Welcome to my very first Empyrean Travel blog post. Aren't you excited? OK, well, humor me. For some strange reason, I've avoided doing this as a marketing tool. But I think it's an intimate way of sharing the places I visit (sometimes with my husband, Bill). In future posts, I'll describe some of my past travels (with pix and video) and keep you updated on future travels. Along the way, I hope to entice you into exploring the paths I've traveled. So, let's get started.
We're going to D.C. … where to stay, where to stay?
On our last trip to D.C., we had walked past the Old Post Office Building on Pennsylvania Avenue — a grand structure with a clock tower that makes it the third-tallest building in the city. It was being redeveloped into the luxurious 260-room Trump International Hotel. Opened in October 2016, its architectural beauty preserved, it seemed like, if nothing else, an attraction we wanted to visit.
The five-star Trump International Hotel is a Virtuoso member. Through September 3, 2018, they are offering a “Pay 2/Stay 3” promotion. Virtuoso amenities include a complimentary upgrade on arrival (subject to availability), breakfast for two daily in BLT Prime and a $100 food and beverage credit per room.
If you're interested in an oasis of calm in a historical setting close to the White House and adjacent to federal agencies (the IRS Building is right behind it!), it is an experience you won't find anywhere else.
The Grand Lobby
The nine-story Grand Lobby is a ginormous lounge area with a large bar (the Benjamin Bar & Lounge) and fabulous food from New York chef David Burke, whose restaurant, BLT Prime by David Burke, overlooks the lobby.
And speaking of David Burke, maple bacon, anyone?
The rooms — and that view
The accommodations, as you might expect, are first-rate. And the view of the Washington Monument and the Federal Triangle was stunning.
Don't miss the clock tower
If you stay, don't miss a visit up the clock tower. It's free, and it takes you to the top, where you can see the bells and a 360-degree panorama of the city. Great for kids! Our niece and nephews had a blast.
— GigiGigi Becker, Owner & Travel Advisor, Empyrean Travel. About Gigi
From the Empyrean team
Planning a D.C. trip today
- The Old Post Office sits on Pennsylvania Avenue between the White House and the Capitol — walkable to the National Mall, the Smithsonian museums and the Federal Triangle.
- Traveling for work? Our Washington, D.C. business travel guide covers airports, neighborhoods and getting around.
- Booking through a Virtuoso advisor can add perks such as breakfast or an upgrade when available at participating hotels — see what Virtuoso is, then ask Gigi which D.C. hotels qualify for your dates.