As my son’s class was finishing a lengthy study of the 50 states at school, my husband and I decided it was time to take a trip to Washington D.C. and show our children what our nation’s capital is all about. It was one of the best weekends I can remember spending together as a family.
I chose the Mandarin Oriental Washington D.C. because I wanted to learn more about the chain and also because I really liked its location. Overlooking the Marina and the Tidal Basin, this Virtuoso property boasts lovely views and close proximity to the National Mall. Additionally, it has a family friendly culture, which was immediately apparent when my son and daughter were presented with stuffed panda bears, puzzles and activity books upon check-in. We could not have felt more welcome.
Brownell is a preferred partner with Mandarin Oriental Washington D.C., so my clients receive the following complimentary amenities:
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Buffet breakfast for two per room per day in Sou’Wester, or continental breakfast via in-room dining
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$100 food & beverage credit
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Room upgrade upon arrival, subject to availability
I booked an Executive Water View Suite – a great fit for a family. My children loved watching the boats come and go from the marina, and they squealed with delight when the President’s motorcade whizzed by on Saturday morning.
I learned early on in my career as a travel consultant that club level is worth every penny, and Mandarin Oriental’s Tai Pan Club was no exception. We spent quite a bit of time on the 8th floor lounge, enjoying the attentive service (think nice quality wine for the adults and Shirley Temples for the children), great food and views, and interacting with the friendly staff.
I booked a private guide through the Mandarin Oriental’s concierge to take us around the city. It was a worthwhile investment, and having him at our disposal meant we saw everything we wanted to see in one afternoon (very important with little ones in tow). He was a walking dictionary of everything D.C., and watching the amazement on my children’s faces when they saw the Washington Monument and Capitol for the first time is something I won’t soon forget. For me personally, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was our most memorable stop.
Our last day was spent in large part at the Museum of Natural History – an awesome place for all ages. My family is already talking about what we hope to see next time in this amazing city of museums and monuments.
