Posted May 7, 2009 by Kate Hamman
When it comes to a politically charged atmosphere, Washington, D.C., has the market cornered. Not only is it the place our president calls home, but you can uncover hidden secrets by taking a ride through its history or eavesdropping over cocktails in a local lounge. After you've finished your sleuthing, you can dine on organic dishes to clear your conscience.
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Bi-Partisan Tour Company: Honor our country's freedom of choice by choosing to be the driver and navigator of your own tour of the nation's capital. The Bi-Partisan Tour Company encourages either side to ride in their very own red-and-blue electrical roadster, in which historical facts and scandalous secrets are revealed at almost every turn. You can even don a rubber mask of your favorite political figure and hit the streets as a true leader. Tours run a bit steep at $75 per person, but the direction-savvy can ride for $40 without the added benefits of GPS navigation and storytelling. Don't forget to bring along your mobile phone, as the company offers free two-to-four minute recorded tours.
Drink
Lounge 201: With dynamite drink specials Tuesday through Friday, this hip Capitol Hill lounge adds new meaning to "happy hour." On Tuesdays, you can choose from a range of sweet and savory martinis to suit almost any taste, including the Tiramisu Tini and the Red Caramel Apple, for half the original price. Grab a cocktail and listen to the lively political discussions by White House aides who hang out here, because you never know what you might overhear. Martinis start at $9, but don't forget to ask about the daily specials to get the best deal.
Eat
Restaurant Nora: America's first certified organic restaurant, Nora has been enticing the District's environmentalists and politicians with fresh seasonal dishes since 1989. It's rumored to be a Clinton favorite. Originally a grocery store in the 19th century, the main dining room has always been home to food. Antique Mennonite and Amish crib quilts decorate the walls as you dine on dishes such as fragrant Amish veal with cashew curry. Entrees start at $25.
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(Photo: Index Open)
Posted April 7, 2009 by Kate Hamman
The neighborhood of Georgetown in Washington, D.C., feels worlds apart from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Its charm makes it the perfect place to meet up with your gal pals and shop for designer clothes, sip coffee in a bakery, and eat your just desserts at a cafe. Plus, a day on the town doesn't have to cost a fortune.
Shop
Sugar Clothing and Accessories: Selling an array of contemporary apparel, jewelry, and handbags, this little shop is just as sweet as its name suggests. Come browse the selection of skirts, dresses, and tops from leading designers such as Nanette Lepore, Margaret Loves Peter, and In the Now. Feel free to try things on before you buy, and then leave feeling like a true fashionista. Most of the items in the store are priced appropriately for high-end duds, but you can't put a price tag on how good you'll look.
Drink
Baked and Wired: If you need a little pick-me-up, especially when gearing up for a day of shopping, Baked and Wired has just the remedy. Come enjoy a latte or a cup of tea in this comfortable coffeehouse/bakery, where you can eye the many tantalizing sweets in the display case, including the ever-so-popular cupcakes. The shop uses Counter Culture fair-trade coffee beans and features a range of teas.
Eat
Cafe Bonaparte: Come experience a taste of Parisian culture at Cafe Bonaparte, where the atmosphere is hip and the food is inventive. The cafe serves a range of savory and sweet crepes, such as the Moulin Rouge, made with caramelized peaches, vanilla ice cream, and berries. However, crepes are just the cherry on top here. You can also indulge in homemade desserts, including the Napoleon, or have a glass of wine. The restaurant offers sandwiches and a full menu for brunch and dinner. Crepes start at $6.95, while desserts cost no more than $7.25.
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(Photo: Georgetown Business Improvement District)
Posted March 13, 2008 by Heather Gilbert
Hypothetically speaking, say you were a married man, say even the governor of New York State, and you were going to hire a high-class call girl. Where would you rendezvous? Clearly you can’t go back to your place, and I’m guessing that ladies thusly employed aren’t in the habit of taking clients to their bachelorette pads.
Perhaps for a romantic Valentine’s Eve, you’d do as former New York Governor Eliot Spitzer did and treat your 5’ 5” 105-pound petite brunette to a romp at the exclusive and historic Mayflower Hotel. This four-diamond Marriott property claims to be the largest luxury hotel in Washington D.C., which is a good thing if you’re trying to remain anonymous but still impress your lady. And according to 145 TripAdvisor ratings , the Mayflower is an all-around standout, with ironically high marks for cleanliness. I can’t help but wonder if Mr. Spitzer booked the Flirt with an Escape! Romance package from Renaissance! during his stay. I’m sure that "Kristen" would have enjoyed the in-room Champagne and FTD flowers. And who doesn’t like late checkout? Not to mention that the gentlemanly Mr. Spitzer apparently told his lady friend to help herself to anything form the mini-bar, on him. How sweet.
It seems like Mr. Spitzer made a least one good decision amidst a plethora of bad ones. A lady likes a quality hotel, you know.
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