Staycation in DC: Dupont Circle

Back at the end of March I treated myself to a staycation in Dupont Circle for my birthday. Here are some of the highlights! 

WHERE TO STAY

Royal Sonesta in Dupont Circle was a short Uber ride from Arlington and less than ten minutes walking distance from the Dupont Metro, if you choose to use public transportation. The hotel took all the needed measures to make me feel safe and comfortable. Mention it’s your birthday, and you may even get an upgrade. Plus, with the occupation rates still relatively low, you may be able to check in early as well as ask for a later check out. Surrounded by a variety of restaurants (everything from Chiko to Bagels Etc), you’ll not miss the fact that the hotel restaurant is closed.

 

WHAT TO DO

Freshfarm Market is open on Sundays next to the Dupont Metro station from 8:30AM to 1:30PM: a perfect place to grab coffee, treat yourself to fresh flowers for your room, and pick up seasonal produce. When I visited in late March, there was a line to get into the market, but it moved quickly. Check for masks requirements.

 

Kramers: stroll through the bookstore and buy a book to read during your brunch outside. I highly recommend smoked pork hash.

Rock Creek Park: no need for heavy duty hiking boots. You’ll feel like you are hours away from the city! Get your steps in while listening to the birds and the stream, taking photos of flowers, and getting your Vitamin D. (And yes, I'm wearing my leather Feather earrings while hiking!)

 

Embassy Row: test your knowledge of country flags while admiring diverse architecture of the embassies.

 

Phillips Collection: make sure to get your timed ticket in advance and experience the Rothko Room. (Alas I did not get tickets in time and could not go.)

 

In Room Yoga: start or end your day with a yoga practice—I recommend Yoga With Adriene. If you did not remember to bring a yoga mat from home, a large towel will do.

 

WHERE TO EAT

Anju: Korean food has been one of my favorite cuisines for quite some time, and my birthday dinner at Anju did not disappoint. Start your meal with pork and kimchi mandu, move onto battered rockfish, and end on a sweet note with yuzu and pomegranate sorbet. Alas, it looks like the doughnuts I had in March are no longer on the menu.