The Washington Monument United States
Hey there, fellow travel enthusiasts! Today, I want to take you on a virtual tour of Washington D.C. through the eyes of our fellow MBA students from Texas who recently enjoyed a visit there as part of their Washington Campus program. And let me tell you, it's going to be an exciting ride!
For those who don't know, the Washington Campus is a unique opportunity offered by the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin, which allows MBA students to spend a week in the nation's capital attending seminars on various aspects of government policy and interacting with policymakers and business leaders.
But enough about that, let's get to the good stuff. First up on our Washington tour is the most iconic structure of them all - the Washington Monument. This towering obelisk dedicated to George Washington, the first President of the United States, stands tall at a height of 555 feet and is the centerpiece of the National Mall.
But did you know that the Washington Monument has a fascinating history behind it? After Washington's death in 1799, plans for a monument in his honor were put forward. However, due to various reasons such as lack of funds, the Civil War, and an earthquake in 2011, the construction of the monument was halted after its foundation was completed in 1854. It wasn't until 1884 that the construction resumed, and the monument was finally completed in 1888.
As you can see, history truly breathes in every nook and corner of Washington D.C. And for all you history buffs out there, a visit to the National Museum of American History should be on top of your list. This museum houses the original Star-Spangled Banner, the flag that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the U.S national anthem, as well as other fascinating artifacts from American history.
Now, let's shift our focus to the political aspects of the city. Being the capital of the United States, D.C. is home to numerous government buildings and institutions, such as the White House, the Capitol Building, and the Supreme Court. Our Texas MBA students got a chance to visit some of these iconic landmarks and even meet with political leaders such as former Speaker of the House, Paul Ryan.
On a lighter note, Washington D.C. is also known for its vibrant food scene, and our MBA students definitely enjoyed exploring some of the best eateries in the city. From the famous Ben's Chili Bowl to the upscale Chinese restaurant, China Chilcano, there's no doubt that D.C. has something for everyone.
But wait, there's more. A visit to Washington D.C. wouldn't be complete without exploring some of its famous museums, such as the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the National Portrait Gallery. And the best part? Most of these museums are free of cost.
Now, let's move on to some travel tips that our Texas MBA students have generously shared with us. Firstly, make sure to plan your itinerary well in advance, as there's just so much to see and do in Washington D.C. Secondly, invest in a good pair of walking shoes as most of the attractions are located within walking distance. And lastly, be prepared for the weather, as D.C. experiences hot and humid summers and chilly winters.
And that's a wrap, my fellow travel enthusiasts. I hope this virtual tour of Washington D.C. has left you inspired enough to pack your bags and book your next flight to this fascinating city. Until next time, happy travels!
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