Washington, D.C. Hotels and City Guide

Only a handful of cities in America can truly boast about having a rich history and key significance in everything-USA. Washington, DC can boast the loudest, given that it is the seat of political power, hosting monuments and architecture that thousands upon thousands flock to see every year, and showcasing a wide array of people, rich to poor, all who work and live in a city that has seen so much throughout the years since its creation.

Washington is like a diamond in that there are simply so many different facets to examine. From the fun and trendy one-stop-shops to the down-to-earth homes of the hardworking, from the immaculate white steps and men in suits to the run-down age old businesses and the people who operate them. Nowhere else will you find such a massive political machine grinding away right beside the average Joe who is (and may still be) waiting for changes for a better life.

The American dream is indeed alive in many cities throughout the country, but almost more so here, where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States are housed. The city was founded on July 16, 1790, by order of the Constitution itself to specifically serve as the nation’s capital. Nestled between the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers and named after George Washington, the city was designed by Pierre Charles L’Enfant. With the beauty and elegance of Paris in mind, it is easy to see why L’Enfant created the city with so many open spaces and extensive boulevards. With the mathematical genius provided by Benjamin Banneker, its layout was carefully organized to give true dignity to the capital. Over the years, things have changed, but much of the original design remains the same.

In 1812, the majority of the city was burned when the British invaded. This included the White House. However, they allowed residential areas to go unscathed, as well as the home of the Commandant of the Marines in a show of martial respect. This house is now the oldest government building that has been in continuous use within Washington. The Washington many people know today did not actually come about until a hundred years after its creation. The McMillan Commission updated the original concept by incorporating the National Mall and several new monuments. Likewise, different historical moments have introduced their own touches to the city from time to time, such as the cherry trees located on the edge of the Tidal Basin, gifts of friendship from Japan in 1920 during President Taft’s term.

If the history doesn’t inspire you, the diversity probably will. Washington is a hub of ethnic minorities who in fact make up the majority of the population. It has the highest percentage of African-Americans in the country; 60% of the city. The range of ritzy versus shabby can surprise those who don’t expect it. But this is everything that makes DC what it is. It is not a part of any state and actually bordered by Maryland and Virginia (not located within Maryland as many tend to think).

Cultural centers as well as a little bit of foreign soil on several blocks (numerous embassies for an impressive number of countries) are sure to catch your eye. You may see protestors marching with signs, the motorcade of the President going by, or just a street vendor selling cheap but amusing souvenirs. Whatever you see, from the Lincoln Memorial to the National Zoo, you are sure to find something that will spark your interest, no matter how wide you throw you net.

Washington Population: 588,373
Washington Metropolitan Population: 6.1 million
Telephone Area Codes: 617/781/339 
Currency: US Dollar (US$)
Time Zone: UTC/GMT -5 hours (UTC/GMT -4 hours with daylight saving, March to November)
Language: American English

Hotels in Washington, D.C.