ESTA for your US vacation to Washington DC

 The ESTA guide for your Holiday Trip to Washington D.C

Apply for ESTA here and get your US ESTA Visa – Before packing your bags and heading off to Washington, there are a few formalities to take care of. Before heading out for your holiday in Washington, you’ll have to arrange for your US Visa. Instead of a conventional US Visa, you might consider opting for an ESTA Visa – No matter, if you are an entrepreneur, or work for a large corporation or just want to come on vacation to Portland, those formalities have to be taken care of. You’ll either need a regular USA Visa or an ESTA Visa. You can find the online ESTA application form here. Welcome to our  ESTA Visa travel guide for Portland Oregon. “ESTA” stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorisation. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security manages the VWP which issues the ESTA Visa USA.

The ESTA Visa application

You can complete your ESTA application here on this website in minutes, and receive an ESTA US Visa by email within hours. An ESTA US Visa will be valid for 2 years and allow for multiple entries into the United States. A regular USA Visa means that you will have to pay a visit to the US Embassy to apply and it will take many days or weeks for the process to complete. So, instead of a conventional US Visa, complete the ESTA application online here and be on your way to Washington within hours.

Washington D.C, or more formally known as the District of Columbia, is the capital of the United States and an international hotspot for tourists and travelers alike. It’s named after the U.S’ first president, George Washington. While Washington D.C is home to only approximately 700,000 people, its metropolitan area is the sixth-largest in the U.S – a population of a little more than 6.2 million.

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Washington is known for its liveliness and wonderful attractions throughout the city. The capital of the U.S hasn’t moved since its creation. This means that Washington D.C is has a deep-rooted history in American culture, history, and politics. You’ll find all of that reflected within the city. The best time to visit D.C for travelers is likely going to be the Summer. Most of Washington’s most famous and well-liked attractions are located relatively close to each other. Taking the time to tour museums and see historic monuments can all be knocked out in a day or two of adventure. Consider going in the Summer as Washington’s weather shines bright and sunny for the majority of the season.

 

From the National Air and Space Museum to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Washington doesn’t run short on interesting museums.

There are dozens of them throughout the city and are an extremely popular attraction for those interested in learning more. Washington’s central location along the east coast of the U.S also means that you can visit other famous American cities without much issue. Cities such as New York and Philadelphia aren’t too terribly far from Washington. Both planes and public transportation options are available if you’re wanting to take a tour of the U.S east coast. The population of D.C is rather diverse. Since the dawn of America, they’ve received a plethora of immigrants coming from around the world. You’ll find unique and exquisite cuisine throughout Washington and locals who are known to embrace visitors with open arms.

If you’re interested in traveling to Washington for the holidays, this article is meant to help you find out everything you need to know to have the best trip possible.

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Flying to/from Washington D.C

Washington D.C has two major airports that provide both international and domestic flights. They are the Ronald Reagan Washington International Airport (DCA) and the Washington Dulles International airport (IAD). The DCA is located closer to Washington and allows passengers to quickly disembark to downtown Washington. However, IAD is going to be your best bet in terms of finding international flights. IAD is a much larger airport but is located a bit further from downtown D.C than DCA.

This makes IAD the superior choice when it comes to international traffic. It reflects that too as it provides transportation for approximately 90 percent of international passenger traffic in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area. It serves more than 24 million passengers per year.

If you’re coming from across the pond from places such as Australia, the U.K, and Europe, you’re going to want to come in at IAD rather than DCA.

Tickets to Washington D.C are going to vary depending on your country of origin and the time of the year. As always, buying your plane tickets in advance is the best way to ensure that you get the cheapest prices possible. If you know the date you’re traveling, consider booking flights as soon as possible. Ideally, in January as it’s known to be the best month for finding the most affordable travel.

Once you arrive at IAD, you’ll be happy to find that there are several options for the public to reach downtown Washington from the airport.

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Getting to/from the airport

Traveling to/from IAD

While IAD isn’t the most convenient airport to travel into regarding getting to downtown Washington from the airport, it’s going to be your best airport for those flying internationally. However, being the least convenient doesn’t mean it’s awful. IAD still provides several easy ways to get yourself to downtown Washington.

Here are the options you’ll have once you arrive in IAD:

• DC Metro Rail
• DC Metro Bus
• Shuttle Service
• Rental Cars
• Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft

The cheapest and most affordable option for those wanting to get around Washington as effectively as possible without breaking the bank will be happy to know D.C has excellent public transportation within and outside the inner city.

The DC Metro Bus runs between IAD and downtown Washington via the 5A bus. The fair is only $7.50 and $3.75 for seniors and those with disabilities. You’ll need to either pay with a SmartTrip card or with cash. You likely won’t have a SmartTrip card as they mostly meant for the locals. Be warned that you’ll need exact cash to ride the bus if you don’t have the SmartTrip card. The bus departs approximately every 30 minutes and every hour depending on the day. The total time of the trip from IAD to downtown Washington will take roughly 50 minutes. However, if you’re traveling during peak traffic hours, you can expect to add at least 30 minutes to your journey. If time is of the essence, it’s recommended that you try to arrive in Washington before or after 5 p.m. EST

The bus begins running at 4:50 a.m. and departs from IAD on its last trip at 10:30 p.m.

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The DC Metro Rail, otherwise known as The Silver Line Metro, doesn’t get you to downtown Washington. However, it gets extremely close. Once you arrive at IAD, take a Metro Bus ride to the corner of Wiehle-Reston East. Once you arrive, look for The Silver Line Metro and hop on. It’ll take you straight to downtown Washington.

 

There are several shuttle service options as well for those who are interested. These shuttle services pick up passengers from IAD and drop them off accordingly. These are relatively cheap to use. However, your journey may take a couple to several hours if it’s a busy day. This is because the bus drops off its passengers at different locations throughout the city. So, if you’re unlucky, you may be one of the last of the buses.

Rental Cars

Rental cars are a great option if you’re staying in Washington for several days and want to have the ability to travel around at your leisure. It’s also extremely helpful if you have a child that requires a car seat. Most of the rental car companies operate out of IAD because they’re aware of the constant need by passengers. The only downside is that you’ll have to navigate downtown Washington and deal with the often horrendous parking situations.

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Taxi Service

Taxicabs are popular transportation throughout Washington, and the IAD is no exception. You’ll find a line of taxicabs waiting outside of the baggage claim area, hoping passengers flag them down as they hop off their flights. While this is a convenient option, it’s going to cost a pretty penny. IAD resides fairly far from downtown Washington, meaning that your ride is going to reflect that in the cost. Expect to spend roughly $55 for a ride to downtown Washington using a taxicab.

Uber and …

Last, but not least, ridesharing services have proven to be extremely valuable to society. The trending transportation option allows users to download an app onto their phone, mobile device, or computer, and ‘order’ a driver for themselves. After several minutes, a driver will arrive to take you to your destination. Popular options for this type of service include Uber and Lyft. 

Uber and Lyft are ideal if you’re trying to get somewhere relatively quickly but you’re not wanting to spend the extra money on a taxicab. They’ll run you about 25 to 30 percent less. However, you will have to wait for your driver to arrive so you’ll lose a few minutes on that.

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ESTA Visa – Lounges and Suites at IAD

IAD has several different lounges for both domestic and international travelers who are looking to relax while at the airport. You’ll have several options. They include:

• British Airways Galleries Lounge
• United Club
• The USO Lounge

Some lounges require memberships or different levels of tickets, so ensure that you qualify for a lounge before setting your mind on one. They also offer different amenities so choose the one that’s best for your needs

British Airways Galleries Lounge       

The British Airways Galleries Lounge is located within the Midfield Terminal and is available for economy class travelers. More specifically, you can find the British Airways Galleries Lounge Airside at Concourse B.

Here are the amenities they provide:

• Air conditioning
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Fax and Internet/WiFi
• Showers
• Telephones
• Televisions
• Disabled Access
• Newspapers and magazines

The lounge is open from 7:00 a.m. until 2 p.m. It’s quite popular due to its robust amenities so try to grab a spot as soon as you land.

United Club

The United Club is for those who are United Club members or have an eligible elite status. If you have neither, you’ll have to pay for entry at the door. However, if you’re paying at the door, you’ll need to be flying with United. The United Club has several locations throughout IAD. You can find them all at Midfield Terminal, Airside – in Concourse C, near gate C7 and C17 and one in Concourse D, near Gate D8.

Here are the amenities you can find at all of the United Clubs

• Air conditioning
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Free WiFi
• Telephone
• Televisions
• Newspapers and magazines
• Disabled access

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USO Lounge

The USO Lounge, like all USO Lounges, is dedicated to those who are an active member of the military or their family members. Their services are free to all those who qualify. You can find the USO Lounge within the Main Terminal, across Baggage Claim 11 and 12.

Here are the amenities they provide:

• A hospitality desk
• Assistance with ground transportation and lodging
• A sack bar
• Free WiFi
• A TV with a movie library
• Photocopying and faxing services
• Unlimited domestic and international VoIP

The USO Lounge is open from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. every day of the week.

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ESTA Visa – Washington D.C Portland Holiday Hotels

The Ritz-Carlton Washington, D.C (5 Stars)

The Ritz-Carlton, like all of them, is an excellent hotel for those wanting a bit of luxury with their vacation. Here, you can find sophisticated rooms and décor with self-described posh lodging. They offer an indoor pool, a fitness center, and spa services. On top of this, you’ll find that they have dining options as well. On top of having everything you would want from a luxury hotel, it’s also located near the Washington monument, the U.S capitol, and the Lincoln memorial. Of course, you’ll be near dozens of museums as well.

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Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C (5 Stars)

The Four Seasons Hotel is known around the world for being a chain that offers upscale services, rooms, and suites. They’re sure to not disappoint when you’re staying. They have multiple restaurants within the hotel, complimentary WiFi, an indoor pool, a spa, and a great location. They’re located within the historic area of Georgetown. You won’t be far from the most famous attractions such as the Capitol building and the Lincoln memorial. You’ll also be just a few minutes’ walks from the Potomac River if you’re interested in getting an evening riverside view.

The St. Gregory Hotel Dupont Circle (4 Stars)

The

St. Gregory Hotel is a quaint hotel located within the center of Washington. They offer sleek, modern, homey rooms and elegant suites. There’s also a fitness center and 3,000 square feet of meeting space. This means it can be a great spot if you’re a business traveler or a tourist. Of course, you can expect all the usual amenities that you’d expect from a standard hotel as well. Residence Inn by Marriott Washington Capitol Hill (3 Stars)  The Residence Inn is located right next to the Washington Capitol Hill, as you may have guessed. They offer rooms and suites in a low-key lodging atmosphere. You can find a gym within as well.

They provide a free hot breakfast as well as grocery shopping services for your convenience. This hotel lies more toward the southside of downtown D.C. You’ll be much closer to the most popular attractions as well as be within a short distance of the National Mall. This is the best hotel to get the most bang for your buck.

Hotel Hive (3 Stars)

Hotel Hive is a trendy, modern hotel. Their rooms are often all-white and sleekly designed to make you feel like you’re living in the 21st century. They also offer a rooftop deck, cocktail bar, and a pizzeria. This is a great spot if you’re a traveler who’s a bit younger. The hotel becomes alive during the evening times as the younger crowd, and even some of the older, mingle and mix at their various social spots. One of the best parts about traveling can be the experiences with the people you meet. If you want a vacation like this, Hive Hotel is your best bet. You’ll be buzzing with excitement.

HI Washington DC Hostel (2 Stars)

The HI Washington DC Hostel is a great spot for those who are wanting to travel on a strict budget. This hostel is extremely affordable while still offering the basic amenities that you want. You can get a private room or choose a dorm for a cheaper alternative. You’ll also receive a free continental breakfast, WiFi, and tours around the area. If you’re anting to meet other travelers and share an experience with someone else, give a hostel a shot. They’re extremely popular for travelers to take advantage of because you get everything you need at an affordable price while also being more social.

Apply for ESTA Visa  – The ESTA application for your ESTA USA Visa. The abbreviation ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorisation. ESTA is of course part of the USA Government Visa Waiver Program.

Your ESTA Visa Gide – Sightseeing in Washington D.C

Washington D.C, having its deep-rooted history of being one of the longest-lasting cities in the U.S and the capital of the country, has plenty of things to do and see. Here are some of the most exciting sights you should take advantage of.

The National Mall

The name may be misleading if you’re not familiar with what the National Mall is. No, it’s not a shopping center. It’s a landscaped park that lies within downtown Washington. This is where you’re going to find all the most popular destinations that travelers like to see. They hold several museums, including the Smithsonian Institution, as well as other national museums. It also is home to the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. If you’re visiting Washington D.C for the first time, the National Mall is a must-visit.

The White House

Yes, you can visit the White House! It’s not as difficult to access as you might imagine. You can purchase a guided tour to see some of the White House. View the inner workings of one of the most powerful countries on the planet. You won’t be able to see the most exciting aspects of the White House, such as the Oval Office of course. But, you’ll still be able to see some of America’s most valuable history. Regardless of your political views, visiting the White House is a great time for anyone who cares about history and government.

United States Capitol

The United States Capitol is the seat of the U.S Congress and is where almost all of the legislative action takes place in the U.S. If you’re interested in politics and want to see the inner workings of the U.S Congress, as well as possibly even run into one of the members, go visit the United States Capitol building. There are several tours offered by various companies.

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The ESTA Visa Guide – Top Restaurants in Washington D.C.

ESTA Visa recommends – 1789

1789 is located within Georgetown University and was originally a luxe Federal house. Nowadays, it’s been renovated to be an American restaurant offering all the classics you’d like. From a great burger to a perfectly cooked steak, you can find it in 1789. The inside décor is how you would expect a renovated Federal house to look like – rustic and classic. It’s a quaint atmosphere with great food. If you’re wanting a relaxed evening with a bit of history involved, check out 1789.

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Your ESTA Visa recommendation – Marcel’s by Robert Wiedmaier

If you haven’t heard of Robert Wiedmaier, you’ve been living under a culinary rock. The award-winning and famous chef shows off his brilliance with this elegant French-Belgian restaurant. Their fixed-price menu is hand-picked by the famous chef. If you want a delicious experience with food done by someone who is quite qualified as one of the best chefs in the world, you’ll need to try Marcel’s.

Barmini by Jose Andres

Barmini is a hip and trendy spot for both the younger crowd and the older crowd around Washington. This cocktail bar offers an innovative and self-described technology-driven menu. So, expect something unique. They’re fairly swanky, so make sure you’ve dressed appropriately. You’ll find white-on-white furnishings and modern décor that makes you feel like you’re drinking in the future. This is a popular spot for various important figures throughout Washington D.C as well, so you may be able to see a few familiar faces!

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Bistro Aracosia

Washington has an incredibly diverse population because of the number of immigrants it has received since its inception more than 100 years ago. You’ll find that diversity reflected in the food found at Bistro Aracosia. This bistro is a casual restaurant that specializes in Afghani fare like grilled kebabs. If you want a taste of another culture with a bit of a twist that only the U.S can give, try out Bistro Aracosia.

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Founding Farms DC

If you love your ingredients to be as fresh as possible, you’ll need to go to Founding Farmers. They’re a casual restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. They’re a great spot for anyone to come in and enjoy their meals. And, boy, do they do their food right. They’re a co-op owned American eatery that serves up market-driven comfort cuisine. This means that they only use ingredients that are currently in season. Most of the food you’ll have come directly off a farm within a few days of your meal being prepared.

Sushi Taro

If you like sushi, Sushi Taro is hailed as one of the best spots to find it within Washington. Here, you’ll find high-end sushi creations with a chef’s choice menu. They also serve up bento-box lunch specials, sake, and shochu. If you’re looking for a quick bite for lunch, grab one of the bento boxes. You won’t be disappointed.

Oyamel Cocina Mexicana

The Oyamel Cocina is an upscale hotspot for Mexican fare. You’ll find both TexMex creations and authentic meals here. If you’re in love with street food such as tacos, tapas, and tortas, you’re going to want to spend the rest of your Washington visit here. They’re known to nail Mexican street food. You’ll rarely find someone with something bad to say about it. If you’re interested in cooling off, you’ll be delighted to find they also offer a fairly long cocktail and wine menu for your pleasure.

Tacos, wine, and cocktails? What could be better?

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ESTA Visa – Summary

At the end of the day, Washington D.C ranks amongst the best places to visit for international travelers. From Australia to the U.K, people around the world will find D.C to be one of the most unique and interesting places to visit. From the astonishing monuments to the inspiring museums, from the exquisite cuisine to the wonderful accommodations, Washington D.C is sure to not disappoint you on your next holiday trip.

 

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