The Imperial City: Washington, D.C.

Images: Washington, D.C.

I have history with Washington. I've just returned from my third visit to America's imperial city. It leaves me breathless every time.

The promise of elegant society avenues. The powerful bronzed statues. The idealistic etchings in the white marble. Washington is a city of political correctedness and southern charm.

Votes and money. Hopes and dreams. Old and young. Washington, D.C. is a dichotomy with something to offer for everyone. For anyone looking to book a trip, here are some highlights from my travels:

Worship at the altar of political hitory and visit the temples of the great American Presidents. The humbling Thomas Jefferson Memorial along the Potomac river overlooks the White House. The somber Abraham Lincoln Memorial boasts an unforgettable view of The Mall's reflecting pool and Washington Monument.

See the somber changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery where you can walk among fallen heroes and see the place where John F. Kennedy and Jackie Bouvier Kennedy Onassis are buried.

Tour the Smithsonian museum (the world's largest museum) is absolutely free! See the original star-spangled banner from the war of 1812 and other historical artifacts. See the original Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights at the National Archives.

Visit Gettysburg, Pennsylvania (an hour and a half drive from Washington) where the bloodiest battle of the Civil War took place. More than 23,000 Confederate and Union soldiers were slaughtered in the three day battle that marked a turning point in the building of an American nation.

Cherry blossoms and magnolia trees line the American capital's historic districts. See the impressive embassies and mansions in Dupont Circle. Walk along the old historic homes and universities, shop at the swankiest stoes, and eat at the best restaurants the city has to offer in Georgetown.

Try some authentic down-home Louisiana cooking at the Cajun Experience in Agnes Morin/Dupon Circle. Live jazz, creole and cajun cuisine, and a bustling ambiance that speaks to the southerness of this political town.

For the best baked pizza the city has to offer, try Pizzeria Paradiso in historic Georgetown. They also boast a great beer list.

Bistro Bistro in Dupont Circle offers a wonderful French Brunch buffet that serves everything from Eggs Benedict to pastries and even caviar.

And don't miss Martin's Taven in Georgetown. Established in 1933 and made famous by the Kennedy's, Martin's has served every sitting President since Harry Truman.

Make the most of the city... Walk everywhere and take the subway!