Recently in Washington Category

The culture and traditions of Northern Ireland are both fascinating and inspiring, but since not everybody is aware of the accomplishments of these proud people, they're going on the road to educate and entertain. The Richmond Times-Dispatch lets us know about Northern Ireland at the Smithsonian, a celebration of the best of Northern Ireland that will include more than 140 performers, artists, storytellers, cooks, and historians. As part of the 2007 Smithsonian Folklife Festival, which begins on June 27 in Washington D.C., there will be two stages featuring live music and entertainment from Northern Ireland, with artists such as Tommy Sands, Len Graham, and Roisin White. Those interested in crafts can learn how to make uillean (Irish bagpipes), bodhran (a type of drum), and textiles such as lace and traditional dresses. For fans of Northern Irish cuisine, the "cooking cleric" of County Armagh will be on hand to show how Ulster-Scots food is prepared. Sounds fun and delicious to me. Guests at the St. Regis Hotel, Washington, D.C. or any of Starwood's properties in the area might appreciate this fascinating glimpse into the culture of Northern Ireland.

[image via Richmond Times-Dispatch]

Japan may have put cherry blossom festivals on the map, but you can get a taste of the tradition right here in America. From March 31-April 15, Washington, D.C., will celebrate the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Not only is it closer to home for Americans, but it can be just as fun. And it's time to start booking those hotel rooms, because the go fast during this prime time for a visit to the capital. Stay in the heart of the city at the Four Points, Westin - City Center, Westin Grand, or Westin - Embassy Row, and explore from there. A peek at the official calendar of events reveals an abundance of activities--everything from bike rides, to tea time, to soccer games and nighttime "photo safaris." Whether you can carve out a week or just a weekend to visit, if you plan well, your days will be packed.

With the James Bond franchise's return to form in Casino Royale, a bit of press attention has been focused on the stateside International Spy Museum in Washington, DC. The New York Times had a former CIA case officer tour DC's spy museums, which also included the NSA's National Cryptologic Museum:

Upon entry to the museum, which is free, I was offered a self-guided audio tour (also free), a hand-held apparatus that I soon discovered requires some basic code-breaking techniques to master. Luckily, I was aided by one of the security agency retiree museum volunteers who, at the time of my visit, outnumbered patrons by about three to one. No waiting in line or getting trampled by Boy Scouts here.

Washington DC and its surrounding area obviously has tons of fantastic museums, but as with any city, some of the best are the least-known. One woman who long ago worked for the CIA visited two spy museums in the area and found that, for the most part, they were far more interesting than her job ever was. The National Cryptologic Museum is curated by former code-breakers, so they have the inside scoop on all the exhibits. Some displays tend toward the theatrical, such a James Bond's original Aston Martin, but there are artifacts from the real world of spying as well. The Westin Embassy Row and Four Points Washington D.C. Downtown are both good choices for a stay in the heart of DC.