21 Embassy Row - Around the World Embassy Tour

Embassy Row, also known as Massachusetts Avenue Historic District, is a prestigious and iconic section of Washington, D.C. It is renowned for its concentration of foreign embassies, diplomatic residences, and cultural institutions. This historic district stretches along Massachusetts Avenue NW, from Dupont Circle to the United States Naval Observatory. Here are some key features and points of interest related to Embassy Row:

The architecture along Embassy Row is striking and diverse. You can find a wide range of architectural styles, including Beaux-Arts, Georgian Revival, and neoclassical designs, among others. Many of the buildings are grand and ornate, reflecting the diplomatic significance of the area.

Embassy Row is not only a diplomatic center but also a unique cultural and architectural destination in Washington, D.C. It allows visitors to explore the diverse cultures and histories of nations while admiring the grandeur of the buildings that line this historic avenue.

Around the World Embassy Tour made its grand return to Washington, D.C. on May 6, granting locals an exciting opportunity to embark on a global journey through diverse cuisines, art, performances, and music from various countries.

After a pandemic-induced pause, this annual event surged back with remarkable vigor, boasting a record participation of 63 embassies and cultural centers this year.

I had the chance to partake in one of its weeklong Around the World Embassy Tour, experienced events hosted by six different countries' embassies. Despite the bustling crowds that filled Washington, D.C., the day proved to be an immensely rewarding experience.

Each embassy showcased unique programs, all centered around their country's food, culture, and merchandise. Some delighted visitors with delectable culinary delights and captivating entertainment, all offered completely free of charge. It truly encapsulated a special day in Washington, D.C., allowing us to immerse ourselves in the diverse flavors, cultures, and architectures of every represented country within the city's embassies.

Embassy of People's Republic of China

Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

Embassy of Ethiopia

Embassy of Bangladesh

Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco

Embassy of United Arab Emirates

Embassy of Islamic Republic of Pakistan

20 Blandy Experimental Farm

Every year, the ginkgo trees at Blandy Experimental Farm, located in the State Arboretum of Virginia, undergo a magical transformation from green to gold. These trees are part of a scientific experiment and most of the 300 trees on the farm are between 80 to 90 years old. They are descendants of a single ginkgo tree located on the grounds of the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. Here are some photos of what the ginkgo trees looked like in early November 2022

19 Union Station

 I have visited Union Station many times, but my previous visits were limited to being a train passenger, and I never had the chance to truly appreciate its grand architecture, both inside and outside. However, on my recent exploration of Washington, D.C., I made a deliberate plan to pay Union Station a visit. I arrived at Union Station by metro and thoroughly explored both its interior and exterior.

I noticed that the restaurants that used to occupy the upstairs of the shopping area were no longer there. I have fond memories of dining in the past, and I wonder whether they disappeared due to the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic or for other reasons. It's a shame they are no longer in operation, although there were still some stores open for business.

This time, I took the time to appreciate the architecture of Union Station from the outside, the area known as "Columbus Circle." However, I couldn't help but notice that there were homeless had made their homes at the base of the Christopher Columbus statue, and the smell of urine was noticeable when walking by.

 The centerpiece of Columbus Circle is a 76-foot tall granite monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus, the Italian explorer often credited with discovering America. This monument, erected in 1892 to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Columbus's first voyage to the Americas, features a statue of Columbus atop a towering column.  The fountain commemorating Christopher Columbus was not in operation.

==================================================================

Union Station in Washington, D.C. is a historic transportation hub and one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. It serves as a major transportation center, connecting Amtrak, MARC (Maryland Area Regional Commuter), and VRE (Virginia Railway Express) commuter trains, as well as various bus lines and the Washington Metro's Red Line. It is also a popular destination for shopping, dining, and cultural events.

Union Station was designed by architect Daniel Burnham and opened in 1907. It was built to replace several smaller, outdated train stations in the city and to create a unified transportation center for the region. The station was constructed in the Beaux-Arts architectural style, characterized by its grand facade and ornate interior.

Union Station's architecture is impressive, with its massive neoclassical facade, featuring columns, statues, and a large central clock tower. The interior is equally grand, with a vaulted, coffered ceiling and a large main hall known as the Main Hall or Columbus Plaza, which features marble floors and decorative elements.