Exploring Washington D.C.: My Journey As I See
Washington D.C., being the capital city of the United States of America, is a place that can capture one’s attention with its density of culture and historical sights. Fascinating enough is the fact that D.C. is not in any state, which explains why some think it is not a real city. However, it is a federal district with its recognized status to ensure that it does not become affiliated with any political party and has its main function of being the capital city.
Navigating the City: Another conflict revolves around parking, as seen in the Parking Conundrum. Our visit to Washington D.C. began with a slight challenge, which was trying to hunt for a parking lot. Finding parking next to the crowds is quite a challenge, as the area is always filled with lovers of culture and art. Cycling was our major means of transport, and due to this, we had the privilege to view the energetic side of the city and the architectures of different buildings. Hiring a scooter is another intelligible choice, especially if you do not mind riding in the streets of the city on a scooter.
Must-See Monuments and Memorials: We noticed that there are many more monumental constructions and memorials, the majority of which are free and operational at any time of the day and night, 24/7 and 365 days a year. This implied that we could go there at our own convenient time without having to make prior appointments. Here are some of the highlights:
Lincoln Memorial: Seeing the Lincoln Memorial is a real pleasure. Being in front of the gigantic statue of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, and looking at the very large pool of water called the Reflecting Pool gives a very surreal feeling. Three of them can truly be named monumental; the XVIII-th Apollo temple is especially grand, and the general layout and meaning of this place remains impressive.
Jefferson Memorial: The Jefferson Memorial, which is also a must-visit, is located near the Tidal Basin. This neoclassical building is named after Thomas Jefferson, the creative mind behind the Declaration of Independence and the third President of the United States of America; it becomes magnificent during the Cherry Blossom Festival.
Freedom, National World War II Memorial: It indeed stands in solemn honor of the more than 16 million citizens of the United States who engaged as members of the country’s armed forces and to the over 400,000 individuals who perished during World War II. It is placed between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, and it is quite an inspiring sculpture of the price of freedom.
Statue of Martin Luther King Jr.: The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial is a rather strong symbol of tribute to the civil rights leader. The giant figure of Dr. King and the slogans of his profound speeches reveal the actions of the man who wants people to be equal.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial: Spanning 7.5 acres around the Tidal Basin, the FDR Monument is devoted to the 32nd president of the USA. Exploring this memorial with its acting waterfalls, different sculptures, and quotations from FDR’s speeches provided me with an understanding of his immense leadership during the Great Depression and WWII.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial: The sculpted black granite walls on which are engraved over 58,000 names of those who died or disappeared in action give the place a somewhat meditative and solemn character to pay tribute to the many victims of wars who perished while serving their country.
Visiting the White House: Visiting the White House, we were impressed. There are only guided tours when you plan in advance. We ordered our tour through the White House site in advance; the minimum time should be one month. A tour around the corridors where I have seen so much history happen is something that will leave a lasting memory in my mind.
Actually, Northern States and particularly Washington D.C. are cities that make America come alive with history. Even if it is just strolling on the pavement, balancing on a scooter, or planning a White House tour, there are just so many things to discover. Traveling with my family was informative in giving us a better insight into the history of the nation and at the same time brought out the fun aspect of the trip. Getting to know Washington D.C. with my own vision truly can be remembered as a magical trip that opens our eyes and minds from time to time.
