1. WASHINGTON DC
Capital city of World’s Powerful democracy
Most walk able city in US
City with most fit girls in US
……much more
Officially founded on July 16, 1790, Washington, DC is unique among American cities because
it was established by the Constitution of the United States to serve as the nation’s capital. From
the beginning it has been embroiled in political maneuvering, sectional conflicts, and issues of
race, national identity, compromise and, of course, power.
2. History
The choice of Washington’s site along the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers resulted from a
compromise between Alexander Hamilton and northern states who wanted the new Federal
government to assume Revolutionary War debts and Thomas Jefferson and southern states who
wanted the capital placed in a location friendly to slave-holding agricultural interests.
George Washington, the first president and namesake of the city, chose the site and appointed
three commissioners to help prepare for the arrival of the new government in 1800. In 1800 the
federal government consisted of 131 employees. Pierre Charles L’Enfant designed the city as a
bold new capital with sweeping boulevards and ceremonial spaces reminiscent of Paris of his
native France. Benjamin Banneker, a self-taught African-American mathematical genius,
provided the astronomical calculations for surveying and laying out the city. The full
development of Washington as a monumental city, however, did not come until a hundred years
later when the McMillan Commission updated its plan to establish the National Mall and
monuments that most visitors to Washington now know.
During the War of 1812, most of the city was burned to the ground. British forces invaded the
city and burned public and government buildings, including the White House, in response to
American forces invading York, now known as Toronto, and burning most of it to the ground.
However, the British left the residential areas untouched and also spared the home of the
Commandant of the Marines, located on Marine Barracks, as a sign of respect and is now the
oldest government building in continuous use in the nations’ capital. The Patent Office and the
Post Office were also spared because of Dr. William Thornton, Superintendent of Patents,
pleading with British officers that the knowledge lost therein would be a disservice to mankind.
As a southern city, Washington has always had a significant African- American population.
Before the Civil War, the city was home to a growing number of free blacks who worked as
skilled craftsmen, hack drivers, businessmen and laborers. It also included enslaved African
Americans and was the site of slave auctions before they were outlawed in the city in 1850.
Slaves owned in Washington were emancipated on April 16, 1862, nine months before Lincoln’s
Emancipation Proclamation of January 1, 1863. Washington remained home to a large African-
American population who created vibrant communities and championed civil rights despite racial
segregation and prejudice.
Washington, DC, was envisioned by its founders as a commercial center as well as the seat of
government. The location on the Potomac River was chosen, in part, because it already included
3. two existing port towns of Georgetown, Maryland and Alexandria, Virginia which served as
regional shipping centers for tobacco and wheat. When Alexandria returned to Virginia in 1846,
residents argued that inclusion within the Federal District of Columbia hurt business and the city
of Washington would never need that much room to grow.
Washington is also a cosmopolitan city. While it has always had foreign delegations from the
countries of the world it also boasts an increasingly diverse ethnic population. A growing Latino
population represents every Central and South American country with a particularly large
community of Salvadorans. A large Ethiopian population has resulted from the political turmoil
there. New ethnic groups have brought new restaurants, as well as new residents. While DC lost
residents to surrounding suburbs in the 1990s, new housing and urban revitalization is now
attracting people back to the city for a downtown renaissance of housing, offices, entertainment
and nightlife.
As the capital of the world’s most powerful democracy, it is ironic that residents of Washington
lack full self government and limited self government was only restored in 1974 after nearly 100
years with an appointed commissioner system. Representation in Congress is limited to a non-
voting delegate to the House of Representatives and a shadow Senator. 1964 was the first
Presidential election in which Washington residents were able to vote.
After 217 years as the nation’s capital, Washington is a place brimming with a unique history of
its own. It has developed as a complex and layered city with multiple personalities. As home to
the federal government, it has attracted a diverse mix of government workers, members of
Congress from every state, foreign emissaries, lobbyists, petitioners and protestors. While elected
and appointed officials come and go giving the city its reputation as a transient community, many
of the city’s residents have called Washington home for multiple generations. Their stories give
Washington its distinctive character as both a national and local city.
Washington, DC Demographic information (Source: US Census Bureau, 2006, Bureau of
Labor & Statistics, 2004-2005 and Greater Washington Initiative Analysis, 2007)
• Population: 581,530
• 47% male and 53% female
• 46% of DC residents hold a Bachelor’s Degree or higher (compared to 27% of US of
population).
• DC’s population is 55% Black/African-American (compared to 12% of US population)
and
4. 8% Hispanic/Latino (compared to 14% of US population).
• Median age: 35
• Median household income: $61,105
• Greater Washington has the largest percent of adults with advanced degrees (19%) in the
U.S., more than twice the national average. 43.9% of local women have a Bachelor’s
degree or higher, the highest percentage in the nation.
Visitor Statistics
• DC welcomes approximately 15 million visitors each year, generating an estimated $5.24
billion in visitor spending for the city alone.
• Approximately 1.2 international visitors come to DC annually. Top countries of origin
include: United Kingdom, Germany, Latin America (Brazil, Argentina, Mexico), Japan,
India, South Korea, Nordic (Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden), Australia, Italy and
France.
• For additional visitor statistics, visit the research and statistics page.
Attractions
• Top attractions include:
o Smithsonian’s: National Museum of Natural History (7 million visitors)
o National Air & Space Museum (6 million visitors)
o National Museum of American History (3 million visitors)
o National Zoological Park (3 million visitors
o Lincoln Memorial (4 million visitors)
o World War II Memorial (4 million visitors)
o Vietnam Veterans Memorial (4 million visitors)
o Korean Memorial (3 million visitors)
o FDR Memorial (3 million visitors)
o Rock Creek Park (2 million visitors)
• DC is also home to 4 major sporting event venues with 167,000 total seats and 8 major
professional teams including the Redskins, Wizards, Mystics, Nationals, United and
Capitals
5. • There are more than 40 performing arts/theatre venues with 31,000 total seats.
• More than 50 private tour companies offer nearly 40 regularly scheduled tours.
Transportation
Airports
• There are 3 DC-area airports - Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA), Washington
Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood
Marshall Airport (BWI)
• These airports service more than 60 million passengers each year, 31 million of which
deplane in the DC area.
• DCA and Dulles service more than 90 domestic destinations and have 423 weekly
departures to 21 international destinations.
• BWI services 61 destinations (319 flights) and has daily departures to 8 international
destinations.
Train
• Union Station in DC is home to Amtrak and multiple commuter rail services; 3.8 million
Amtrak passengers travel through DC each year
Public transportation
• Metrorail & Metrobus
o The Metro system is the nation’s third-largest (with 5 rail lines, 106 miles of track
and 86 stations) and the nation’s second-most utilized transport system (carrying
206 million riders each year)
o For hours, fares and station information, visit wmata.com.
• DC Circulator:
6. o 3 bus routes service 2.2 million riders each year, connecting Union Station with
Georgetown, the National Mall with Walter E. Washington Convention Center,
and a seasonal loop around the National Mall, priced at just $1 per ride.
o For hours, passes and route maps, visit dccirculator.com.
• Taxis:
o Beginning in April 2008, the DC taxi cab system will convert to a meter system.
o Fares begin at $3, plus 25 cents per each additional 1/6 mile and 25 cents per
minute of wait time, $1.50 per additional passenger.
o Cab fare from Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) to Walter E. Washington
Convention Center will cost $11-15.
International DC
• 84,000 DC residents (15%) speaking a language other than English at home
• 74,000 DC residents (12%) are foreign-born
• The Greater Washington region is home to 400 international association, 700
internationally owned companies and more than 150 embassies and international cultural
centers.
Climate
DC has a generally temperate climate, with pleasant springs and autumns, and mild winters with
approximately 17 inches of seasonal snowfall.
8. Duration of Stay ---- April 5, 2011 – April 9, 2011
Transportation
1. Flight Reservation: Flights can be reserved online through various travel websites.
The cost of the ticket depends on the choice of airlines, travel class, season in the
destination place and several other factors. Some of the websites are as follows:
o www.makemytrip.com
o www.yatra.com
o www.kayak.com
o www.travelocity.com
2. Lowest Fare: I decided to travel to Washington DC in the month of April, 2011 which is
the spring season there and because of ‘Cherry Blossom’ festival in Washington DC, there are
visitors from all around the world which makes it one of the busiest season. I could get the
cheapest deal from www.makemytrip.com
The details of air ticket are as follows:
Airlines: Outbound – Swiss Airlines
Inbound – Austrian Airlines
Price: INR 55,795
Change over: 1
10. IAD, Virginia
3. Trains and Buses: I made online reservation from Ludhiana to New Delhi for April 4,
2011 from the website www.irctc.co.in
The date on ticket shows as 11 October, 2010 because you could not make advance booking for
the next year so I planned for the same weekday in month of October, 2010 to have an idea of
the fare and train schedules.
The distance between Ludhiana and New Delhi is about 330 Kms and the ticket cost me INR
463. I went for the AC 3 class though it was costlier than sleeper class because I had travel bags
with me so it is always easy to accommodate them in the AC class in the trains.
From New Delhi railway station I took a bus dedicated for Airport passengers which was of great
ease. The travel on bus cost me around INR 25 and it took me around 45 minutes with the traffic.
11.
12. Cabs, Car rentals and Metro
There are many driving restrictions in Washington DC and the option of hiring a cab is even
better. Here is the view for various cab companies in Washington DC with their contact
numbers.
The cost for cab will depend on the distance you travel in it.
Still, I will prefer travelling in Washington Public transport i.e. Metro buses and Metro rail
which is a lot cheaper option. Moreover, Washington DC is the most walkable city in entire US.
Most of the landmarks in the city are approachable by foot and it’s a lot of fun walking on the
streets of Washington DC.
And for the option of travelling on Metro rail, one could buy a Smart trip weekly pass which is a
good option for any number of travels in a week. The pass could be brought from the following
link: http://www.wmata.com/fares/purchase/store/
13. So, one can decide upon the number of days you have to stay in the city that he/she should go for
a weekly pass or one day pass for buses and rail.
14. Climatic Conditions
Located on the Potomac River between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean,
Washington is known for its hot, humid summers, pleasant springs and autumns, and mild
winters with seasonal snowfall averaging just over 17 inches. Carved from south-central
Maryland, Washington is bordered on three sides by that state and sits across the Potomac River
from Virginia on its fourth side. The District is also divided by the Anacostia River and Rock
Creek. One fourth of the District is park land. The city is divided artificially into four quadrants:
northeast, northwest, southeast, and southwest.
While the city of Washington DC's weather is highly seasonal with extreme variations between
summer and winter; it has been known to be unpredictable too. Summers tend to be very hot and
humid, the conditions exacerbated in the heart of the city with its concrete and steel. Fall and
spring are the best seasons, when chilly but bright, perfect days are the norm. Sudden rain or
snowfalls are possible though. In winter the city is subject to heavy snowfalls, averaging 17
inches (43cm) a year, and sudden arctic blasts or frozen rainstorms.
Area: 68.3 square miles (2000)
Elevation: Ranges from 40 to 410 feet above sea level
Average Temperatures: January, 36.0° F; August, 77.0° F; annual average, 54.0° F
Average Annual Precipitation: 39.73 inches (including 17.3 inches of snow)
15. Landmarks
Washington DC, the capital of the United States of America, is a fascinating city for any visitor.
The stunning parks, long tree lined boulevards, marble monuments and numerous museums
provide an idyllic setting to learn about the history of the "greatest nation of the modern world".
Originally designed and built as the new home for the Federal Government, many of Washington
DC's districts have been formed around the inner workings of the Nation and many of the key
buildings in the city, such as the Supreme Court, the White House, the FBI Building and even the
Pentagon, may be visited for free.
The city's wealth of American history and culture is overwhelming and a brief stroll around the
National Mall, with its many monuments and memorials, is an excellent start to exploring the
American heritage found in Washington DC.
1. WASHINGTON MONUMENT: Completed in 1884, the Washington Monument is one of the
most recognizable landmarks in Washington, D.C. The monument stands just over 555 feet,
allowing visitors who make the ascent to enjoy views of up to 40 miles on a clear day. Shaped
like an Egyptian obelisk, the Washington Monument is made of marble, granite, and
sandstone. It was built to honor George Washington, the first president of the United States.
Fun Fact: The Washington Monument is the tallest stone structure in the world.
16. 2. JEFFERSON MEMORIAL: The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is located in the East Potomac Park.
Twenty-six columns surround the domed, white-marble structure. The memorial was the brainchild of
President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who believed Thomas Jefferson deserved a memorial, along with
Washington and Lincoln. Construction began in 1938 and was finished in 1943.
Fun Fact: The 19-foot-tall bronze statue of Thomas Jefferson weighs five tons (10,000 pounds).
3. LINCOLN MEMORIAL: The Lincoln Memorial was completed in 1917. Inspired by the designs of
Greek temples, there are 36 columns representing the number of states in the union at the time of
Lincoln's death. Two murals by Jules Guerin and the famous seated statue of Abraham Lincoln are
found inside the building.
Fun Fact: The statue of Lincoln was carved from 28 blocks of white Georgia marble.
17. 4. VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL: Simply called "The Wall," this highly polished black granite national
shrine features the names of 58,202 Americans killed or missing during the Vietnam War. Designed by
American sculptor and architect Maya Ying Lin, the V-shaped wall is 493 feet long. It is one of the most
visited memorials in DC.
Fun Fact: Maya Lin was still an undergraduate at Yale University when she won the national design
competition for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
5. ALBERT EINSTEIN MEMORIAL: A 21-foot-tall statue of Albert Einstein sits near the National Academy of
Sciences. The memorial was dedicated on April 22, 1979, in honor of the centennial of his birth. A star
map set in granite at the statue's feet shows the position of the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars on the date
of the memorial's dedication. In the statue's left hand is a piece of paper showing three significant
mathematical equations: the photoelectric effect, the theory of general relativity, and equivalence of
energy and matter.
Fun Fact: Albert Einstein was named "Person of the Century" by Time magazine in 1999.
18. 6. KOREAN WAR VETERANS MEMORIAL: Nineteen soldiers, each standing over seven feet tall, form the
centerpiece of the Korean War Veterans Memorial. Juniper bushes evoke the rough terrain of Korea, and
the granite strips represent the obstacles overcome in war. Surrounding the soldiers is a wall of black
granite with thousands of faces looking straight out over the platoon. This memorial opened in 1995 in
honor of the veterans who fought in the Korean War (1950-1953).
Fun Fact: South Korea's national flower, the Rose of Sharon hibiscus plant, can be found on the
southern side of the memorial.
7. NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL: The National World War II Memorial opened in 2004 in honor of
the 16 million men and women who served, and the more than 400,000 who died fighting. Fifty-six granite
pillars - one for each state, territory, and the District of Columbia - are connected by bronze rope to
symbolize unity. Each pillar is adorned by two bronze wreaths, reflecting "America's role as the arsenal
and breadbasket of democracy."
Fun Fact: Each of the 4,048 gold stars on the Freedom Wall represents 100 Americans who died in
World War II.
19. 8. SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTE: The Smithsonian Institute, also called "the nation's attic," is the largest
museum in the world. It is vast, comprising 17 museums and the National Zoo in DC, and two museums
in New York City. In 1829, James Smithson of London died and bequeathed his fortune to the people of
the United States to create a research and educational institution. The Smithsonian Institute was officially
founded in 1846, with the first museum opening that year. Pictured is "The Castle," the first building of the
institute and now the Smithsonian Information Center.
Fun Fact: $508,318 is the amount of money Smithson left to the United States in 1829.
9. WHITE HOUSE: The White House is the official residence of the president of the United States and the
oldest public building in Washington, D.C. Much of the White House was destroyed in the War of 1812.
Later, when the building was being restored, the smoke-stained gray stone walls were painted white. Six
levels with 132 rooms and 35 bathrooms accommodate all the people who live, work, and visit the White
House. Approximately 6,000 people visit the White House each day.
Fun Fact: Other names for the White House have been the "Presidential Palace," "Executive Mansion,"
and the "President's House."
20. 10. SUPREME COURT: In 1935 the Supreme Court finally got a building of its own. Prior to this, the court sat
in what is now called the "Old Senate Chamber." The current building stands due to the efforts of William
Howard Taft, chief justice of the Supreme Court and former president of the United States, who
persuaded Congress to create a permanent home for the Supreme Court in 1929.
Fun Fact: Taft was the only president to go on to serve as the chief justice of the Supreme Court.
11. CAPITOL BUILDING: For two centuries, the Capitol Building has housed the meeting chambers for the
Senate and the House of Representatives. Similar to the White House, the Capitol Building was burned
by the British in the War of 1812. Fortunately, a rain storm prevented the fires from completely destroying
the building and repairs were already underway by 1815. Today, the Capitol Building is a museum of
American art and history in addition to its use by Congress.
Fun Fact: The dome of the Great Rotunda is 180 feet tall, which is also half the length of a football field.
21. 12. PENTAGON BUILDING: The Pentagon is the headquarters of the American Department of
Defense. A visit to the Pentagon is the only way to appreciate the immense size of this building
(the United States Capitol could fit inside any one of the Pentagons five wings) and a guided tour
will take you through only a fraction of the 17.5 miles of corridors inside. "Walk-in" Tours begin
at the Metro entrance and take approximately one and a half hours to complete the mile long
route. Group tours are also available, but require advance booking. Note that photographic
Identification is required.
13. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS: The Library of Congress, one of the largest national libraries of the
world, was founded in Washington in 1800. Originally housed in the Capitol, the library was
moved to it's permanent location in 1897 and now houses over 100 million items including
22. books, manuscripts, maps, music, recordings and motion pictures. Public tours of the Library of
Congress depart from the Great Hall of the Thomas Jefferson Building four times daily.
14. NATIONAL AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM: Located west of the Capitol Building, Washington's
National Air and Space Museum attracts 12 million people every year and is often referred to as
the world's most visited museum. Among the many items on display are the Wright Brothers'
1903 "Wright Flyer", Aviator Charles Lindbergh's "Spirit of Saint Louis", the X-1 rocket plane
that first broke the sound barrier and the command module from Apollo 11. The National Air
and Space Museum also features the Albert Einstein Planetarium and the Samuel P Langley
IMAX Theater.
15. UNION STATION: Union Station, Washington's main rail terminal, was designed to act as a
monumental gateway to the nation's capital city and is located conveniently close to the US
Capitol Building, the National Mall and other attractions such as the National Gallery of Art.
Since extensive renovation in the 1980s, the Union Station building now houses cafes,
restaurants, stores and a cinema complex. Points of interest within Union Station include the
carefully restored main waiting room, a 96 foot chamber with gold-leaf ceiling, that is now used
for Balls and other festive events and the Presidential waiting room in the East hall. Just outside
23. union station are the Thurgood Marshall Federal Judiciary Building and National Postal
Museum.
LODGING IN WASHINGTON DC:
Washington D.C. provides a wealth of things to do and see. Visitors to this historical but modern
city can observe the federal government in action, wander among the graves of unknown
soldiers, or enjoy nature opportunities.
While visiting the Washington D.C., guests can tour the Capitol Building, Lincoln Memorial,
Washington Monument, White House and Supreme Court. The Smithsonian Institution, “The
Nation's Attic” provides a collections and exhibitions on every facet of American life. Arlington
National Cemetery and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial offer opportunities for reflection in
honor of those who so bravely served our country. Visitors can walk Embassy Row, Rock Creek
Park, and The Mall to experience history and nature all in one.
Music lovers can find it all in Washington D.C. The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing
Arts is home to the National Symphony Orchestra, the Washington National Opera, and the
Washington Ballet. Arena Stage, the Shakespeare Theatre Company, and the Studio Theatre
offer still more arts attractions. Visitors to the U Street Corridor enjoy the Bohemian Caverns,
Lincoln Theatre, and Blues Alley.
Some of the Hotels in the city are:
DAYS INN CAMP SPRING
The Days Inn Camp Springs is a affordable choice whether you are visiting the Andrews Air
Force Base, or Washington DC, which is less than ten miles away. This Camp Springs, MD hotel
is 1.5 miles from the Branch Avenue Metro Station on the Green Line, giving guests easy access
to Washington DC. High speed Internet access is free in all rooms, and continental breakfast is
served every day.
24. EMBASSY INN
The Embassy Inn is a small hotel located in Northwest Washington DC, just five blocks from
DuPont Circle and its Metro Station. The National Mall is 13 blocks away, the White House is 1
mile away, and the Lincoln Memorial is just less than 2 miles away. They offer complimentary
continental breakfast every morning, free copies of the Washington Post, and free snacks on
special evenings. Wireless Internet access is free throughout the hotel, including all rooms.
GAYLORD NATIONAL
The Gaylord National is in Washington DC's suburban area, the city of National Harbor and is
right on the water. Shuttle service is available to Union Station in Washington DC, which is only
8 miles away, and water taxis can be taken to Alexandria, VA. They are home to an assortment
of bars, restaurants, a full service spa, a fitness center, pools, and a private marina. There is
thousands of square feet of meeting space available and free Internet access is accessible from
each room.
RED ROOF INN
The Red Roof Inn, Downtown DC is just one block from the Verizon Center, 6 blocks from the
National Mall, and a mile from the White House. The Washington Nationals play just 2.5 miles
away and there is an Irish Pub restaurant right in the hotel. This pet friendly hotel offers parking
for a fee, Internet access for a small fee form the room or the lobby, and there is an exercise
facility onsite with a sauna.
VIRGINIAN SUITES
The Virginian Suites Hotel is an all suite hotel, with a kitchenette in every room. This 100%
smoke free hotel is located only a block away from the Iwo Jima Memorial in Arlington, VA,
and only one mile from the National Mall and the Lincoln Memorial. Free shuttles are offered to
the Roslyn Metro Station and the Navy Annex of the Pentagon every day. Monday through
Friday, the free shuttle will take you to the nearby grocery store.
25. WINDSOR INN
The Windsor Inn is set in the NW section of Washington DC on 16th Street NW, three blocks to
the closest Metro Station, the Caddoza Metro Station. The White House is 1.5 miles away, the
National Mall is 2 miles away, and the Washington Convention Center is 2 miles away. Limited
affordable parking is available in this smoke free hotel. Every morning take advantage ion the
complimentary continental breakfast, free copy of the Washington Post, and free tea and coffee
in the afternoons.
DUPONT HOTEL
The DuPont hotel is a luxury hotel located right in the hip section of Washington DC, DuPont
Circle. The DuPont Circle Metro Station and Embassy Row are just a block away, and the White
House is just 7 blocks away. The National Mall is 1.5 miles, and the Washington Monument is
two miles away. The French restaurant in the lobby, Café DuPont,, is organic influenced and
offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. In the afternoons, the Bar DuPont is open for cocktails and
good times!
WASHINGTON COURT HOTEL
The Washington Court Hotel is a full service hotel, walking distance to the Capitol and Union
Station. All rooms face stunning views of the top of the Capitol, or views of the hotel's atrium.
The lobby connects you to the Bistro 525 restaurant, and there is a bar in the lobby as well.
Wireless Internet is available in their business center or in your room for a small fee. Valet
parking is available, as well as concierge services, and wake up calls.
Source: http://washington-dc.hotelscheap.org/
MY LODGING PLACE: I could not find a budget place to stay in as Washington DC,
being the capital of United States of America is not a cheap place to be in and in addition to that
I plan to visit it in the bloom of spring season which is one of the peak season there.
I got a room booked in the Comfort Inn Downtown DC/Convention Center for 4 nights with
breakfast including in the rate.
The booking view of my hotel is as follows:
26. 1201 13th Street, NW, Washington, DC, US, 20005
Phone: (202) 682-5300 Fax: (202) 408-0830
Hotel Website: http://www.comfortinn.com/hotel-washington-district_of_columbia-DC601
Comfort Inn Downtown DC/Convention Center, a Washington D.C. hotel near the
Washington Convention Center
The Comfort Inn® Downtown/Convention Center is conveniently located at the corner of 13th
Street and M Street, within walking distance of the Washington Convention Center and
the Verizon Center sports and entertainment arena. The McPherson Square Metrorail station
27. and Mt. Vernon Square Metrorail station are within three blocks, making it easy to visit all the
area has to offer.
This Washington, D.C. hotel provides easy access to popular attractions, including the National
Mall open-area national park, the Smithsonian National Zoological Park (known as the
National Zoo or Washington Zoo) and the Smithsonian Institution museum complex.
The Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is just four miles away.
Additional local points of interest include:
• Gallaudet University
• Howard University
• United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
• International Spy Museum
• George Washington University
There is always something to do in the nation's capital. Visitors will enjoy nationally acclaimed
theaters, free concerts, festivals, museums and world-class shopping location in the surrounding
area.
Guests of this Washington, D.C. hotel can have their pie and eat it too. The hotel offers many
full-service amenities and features, including free breakfast with hot waffles.
Additional amenities include free high-speed Internet access, free coffee, free local calls, free
weekday newspaper and valet parking. After a busy day, guests are invited to unwind in
the exercise room.
Business travelers will appreciate conveniences like voice mail and business center with access
to fax and secretarial services.
These boutique-style hotel features elegantly appointed rooms that come equipped with coffee
makers, hair dryers, irons, ironing boards and cable television. Non-smoking rooms are also
available. Valet cleaning services are provided for guest convenience.
The Comfort Inn Downtown/Convention Center provides all the luxuries seasoned travelers have
come to expect. Above all, our most impressive amenity is our warm and inviting staff. After
you've had a piece of our pie, you will always come back for more.
28. 1201 13th Street, NW, Washington, DC, US, 20005
• Phone: (202) 682-5300
• Fax: (202) 408-0830
Driving Directions:
From South, I-95 North to 395 North Washington. Merge onto US-1 via left exit. Stay straight on 14th St. Bridge.
Follow 14th and make slight right onto Thomas Circle. Right on M St., left on 13th St, hotel on right. From North and
East, take 295 South to 50. Merge onto New York Ave NE which becomes Mt. Vernon Pl, Mt. Vernon becomes Mass.
Ave NW. Follow to 13th St and turn right. From West, take 66E for Washington. Take E St. Expressway. Take left on
E, then left on 11th. Turn right on K St. NW, then left on 13th. Hotel on right.
29. SERVICES IN HOTEL:
Hotel Services and Amenities:
o Banquet/Meeting Rooms
o Braille Elevator(s)
o Business Center
o Elevator(s)
o Exercise Room
o Free Coffee
o Free Continental Breakfast
o Free Wireless High Speed Internet Access
30. o Government Travelers: FEMA Approved
o Guest Use Fax Machine
o Hi-Speed Web Access
o Interior Corridors
o Multi-Lingual Staff
o No Pets Allowed
o Outdoor Parking *
o Phone for Hearing Impaired
o Secretarial Service *
o Valet Cleaning Service *
o Valet Parking *
Services/Amenities in All Rooms:
o Cable/Satellite TV
o Computer Hook-up
o Free Local Calls
o Free Newspaper Mon-Fri
o Hair Dryer
o In-Room Coffee Maker
o In-Room Desk
o In-Room Safe
o Individual A/C & Heat
o Iron & Ironing Board
o Voice Mail
o Wake-Up Service
Services/Amenities in Some Rooms:
o Accessible Features
o Non-Smoking Rooms Available
DESTINATIONS:
OPEN TOP SIGHT SEEING WASHINGTON DC
Millions of visitors served - newest fleet of OPEN TOP sightseeing buses!
There wasn't anything new about double-decker buses running up and down the streets of
London, but it was curious to see these buses running up and down the streets of Paris. Thanks to
Mr. Abdallah El-Azm, a clever and fun way to view one of the most romantic cities in the world
made its debut in the 1980's.
31. What made Les Cars Rouge even more wonderful was the fact that the roof was chopped off,
thus allowing guests to really see Paris! Eventually Les Cars Rouge expanded to Rome, Italy and
Les Cars Rouge was on its way. It was a novel way to sightsee in Paris, France and Rome, Italy
on a big red double-decker bus with an open top.
At the same time a couple of Scandinavian entrepreneurs were starting up the very same concept
in Washington DC - Open Top Sightseeing. The two companies started a dialog and in 2006
eventually merging together under the Les Cars Rouge umbrella.
As the popularity of the company grew so did Les Cars Rouge locations. In 2007 Les Cars
Rouge launched Open Top Sightseeing in San Francisco, California and in July of 2009 in Las
Vegas, Nevada.
Les Cars Rouge plans to open more locations in the future. So if you see a big red double-decker
bus in your neighborhood it just might be Open Top Sightseeing.
Enjoy the ride and enjoy the view!
STOP AND SIGHTS:
STOP NAME LOCATION
1 UNION STATION 50 Massachusettes Ave. NE
2 U.S. CAPITOL 1st Street (Near the Peace Monument)
MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY &
3 10th & Constitution Ave. NW
THE AMERICAN HISTORY MUSEUM
4 MARRIOT METRO CENTER Front of Marriott Hotel 775 12th Streets NW
HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF
WASHINGTON DC
Washington Convention Center,
5 8th & K Street, NW
Renaissance Washington Hotel, Embassy
Suites Hotel, Hamton Inn, Henley Park
Hotel
NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY AND
6 8th & F Street
SPY MUSEUM
Front of Ford's Theatre, 511 10th Street
7 FORD'S THEATRE
N.W.
8 THE WHITE HOUSE Font of Cafe du Parc, 140 PA Ave. N.W.
32. STOP NAME LOCATION
9 THE WHITE HOUSE NORTH 17th & I Street N.W.
Front of Mayflower Hotel on Connecticut
10 ST. MATTHEW'S CATHEDRAL
Ave. NW
Connecticut Ave. & Q Street Wine & Spirits
11 DUPONT CIRCLE
Beer Store
12 WASHINGTON HILTON HOTEL Front of Hilton Hotel T Street NW
Front of Chipotle Restaurant 2600 Calvert
13 WOODLEY PARK
Street NW
14 NATIONAL CATHEDRAL 3001 Wisconsin Ave. NW
Front of Korean Embassy 2450
15 EMBASSY ROW
Massachusetts Ave.NW
16 HOTEL GEORGETOWN INN Front of Inn 1310 Wisconsin Ave. NW
RIVER CRUISE STOP & GEORGETOWN
17 3150 M. St NW
SHOPPING
18 FOUR SEASONS HOTEL 2800 PA. Ave. NW
19 HOTEL STOP 1 Washington Circle NW
20 LINCOLN MEMORIAL Daniel French Drive
Parking Lot 214 McNair Road Arlington,
21 ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMENTERY
VA
THE FRANKLIN DELANDO
22 West Basin Drive S.W.
ROOSEVELT MEMORIAL
23 WASHINGTON MONUMENT 14th & Independence Ave
Front of Smithsonian Metro, 12th and
24 SMITHSONIAN
Independence Ave. S.W.
25 L'ENFANT PLAZA 480 L'Enfant Plaza S.W.
33. STOP NAME LOCATION
26 NATIONAL AIR SPACE MUSEUM 6th & Independence Ave S.W.
PHOTO STOP AT THE NATIONAL
27 NO BOARDING
MALL
28 NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART 4th & Madison Drive N.W.
THE LIAISON CAPITOL HILL AND
29 415 New Jersey Ave N.W.
HYATT STOP
30 UNION STATION 50 Massachusetts Ave N.E.
VARIOUS TOURS
1. HOP ON HOP OFF:
34.
35. 2. OPEN TOP BY NIGHT:
CONTACT:
OPEN TOP SIGHTSEEING INC
Washington DC
5500 Tuxedo Road
Hyattsville, MD 20781
USA
36. info@opentopsightseeing.com
www.opentopsightseeing.com
Toll Free 1-877.332.8689
Fax 1-877.332.8689
MADAME TUSSAUDS, Washington DC
Madame Tussauds is the best way to see Washington D.C.! The newest addition to the
Tussauds family is the Washington D.C. attraction, hosting a slew of exciting new
experiences.
See for yourself why Madame Tussauds D.C. is "more than just another wax museum". The fully
interactive attraction features exhibits such as 'Behind the Scenes' - where visitors learn about the
trade secrets used to create Madame Tussauds' wax figures.
The D.C. attraction pays homage to some of the most influential and important political
figures in U.S. history from Presidents to activists and assassins to First Ladies. Madame
Tussauds Washington D.C. is well on the way to completing The Presidents Gallery, an
interactive exhibit which features life-sized wax figures of all 44 Presidents from George
Washington to Barack Obama. Immerse yourself in a remarkable three dimensional journey
through U.S. history and recreate it as your own.
MTDC also features Tussauds' signature celebrity style with its 'Glamor' area that allows guests
to rub elbows with Hollywood's A-list, and a sports exhibit where visitors can get 'physical' with
their favorite athletic idols.
Selena Gomez, the blossoming actress, singer and teen sensation has officially debuted in
the nation's capital at Madame Tussauds D.C. Gomez's wax figure is part of the attraction,
'Glamour' room, where it stands alongside figures of Madonna, the Jonas Brothers, Penelope
Cruz, Beyoncé and a variety of today's biggest celebrities. Visitors are able to take pictures with,
and even hug her figure.
Britney Spears Has Guests Seeing Stars** The wax likeness of Britney Spears has landed
at Madame Tussauds Washington D.C. and the buzz is warranted. The figure was launched
in conjunction with Madame Tussauds D.C.'s Second Birthday Celebration and will be a
permanent addition to the extensive collection of pop culture stars, political leaders, sports
heroes and musical icons.
Things to Do at Madame Tussauds in Washington, DC:
37. Hold a presidential press conference
Review war tactics with General Robert E. Lee
Be interrogated by J. Edgar Hoover
Putt with Tiger Woods
Join Abraham Lincoln at the Ford Theatre
Eavesdrop on FDR and Winton Churchill
Gossip with Hollywood celebrities
Details:
Madame Tussauds Washington DC Wax Museum
Operating Times: Open daily: Extended Summer hours are as follows:
Sun-Fri: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Last voucher exchanged at 6:00 pm.
Saturday: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm. Last voucher exchanged at 8:00 pm.
Open 365 days a year including Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day!
Duration: 60-90 min
Booth Location: 1001 F Street, NW in Washington, DC20004. Located just 1 block north of
historic Ford's Theatre & Hard Rock Café. Just 4 blocks from the White House.
Nearest Intersection: 10th and F Streets
Parking: 900 Block of E Street, NW: Parking garage located on E Street between 9th & 10th
near the corner of 9th and E Streets, NW across from the J. Edgar Hoover FBI Headquarters.
Parking costs about $10-$20 depending on the day, time and length of stay.
Age Requirements: Child Ticket: 4-12 years. Under 4 are free.
Notes: Due to security reasons, large bags or luggage are not permitted to be left at Madame
Tussauds. The attraction is stroller accessible. Guide dogs for the visually-impaired and
hearing dogs are permitted. No, eating and drinking are not permitted at Madame Tussauds.
All guests will be asked to finish any food or beverages before entering the attraction.
Concessions (i.e. soda pop, candy, water, juice, etc.) are sold in the attraction. You are
encouraged to bring cameras to capture memories of your visit.
Source: http://www.madametussauds.com/washington/
38. SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTE
The Smithsonian Museums in Washington, DC are world class museums with a variety of
exhibits ranging from insects and meteorites to locomotives and spacecraft. Admission to all
of the Smithsonian museums is free. Visitors enjoy examining more than 137 million objects,
works of art and specimens as well as participating in guided tours, hands-on-activities and
special programs. With 19 museums and galleries, there truly is something for everyone. You
can not see everything in one visit, so here is a guide to help you plan your visit to the
Smithsonian.
Smithsonian Institution Building (also known as the Castle)
1000 Jefferson Drive SW, Washington, DC. This historic building is a good place to start your
tour of the museums. The Smithsonian Information Center is located here and you can find a
map and schedule of events.
Smithsonian Arts and Industries Building
900 Jefferson Drive SW, Washington, DC. This historic building was the original home of the
National Museum. It is currently closed for renovations.
Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum
7th and Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC. This impressive museum displays the
largest collection of air and spacecraft in the world as well as smaller items like instruments,
memorabilia, and clothing. Learn about the history, science, and technology of aviation and
space flight. There are IMAX films and planetarium shows several times a day. In 2003, the
Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum opened a second location, the Steven F. Udvar-
Hazy Center near Dulles International Airport in Chantilly, Virginia.
Smithsonian Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
Independence Ave. and 7th St. SW, Washington, DC. The Smithsonian's museum of modern
and contemporary art includes arts of traditional historical themes and collections addressing
39. emotion, abstraction, politics, process, religion, and economics.
Smithsonian Freer Gallery
1050 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC. The art museum features a world-renowned
collection of art from China, Japan, Korea, South and Southeast Asia, and the Near East.
Paintings, ceramics, manuscripts, and sculptures are among the favorites of this museum. The
Eugene and Agnes E. Meyer Auditorium provides free programs relating to the collections of
the Freer and Sackler galleries, including performances of Asian music and dance, films,
lectures, chamber music, and dramatic presentations.
Smithsonian Sackler Gallery
1050 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC. This unique building is connected
underground to the Freer Gallery of Art. The Sackler collection includes Chinese bronzes,
jades, paintings and lacquerware, ancient Near Eastern ceramics and metalware, and sculpture
from Asia.
Smithsonian National Museum of African Art
950 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC. The collection includes ancient as well as
contemporary works from Africa. There are special events, storytelling, demonstrations and
children’s programs.
Smithsonian Natural History Museum
10th St. and Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC. At this family favorite museum you will
see a variety of artifacts including an 80-foot dinosaur skeleton, a life size model of a blue
whale, an enormous prehistoric white shark, and a 45-and-a-half carat jewel a known as the
Hope Diamond. The Discovery Room is a great hands-on display for young children. Feel the
skin of a crocodile, examine the jaws and teeth of different animals or try on clothes from
around the globe.
Smithsonian American History Museum
12th to 14th Sts. NW, Washington, DC. The museum collects and preserves more than 3
million artifacts of American history and culture, from the War of Independence to the present
day. At the heart of the museum, the Star-Spangled Banner—one of the most recognized
symbols of the nation—has been given a new state-of-the-art gallery. New galleries such as
the Jerome and Dorothy Lemelson Hall of Invention, presenting “Invention at Play,” join old
favorites including “The American Presidency: A Glorious Burden” and “America on the
Move.”
Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian
4th St. and Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC. The newest museum on the National
Mall in Washington, DC showcases Native American objects from ancient pre-Columbian
40. civilizations through the 21st century. Multimedia presentations, live performances and hands-
on demonstrations will bring the Native American people’s history and culture to life.
Smithsonian International Gallery, housed in the S. Dillon Ripley Center
1100 Jefferson Drive, SW Washington, DC. This is the education and membership branch of
the Smithsonian Associates and hosts a variety of traveling exhibits. The Smithsonian
Discovery Theater and conference facilities are also located here.
The following museums are located in Washington, DC, but not on the National Mall:
National Zoo
Rock Creek Park, Washington, DC. The National Zoo is a part of the Smithsonian Institution
with more than 435 different species of animals. The Zoo's Conservation and Research Center,
located in Front Royal, Virginia, is a breeding preserve for rare and endangered species.
Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum
1901 Fort Place SE, Washington, DC. This small museum focuses on African American
culture. Exhibits rotate and feature regional and national topics.
Smithsonian National Postal Museum
2 Massachusetts Ave. NE, Washington, DC. The museum displays the largest stamp collection
in the world and examines the development of the postal system using interactive displays.
This museum is located under Washington's old Main Post Office near Union Station.
Smithsonian Renwick Gallery
70 9th St. NW, Washington, DC. The building was the original site of the Corcoran Gallery
and is furnished with American crafts and contemporary arts from the 19th to 21st centuries.
The museum features unique works of art in an impressive setting across the street from the
White House.
National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum
8th and F Streets NW, Washington, DC. This restored historic building in the Penn Quarter
neighborhood of downtown Washington, DC, houses two museums in one building. The
National Portrait Gallery presents six permanent exhibitions of nearly 20,000 works ranges
from paintings and sculpture to photographs and drawings. The Smithsonian American Art
Museum is the home of the largest collection of American art in the world including more
than 41,000 artworks, spanning more than three centuries.
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
This museum will be built on the National Mall in Washington, DC. Groundbreaking for the
300,000-square-foot building is expected be in 2012 and the museum is expected to open in
41. 2015. The museum has created a website to involve the public in planning a variety of exhibits
and educational programs on topics such as slavery, post-Civil War reconstruction, the Harlem
Renaissance, and the civil rights movement.
Opening Hours: Admission is free to all the Smithsonian Museums in Washington DC
43. Source: http://www.si.edu
CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is the nation's and Washington, DC's greatest springtime
event and annually celebrates the gift of the cherry blossom trees and their symbol of enduring
friendship between the citizens of Japan and the United States. Timed in conjunction with the
peak blooming period of the trees, the city-wide festival attracts visitors and DC residents to over
90 events in partnership with more than 30 local organizations.
The festival is organized by the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc., a not-for-profit 501(c)
(3) organization that coordinates, produces, and supports creative and diverse activities
promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty and the environment,
and community spirit and youth education.
The festival features over 150 daily cultural performances by local, national and international
entertainers. Other events include art exhibits, fireworks, arts & crafts demonstrations, sports
competitions and special events celebrating spring.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is planned to coincide as nearly as possible with the
blooming of the trees. Peak Bloom Date is defined as the day in which 70 percent of the
44. blossoms of the Yoshino Cherry trees are open. The date when the Yoshino cherry blossoms
reach peak bloom varies from year to year, depending on weather conditions. The mean date of
blooming is April 4, but nature is not always cooperative and the National Park Service
horticulturists cannot make an accurate prediction much more than 10 days prior. The blooming
period starts several days before the Peak Bloom Date and can last as long as 14 days; however,
frost or high temperatures combined with wind and/or rain can shorten this period.
The plantings of the cherry blossom trees originated as a gift in 1912 from the people of Japan to
the United States as gesture of friendship and goodwill. Since then, the number of trees has
expanded to approximately 3,750 trees of 16 varieties on National Park Service land.
For the most part the care of the Japanese flowering cherries has been entrusted to the members
of the Tree Crew for National Capital Parks-Central. These individuals are professional arborists
who posses technical competence through experience and related training to provide for the care
of the trees.
As hard as members of the Tree Crew works year round, there are things you can do to assist in
the maintenance and longevity of the trees when you visit:
• Please do not climb the trees or pick branches
• Be aware of walking around the roots of the trees as ground compaction has been causing
damage to the trees
The cherry blossom trees currently grow in three National Park Services locations: around the
Tidal Basin in West Potomac Park, in East Potomac Park (Hains Point), and on the Washington
Monument grounds. For information on which varieties of cherry blossom trees are located in
which park and maps, visit http://www.nps.gov/cherry/cherry-tree-locations.htm.
WAY TO CHERRY BLOSSOM
Straight to the Blossoms
Spend more time experiencing the beauty of the National Cherry Blossom Festival and the
festival events by knowing about your transportation options.
•
45. METRO Maps
Metro opens doors and gets you to any and all National Cherry Blossom
Festival events. View Metrobus and Metrorail station maps on the
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority website.
Smithsonian Metrorail Station (Blue and Orange Lines) is most popular
among Festival visitors, but the L'Enfant Plaza Station (Blue, Yellow,
and Green Lines), 7th Street & Maryland Avenue exit, is about an extra
10 minute walk to the blossoms and much less crowded.
•
DC Circulator Bus Routes and Stops
Easy Access to Downtown Attractions and Museums with the DC
Circulator allows you to come early or stay late and take advantage of
more than just Cherry Blossoms! The DC Circulator Information
Map includes a new route connecting the Washington Monument with
Metrorail Stations that are not as crowded during peak bloom of the
Cherry Blossoms.
46. Tour Bus Parking
Hassle-Free Parking for your Tour Bus that is in the middle of the
Cherry Blossoms but not in the middle of the traffic. The District
Department of Transportation Motor coach Guide to Washington web
page includes directions to several neighborhoods, major attractions,
nearest Metrorail stops (METRO) and available parking for motor
coaches in Washington, DC.
Driving and Parking
Park in the middle of the cherry blossoms along East Potomac Park and
enjoy the FREE shuttle service from the Hains Point parking area to the
Tidal Basin terminus area. Shuttles run on 30 to 40 minute headways
from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily, March 27 - April 11. Shuttle is
operated by TOURMOBILE SIGHTSEEING, the official sponsor of
shuttle transportation for the 2010 National Cherry Blossom Festival.
When parking at Metro-operated parking lots and taking Metrorail to
Festival events, remember: Metro-operated parking lots are free on
weekends and most federal holidays. SmarTrip* cards with full parking
fees are the only accepted form of payment for parking except at
Anacostia, Franconia-Springfield, Largo Town Center, New Carrollton,
Shady Grove and Vienna/Fairfax-GMU where major credit cards are
also accepted. Visit the Trip Planner at www.MetroOpensDoors.com or
call 202-637-7000 (TTY 202-638-3780).
•
47. Fastest Taxi Route to the Blossoms
Getting from Downtown DC to the Cherry Blossoms at Hains Point is
easy if you know the best route to take. Our Taxi Route Information
Map will help you and your passengers avoid the traffic congestion and
delays around the Tidal Basin during the Cherry Blossom Festival.
Images from the festival:
48. For food-
www.subway.com
www.bajafresh.com ---- mexican restaurant
www.tacobell.com ----------- Taco Bell chain as mcdonalds in India
www.potbelly.com -------- Potbelly sandwiches….. awesome in taste
49. EXPENSES
Air Ticket (Return) ------------------------------------------------ Rs 55,795
Train Ticket -------------------------------------------------------- Rs 463 *2 = Rs 926
Breakfast ------------------------------------------------------------ Free included in hotel charges
Metro bus weekly pass -------------------------------------------- $15 = Rs 705
Metro rail passes ------------- $ 9 (3 passes for 3 days) ------- $ 27 = Rs 1,269
Hotel ----------------------------------------------------------------- $ 596 = Rs 28,012
Hop On – Hop Off tour ------------------------------------------- $ 30 = Rs 1,410
Madame Tussauds museum -------------------------------------- $ 20 = Rs 940
Lunch + Dinner ------------ $15/ day
So multiplying by 4 we get $60 = Rs 2820
TOTAL EXPENSES= Rs 91877
