Washington : book your hotel

The capital of the USA, Washington D.C. may be the home of political powers but the city also boasts a hip side that goes beyond the confines of congress. There are plenty of museums and monuments but also markets, breweries, and indie theatre and music scenes befitting its capital status.

Washington D.C. is stuffed at the seams with politics and play. This city is home to a wealth of spectacular history-shaping sites and happening neighbourhoods. There are plenty of big moments that have happened in this city including Martin Luther King's 'I have a dream' speech. From the Capitol buildings, the White House, the Smithsonian Institution - all these iconic places make up the bones of Washington, but in between the big names, you will also find a buzzing foodie scene, historic markets, small-scale distilleries, and handsome neighbourhoods brimming with spring blooms, charming canals, and classy boutiques

Buses, rail and bicycles - while the District of Columbia may at first feel sprawling with its circular layout and all streets leading to the center, it is actually very one of the world's most walkable cities. You can explore plenty of neighbourhoods and areas that are ever enticing with shops and cafes, and when you need to cross from one side to the other, - a solid subway setup and plenty of affordable bus tours can guide you from the best hotels in Washington to the top tourist sites with ease. The D.C. Circulator bus can take you to all the major hubs or for those who want to adventure at their own pace, bicycle rental makes pedaling through the parks and past historical monuments a breeze as the city boasts fast-expanding network of cycling paths and dedicated bike lanes over the District's flat terrain.

Washington is made of museums and monuments. Walking through this city is like walking back through history. As the seat of political power in the USA, Washington is home to the presidential residence of The White House and the domed US Capitol at the city's ver center. Visitors most often head to the National Mall to see America's Front Yard and stand in the spot where Martin Luther King delivered his unforgettable speech at the Lincoln Memorial. There's also the National Museum of African American Culture and History, the United States Holocaust Memorial and Museum, the newly renovated National Museum of Air and Space, the Washington Monument, and the Library of Congress which tell the tales of America's growth and global influence.

Washington D.C. offers a rich tapestry of attractions. This is one of the major players in the political and historical making of the modern USA which gives it the edge when it comes to things to do. But even beyond the monuments, you can find charming neighbourhoods, vibrant markets, and fun youthful energy that spills over from the college campus.

No trip to the capital would be complete without visiting The White House. Home to presidents since 1800s, The White House is one of the most famous buildings in the world. Tours inside can be arranged however just standing outside the famed gates on 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is enough to tick off your bucket list. The Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square is located steps away from the White House.

Stretching 3 km from the US Capitol building at its west to the Lincoln Memorial at its east, the National Mall is ringed with museums open free to the public and anchored by the Washington Monument. In springtime, the city's famous cherry blossoms are in bloom along the Tidal Basin just to the south. The Capitol Building is a must for those intrigued by the history of the house of government - you can see everything from the famed frescoed rotunda and the old supreme court that dates back to 1810.

Washington D.C. boasts a wealth of wonderful museums that cover everything from natural history to manmade delights, modern art and kaleidoscopic cultures. Some of the museums that constantly get touted as being la creme de la creme in Washington D.C. include the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, the Hirshhorn Gallery of Art and Sculpture Garden, and the National Museum of African Art. Under the Smithsonian banner, you will also find a glut of glorious galleries, gardens, and the National Zoo - not to mention - the Smithsonian Institution building with its elegant towers and Gothic Revival architecture.

Exploring this bustlinge city is sure to raise an appetite and this is why Union Market is worth a special trip. In the NoMa neighborhood, Union Market is loaded with restaurants, vendor stalls, oyster shacks, and all manner of shops to keep you satiated. From guzzling craft brews to Michelin-starred tables, heady lively bars and a sprawling Latin market - all tastes are catered for in this buzzy weekend joint.