Trip to DC
Cherry blossoms are in bloom and that means DC is busier than a zoo.
My sisters and I took a trip down to the nation’s capital to check it out.
A gift from Japan, facilitated by my very very very distant relative Nellie Taft, now a gift for all to enjoy. And by all, I do mean literally, everyone and their dog.
We splurged and stayed at the super lush Willard Intercontinental where cherry blossoms flourished in the lobby.
Sure it might have been royally expensive, but the Willard is conveniently located right next to the White House and all the museums, which was initially what I wanted to do. However, the museum crowds were beyond overwhelming, so room service and luxury at the hotel became our saving grace.
Again, the lobby. 🌸🌸🌸
The Willard brings the blossoms inside. The big tree is fake, but the little potted ones are not. The level of detail the Willard provides is truly the definition of spoiled, and I love it.
Upon arrival, luxury bathrobes and city views await you. Click your AC to 62℉, slide into your down filled bed, and order some room service because the Willard is political, historical, and the food is DELICIOUS.
I don’t think I had one bad dish from Café du Parc. And I had a lot. We were lucky enough to book with free breakfast, so if you are wondering, free equals:
If you don’t believe me, go to Priceline.com and try it.
Did I mention spoiled?
Here’s a look at our room service we ordered for supper. My fave is the Steak Frites. Sadly, room service does not have the super skinny frites, instead more like steak fries. If this is your first time trying this dish, get out of your pajamas and go.
Cheapskates trick: order from the kids menu. It is basically the same thing, just smaller portions
Tourist, tourist where are you?
the itinerary
5 nights. 6 days.
Museums were first on my list, because they are free. The price is always right when it is free. Unfortunately though, free in this case meant packed like a sardine tin, and I would rather pay money than suffer like that.
How can you enjoy some of the world’s most beautiful gems and stones when people are shoving you? I couldn’t help but say “excuse me,” as I felt my heart racing searching for the exit.
Free should not mean no limits. No standards. What if god forbid the fire alarm went off and we all had to get out?
This is the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum.
World famous, but too many people.
One place I found respite, outside.
The Old Town Trolley tour was fun and worth it. Though not the Monuments by Moonlight, as forced stops are not really my jam. I love hop on and off, not you have 30 minutes to explore.
My favorite little slice of paradise – the botanical garden.
🌿🌴🌺
Founded in 1820, I think I fell in love with the botanical garden.
We missed peak bloom. White cherry blossoms around the tidal basin were mostly gone, but the tulips made up for it.
Tulps, tulips, and did you know that tulips are native to Iran? I did not. But also, doesn’t seem to be any specific origin except which I’d buzz in on Jeopardy, “what is not Holland?”
Planted strategically around the city, tulips seemed to follow us everywhere. Or maybe I was actively looking for them.
Tell me you are gorgeous without saying you are gorgeous.
Cherry blossom, cherry blossom where are you?
Also putting on quite a show, pink cherry blossoms.
I love how some varieties grow on the trunk of the tree.
One mint julep, please.
best bar
Round Robin vs. VUE Rooftop
I found most comfort at the Willard. So obviously I went with the historical Round Robin at the Willard, but they are right next to each other, so check it out. See what is happening in the dirty DC. That is, of course, with Trump in office.
The mint julep was invented at the Round Robin. Order for the special shaved ice and freshly muddled mint. I am more of scotch drinker than bourbon, so it was a bit much for me – but still cool.
Will I go back?
Yes, but in the off season. Maybe in January when all the tourists are gone. I hate tourists. I am the only tourist allowed, duh.
Is DC air traffic excessive?
I saw a jet every 5 minutes. I found this excessive, but a lot of people called me an idiot for it.
Watch now:
@laura.taft Is it just me or are the planes a constant in DC? #airplanes #DC #washingtondc #airtravel #airplane
♬ original sound - laura taft
