Washington DC, or simply DC as it is commonly known, is unlike anywhere else in the world. This is the capital of the United States, possibly the most important superpower in the world, and historical decisions are made from its corridors and offices. However, unlike most capital cities, DC is not really a ‘natural’ city; instead of being born organically over time, it was planned specifically to occupy the seat of power in the United States. Clearly, DC demands attention…
It is also a city that demands money. With the US government basically living here and all, DC can get pretty expensive, especially if you spend most of your time in its central area (which visitors typically do). Fortunately, there are a handful of hostels in DC that cater to those on the go while watching their pockets. Even more fortunately, these hostels are great places, proving to be a sociable and comfortable place to stay in the city.
One such Washington hostel is the Hilltop Hostel, which promises its guests a fun and laid-back atmosphere. In addition to comfortable bedrooms, the hostel offers a ping pong table in the backyard and hammocks for the comfort of its guests.
Other great Washington hostels include the LOFTSTEL Washington and the Hostel Internationally Washington DC. Book a stay at any of these and you’re guaranteed a good place to rest.
In terms of tourism, The National Mall, or The Mall for short, is where most of the action is in Washington DC. This unique area of green space is dotted with buildings that house world famous institutions – you would need weeks to explore the area properly.
seats of power
Of course, the first institution that will come to mind for visitors is the White House. Unfortunately, though, touring the house of the US government is a bit difficult; Visits must be arranged through your embassy at least six months in advance. And even then you’re not guaranteed to get in.
Fortunately, tours of the neighboring Capital Building are a bit easier: tickets can be picked up in the morning for afternoon tours. Inside, you’ll be able to see several corridors of power, along with the building’s impressive art collection (mainly portraits).
The Smithsonian Institution
There is an impressive array of museums dotted around the mall; together, they form what is known as the Smithsonian Institution. These government-backed cultural heritage banks make for wonderful days out: to determine which museums will interest you the most, visit the Information Center located in The Castle, a red building on The Mall.
Among the museums, the favorites of permanent tourists include the Air and Space Museum and the Museum of Natural History, while the Museum of the American Indian and the Museum of American History are also among the best.
Other slightly more specialized museums in Washington DC include the National Postal Museum, the International Spy Museum, and the National Museum of Crime and Punishment.