Reflections: A Love Letter to Our Home, Washington, DC

Ten years ago next month, I relocated to the iconic capital city of the United States for a new job with the person who would eventually become my business partner and fellow founder of Syllogi. I also met my husband here and began a new era in my life, surrounded by the magnificent place that is Washington DC. Most Americans know the city for its brazen politics, and more likely, the ubiquitous middle school field trips that march around the giant museums, monuments, and food desert that is the National Mall. Having lived here now for a significant portion of my life, I can say that DC is so much more than what most know of it. It hosts an international diversity that is unheard of in most other places in the world: it’s hard to go a day without hearing at least 2 other languages being spoken. This global population gives the city life with its impeccable cuisine from all over, thought-provoking conversations from the perspective of other cultures, and broad creativity on a grand scale. Its city planning emulates Europe more than America, and it is so deeply connected with green spaces and nature that many inhabitants spend more time in their running shorts than suits. Likewise, it makes for a welcoming place to conduct (travel) research.

We decided to author our first destination feature about Washington, given that it is Syllogi’s hometown, and also the city that we truly know like the back of our hand. Beyond the National Mall and the shimmering collections of the Smithsonian (that are truly exceptional), this ‘short’ focuses on the neighborhoods where people actually reside, and our favorite haunts in those places. This is all about an insider’s perspective of the city, from lesser-known museums and gardens – to shopping streets and markets – to the plethora of exceptional dining. (Eating has really blossomed in DC over the last decade – and no, you will not find any mention of the tourist favs like Founding Farmers or Ebbitt Grill in our recommendations). This “love letter” perfectly pairs essential staples with hidden gems, and is meant to satisfy both the out-of-town visitor’s quest for a trip that paints the essence of the real Washington, and also a local Washingtonian’s desire to continually discover something new in their ever-inspiring city.

We hope to welcome you to our wonderful city someday, but in the meantime, please enjoy our refreshed approach to travel content, and subscribe if you would like to continue receiving it in your inbox. In our next and final complimentary edition, we will be taking a road trip across the American South, and upcoming editions will feature Barcelona, Tasmania, and more.

Erin & Gray