Washington D.C. Hotel Guide

Even if you've seen dozens of postcards, television and movie scenes depicting our nation's capital, it doesn't prepare you for the real thing.

Whether you're approaching the city from the air or by ground, the reaction most people experience when they catch their first glimpse is always the same: goosebumps.

It's not uncommon for those who make the trek daily into the heart of the monumental city to experience the same phenomenon again and again. Even on a cloudy day the magnificent dome of the United States Capitol building shines, while the 555 foot-tall Washington Monument pierces the sky like a stark remnant of an ancient Egyptian civilization.

It's also hard to take for granted the beauty and opulence of the White House -- which in days past was referred to as "the peoples house."

Washington -- called the District by its inhabitants -- is a friendly Southern town, since it's definitely below of the Mason-Dixon line. It's rare when someone you stop on the street won't at least try to point you in the right direction -- even if they're not quite sure where it is you're going.

While there is definitely street crime in certain areas of the District, there's always a strong presence of helpful metro and park police officers in those areas most frequented by tourists.

If there is a downside to Washington, it's the traffic. Some say it rivals Los Angeles. Driving in it should be avoided at all costs -- especially since there's ample public transportation in the form of buses and subways. (See related story here).

That's why we recommend staying in the city -- either the northwest or northeast side, depending upon yourbudget. Most hotels offer free parking and even the outlining areas are just several miles from Capitol Hill.

But if you must drive, be careful and make sure you have carefully plotted your course before you get behind the wheel. To do otherwise is to play Russian Roulette.

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