Travel: Washington, DC
Book a budget flight, find a deal on a top hotel and, suddenly, America’s capital city is the perfect place for a luxury weekend break that won’t break the bank…
TRAVEL SNAPSHOT
When we think of America, Disney, Hollywood or shopping in the Big Apple are all images that spring instantly to mind. It’s not often that the country’s history hits you as a reason to visit. But Washington is different – it’s steeped in it. The nation’s capital since 1790, revolution, slavery, civil war and presidents from Jefferson to Trump all have a story to tell connected to this vibrant metropolis. And it would be hard to spend a long weekend there without at least taking a picture outside the White House or a tour – free of charge – of the amazing Capitol building (to book, visit tours.visitthecapitol.gov/cvc#. WlNuIbacZsY), the home of the US Congress.
But that’s not all the city has to offer. From browsing bargains in discount stores like T.J. Maxx to eating amazing food in Georgetown, hanging out on rooftops with a cocktail or having a boogie among the hip Latin dancers in the Capitol Hill district, there’s definitely something for everyone.
INSIDER’S GUIDE
Feeling brave? Take a Segway tour of the city with Bike & Roll (470 L’Enfant Plaza, SW). Failing that, take a tour on one of the many Hop On Hop Off bus rides. Stop off at the city zoo if the weather is nice, and don’t miss out on a guided tour of the Capitol. Even if you’re not a history buff, we can’t recommend it highly enough – it’s breathtaking. Wander around the National Statuary Hall, where you’ll find 100 statues – two from each state – and marvel at the amazing paintings in the Rotunda, such as the Baptism Of Pocahontas and The Declaration Of Independence.
If you fancy taking a trip out of the capital, Alexandria is only a 15-minute Metrorail ride away and was recently named the third most romantic city in the US. Stop for a drink in the harbour or dinner at Virtue Feed & Grain. For more, see visitalexandriava.com
DON’T MISS
Georgetown, which was once the home to two very famous residents – John and Jackie Kennedy. Sip a Southern Comfort in Martin’s Tavern on the High Street, the Prohibition bar where the president proposed. One of the most interesting ways to see this neighbourhood is on a Carpe DC food tour (carpedcfoodtours.com). Prices are around £70 per person, but you eat and drink more than a meal. I’m not much of a foodie, but I’m definitely sold on this way of learning!
FOOD AND DRINK
Ever wanted to learn to salsa? For a night to remember, head to Cuba Libre (801 9th St, NW). Amnon Pick, the general manager, works hard to make it a night to remember with authentic food from its Cuban chef and Latin music until 3am. Mojito, anyone? And if you fancy a warming stew for Sunday lunch, try the traditional ropa vieja. Delicious.
GETTING THERE
Wow Air flies to Baltimore/ Washington International Airport via Reykjavik, in Iceland, from just £139.99 each way until May. Admittedly, it adds a few hours to your flight time, but it’s still a great way to save. Space is tight in basic economy, so it’s worth paying a bit extra for leg room. Seats have chargers but you have to take your own entertainment, so make sure to download to your laptop or phone first and pack your headphones. And a word of warning about the food – it’s good but very expensive, so stock up on snacks before boarding. See wowair.co.uk