Washington DC Trip: Inauguration, Women's March and Winter Fun

Washington DC is like my second home. Full of charm, beautiful architecture and the most interesting people, I was in the District last week for the inauguration, Women's March and to catch up with friends and colleagues.

I had booked my ticket before the results of the presidential election were revealed. I knew this trip wouldn't be like the ones that had gone before.

I arrived two days before inauguration day, and even then the mood was tense. I'd describe it as a mix between anticipation and trepidation. When inauguration day dawned, I headed into the city on the Metro with my friend. The Metro was empty, with only a few other passengers on the train. It was quieter than a work day! Security was extremely tight in the centre of DC, with lots of police, National Guard, army and snipers on the roofs. Protestors had already begun to demonstrate and their chants were in competition with cheers of 'USA' from Trump supporters. The mood was not one of celebration or jubilation, and as a spectator, I was really shocked by the scenes that I saw. I've written more about the day here.

The next day was the Women's March, and spirits were lifted. In contrast to the day before, the Metro was packed with women. Each holding handmade and really witty signs, as well as pink Kitty hats, the mood was positive and upbeat, and it was clear that many women had travelled far and wide to be in DC for this historic moment. When we exited the Metro everybody cheered and this continued outside. People literally streamed towards the National Mall, and within a short space of time, it was clear that attendance would top the predicted turnout. I met so many people from across America and was pretty psyched when someone gave me an original Hillary Clinton campaign sign. It really was a positive day.

The rest of my trip was spent attending meetings and exploring some of my favourite parts of the city. I went to the Air and Space Museum - my first trip since aged 11! Whilst not much had changed it was pretty cool to see the Hubble Telescope, the Space Shuttle exhibition and items from the Moon Landing. I also revisited the American History Museum to see the First Lady dresses- I always do this when I am in DC! I also had a good time visiting the British Embassy and strolling the streets of Georgetown and admiring the gorgeous houses.

Air and Space Museum

Julia Child's kitchen

Michelle Obama's beautiful inaugural gown

Georgetown architecture

America felt like a different place when I left. The change of administration is always an interesting episode to watch, and as a Brit, it was fascinating to see the pomp and pageantry of a new President taking office. So much has happened in the last week, much of which is completely hard to comprehend. Whilst I will always love visiting the USA, I feel future trips will be very different. 

April through Instagram

Walking the cobbled streets of Old Town Alexandria | A friendly Welsh welcome home! | Amazing art at the Crosby Street Hotel | Saturday night guilty pleasure | Easter flowers on Fifth Avenue | My comfy new Tory Burch flats | Robin Wright and nail painting | Starry treats | South Wales Police horses

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Uber Hometown City Guide: Washington D.C.

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Washington D.C. A city of power, politics and pretty awesome things to do! I've been fortunate to live and work in D.C., and I regard it as my second home!

I'm partnering with Uber to share some of my favourite places in D.C. The places that tourists may normally not visit, and locations you can go to to experience a completely 'local' feeling. Read on for some great ideas!

To Visit: 

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Hillwood Museum & Gardens: On my recent trip I visited Hillwood Museum & Gardens. During the time I lived in D.C. I never knew this amazing house existed! This decorative arts museum is the former residence of Marjorie Merriweather Post, a businesswoman, socialite, philanthropist and dedicated collector. The collection is filled with Faberge eggs and there is a stunning greenhouse containing a wide range of orchids. It's a must see!

Washington National Cathedral: This impressive building has played host for the funerals of Presidents as well as an episode of the West Wing! Head to the top of the tower for stunning views of the city and descend to the crypt to visit the final resting place of Helen Keller.

Old Town Alexandria: I'm lucky that my friends live in Old Town! It's full of charm and lots of history. I love to walk along the waterfront - you can spot the Capitol building in the distance!

To Dine:

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The Hamilton: hands down, I love this place! Located two blocks from the White House, The Hamilton has a bohemian spirit and an even better American fare menu. I love the fish tacos, the Hamilton burger and the mint chocolate chip shake!

The Chart House: set on Old Town's scenic waterfront, this one seafood restaurant you don't want to miss. On a recent visit, I had dinner with a pal in the turret room- complete with a fire pit! The Atlantic salmon was to. die. for.


To Shop:

The Lucky Knot: located in Old Town, this is a preppy girl's idea of heaven! Vineyard Vines, Kate Spade, Smathers and Branson and Lilly Pulitzer adorn the shelves and you won't leave empty handed!

The White House Historical Association: for all your White House goodies, stop by the White House Historical Association! Here you can find the official holiday ornaments as well as a great selection of publications and gifts.

Mazza Gallerie and Pentagon City: my favourite stores are located in these two complexes. I love to hit Neiman Marcus for my slice of luxury, and Pentagon City for J.Crew and Nordstrom.

Uber is giving readers discount on their first ride up to $30 using the code RIDIN30. 

Thanks Uber! 

Washington DC: My Trip in Photos

If you follow me on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram, you'll know that I've been back in DC! The city is like my second home and it's been great to be back amongst amazing friends, gorgeous architecture and all kinds of fun!

Whilst my trip included lots of meetings and hard work, there was plenty of fun! Here's what I got up to.

Arriving at my friend's house, I was greeted with an amazing Easter basket filled with lovely goodies!

The next day, we went house searching (hello gorgeous properties along Foxhole Road!) This one is my absolute favorite.

Then an afternoon of shopping, including a trip to Neiman Marcus. Officially in love with this amazing dress!

On Saturday, we took a tour of the Capitol. It was fun to experience this sacred building and the area again after my time working here!

In the afternoon, we took a trip to Hillwood Museum and Gardens. If you live in the DC area and haven't visited- you must! I loved the 1940s kitchen - it was like something out of a film set! I also had fun with a regal looking lion.

The next few days were filled with meetings across the city. In the Smithsonian I spotted my pal, Tina Cassidy's great book about Jackie Kennedy!

I also attended the media launch of Nora Pouillon's new memoir, My Organic Life. Nora is the owner of the amazing Restaurant Nora and has cooked for Presidents and royalty! It was a lovely lunch with lovely company!

I also went by the White House for the standard 'House of Cards' moment...

I also explored Old Town Alexandria- I love the architectural details that are visible in the buildings across the city. The gorgeous little lights, brickwork and a piece of Wales in DC!

After DC I headed up to New York. Stay tuned for photos and details from this leg of my trip later this week! 

Three Things I Love About My Favourite City

Author's Own

I've been lucky to have travelled to many great places in the world- across the East Coast, Europe, UAE, Australia and New Zealand.

My first trip 'abroad' was to America in 2001. It started my love affair with the USA, and Washington D.C. is the city I find myself returning to time and time again. I interned for a Member of Congress in 2010, and this really made it my favourite city! In fact I'll be back in DC (and NYC!) later this year- #countingdownthedays

So what are my three favourite things about Washington D.C?

1. The architecture: Everywhere you look there is a spectacular building to be seen! I love the White House for its neoclassic design, and for the sense of history in each of its rooms and the grounds. Having been fortunate to visit the Executive Mansion on many occasions, I love walking around the state rooms and taking a look at the beautiful Rose Garden.

2. The museums: D.C. has a museum for everyone! The Smithsonian is can cater for every taste, from  Air and Space to American History, you could spend days getting caught up in some amazing exhibits and stories! My personal favourite? The First Ladies exhibition- the dresses and jewels are amazing. I also love the Newseum- so exciting!

3. The shopping: there are some great boutique shops in D.C., and I particularly like taking a trip to Alexandria to shop in the independent stores. Make sure you try out The Lucky Knot if you're in town!

Have you been to Washington D.C.? What do you love about it?

This post is part of Accor's 'Three Things I Love About My Favourite City' series. Find out more here. I did not receive any financial compensation for this post and all views are my own. 

Shop For Love: Fall Shop & Swap, October 5th, Old Town Alexandria

Make sure you head to the Third Annual Shop for Love: Fall Shop & Swap, hosted by Dewdrop and Heels and the City. The charity swap party and vendor showcase are in support of Tigerlily Foundation and Doorways. In honor of both breast cancer and domestic violence awareness months, the event is on Saturday, October 5, 2013 from 4-7pm, at Durant Arts Center in the Old Town neighborhood of Alexandria, Virginia. The dynamic duo invites all fashion lovers out for an evening of social shopping and swapping in support of good causes.

Along with the swap, guests can mingle with like-minded women over a complimentary cocktail hour, shopping a multitude of pop-up shops of emerging designers and retailers, and viewing a blogger style challenge highlighting the hottest fall trends. The event will be filled with lively music and hosted by the energetic on-air personality, Wild Kat of the Wild Kat Show. All unswapped items will be donated to Goodwill of Greater Washington and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Tigerlily Foundation and Doorways.

Tickets are $20 to shop, swap, and sip and $15 with a donation. Tickets can be purchased through shopforlove.eventbrite.com.

DC Fashion Foundation, TheGirlfriendGroup, and Wild Kat Show are supporters of the event.

Discovering DC: Alexandria

This week's Discovering DC heads to Alexandria with Kathleen from Sadly Leggings are not Pants! 

What's your history with Alexandria, VA and DC?
I spent the first 17 years of my life in Northern New Jersey and moved to DC in 2003 to attend George Washington University. After graduation, I applied for jobs in NYC and DC and ultimately decided to stay in the area. I spent a year in Crystal City and made the move to Alexandria in 2008.

I love Alexandria since it is just a hop, skip and a jump from all that DC has to offer but I can easily find parking, run errands, and have a slightly slower paced life.

Discovering Alexandria- what are your favorite places to shop/eat/go with friends/people watch?
Old Town is great for dinner, drinks, shopping and history! It really has it all.

Dinner: Are you looking for a hole in the wall sushi spot? I have just the place. One block from King Street, Momu Sushi, is an amazing find. 212 Queen Street, 22314.

Date night, drinks with friends, brunch: Columbia Firehouse is my one stop shop for a great meal or a great cocktail. I have had Easter Brunch here, celebrated my friend’s engagements, had great dates, had one too many cocktails from bad dates...it is literally a perfect location. 109 S Saint Asaph Street, 22314.

Shopping: If you have stopped by my blog, you know I have a serious love of Lilly Pulitzer. The Pink Palm located right on King Street has a great selection of dresses and Lilly items. It isn’t a large store so you don’t need to worry about getting lost in patterns but you can always find something to try on! My most frequent shopping adventures take place at Pacers, just a block down from the Pink Palm, there sales team is exceptional at finding you running shoes or stocking up on my favorite products, Oiselle or Honey Stinger Waffles.

People Watching: Head to the end of King Street by Starbucks. You can grab some tea and then just sit and watch. So many tourists in unique outfits, usually a band or singer to keep you entertained and if you need some quiet, you can just watch the boats come in.

Perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon in your area?
A perfect Saturday in Alexandria would consist of a bike ride on the Mount Vernon Trail, a quick shower and people watching by the water. Since you already exercised, you can treat yourself to Ben and Jerrys or one of the many frozen yogurt places. Need to get out of the sun? Head into Lou Lou’s and shop their adorable necklaces and accessories. The Torpedo Factory at 208 King Street, 22314, is great around 2pm to watch artists in the middle of creating their new work. The factory is open to the public from 10-6pm.

Kathleen

Check out more posts in the Discovering DC archive here.