July 24, 2009 - The White House

Today I walked to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. The most famous address is the U.S. I was amazed at the number of people from other countries taking his/her picture infront of the fence to the White House. I never really thought about people from other countries seeing our President's home as a tourist attraction. But I guess it is not any different than me taking a picture of the Emporer of Japan's home last summer.

Today was also the first meeting at the Goethe Institut. Tomorrow afternoon we leave for Germany. It was nice to meet my fellow travelors today.

July 23, 2009 - Washington DC

Today I toured the Capital. The tour was pretty short, but interesting. After going through multiple security stations, I finally was able to sit in the House Chamber to listen to a committee meeting on "why the country should expand the passanger rail system?" Interesting, but not many surprises as far as the rational.

After lunch I went to Arlington National Cemetary. Watching the changing of the guard at the "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier" was moving. I visited John F. Kennedy's grave site. It too was a powerful experience. I think the slow drizzle of rain added to the somber experience.

Next I decided to walk to the mall to visit memorials. During my walk I witnessed a motorcade. I think it was the Prime Minister of Iraq on his way to Arlington Cemetary to lay a wreath on the "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier".

I enjoyed walking around the mall looking at the all the memorials. Each one so unique and sending different, yet powerful messages. Definiately an experience all U.S. cititzens should have.

My favorite memorial was that of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The use of different elements to tell the story of his life as a public servant was very well done.

July 22, 2009 - Washington DC

Today starts my summer adventure. I have been so excited since I found out I was accepted to travel to Germany through the Geothe Institut, Washington DC. Now the day is finally here to start the trip. I will be spending a few days in DC seeing the city. Tomorrow I will tour the Capital and the White House Visitor Center, among many other sites.

Friday I must be in a meeting at the Geothe Institut in the late afternoon. Have not made plans yet for earlier in the day. Then we depart for Berlin on Saturday, July 25.

Follow my posts to learn about all the great things we see and do in Germany, as well as DC.