So I'm going to DC next week for an academic conference. I have a lot of questions/issues:

1) I haven't flown since pre-911. How bad is it really these day?

2) What is the best way to get from Reagan Airport to Georgetown, by taxi or some other mode of transport?

3) How far is Georgetown away from stuff...the Capitol, Smithsonion, etc.?

4) Good places to eat in Georgetown?

5) Where do I absolutely have to visit before I leave?

I am sad because this is the first time I will be away from my wife for longer than a night since 1999? And I've never spent a night away from my children. But my boss really wants me to go and it is all expenses paid so I kind of have to go.

I have already made a plan if for some reason I get stuck in the airport like Hanks in The Terminal. They have a TGIFs and a Borders so I'm good.

Aw, I dunno the answer to your questions but Have Fun!

Theres a Phil's in DC if ya like seafood.

It looks like I'm going to have to buy a Fodor's then...

Damn, free advice is always better.

being away won't kill ya

i've only been on two trips post 9/11
you might have to take off your shoes and have them pass through the xray
they wave a wand thingy over your laptop

whatever you can pack in your checked luggage versus carry on - do so
and i think your toiletries have to be less than 3 oz sizes... but i don't live in the same country so

have fun!

emm said:

Thanks for the advice.

luv4all7 said:

I'll check this Phil's out.

I think I might run for Congress or something while I am there.

Can I use your account while you are gone!?

the are lots of hookers in washington d.c.

2the9s said:

Can you handle the mediocrity of Gotta? It is an awesome responsibility.
[Edited 10/27/06 12:28pm]

purplerein said:

I don't think that is included in the expenses...

What time are you flying? The only time I've been on a plane after 9-11 was a red-eye flight, and it was super easy. No wait or anything!

evenstar3 said:

I was actually on a flight on Oct 12th 2001, I also had to go to an academic conference.

The plane was pretty empty! It was great!

2the9s said:

GottaLetitgo said:

Nothing in D.C is too far, they've got a great trnsit system (Metro). The link below is to their map. http://www.wmata.com/metr...temmap.cfm

As for places not to miss, All of the major memorials (Lincoln, Jefferson, Vietnam, WWII, etc...) on the Mall. Not sure the operating hours of the Smithsonian during this time of year. Arlington National Cemetary & the Tomb of the Unkown Soldier, while somber places, are quite stunning.

Safe travel...
[Edited 10/27/06 13:59pm]