Answers: A and D
At a Glance
Location and orientation
Washington, District of Columbia, is located on the east coast of the United States. Originally a 100 sq.mi/259 sq.km region taken from the states of Virginia and Maryland, Washington shrank to 69 sq.mi/111 sq.km when land was returned to Virginia in the 1840s.
The Potomac River flows through the city. Virginia borders Washington across the river to the southwest; Maryland borders it everywhere else.
Washington is divided into four sections: Northwest, Southwest, Northeast, and Southeast. The lines delineating these sections emanate from the Capitol, which is the hub of the imaginary wheel. As you navigate the city, be sure of your destination. The same address will exist in all four quadrants, so be sure you are in the right section.
The city is encircled by a freeway – called the Capitol Beltway – that roughly divides the urban area from the suburban. South and east of the city, the Beltway is Interstate 95. North and west, it is Interstate 495.
The District of Columbia has a unique status within the country. The population within Washington, D.C. is allowed to vote for their city administration, and president and vice-president of the United States, but they have minimal representation in Congress, as the District does not have the constitutional status of a full state. "Taxation without representation" is a Revolutionary War phrase used by many District residents.
Transplanted residents
Washington is full of people from elsewhere. It is a transient town where foreign diplomatic posts are filled for a time, then the diplomats move on.
These newcomers are scattered throughout the metro area. Because they have come individually rather than as part of an immigrant wave, they do not congregate in specific residential areas. Washington, as a result, is a colorful, multicultural city.
Washington today
A major local industry of Washington, D.C. cannot be mistaken. Diplomatic plates, identification tags, and federal buildings all make it known that this city is home to the United States government. Newcomers may be surprised to learn, however, that there are more private sector jobs in Washington than public ones. Telecommunications and media are just two of the prominent industries. The region enjoys a reputation as a bioscience and technology hub.
In its more affluent and administrative areas, the city boasts broad avenues, large government buildings, impressive monuments, museums, and large parks. Unfortunately, Washington is a city of contrasts. It also suffers high crime rates, illiteracy, and drug abuse.
With its place in history and as the current seat of government, Washington attracts plenty of visitors. There are many fine restaurants, world-class museums – many of which are free – national monuments, parks, and sports events.
Airport Transportation
Airports
The Metropolitan area is served by three major airports: Reagan National, Dulles International, and Baltimore Washington International Airport (Thurgood Marshall Airport).
Getting to and from the airports
Taxis are excellent transportation to and from the airports. Rideshare and transportation networks services are available but operate from designated areas.
Rental cars are available from all three airports. Hiring a limousine is another popular option.
Van service is also available that provides ground transportation to all airports, and offers door-to-door service, as well as shared rides from major hotels.
Other types of ground transportation services, such as buses, serve Dulles Airport, but not all transportation companies serve the other two airports.
Excerpted from Washington DC / Public Transportation / Airport Transportation
Written by Michael Cadden, SGMS-T, VP International Operations
