american adventures part one

I love to travel, I'm planning a big trip, when I will be able to take this, who knows. But I love planning and dreaming of places to explore. I actually think that is one of the best parts, planning and brainstorming with friends who have been on their own journeys. 
In 2008, I was fortunate enough to study and work in D.C for six months. It just so happened that it was one of the most amazing six months in recent political history. 

Politics aside, Washington D.C, is the most amazing city. It is culturally rich and the food and drink is world class. I remember going to my interview for my position in the Congressman's office and hearing all about the best burgers on the hill at Good Stuff Eatery. So i twisted my room mate's arm to meet me there one lunch break and man did we indulge in the amazing milkshakes, delicious hand cut chips, and of course the burgers. That was the beginning of the end really, Katie and I were there every second week and we never looked back! 

What is also amazing about D.C is the architecture, one of my favourite ways to spend a day was to walk around the National Mall and then pick one of the world class museums or galleries to loose myself in. 

D.C is world renowned for its galleries and museums, and when you are there it is easy to see why. The Smithsonian Institute in Washington DC has an amazing legacy. James Smithson, a British scientist gave America one of the greatest and most unexpected gifts in cultural history. Because of his generous donation, i was able to explore some of the most exciting and diverse museums and galleries in the world, all for free. 

“to the United States of America, to found at Washington, under the name of the Smithsonian Institution, an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge among men.”

James Smithson, in his last will and testament 1826

The collections are so incredibly diverse. From one room to the next, from one level to another you are constantly in a state of flux. The quiet beauty of it all, its really remarkable. 

This boy stood in front of this installation piece for about ten minutes, watching the clips that are indicative of the state that  they represent. 

Then you leave this room and walk to the next section and you stumble across this.. Its hard to understand it all, and unfortunately my humble photos don't do this city or the galleries justice. 

This trip really began my love affair with Washington D.C. I'm really looking forward to my next adventure, not surprisingly I think it will be back to America. When this will be, I'm not sure. 


In the meantime I will continue to re-live my adventures through this blog.