I can’t write about What I like about Washington, DC without mentioning where I’ve lived for the past 20+ years … Arlington.  I originally lived in the Clarendon area while pursuing my MBA at AU, then moved to the Ballston area before moving to Rosslyn in August ’01.

The first time I took a tour of the townhouse I toured during July 4th weekend in ’01, I fell in love immediately for one primary reason … the view of the Potomac River from the master bedroom.   The view took my breathe away.  And, now nearly 10 years later, I’m in still with the view … which overlooks the GW Parkway and the Potomac River … and is directly across from Georgetown University.  I look directly at Healy Tower and I can see the National Cathedral in the background.

One of my favorite things to do is to sit on the back deck … whether it’s reading the paper and drinking coffee in the morning … or, as I’m doing now, having a glass of wine and blogging on my laptop.

I still remember back in Aug ’01, when I first sat on the back deck.   Right away I noticed how loud the planes were that were flying into Reagan Airport.  I remember being a bit bummed at the loud noise.  But, then only one month later, the tragedy of 9/11 struck.   Right away, I noticed the eerie quiet without the planes flying overhead.  The only noises were the helicopters that were patrolling the river (looking for more terrorists) and the military jets flying high above our nation’s capital.  For the rest of Sept ’01, the airways were quiet.  I made a promise to myself I would never complain about the plane noise again … when it started back up it meant life was going to get back to normal.

What else do I like about Arlington  I love the location.  I’m situated 1/4 mile outside of the city.  So, it’s a quick drive or a 15-minute walk into Georgetown.  It’s about 7 – 8 minute walk to Rosslyn Metro.  And, there’s so many roads right here — access to GW Parkway, I-395, I-66, 29 /Lee Highway, Route 50, etc.   It’s less than a 10-minute drive to Reagan and about 25 – 30 minutes to Dulles.

It’s also close to family.  My brother moved into Arlington in ’01 and my parents moved in ’04.   Both of their homes are about 10 minutes away.

And, of course, there’s the Clarendon area, which is now full of so many restaurants, bars, clubs, stores, etc.  It’s a wonderful collection of ethnic and diverse dining options.  Also, our beloved Washington Capitals also call Arlington its home base.

Arlington, VA – living it and loving it.