The capital of the United States of America, Washington, is located in the District of Columbia and strategically bound on one side by the Potomac River ( giving it access to the sea) and bordered by the states of Virginia to the southwest and Maryland to the northwest, northeast, and southeast. Washington DC is a city of green parks, wide tree lined streets and very few skyscrapers, giving it a European air. It is also a city of museums and national monuments. The city is divided into four quadrants- northwest (NW), northeast (NE), southeast (SE) and southwest (SW).The federal district was named the District of Columbia, Columbia being named
Here are several suggestions on what we think children might find interesting on their trip to DC. You can start with the National Zoo, a sure hit with the kids! Not only is admission free but the National zoo is home to 400 different species of animals and is set within the beautiful Rock Creek National Park.
The International Spy Museum opened in July 2002 is the largest public collection of spy- related paraphernalia and exhibits on some of the most prominent spies in history. It provides a global perspective on a unique and ‘invisible’ profession that has moulded history and continues to impact world events. It gives an insight on some of the most secretive espionage missions in world history and also exhibits espionage gadgetry. 800 F St. NW Washington, DC Tel: (202) 393-7798 Website: www.spymuseum.org
A tribute to the primary author of the Declaration of Independence and the country's third President. The memorial was built on land reclaimed by the Potomac River, now known as the Tidal basin. It is a columned rotunda in the style of the Pantheon in Rome, whose classical architecture Jefferson himself introduced to this country. A 19-foot bronze statue of Jefferson atop a 6-foot black granite pedestal graces the domed interior of the memorial.
A tribute to the country's 16th President, who led during the Civil War. The structure is designed as a neoclassical temple, similar to Parthenon in Greece with 36 fluted Doric columns representing states of the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death, plus two at the entrance. President Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address and his Gettysburg Address are both engraved on the walls of the memorial chamber. 900 Ohio Drive SW Washington, DC Tel: (202) 426-6842 Website: www.nps.gov/linc
This world famous museums includes not only 19 museums but also research centers around the city. Ten of these museums span an area from 3rd to 14th streets between Constitution Avenue and Independnece Avenue, almost a mile. So be warned and make sure you are wearing comfortable shoes when visiting the museums. The Smithsonian includes National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of the American Indian, National Zoological Park, Arts & Industries Building, and Freer Gallery of Art. It would be advisable to look up the museums to find your area of interest if you are short of time. All museums are open every day of the year except for Christmas day and admission is free. Website: www.si.edu
The Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum is home to the largest collection of air and space artifacts, including the Wright Brothers' first airplane asnd the space suit that Neil Armstrong wore during his historic walk on the moon.
The tourist with an intellectual bend of mind or love for theatre should not give this a miss. Officially named the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, this is the city’s premier performance venue providing approximately 3000 performances per year. It is the home to the National Symphony Orchestra, Washington Opera, Washington Ballet and American Film Institute. Free daily performances are held on the millennium stage in the Grand Foyer, in addition to free guided tours of the center.
The Washington Monument is one of the most prominent and oldest attractions in the city that was built in honor of America’s first President, George Washington, who led the country to its independence. The monument is shaped like an Egyptian Obelisk, 555’5/8 high, and averages 30 to 40 miles visibility in clear weather. It was finished on December 6, 1884. Inside, an elevator whisks you to an observation landing with spectacular views. Before the Sep 11 attacks it was possible to descend the 897 steps. Same day tickets for a timed entrance to the monuments are available at the ticket kiosk on the monument grounds and distribution starts at 0800. Make sure you are there early as there are limited tickets which are on a first-come-first-served basis. You can also reserve tickets for a small fee by calling in advance. Food, drink and large bags are prohibited. Constitution Ave & 15th St., National Mall Tel 202 619 7222 (info) Website: www.nps.gov/wamo
The Presidential Palace, as it was once known, has changed a great deal over time with each new President or first lady making changes. Not many people realize the White House was not originally white. It was restored and painted that color after the British gutted the building in the War of 1812. Concerns for the safety of the President make the White House off-limits to the public these days unless you organize a group tour. Instead visitors can browse exhibits, watch historic re-enactments and take a video tour at the visitors Center (202-208-1631).
Visitors should come prepared for an experience likely to be disturbing and difficult to forget when visiting United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. At the start of the tour, each visitor is given an identity card of a Holocaust victim that matches the visitor's own age and gender. Ordinary reality is skewed through off-center stairways, weird angles and the shadows of other visitors on the glass walkways overhead. An elaborate audio-visual display includes interviews, films and photographs. The Hall of Remembrance provides a calm, empty space at the end of the tour where one can reflect on the experience. The museum discourages children under 11 from attending. Free timed passes are needed to visit the permanent exhibit.
Cuisine: American.
Cuisine: American Opened in 2007, the Blue Duck Tavern has already been heaped with accolades. The open kitchen with wood-burning oven is surrounded by simple Americana décor like wooden Shaker furniture, and quilts hanging from the wall. Some of the tables face the outside fountain and a prairie-like garden. The real star however, is the food. Artfully presented, traditional American fare includes everything from oysters and crab cakes to smoked trout, rabbit and prime aged NY strip roast. Pastries and breads are made from scratch. Save room for the award-winning apple pie.
Cuisine: American / Steakhouse A muted blue and orange color scheme and a bold, award-winning modern menu with an all-American wine list is what makes this restaurant a power magnet.
Cuisine: French Dine at Gerard's Place for elegant French cuisine that's among the best in the city. The dish that made the restaurant famous, poached lobster with Sauternes sauce still appears on both the lunch and dinner menus ($62!), though slightly reinvented: fresh mango, lime, piquillo peppers, and spinach are its sidekicks now. Diners may order a la carte or choose a $30 prix-fix menu at lunch or the $87 chef's tasting menu at dinner. The dining room itself is small, seating only 50 at a time, and somewhat modest in design. And this is a quiet restaurant, not a place to get rowdy. You're here for the food and quiet conversation. Hours are from Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm; Mon-Thurs 5:30-9pm; Fri-Sat 5:30-9:30pm. Reservations are recommended.
Cuisine: American Set in a quaint carriage house on one of DuPont’s beautiful corners, Nora’s is famous for serving made from organic and fresh ingredients. The dining room is hung with vintage quilts, and adorned with antique pieces. Those who are unable to get in at this DuPont circle favorite can try Asia Nora on the edge of Georgetown.
Cuisine: Indian The most popular item, and the spiciest on the menu, is the green chilli chicken. The speciality of the restaurant is the tandoori items including tandoori salmon, chicken tandoori, and the lobster Malabar. The Bombay Club is known for its vegetarian offerings (try the black lentils cooked overnight on a slow fire) and for its Sunday champagne brunch, which offers a buffet of fresh juices, fresh baked breads, and assorted Indian dishes. Slow-moving ceiling fans and wicker furniture accentuate the colonial British ambience. A pianist plays nightly. One of DC's top Indian restaurants, this place is popular with movies stars such as Harrison Ford and Bruce Willis.
Cuisine: Japanese The chef here uses many clever combinations to separate the sushi from the usual fare. The restaurant is known for fresh ingredients. Set in a handsome town house, this is the best place for sushi in the Washington area where you can sit down and watch the chef and his staff prepare your order. The chef here is one of the few trained to handle torafugu, the blowfish, which can be poisonous if not cleaned properly. The blowfish if available is served in winter. This is also the place to come for premium sakes and a large selection of teas. Hours Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm; Mon-Sat 6-10pm
Cuisine: Mexican Named after a butterfly forest in Mexico, this quaint restaurant situated in Penn quarter is accented with reds and oranges and a huge metal butterfly mobile that hangs from the tall ceiling, thus the name. Service is efficient and portions are small so that diners can sample at least three different authentically Mexican selections. A serving of mushroom tacos, seared scallops in pumpkin sauce and flank steak is sufficiently filling.
Cuisine: Mexican Talk about shocking pink (the color used in the décor)!! That doesn’t stop the flow of people crowding the restaurant for its famous guacamole. This place is extremely popular in the city with other tasty items including quesadillas, grilled beef short ribs, and the queso fundido (melted cheese). Mon-Fri 11:30am-3pm; Sat-Sun noon-3pm; Sun-Thurs 5-10:30pm; Fri-Sat 5-11:30pm.
Cuisine: Mediterranean The food here is downright excellent. Earth tones, high ceilings and clean lines characterize this restaurant. There are mind-boggling choices between hot and cold mezze. Watch out for the walnut ice cream here.
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A popular place with celebrities, the Four Seasons is located in posh Georgetown neighborhood, just at the start of the M St strip. The hotel provides impeccable service minus the arrogance. With bright, airy rooms and comfortable furnishings, great original art and views of Rock Creek Park, the hotel charms its guests into visiting again. The hotel also has two restaurants, The Terrace Garden and the Seasons restaurant. In room facilities: A/C, T.V. WiFi, hair dryer, iron, robes, hi-tech cd player, and a 32 inch plasma TV.
This Renaissance- style hotel across from the White House is within easy walking distance of just about every Washington landmark. But the ambience of a bygone era that is prevalent in the hotel might make you stay right in your room! The Hay Adams is named for two 1880s mansions that once stood on the site that hosted the political and intellectual elite of the city. In House facilities: A/C, TV w/pay movies, 2-line phone w/dataports, free Wi-Fi, minibar, hair dryer, iron, safe, robes, slippers, umbrella, CD player. Facilities: Restaurant (American), bar, access to local health club ($15 per day), 24-hr. concierge, complimentary morning car service, complimentary 24-hr. business center, 24-hr. room service, same-day laundry service/ dry cleaning.
A popular hotel in Washington, all rooms are done according to the concept of Feng Shui. The interiors are a blend of Asian elegance and traditional style. Silk bed tapestries adorn the rooms which have beautiful views of the city monuments and the Potomac Tidal Basin. In room facilities; A/C, flat screen TV, minibar, hair dryer, iron, safe, robes, DVD player and WiFi (12$/day) Facilities: state of the art spa, Asian Café, and Asian restaurant, children under 12 stay free in parents room.
Large and roomy guest rooms in muted earth tones with comfortable furniture. Those facing the inner courtyard have small balconies. The large and open lobby is a fine spot during inclement weather while tables set amongst the verdant courtyard are perfect for an evening cocktail. Staff is relaxed and helpful without being fussy. Many of the city’s monuments are located walking distance of the hotel. The hotel also has up to date facilities such as wireless Internet, fitness facility, restaurant. Children under 18 years of age stay free.
The hotel offers friendly service, clean, bright, and spacious lodging and up-to-date amenities. It has two locations, each within a block of the other.The main building is on 30th Street and quite near Georgetown’s nightlife hub. In the morning, an extensive breakfast featuring everything from waffles to fresh pastries, is laid out here. The second property is on 29th Street (known as the "Harbor Building"). Continental breakfast is served there too, in the lobby. Accommodations at both locations have living rooms, dining areas and fully equipped kitchens. About half of the units are studios and half are one-bedroom suites. Glass-topped tables, chrome-framed chairs, and pastel-striped fabrics figure prominently in the hotel. This building also has two penthouse suites which have their own terraces overlooking the rooftops of Georgetown. In house facilities: A/C, TV, 2-line phone w/dataport, free Wi-Fi, full kitchen (w/fridge, coffeemaker, microwave, and dishwasher), hair dryer, iron, safe. Facilities: Small exercise room, business center w/computers and free Wi-Fi, coin-op laundry, same-day laundry service, dry cleaning, 2 rooms for those w/limited mobility, both w/roll-in showers.
This European boutique hotel has a multinational feel and look. The whole hotel is peppered with Chinese and European antiques. The hotel is the only one in the city with a manually operated lift. Facilities: Fitness center, laundry, internet, room service, children under 17 stay for free.
A four storey 19th century building is the place to stay for its central location on the Mall. The interior rooms overlook the courtyard while the exterior rooms overlook the city sights. In room facilities: A/C, TV. and Nintendo, internet, minibar, hair dryer, iron, safe, robes and CD player. Facilities: Restaurant, bar, fitness center, business center, laundry service.
Unusually large rooms that are done up with splashes of emerald, sapphire, ruby, and other jewel tones, on wallpaper, down comforter, armoire, and armchair. This boutique hotel is into New Age wellness with a well equipped yoga room and no smoking policy in the rooms. The Topaz lies on a quiet residential street whose front-of-the-house windows overlook picturesque town houses. Facilities: Bar/restaurant (innovative American with an Asian influence); access to nearby health club ($5 per guest), 24-hr. concierge, 24-hr. business center, room service (7am-11pm), same-day laundry service, dry cleanin, 5 rooms for those w/limited mobility, 2 w/roll-in showers.
Perhaps the city's best-known, this landmark hotel is located a short distance from the White House and is steeped in history. The hotel’s long history is on display through mounted exhibits on the Mezzanine level. Colonial-style guest rooms have generously-sized desks with silvery green bed coverings, embroidered drapes, silk wall coverings and pillow topped mattresses.
This old world bed and breakfast located in a brick townhouse still retains its original 1920’s moldings and floor tiles. Clean and cosy rooms with fresh flowers give you a homely feeling. Its 46 small but very tastefully decorated rooms have private bathrooms, cable TV and phones. Continental breakfast and evening snacks are included.
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Location: Eastern Coast of USA on the north bank of the Potomac River within the District of Columbia, an area bordering the state of Maryland. Country Dialing Code: +1 City code: 202 Emergency Numbers: 911- This number that can be dialed for free from any phone (even a pay phone) to obtain assistance . Telephone Directory services: 411 is the number for directory assistance, though a charge will apply; 1-800-Free-411 is the number for free. Directory assistance (though callers will listen to ads). Population 572,059 Languages spoken: English Time Zones: GMT/UTC -5 (Eastern Time) Washington DC observes Daylight Saving Time, April – October. Average January Temperature: -4 º C Average July Temperature: 30 º C Annual Rainfall: 110 mm Electrical Plugs: 120 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are mainly the two, flat-pin type, though three-pin plugs are also widely used. European appliances without dual-voltage capabilities will require an adapter, which can be purchased in most major Weights & Measures: Imperial Currency: US Dollar, Code: USD, Symbol: US $, currently, 1US $ = 3.673 UAE dirhams
New Year’s Day - January 1 Martin Luther King Jr. Day - the third Monday in January Inauguration Day 20 Jan 2009 - (every four years) President’s Day - the third Monday in February Memorial Day - the last Monday in May Independence Day - July 4 Labor Day - the first Monday in September Thanksgiving Day - the fourth Thursday in November Christmas Eve and Christmas Day - December 24 and 25 New Year’s Eve - December 31
The official tourist season starts from April through September but if comfort is a priority then the best time to visit the US capital is in Spring ( March to May) and Fall (September to November). A word of advice is to buy advance tickets to popular attractions beforehand because the queues can be very long.
In 2006, the population distribution was 55.5% African American, 34.5% Caucasian, 8.2% Hispanic (of any race), 5.1% other (including Native Americans, Alaskans, Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders), 3.4% Asian and 1.5% mixed (two or more races).[53] Even though they comprise the city's largest ethnic group, Washington has a steadily declining black population due to many African Americans leaving the city for suburbs. At the same time, the city's white population has steadily increased, in part due to effects of gentrification in many of Washington's traditionally black neighborhoods. A 2007 report found that about one-third of Washington residents are functionally illiterate, compared to a national rate of about one in five. However, while one-third are functionally illiterate, 45% of D.C. residents have at least a four-year college degree, the fourth-highest rate in the nation, which further illustrates the social divide present in the city. Residents who practice Islam make up 10.6% of the population.
Tourism normally requires a B-2 visitor visa or a combined B-1/B-2 visa unless the traveller qualifies for an exemption or the Visa Waiver Program. Travel under the Visa Waiver Program requires ESTA approval.
Originally designed by the French architect Pierre L’Enfant in 1791, it is hard to believe that its stately buildings once stood on a marshy swamp. George Washington created this special district as a federal power hub to avoid the problem of establishing the capital city in any one state, but it was a further six decades before it took on the shape of a capital city. Pierre Charles L’Enfant, a French-born architect, engineer, and city planner first arrived in the American colonies as a military engineer with Major General Lafayette. On August 23, 1814, British forces burned the capital during the war of 1812. Initially, the British approached the city hoping to secure a truce, but were fired upon, which ultimately led to the sacking of government buildings. The Capitol, Treasure, and the White House were gutted. The town’s ailing infrastructure was overhauled in the 1870’s by territorial governor Alexander “Boss” Shepherd, but it took another century to fulfill L’Enfant’s original vision of a world-class capital.
The capital of the United States of America, Washington, is located in the District of Columbia and strategically bound on one side by the Potomac River ( giving it access to the sea) and bordered by the states of Virginia to the southwest and Maryland to the northwest, northeast, and southeast. Washington DC is a city of green parks, wide tree lined streets and very few skyscrapers, giving it a European air. It is also a city of museums and national monuments. The city is divided into four quadrants- northwest (NW), northeast (NE), southeast (SE) and southwest (SW).The federal district was named the District of Columbia, Columbia being named after Christopher Columbus. Washington DC is also called the city of neighborhoods, as each neighborhood has its own cultural identity. The Adam Morgan neighborhood stands out as an eclectic mix of international restaurants, sidewalk cafes, ethnic stores and late-night entertainment. This area boasts the largest display of expressive art in the city. Walk through this neighborhood and you will be assaulted with sights, sounds and aromas from across the globe. The most tragic of events in the nation’s capital occurred on 11 September 2001, when a hijacked plane crashed into the Pentagon. Since then, barricades, police and security checks have changed the city’s façade. After the federal government, tourism is the capital’s primary industry with over 15 million tourists exploring the city each year, mostly during autumn, spring and summer. Winter is best avoided due to bitter cold and wet weather. Back in the 1990s, Washington DC was known as the “murder capital” of the United States with the number of murders reaching a peak in 1991, but the level of violence declined drastically in the 1990s.
Whether you go for cutting-edge looks from the latest designers or vintage Balenciaga and Dior, this jewel box of a shop encourages you to develop personal style via the new and the semi-new designer consignment stock.
Centrally located in downtown, Macy’s is a department store that offers everything from men’s and women’s clothing to cosmetics and house wares. Address: 1201 G St. NW, Downtown, Washington, DC Phone: 202/628-6661
A high end department store where you literally burn money. Located on Friendship Heights, the carefully selected merchandise includes clothes, furs, precious jewelry, crystal, and silver. Only American Express, Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman credit cards are accepted.
Saks is a Washington institution with a wide selection of women's European and American couture clothes. Other attractions are the shoe, jewelry, and lingerie departments. The smaller men's store is down the road in the Mazza Gallerie shopping center.
This popular women’s boutique is a great shop with reasonable prices and designs for truly unique chic fashion.
Catering to women of all ages and sizes in search of contemporary and trendy styles, this store stocks one-of-a-kind accessories, clothes, shoes and jewelry by well-known designers A small selection of up-and-coming local designs is also available.
This California style boutique sells jeans to fit every size and shape. The store also stocks on very affordable designer baby tees and sunglasses.
If you like classic, contemporary styles, then Forecast is the place you’re looking for. You can find silk sweaters and wool blends in solid, muted tones for women seeking elegant but practical clothing from well known brands. The housewares and gifts selection on the first floor is colorful and of high quality.
A favorite with the fashion conscious, this store is famed for its gorgeous collection of women’s clothing line.
You will find the usual odds and ends here with the proceeds from sales going to children's charities. Most merchandise is left on consignment; if you know antiques, you might find bargains in jewelry, silver, china, quilts, and other items.
If you love the nightlife then this is where you should head for. Live music, clubbing, in addition to plenty of restaurants catering to every kind of cuisine, great shopping and most of the embassies are located here. Another name for this area is Little Ethiopia for the concentration of African Americans. This is where also the Adams Morgan festival takes place. Located North of Dupont Circle. District of Columbia Arts Center is also located here.
The university campus is worth a look for its early 18th century structure and beautiful green campus gardens. Founded in 1789, it was originally run by the country’s first black Jesuit, Father Patrick Healy. At the east gate, the imposing, Flemish style 1879 Healy building is impressive with its tall clock tower.
Built in 1765, the Old Stone House is the oldest standing building in the city and was also Washington’s last Pre- Revolutionary Colonial building on its original foundation. Local folklore preserved the house from being demolished. The house was constructed in three phases during the 18th century and since then it has been a boarding house, tavern and shop. The small garden along with the house is a nice place to sit and soak in the surroundings after all the walking. 3051 M St. Georgetown Tel: 92020 426 6851 (info) Website: www.nps.gov/ rocr/oldstonehouse
The grounds of Arlington Cemetery serve as a resting place for many national heroes and more than 300,000 American soldiers, veterans, and dependents. The Tomb of the Unknowns, a final resting place for unknown soldiers killed in both the World Wars, the Korean War, and until 1997, the Vietnam War as well as President John F. Kennedy's grave are located here.
Robert E Lee lived in this beautiful home set high on the hills overlooking the Potomac river. His home and part of his 1110 acre property were confiscated when his wife fled after he left to command the confederate Army of Northern Virginia in the American Civil War. After the war, the family sued the federal government for reimbursement and received it. A fine blending of the styles of the Greek Revival and the grand plantation houses of the early 1800’s, the house has been administered by the National Park Service since 1933. Visitors are free to tour the house on their own, however, park-rangers are on hand to answer any questions.
The world’s largest library, it is housed in three different buildings and contains around 120 million items, including 22 million books, in addition to manuscripts, maps, photographs, films and prints. The first map to include the word ‘America’ and Thomas Jefferson’s personal collection are also housed here. The visitors center in the Jefferson building shows a brief film and there are guided tours. Capitol Hill Tel: (202) 707 5000 (info) Web:www.loc.gov
Chinatown is witness to the joyous celebration that takes place on Chinese New Year’s Day. The celebrations include an annual parade of marching bands, lion and dragon dancers, clowns and other entertainers.
On the third Monday in January, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed with a wreath laying ceremony at the Lincoln Memorial where orators recite King’s “I have a dream” speech. Local choirs and military color guards are also part of the proceedings. Commemorative events take place at various sites in the city honoring the civil rights leader. This month is also celebrated as Black history month, dedicated to black leaders.
Held in mid-January at the U.S. Botanic Garden, this show is a visual treat for flower lovers.
Mid-January, the city puts on a gourmet festival called Restaurant Week with more than 100 of Washington DC’s finest restaurants offering three course lunches at a discount.
Washingtonians honor Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday on 12 February with a Presidential wreath laying ceremony and a dramatic reading of the ‘Gettysburg” Address at noon at the Lincoln Memorial on Constitution Avenue. Concerts by military bands also form part of the celebrations.
Bike the Sites tel: (202) 842 2453 website: www.bikethesites.com
Take advantage of the Potomac river and cruise down it and enjoy the monuments.
OnBoard Washington DC Tours
website: www.dcbyfoot.com This is another outfit offering free walking tours of the sights that incorporates a well-balanced blend of history and entertainment.
Tel. 703/569-1875 Website:www.spiesofwashingtontour.com
Usually take place from April to October. Washington Walks tel: (202) 484 1565 website: www.washingtonwalks.com)
Georgia Avenue Washington, DC 20011-7100 Phone: (703) 933-0501 4324
37th and O Street NW Washington, DC 20007
Massachusetts Avenue NW Washington, DC 20036-1012 Phone: (202) 775-5200 2020
Massachusetts Avenue NW Washington, DC 20008-2826 Phone: (202) 332-8343 2551
2001 Galludet St. NE Washington,DC 20002 Phone: (202) 529-3100
Phone: (202) 269-9011 3415
The city Transit Authority operates the Metro system, consisting of rail and buses operating through the city. There is a flat fee on the metrobus system that efficiently services the city and surrounding suburbs and is well maintained. You can find a regional one day pass that allows unlimited travel on the buses. Buses operate 24 hours a day.
Insurance is necessary when hiring a car. The minimum age is generally 25 years for renting a car. Some companies will hire cars to drivers aged between21 -24. Possession of a valid driver’s license is a must.
This is the best option for commuting in Washington with the Metrorail and Metro buses equipped with racks for transporting bicycles. Various rental companies deliver and pick up bikes anywhere in the DC area Better Bikes Tel; (202) 2932080 Website: www.betterbikesinc.com
It is often easier to use public transport as traffic is heavy, and parking in the city is difficult and expensive. DC has some of the nation's worst traffic congestion so driving can be a nerve-racking experience.
DC is well connected by three major airports; Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).
The city Transit Authority operates the Metro system, consisting of rail and buses operating through the city. Metrorail subway has stations at or near almost every tourist attraction. Five subway lines (red, orange, blue, green and yellow) known as the Metrorail cover the city and into the suburbs of Maryland and Virginia. The fare you pay depends on the zone you travel in. Keep an eye out for one day or weekend passes which offer not only discounted tickets but allow you to travel both on the rail and buses. A computerized fare card is used. The Metro rail operates from 0530-2400 from Monday to Thursday, 0530-0300 on Friday,0700-0300 on Saturday and 0700-2400 on Sunday. Route maps are posted at each station and inside each subway car.
Taxis are a good way of getting around for short distances and they are cheaper than any other major city in the US. Also, one can share a cab and they’re a good way of avoiding city parking hassles.You pay for taxi hire not by meter but by zone system. You are charged extra for each additional passenger as well as for luggage and for travel on public holidays. Charges vary during the weekday morning and evening rush hours (0700-0930 and 1600-1830). Apart from that, several surcharges apply including ordering one by phone. Tips around 15 % of the fare are expected.
Travel within the United States is generally trouble-free. However terrorist threats cannot be ruled out and this has increased security measures across the city, especially at airports. Restrictions on hand luggage apply and travelers are advised to check on the latest situation with airlines in advance. Travelers should also be alert to the dangers of car and street crime in cities and should use common sense and take basic precautions.
