
A short distance from the Lincoln Memorial, you can find the Korean War Veterans Memorial, commemorating those that served in the Korean War. It is unique in design and displays a number of larger than normal sized steel soldier statues, looking as though they are on a mission and trudging through the living trees and bushes planted around them.
Being in Washington D.C, the White House is probably on your list to see. The front view is busy with tourist and isn't as spectacular in comparison to the other landmarks, therefore an ideal way to see the White House in comfort and style is from the P.O.V Rooftop Terrace Bar, (Address: 515 15th Street NW, Washington D.C 20004 USA) located on the 11th floor of the W Hotel, while having a refreshing drink in hand.
The side view of the White House is just as good as the front view, also from the terrace you can see other landmarks such as the Washington Monument and the top of the Pentagon, above the treetops. The P.O.V prices are expensive, but worth a drink for the views.
If you happen to be in Washington D.C on a Sunday, make sure you try the brunch at 'Sequoia' (Address: 3000 K Street NW, Washington D.C 20007 USA). It is an all-you-can-eat buffet, with a food spread that is abundant in endless choices, which makes knowing where to begin your eating carnival somewhat of a difficult decision.
From eggs, waffles, tacos and ice-cream chef stations to table spreads of salads, pasta, seafood, roasts, fresh fruits and a city of mini dessert varieties, that comes complete with a flowing chocolate fountain for your indulgence. As well as being an all-you-can-eat, Sequoia is also an all-you-can-drink brunch, which includes alcoholic beverages, so spending most of the day sitting by the river is a genius idea.
Sequoia is located in Georgetown on the waterfront of the Potomac river, the view is relaxing and tranquil, best for a schedule free day.
In the heart of Georgetown, along and off of M Street NW, you will discover special boutique stores as well as main-stream and high-end brands. A fashion addicts haven, designed for an affective shopping therapy session. Trendy bars and and cafes are also located in and around the area, perfect for taking a load off the feet in between store hopping.
However you decide to spend your journey in Washington D.C, it's an admirable city, vibrant in it's surroundings and brimming with history. A district intertwined with past and present, enjoyable on all levels.
