DC GWCers…

GWC Community GWC Hive Mind
#1

I am going to be in DC in early January. I am writing a thirty page history thesis… not to sound mysterious, but that is all I can really say, since my advisor told me it sounded like I could probably get my paper published since I am researching an untouched topic, and he said academia is a “cut-throat place,” which, by the way, surprised the hell out of poor innocent me. Anyhoo, I am going to the library of congress, and I need to find a place to stay for three days. Does anyone who lives in the area have any recommendations on places to stay, or, alternatively, places to avoid? I would really appreciate any advice, since I am a country boy that feels out of place in the city.

Thanks!

#2

Avoid anything in the Southeast. Seriously.

With Washington being a tourist destination and a college town, it shouldn’t be too hard to find temporary digs. Maybe check CraigsList or Roommates.com as students finish up winter semester at the end of this year. Anywhere in town tends to be expensive, but suburban Maryland (Bethesda, Silver Spring, College Park) isn’t that bad and Northern Virginia (Arlington, Alexandria, McLean) is a little more affordable but be ready to deal with major traffic.

Ergo, the Metro is your friend. Live it, learn it, love it.

http://www.wmata.com/rail/maps/map.cfm

You can get a SmartCard that’s rechargeable so you don’t have to buy train fare every time you ride it. Also, on the escalator, stand to the right and walk to the left or you might get yelled at by the less polite commuters.

Good luck with your thesis!

#3

Thanks, NCTibby! That’s exactly the kind of advice I was looking for. I still have plenty of time to figure out where I am going to stay, but it’s definitely helpful to know the places to avoid. Luckily, the school is paying me to drive and stay down there, so I am not too worried about the costs, as long as it’s within reason. School’s money, not mine….:slight_smile: