Art of Living Metro D.C.

The Perfect DC Day: An Itinerary

admin — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0000

D.C is a great place to take a visit to. This is the nation’s capital. One thing to consider when planning your itenerary, is what time of year you may be planning on making a visit. If going in the Spring, the cherry blossoms are beautiful to see. During the Fall, the trees change into beautiful colors, and during the Summer there are many events that celebrate independence day.

One of the great things to see in D.C is the Smithsonian Instution Building, this building covers all sorts of exciting things like art and space exploration. The national monuments in DC are a must see, at night, they are lit up. Georgetown is something to put on your intenerary. This area is historic and has tons of restaurants and historic sites.

The John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts has all sorts of shows such as concerts by the National Symphony or free shows at the Millennium Stage. The town of Alexandria is a great historic town to visit that is over the Potomic river. It is filled with churches, museums and antique shops. Another great thing to do is to go on some of the bike trails. One of these wonderful trails is the C&O canal.

No matter what time of year you decide to visit this wonderful city, you will find plenty of fun and excitement in D.C

No Job, No Problem

www.artoflivingmetrodc.org — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0000

No, you might not have the best or highest paying job in Washington D.C., after all, most of those are publicly elected, but in case you just moved to town or lost your bid for re-election in November, the city of Washington D.C. was hit with some encouraging news recently, ranking 1st in terms of ease of job searching within the United States major markets. With an average one unemployed candidate per open job listing, practically all job seekers in the D.C. area should be able to find some sort of gainful employment as we enter the holiday season. Perhaps this overestimates the ease by which employment is available, as some positions are more desirable than others and some candidates are more qualified than others. Not to mention, most employers, particularly those featuring more in-demand jobs, will take resumes from all across the globe, as a higher salary can more than compensate for any necessary relocation costs.Still, D.C. locals are in better position than most Americans across the country as head into the new year. This is largely due to the government driven resources and positions in the area, not to mention a strong position in the fields of both education and healthcare. Currently D.C. boasts a 5.9 unemployment rate. In fact, the Mid-Atlantic is a promising area for job searching on the whole, with Baltimore also receiving high scores in the report, based on a Job Search Difficulty Index put forth by Juju.com. All in all, 50 major cities across the country were analyzed, dividing the total unemployed workers according the Bureau of Labor Statistics by the number of online job postings attributed to that city. Not an exact science, but certainly this news will only bring a sense of optimism to the Washington D.C. community, boost relocation of talented individuals and give a sense of hope to those still jobless in the area.

Catch a ‘Skins Game

www.artoflivingmetrodc.org — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 21:25:53 +0000

Fall is officially here, meaning one thing for the DC faithful, Redskins football. The storied Skins have called the DC area home since 1937, playing over 1,000 professional football games. According to Forbes Magazine, the Redskins are the second most valuable franchise in the NFL, trailing only the Dallas Cowboys, though to longtime fans the team is worth even more than that. Currently playing in FedEx Field, located just outside the city in Landover, Maryland, the Redskins have undergone an overhaul as of late, bringing in former Philadelphia quarterback great Donovan McNabb and future Hall of Fame coach Mike Shanahan. Early dividends have paid off as the team finds itself in the thick of the hunt in the always competitive NFC East.FedEx Field itself, though new in 1997, offers insights into the Redskins great Washington legacy. The Redskins Ring of Fame, located on the upper level faade, celebrates the brightest stars and timeless personalities to ever suit up in burgundy and gold, contributing to the franchise’s impressive total of 5 League Championships (3 Super Bowls and 2 NFL Championships predating the Super Bowls existence). With the move from RFK stadium, the celebratory circle became a slightly smaller as the Hall of Stars, which paid homage to local heroes of all sports, was left behind, instead choosing to dedicate the Ring of Fame to just Redskins legends. The extensive list includes:

Art Monk, WR, 198093
Bill Dudley, RB, 195051, 1953
Billy Kilmer, QB, 197178
Bobby Mitchell, flanker, 196268
Brian Mitchell, RB/KR, 199099
Brig Owens, DB, 196677
Charles Mann, DE, 198393
Charley Taylor, WR, 196477
Charlie Justice, RB, 1950, 195254
Chris Hanburger, LB, 196578
Cliff Battles, RB, 193237
Darrell Green, CB, 19832002
Dave Butz, DT, 197588
Dexter Manley, DE, 198189
Dick James, RB, 195663
Doug Williams, QB, 198689
Eddie LeBaron, QB, 195253, 195559
Gary Clark, WR, 198592
Gene Brito, DE, 195153, 195558
George Allen, head coach, 197177
George Preston Marshall, team founder and owner, 193269
Jack Kent Cooke, Owner, 196197
Jerry Smith, TE, 196577
Joe Gibbs, head coach, 198192, 200407
Joe Jacoby, T/G, 198193
Joe Theismann, QB, 197485
John Riggins, RB, 197679, 198185
Ken Harvey, LB, 199498
Ken Houston, S, 197380
Lamar “Bubba” Tyer, head athletic trainer, 19712002, 200408
Larry Brown, RB, 196976
Len Hauss, C, 196477
Mark Moseley, PK, 197486
Pat Fischer, CB, 196877
Phil Hochberg, PA announcer, 19632000
Russ Grimm, G, 198191
Sam Huff, LB, 196467, 1969
Sammy Baugh, QB, 193752
Sean Taylor, S, 200407
Sonny Jurgensen, QB, 196474
Vince Lombardi, head coach, 1969
Vince Promuto, G, 196070
Wayne Curry, Prince George’s County Executive, 19942002
Wayne Millner, E, 193641, 1945

Untangling the D.C. metro lines

admin — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 13:58:35 +0000

When it comes to Washington, D.C.’s metro transit lines, practice makes perfect. Tourists may find themselves suffering from color-blindness as they try to untangle red lines from blue lines, and orange from yellow. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority is doing all it can, however, to make travel on the subway easier, quicker, and simpler than ever before.One of the results is an accurate and easy-to-use website. The WMATA home page should be the first place travelers look before setting out for their nearest station, as it includes not only delay info for all the rail lines, but also bus and even elevator statuses as well. There’s also a search function that lets you find the best option based on your route. If you find yourself without wireless while waiting for the train, consider looking into a mobile device like the Clear USB Modem.In addition to a consistent focus on keeping on schedule, the WMATA has also made new strides in the area of safety. New techniques like clearly marking tripping hazards by the rails, improving communication between track workers, and setting standards for wheel repair were enacted in June. These plans should make both tourists and locals feel safer whenever they step onto a WMATA car. A new policy also further protects any whistleblowers who call the organization out on safety problems.Metro-line regulars with their own ideas for improvements are also encouraged to attend regular meetings of the Riders’ Advisory Council. Travelers can attend as members of the public, or apply for a council position. Either way, every comment counts when it comes to keeping the WMATA on its toes and making sure each trip is as unmemorable (in a good way) as possible.

4th of July Lineup in DC

admin — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 21:06:38 +0000

As we approach the anniversary of our nation’s independence, the District of Columbia will once again get ready to open its arms to thousands of incoming Americans ready to celebrate the momentous occasion. While you can expect the traditional fireworks at night, our nation’s capital is come to a full schedule of events to commemorate the 4^th of July, unique to the city of Washington. Starting at 11:00 a.m., the National Cathedral offers a free concert to get the day’s events off to a fittingly patriotic start, with a selection of America’s favorite songs and most iconic ballads. More music will be available on the grounds at the Washington Monument later in the day as well.The Fourth of July Parade kicks off at 11:45 a.m., strolling down Constitution Avenue from 7^th to 17^th Street. Complete with a host of bands recommended by each state’s Governor’s office, each state in the union will be duly represented in the procession. The parade will also consist of fife and drum corps, floats, giant balloons, military units and drill teams, mounted horses, national dignitaries, celebrities and more. No admission is required to the festivity with spectators simply invited to look on from curbs, sidewalks and street corners.The afternoon will feature performances from historically clad figures from American history reenacting timeless memories, such as the reading of the Declaration of Independence, taking place at The National Archives. The U.S. Capitol Building will present an evening concert by the National Symphony Orchestra and several hit artists on its west lawn beginning at 8 p.m. on its West Lawn. Immediately following the show, a firework spectacular is set off over the Washington Monument, culminating the holiday with its most widely recognized tradition. It is recommended travelers make their way downtown early and reserve hotel rooms or other accommodations in advance as the Independence Day fanfare is a very large draw for tourists and locals alike.

Top Hotels in D.C.

admin — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 21:00:58 +0000

Washington is a temporary stopping point for a lot of its residents, sometimes by personal choice other times by political pressure. For those less committed to a long term stay in the area, whether mere vacationers or in town on business, D.C. is the proud home of some of the finest, most historic hotels in the country. With easy access to famed attractions, a touch of luxury and some even landmarks in their own right, here is a look at some of the finest lodgings Washington D.C. has to offer.

Willard InterContinental Hotel – Arguably the most famed hotel in a city of famous places, the Willard (or City Hotel as it used to be known) has been synonymous with Washington luxury for almost 2 centuries. Opening its doors in 1816, and undergoing renovation to take its current shape in 1906, the hotel has housed permanent residents who would go on to occupy one of the city’s other famous upscale properties, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. President’s Lincoln and Coolidge found long-term homes there, most presidents after Honest Abe at least stopped by to unwind. While a lot of history has been housed within the walls of the Willard, it still offers top of its class amenities.
Hotel Monaco The Hotel Monaco places you on the doorstep to some of the city’s most visited attractions. Nestled conveniently between the White House and Capitol Hill, the Monaco is second to none in location. For visitors wanting to check out some of the city’s more current happenings, the Verizon Center, home to the Wizards, Capitals, concerts and events, is just across the street. The Monaco truly provides the height of luxury in the heart of the city.
Ritz-Carlton Georgetown For travelers looking to spend their time slightly removed from the hustle and bustle of downtown perhaps relaxing with a significant other instead, the Ritz in Georgetown is a more than satisfactory alternative. Complete with a couples’ massage room, body treatments and three romantic in-house bar & restaurants, one wouldn’t have to leave the premises, or their quarters for that matter, to fully enjoy their vacation.

Quick Guide to the Smithsonian

www.artoflivingmetrodc.org — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 20:54:44 +0000

The Smithsonian name is a staple in Washington, housing 19 museums (not to mention the National Zoo under its umbrella). For weekend travelers with under 72 hours to explore the city, hitting all the Smithsonian spots might be unreasonable. Here is a brief list of the 3 most iconic museums you won’t want to miss on your trip to Washington.

Air and Space Museum As its name might indicate, the National Air and Space Museum is home to the largest collection of upward bound vessels in the world, whether it be the blue sky or beyond. Tracking air travel from its onset, the museum houses numerous original aircrafts, such as the Wright Flyer, the Wright Brothers test plane, and Charles Lindbergh’s legendary Spirit of St. Louis. The facility also serves as an insight into the accomplishments of astronauts, complete with ranging models of authentic spacecrafts, space suits, satellites and a replica of the Hubble Space Telescope.
Museum of Natural History The National Museum of Natural History, which moviegoers might recognize from Ben Stiller’s Night at the Museum, houses over 500 million various specimens of plants, animals, fossils, minerals, rocks, meteorites and artifacts. The sites newest exhibit, whose March 17, 2010 opening commemorated the museums 100^th year, is the “Hall of Human Origins,” traces the human race’s development across the course of evolution. The exhibit not only takes visitors back across collective human history, but also addresses some of the more pressing issues facing our species today. The “Changing the World” gallery offers a look at climate change and how man’s innovation and technology has impacted the surrounding environment.
Museum of American History The countless markers and monuments that line Washington’s city streets simply isn’t enough for some history buffs. For those looking for a more consolidated look at our great nation’s past, the Museum of American History does not disappoint. With insights into not only America’s political history, but our innovations and cultural obsessions as well, the museum paints a picture of what it’s like to be an American, spanning the diverse historical backdrop of our country.

Visiting The White House

admin — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 20:48:26 +0000

While actually moving in can be a more complicated matter, the United States’ most celebrated residence doubles as a popular tourist destination, accessible to D.C.-bound travelers who plan ahead. Self-guided tours are offered from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. from Tuesday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to noon on Friday, and 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday, all on a first come first serve basis.Upon your arrival at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, it is greatly encouraged to stop by the White House Visitor Center, located on the corner of 15^th Street and E Street. The Visitor Center is open every day from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., providing both background information and unique historical insights that might enhance your tour of the facility. A brief 30 minute video is available for visitors taking a quick look at the structure’s architecture, its furnishings and dcor, famous first family figures, social events, press relations and international figureheads who have made their own visits over the years. A tour of the premises generally only lasts between 20 minutes and an hour, so don’t feel rushed when making your way to through the Visitor Center, instead take your time and appreciate the anecdotal information that can only improve your White House experience and your visit’s significance.Understandably, visit requests and public tours must be scheduled in advance, as the inherent dangers and national security threats of letting the general public in to the President’s home are substantial. Since the September 11 attacks, public access has been heavily regulated and placed under intense scrutiny. Generally, public tours must be submitted through the petitioner’s member of Congress and can be scheduled up to six months in advance. All visitors will be subjected to background checks and visits to the White House may be canceled at any time, subject to the schedule of White House Staff and the Commander in Chief.

New Faces In the Capital City

www.artoflivingmetrodc.org — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 20:41:24 +0000

Usually when new faces rise to power in Washington, with the promise and potential to make dreams come true for those who support them, it’s amid a hotly contested election battle. The new stars in our nation’s capital do not divide along political lines, instead uniting the Washington under common emblems, whether it’s a fitted hat or custom jersey. They may not be here to solve our country’s crises, but they can most certainly serve as a welcome distraction. In the past month, the Washington Nationals and Washington Wizards have welcomed two of the most high profile prospects in their respective sports. Stephen Strasburg, the first selection in last year’s MLB Entry Draft, made his debut on the mound only a few weeks ago, fanning 14 on his way towards one of the most sensational debuts in baseball history. Last week’s NBA Draft saw University of Kentucky‘s freshman point guard John Wall, a number 1 overall pick in his own right, join Strasburg on the north bank of the Potomac, marking an optimistic turn of events in the city’s traditionally plagued sports history. To make his celebrated arrival official, Mayor Adrian M. Fenty proclaimed June 25 “John Wall Day,” as legions of fans and a selection of local celebrities gathered to welcome the 19-year-old phenom. Among the star-studded welcome party was the National’s flamethrower himself, who already laid out an impressive game plan on how to not only handle but exceed the hype of a highly billed prospect.It’s not just the young guns tempting the tortured Washington faithful. The Redskins also made the move this offseason to add veteran quarterback Donovan McNabb. While the former Philadelphia superstar’s name is all too familiar in the area, the former foe is now a friendly face. D.C.’s newest signal caller was also on hand for the welcome festivities, joining NHL All-star Alex Ovechkin to promote a united front across Washington’s major sports teams, if not the houses of Congress.