JFK’s Georgetown

by Dave Seminara on

John F. Kennedy was one of the greatest orators in American history. But as a single congressman and then senator, his Sunday morning routine in Washington involved food and newspapers and no chit-chat. Each week, the magnetic politician would occupy a tiny, one-person booth called a “rumble seat” (see photo right and video below) at Martin’s Tavern, his favorite restaurant and watering hole in Georgetown, the neighborhood he lived in for nearly 15 years.

JFK liked to have his breakfast alone, poring over the Sunday papers in the rumble seat. He liked Martin’s so much that he asked Jacqueline Bouvier to marry him in the same place; today that booth bears a plaque and the moniker “the proposal booth.” Nearly sixty years after he popped the question in booth three, men from around the D.C. area who want to propose in this historic spot call ahead to reserve the same booth.

Georgetown is D.C.’s most celebrated neighborhood. It was founded in 1751, nearly 40 years before the city of Washington was established, and it remained a thriving, independent town, distinct from D.C., until it was annexed by the city in 1871. The neighborhood has long been a magnet for tourists but sadly many of them just walk up and down M Street, Georgetown’s commercial strip, which is filled with overpriced cupcake shops, chain stores and traffic, both human and vehicular.
%Gallery-149366%

But venture up the hill, north of M Street and you’ll find Georgetown’s real treasure: a grid of quiet streets filled with historic homes built mostly in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. JFK once very accurately called D.C. “a city of “Southern efficiency and Northern hospitality,” but he loved Georgetown. The Kennedys lived, worshipped and played in the neighborhood between 1946, when JFK was elected to the Congress at 29, until 1964, when Jackie moved out, nearly a year after her husband was assassinated.

For a wealthy family, the Kennedys moved often while in D.C., but didn’t stray beyond Georgetown. They lived in nine different homes, ranging from a humble row house to a 7,394 square foot mansion. Today, these homes are worth between $1.2 and $3.8 million dollars. (See gallery for details) The Georgetown Business Improvement District has established a self-guided walking tour that allows visitors to see these homes (now all in private hands and not open to the public). I’ve made some slight modifications to their route and included a stop at Martin’s Tavern.

Even if you have no interest in JFK, the walk, which takes about 90 minutes depending on your pace, provides a great introduction to D.C.’s most iconic and historic neighborhood. Nearly all of the homes on the tour look the same now as they did when the Kennedys lived in them. If you look at this photo of the Kennedys, for example, you can see that their home at 3307 N Street, looked the same then as it did now.

And this video of Jackie and the kids moving into a home at 3038 N Street after JFK was assassinated will give you an idea of what this stately home looked like in 1963. Even today, the house has a bit of a somber look to it.

According to The Washingtonian, JFK was a foodie before his time who favored French cuisine. But other than Martin’s, his other dining haunts are all long gone. That said, he is still remembered as the man who revolutionized drinking in D.C. In 1962, Kennedy signed a bill that repealed the city’s archaic drinking regulations, which mandated that bar patrons drinking beer or wine be seated on a stool and those drinking liquor be seated at a table.

JFK was back in the news earlier this month when Mimi Alford, a 69 year-old woman who interned at the White House, published a book claiming that she had an 18-month affair with JFK that began when she was 17. The revelation that Kennedy was a playboy isn’t front page news, but he was also a devout Catholic, and you can visit Holy Trinity Church, founded in 1792 as the city’s first Catholic church, where he and his family worshipped. It’s a small, square room with no confession booths.

The 11 stop JFK in Georgetown self-guided walking tour: (see slideshow for details on each stop)

1. 3260 N Street, NW
2. 3307 N Street, NW
3. 3513 N Street, NW
4. 1400 34th Street, NW
5. 3271 P Street, NW
6. 3321 Dent Place, NW (just north of Q Street, between 33rd and 34th)
7. 1528 31st Street, NW
8. 2808 P Street, NW
9. 3038 N Street, NW
10. 3017 N Street, NW
11. 1264 Wisconsin Ave, NW

Etihad Airways launches direct service to Washington, DC

by McLean Robbins on
Etihad Airways will begin daily nonstop flights from Washington, DC to Abu Dhabi on March 31, the airline announced.

“No other UAE carrier is offering nonstop services between DC and the UAE, so this capital-to-capital link is a huge opportunity for Etihad Airways,” said James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ chief executive.


The Washington region is home to America’s second largest market flying to the Middle East, after New York.

We’re wondering if the highly-acclaimed airline’s new route will cut in to Qatar Airways‘ market share. The airline had previously captured the luxury route with directs to Doha and easy UAE connections.

Last week, the US Department of Commerce released data showing that total trade volume between the US and the UAE rose to $18.3 billion in 2011, a 43 percent increase from the year before. This increase represents the highest trade volume to date between the US and UAE.
It also means that, for the third consecutive year, the UAE is the single largest export market for US goods in the Middle East.

The US is the fifth largest trade partner worldwide for the UAE.

“The point-to-point traffic between DC and Abu Dhabi is expected to contribute significantly to overall loads on the route,” Hogan added.

The direct flights will be operated by a three class A340-500 aircraft. Each flight will offer 12 Diamond First class, 28 Pearl Business class, and 200 Coral Economy seats.

Etihad, the “fastest growing airline in history,” won World’s Leading Airline, World’s Leading Airline First Class, and World’s Leading Airline to the Middle East at the World Travel Awards earlier this year.

[Flickr via rogerbarker2]

Give Delta’s New York LaGuardia shuttle service a try

by Jeremy Kressmann on

Those that travel frequently between New York’s LaGuardia and Chicago’s O’Hare airport know that it is among the more tedious routes to fly, particularly if you’re traveling on a legacy carrier. Older, less comfortable airplanes, tiny overhead bins packed to the gills with carry-on luggage, and heavy flight traffic are all the norm, leading to plenty of stressed-out travelers.

It’s for exactly these reasons I’ve found myself pleasantly surprised in recent months by Delta’s stellar shuttle service operating out of LaGuardia’s Marine Air Terminal. It’s a service designed to cater to frequent travelers in key markets, concentrating only on those that fly between New York to either Boston Logan, Washington Reagan or Chicago O’Hare. The smaller, out-of-the-way terminal location means much shorter security lines and less crowds, and they’ve fitted the place out with comfy leather seats, lots of power ports, and complimentary newspapers and magazines. What’s more, the carrier announced this week that Wi-Fi is now available on all shuttle flights, always a nice perk. Pair that with complimentary beer and wine in economy class and you’ll begin to feel like you’re flying up in first.

True, there are downsides to the service. Skittish fliers that don’t like small planes probably won’t like the smaller Embraer 170’s Delta uses on the route. And for anyone not traveling to Boston, Washington DC or Chicago, you’re pretty much out of luck if you wish to try this one out. Still, for travelers looking to enjoy a little extra flying comfort leaving from LaGuardia, the airport most conveniently located near Manhattan (JFK, ahem, I’m not looking at you…) give Delta Shuttle a try.

[Photo by Flickr user redlegsfan21]

Washington, D.C. breaks ground today for brand new National Museum of African American History and Culture

by Jessica Festa on

This morning, Washington, D.C. held a groundbreaking ceremony for their brand new National Museum of African American History and Culture that will be the Smithsonian Institution’s 19th museum. The event, attended by President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, marked Black History Month by celebrating a new kind of history museum that looks to educate people through a candid representation of African American life, art and culture.

Says Museum Director Lonnie Bunch, “What this museum can do is if we tell the unvarnished truth in a way that’s engaging and not preachy, what I think will happen is that by illuminating all the dark corners of the American experience, we will help people find reconciliation and healing.”

While the project won’t be completed until 2015, you can still visit the National Museum’s current gallery at the Smithsonian (shown above). Until October 14, 2012, visitors can view the exhibition, “Slavery at Jefferson’s Monticello: Paradox of Liberty.” The showcase tells the story of President Thomas Jefferson and his conflicting roles of being a slave owner and an anti-slavery advocate. It’s a good example of the museum telling the kinds of stories that are often seen as taboo, but are important to get out to the public.

The seven-level museum will feature architecture and decor inspired by African culture and will eventually feature exhibits on military history, sports, pop culture and music, including items like Louis Armstrong’s trumpet, a Jim Crow-era segregated railroad car, and much more. So far, $100 million has been raised in private funds, and the museum will now begin attempts to raise public funds in order to meet their $250 million goal.

For more information on the National Museum of African American History and Culture, click here.

Pimped out presidential suites in Washington, DC

by McLean Robbins on




What better place to celebrate President’s Day than in Washington, DC? We thought about tracking down the most bad-ass Presidential Suites from around the world, but let’s face it – the District of Columbia does a pretty good job of being over-the-top all on its own.

From the “Extreme WOW” suite at the W for $10,000 a night to not one but two Thomas Jefferson Suites (at The Willard and The Jefferson), we’re pretty sure that there’s a good degree of excess going on in a city that continually preaches about budget cuts.

Without further ado, enjoy our gallery of Washington, DC’s best Presidential Suites.

%Gallery-147997%

Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC
This hotel in the heart of Georgetown boasts a special designation – it’s the area’s only five-star, five-diamond property. And when it comes to luxe, the Four Seasons knows how to go all out – it has six top-of-the-line suites, the most extravagant of which isn’t even the Presidential Suite, but The Royal Suite.

What will you get?
Behind bullet-resistant glass, a private entrance and a closed-captioned security system, the Royal Suite is as beautiful as it is functional. Guests enjoy a dining room that seats ten, four different living areas, artfully equipped kitchen, pantry with Sub-Zero refrigerator and separate service entrance, a master bedroom with his-and-hers closets, a massive bathroom, private office, fitness room and an alluring cream and silver color palate.

What makes us swoon?
A landscaped 1,000-square- terrace with three seating groupings, a fire pit and a dining table for 10 overlooking historic Georgetown (shown above) and a 90-gallon sculptural bathtub with a massive crystal fixture draped overhead.

Bust out the Black Card:
It’s $15,000 per night.
The W Hotel, Washington DC
Perhaps Washington’s funkiest luxury hotel, the trendy W boasts one of the city’s best locations – it’s rooftop bar overlooks the White House lawn. Luxe-seekers should go for the “Extreme WOW” factor and book the hotel’s version of the Presidential Suite.

What will you get?
As with all rooms at this modern boutique hotel, the Extreme WOW suite offers unique, vibrantly-colored décor. This suite offers a corner location, wet bar, signature W Cocktail Caddy, living room that can seat six, views of the Lincoln Memorial and Pennsylvania Avenue, virtual fireplace and unique art pieces.

What makes us swoon?
The bathroom’s floating tub with views of the Lincoln Memorial.

Bust out the Black Card:
It’s $10,000 a night.

The Mandarin Oriental, Washington DC
With a prime location along DC’s Southwest Waterfront, The Mandarin is undoubtedly one of the city’s most scenic hotels – many rooms offer water or monument views. Of course, the hotel’s Presidential Suite leverages the best of all of the hotel rooms, plus access to the hotel’s private Tai Pan lounge.

What will you get?
Panoramic views stretching from the Washington Monument to the Jefferson Memorial, a “great room,” with its soaring double-height ceilings, a full-size dining table and enormous crystal chandelier, a private study, and massive bathroom with oversized shower and tub.

What makes us swoon?
Other than the views? It’s something you might not expect – every time we’ve visited this room, it has had some of the most beautiful floral arrangements we’ve ever seen. A small circular window near the dining area is another of our favorite touches.

Bust out the Black Card:
It’s $15,000 a night.

The Jefferson
It’s only fitting that the top suite at this 99-room boutique hotel is named for its presidential inspiration, Thomas Jefferson. The hotel also has a slightly smaller Martha Jefferson suite, decorated in more feminine tones and often used as a bridal suite.

What will you get?
The Jefferson, DC’s expansive, top floor specialty suite, The Thomas Jefferson Suite, is as stylishly elegant as the rest of the hotel. Decorated in rich blues and featuring elegant period artwork and architecture, the room features custom-designed bedding, walk-in showers, hand-cut Italian stonework, in-mirror televisions, a private office and sitting area, service entrance, kitchen and optional exercise room.

What makes us swoon?
The custom-designed bed is actually square – special sheets were ordered just to fit the mattress.

Presidential Trivia:
When George H.W. Bush was transitioning from Vice President to President following the 1988 election, before The Jefferson, DC’s 2009 renovation, Bush selected his cabinet in the meeting rooms at The Jefferson, Washington, DC.

Bust out the Black Card:
It’s $6,000 a night.

The St. Regis, Washington, DC
Just two blocks from the White House, the St. Regis offers an ideal location, close to both the political center of the country as well as the lobbying firms of K Street. Their 2,510 square foot Presidential Suite is a traditionally elegant experience.

What will you get?
The Presidential Suite has two entrances, a separate master suite, sitting area and dining room, a private butler’s pantry with Sub-Zero appliances, two fireplaces and a private library/office.

What makes us swoon?
The ornate entry foyer graced with hand painted wallpaper from China and other bespoke design details.

Bust out the Black Card:
It’s $12,000 a night

The Willard Intercontinental
The historic hotel boasts a storied past – it’s said that the term “lobbying” began at their Round Robin bar. Just steps from the White House, this hotel’s grandest suite, the second “Thomas Jefferson” suite in our roundup, stands at nearly 3,000 square feet and is often used by visiting heads of state and other important dignitaries. The hotel also offers a similarly large and equally expensive “John Adams” suite.

What will you get?
Your own “oval office” (a dining room seats that ten and offers has breathtaking views down Pennsylvania Avenue to the US Capitol). Enjoy the custom-designed, Axminster carpet, one-of-a-kind highboys and service buffet, a tiled entry foyer in black and white marble, a dual parlor-living room with original artwork and two bathrooms.

What makes us swoon?
Its red and gold scheme and 18th-century design elements were taken from design motifs found in the White House.

Bust out the Black Card:
It’s $7,000 a night.

The Ritz-Carlton Washington, DC
The Ritz-Carlton Washington, DC is one of dignitaries and business travelers’ favorite properties in the area. The hotel offers a convenient, metro-accessible location and acclaimed Eric Ripert restaurant, West End Bistro.

What will you get?
The Ritz-Carlton suite offers a spacious living room with a fireplace, dining room with seating for ten, a massive bathroom with Jacuzzi and access to the hotel’s Club lounge.

What makes us swoon?
The large private terrace, accessible from both the bedroom and living room.

Bust out the Black Card:
It’s $6,500 a night.

The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown
One of our favorite DC hotels, this intimate Ritz-Carlton property feels more like a boutique hotel than a corporate chain. Offering a prime location just steps from Georgetown’s waterfront as well as shopping and dining, the hotel’s top suite offers expansive water views and ample space for entertaining or business functions.

What will you get?
The Royal Potomac Suite offers a separate living and dining room with dining table to seat 14, one and a half limestone and slate baths with stand-alone showers and soaking tubs, a private study and separate master bedroom sitting room, pantry and fireplace.

What makes us swoon?
Floor-to-ceiling windows and some of the city’s best water views.

Bust out the Black Card:
It’s $6,500 a night.

The Hay-Adams
Overlooking Lafayette Park and The White House, The Hay-Adams hotel is perhaps the hotel best associated with political power. The elegant and historic property is a popular choice for the world’s most elite travelers and celebrities alike – we’ve spotted quite a few in the lobby.

What will you get?
This distinguished and remarkable penthouse suite features a separate living room and one-and-a-half bathrooms. Highlights include a beautiful living room overlooking the White House, Lafayette Park and St. John’s Church. The suite includes a large dining table as well as gas-lit corner fireplace.

What makes us swoon?
The master bedroom views of the white house.

Bust out the Black Card:
It’s $3,500 – $7,000 a night.

Presidential Trivia: This is the same suite where the Obama family stayed for 12 days prior to the 2009 inauguration.