Latest news with #CapitalRegion
Daily Mail
4 days ago
- Daily Mail
Ultimate Washington road trip: How a holiday to the capital region helped LEE BOYCE truly grasp US history and culture
In a day and half of my stay in Washington DC I saw so many historic and cultural artifacts in museums that it's hard to compute the shear vastness of it. The US does most things big and brash, and in the capital, museums are no different - but are delightfully free and navigable by foot, housed in architecturally impressive buildings. And on foot, you'll see the likes of the Capitol Building, White House and Washington Monument all baked in, so your sightseeing bucket list can receive a tick every 10 minutes. It was recently claimed UK travellers to the US was on the wane - but new reports now suggest it is strong as ever. Part of that is likely to be down to a strengthened pound against the dollar, making it a good - and crucially, cheaper - time to visit. But I wouldn't necessarily have Washington down as a must see US spot for Britons, like London is for Americans. I think we're more likely to head to New York, Florida, Boston, Las Vegas or Los Angeles, than America's capital. So on this trip, I soaked in as much as I could in DC in a couple of days with a trip to neighbouring Maryland and Virginia bolted on, the so-called Capital Region which turned out to be the perfect peaceful yang to the hectic Washington ying. From visiting George Washington's tomb, to seeing the very hazmat suit that Walter White wore in hit TV show Breaking Bad; being face-to-face with $24million of freshly printed dollars to being overwhelmed by a giant statue of a pensive Abraham Lincoln, it was a whistle stop tour of US history and popular culture that will live long in the memory… Washington DC: Adult Disneyland of free museums As soon as I checked into the Willard InterContinental hotel in Washington, I bolted out the door like a whippet for a five-minute walk to the The White House, channeling my inner Francis Underwood. Perhaps the building I have seen most in my life without visiting, I managed to time it just as the US President was landing in his green Air Force One chopper (well, that's what a local told me anyway - it was nice to be personally welcomed). The hotel is the perfect spot for a whistle-stop Washington tour – central and steeped in history, with plenty of past Presidents having visited. If you're going to visit DC, you may as well do it properly. I crammed in so much in Washington it's hard to crunch down into one travel review – although, most of it can be done on foot, where I quite enjoyed Cybertruck spotting (the novelty hasn't worn off yet, four in total). I love London, but Washington gives it a run for its money in the free museum stakes - and is far quieter and easier to navigate. If you love your history and impressive museums, I cannot recommend it enough. I was simply blown away. This leg of the trip was broken down in two parts – firstly, to get a lay of the land, a bus tour to soak in all of the sights and sounds. I did this at dusk with USA Guided Tours, and the guide had the perfect blend of humour with facts that will live long in the brain. The trip took us to the Lincoln, Jefferson, MLK, Vietnam and World War II Memorials, as well as a better look at the White House and Capitol Building. Highly recommended. The second part was just how many museums you can cram in by foot. In 36 hours I managed to visit six – and there were still plenty of more I could have done. It is truly the Disneyland of Museums – but unlike Disney, no huge prices to get in or lengthy queues. This included the National Museum of the American Indian; National Museum of African American History and Culture; National Museum of American History; the National Archives; National Portrait Museum and I even managed a sneaky trip to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. A brief note on each. The American Indian museum was a history lesson of how the US came about and filled a huge knowledge gap for me on how a huge land grab transpired. Hat tip here for the excellent Pocahontas exhibition. The African American museum had an excellent Emmett Till Memorial and again helped fill some of my knowledge gap around this part of history. Also, as a huge sports buff, I loved seeing Mohammed Ali's boxing gloves and Shaquille O'Neal's gigantic Reebok 'Shaq Attack' trainers. I could have easily spent two whole days perusing the American History museum, home to the Star-Spangled Banner - the original flag that inspired the national anthem. In a darkened room with no photography allowed, it has an unmatched aura. The design of this museum is brilliant. It takes you from the bottom floor on the origins of US history from the industrial revolution to the car, then up to American democracy and then to my favourite part: Entertainment Nation. Here was a smorgasbord of the impact the US has had on the world of film, music, TV and sports. Literally, America's history, from bottom to top. The Walter White hazmat suit from TV show Breaking Bad was there in the flesh, as was the original Dana Scully FBI pass (I'm currently rewatching X-Files from the start) and Prince's yellow cloud guitar from 1983. Honestly, all goosebump inducing - I'd fail to see how anyone couldn't find at least one exhibit of interest here. The National Archives is a must to see the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights - and next year could be a good one to visit. That's because 2026 marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Meanwhile the National Portrait Museum was marvellous to get a run down of every single US President in running order, and the portrait they had commissioned. Lastly, no visit could be complete by me without visiting the Bureau of Engraving and Printing – here's where it prints half of the US bank notes for the entire country, near the centre of Washington. While there, I saw the notes being printed and from the viewing gallery, a bale of $100 bills with a note on top saying '$24million'. Listen, I love a bank notes and coins and was in my element – I even bought a fresh sheet of $2 bills to take home, and $150 worth of shredded notes. There are also some excellent spots to eat - Succotash Prime and the Old Ebbitt Grill were exquisite, the latter being steeped in history. A great spot for a first night meal to feel grandiose and dine like a President (you can pick which one you want to be). Washington was one of those spots where I didn't have any huge expectations, but I came away wanting to go back with my children… there is just so much to do. I even saved the National Air and Space Museum on purpose, because I know I'll be back with the kids… and that will be our first port of call. Washington is steeped in history – Abraham Lincoln was assassinated at a theatre a few blocks away from the hotel – and being surrounded by monuments, events, artifacts that have shaped the modern world, while not ancient as say seeing the Colosseum in Rome or Pantheon in Athens, is still awe-inspiring, nonetheless. If you're a history buff, I'd highly recommend at least four days in DC to soak it all in - and come away completely awash with every single piece of American history you'll ever need to glean. Maryland's crabbing coastal charm Question: What is the perfect nearby getaway after miles and miles of Washington pavement pounded by foot, with helicopters buzzing around and cars beeping their horns, and exercising your brain reading hundreds of placards in museums…? Answer: Maryland. An hour drive east and I was transported into a peaceful, tranquil world where I could properly process all the amazing sights I had mopped-up in the capital. Kent Island Resort is where I spent three days of blissful relaxation. The island itself is accessible by one of the longest bridges in the world, stretching over Chesapeake Bay. There has been an English settlement on Kent Island since 1631 and was named by settler William Claiborne after his native county. The rural charm of this area could mean you were in the English countryside, and the small hamlets of Stevensville and Queenstown are worth a visit for their quaint charm - and I found from experience, local shopkeepers and cafe owners like hearing the English accent. It hasn't lost its charm in this neck of the woods. Jack Broderick, President of the Kent Island Heritage Society, was our guide and whenever you visit these places, it's always good to get the decades of tales straight from the horse's mouth. A boat trip through the Kent Narrows is also recommended for birdwatching and to get to grips with Chesapeake Bay - where Captain John Smith explored in 1608 and 1609 to map the region, commissioned by The Virginia Company of London. Maryland is famous for crab and oysters - and in my best Forrest Gump voice, we visited The Jetty in Kent Narrows where we devoured crab pizza, crab cakes, crab soup, cream of crab soup and soft crab BLTs. Crab until your heart is content. Also, Libbeys overlooking the bridge is another great seafood spot - indeed, I enjoyed it so much that I came home with a t-shirt from the restaurant, a surefire sign I've fallen in love. While DC was great for seeing the history locked away in exhibitions, Maryland was great for seeing it in the flesh - including Queen Anne's County Court House, erected on a plantation known as 'Chesterfield,' the ancestral home of Judge Joseph Hopper Nicholson. He was the man who suggested the music for the Star-Spangled Banner - Francis Scott Key was his brother-in-law. Washington's crib: Mount Vernon houses George Washington's tomb - and is perfect for another afternoon of fun peppered in with history Virginia's scenic historic beauty At first glance in Virginia, I felt like I'd be transported to Beverly Hills. Every few seconds there were gasps from the tour bus, as we admired multi-million dollar homes from afar, surrounded by lush greenery. On our way to Mount Vernon, we stopped at Great Falls Park. The perfect spot for Instagram-worthy photographs, it is part of the Potomac River that flows through to Washington. George Washington surveyed the area in the 1750s and recognised the potential of the Potomac River as a transportation route - and later he helped fund canals to help bypass these falls. And onto Washington. Mount Vernon is America's most visited historic home which belonged to the first President of the US, located on the banks of the Potomac. I'll be totally honest here... I genuinely hadn't heard of Mount Vernon. You can immerse yourself here in the restored gardens, working 1700s farm, outbuildings, and stunning mansion. At the tomb, you can visit the final resting place of George and Martha Washington. Another true piece of American history. Onwards south and a stop at Church in Richmond, Virginia. This is one of America's most important historic sites, where - swayed by Patrick Henry's powerful argument - the delegates made a decision that changed the course of history, lighting the spark of the War for Independence. Also in Richmond is the Museum of History and Culture, which currently has a 'Give Me Liberty' exhibition - the first-of-its-kind exhibit in honor of America's upcoming 250th anniversary. Last stop was Williamsburg and Jamestown - the latter a living history museum in Virginia that commemorates the original 1607 Jamestown settlement, the first permanent English colony in North America. A private walking tour of Williamsburg is a must. It's like being transported back in time, with horse and cart, and you'll see the Continental Union Flag flying outside many buildings. Also known as the Grand Union Flag, it was the first official flag used by the US, and it prominently featured the Union Jack in its top-left corner. You could easily roam here for the day, soaking in the history, the beautiful old-style buildings and also do some old-fashioned shopping. Christiana Campbell's Tavern is a must-visit here. George Washington is said to have frequented it for its exceptional seafood. I ordered what was said to be a Washington favourite - a cocktail called the Cherry Bounce, with brandy, all spice dram and lime - and soaked in the history once more. This trip opened my eyes fully to US history - something I may have sneered at a little in the past - and I'd highly recommend retracing the footsteps of English settlers, in Maryland and Virginia for the liveable history, and soak in the wonderful museums in Washington to cement it in. I genuinely arrived home to give my brain a rest from all of the information I had gathered in the week I was in the US - who knew a trip could be such a brain workout... Washington, Maryland and Virginia - tips and tricks How to do it: Flights can be easily snaffled for around £450 return from London Heathrow, with United usually coming out cheapest. In terms of hotels, I'd highly recommend the InterContinental Willard in Washington, just for the salubrious nature of it, the history and its central location - prices typically start from around £225 per night. Elsewhere, the beauty of the US is there are plenty of hotels suiting all budgets - and that's true of Maryland and Virginia. I'd recommend booking tickets for museums in advance (free, but saves any queue hassle), booking a Washington site seeing your (not one of those open top bus things, but an actual knowledgble guide). For trips like Mount Vernon, it's best to check in advance how busy it is likely to be on any given day (there are plenty of school trips as you'd imagine) and booking a private walking tour in Williamsburg is a must.
Washington Post
20-06-2025
- Washington Post
Add your stop to The Post's America 250 tour
To mark America's upcoming 250th birthday, The Washington Post is taking readers on a tour of the nation's capital city region, with stops that teach about the country's past, present and future. But we need you're help. Where are the historical, quirky and off-the-beaten path places in the Washington, D.C., region where you would take your family to learn about the American story? Send us your suggestions through the form below. By submitting, you agree to our submission and discussion guidelines, including our terms of service and privacy policy.
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Albany Ninja Lab Announces 2025 Summer Camp Programs
Albany Ninja Lab opens registration for 2025 Summer Camps with Taylor Treadgold, featuring skill-based ninja training, flexible scheduling, and a supportive environment for young athletes across the Capital Region. Albany, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - June 14, 2025) - Albany Ninja Lab is excited to announce its 2025 Summer Camp in Albany, offering a dynamic and obstacle-based athletic experience for children throughout the Capital Region. These weeklong sessions, led by coach Taylor Treadgold, will run from July through August, focusing on structured physical challenges, team-building, and individual 12,000-square-foot facility features state-of-the-art obstacle training equipment, including warped walls, salmon ladders, quintuple steps, and a dedicated parkour area for free-running activities. Albany Ninja Lab promotes an inclusive environment centered around positive reinforcement, a zero-bullying policy, and strong community support-ensuring every participant has a chance to grow in a safe and encouraging space. Warped walls To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: This Summer Camp in Albany is designed to accommodate busy family schedules. Weekly sessions run Monday through Friday and are available in three formats: morning (9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.), afternoon (1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.), and full-day (9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.). Campers are grouped by ability to ensure developmentally appropriate challenges. Each session maintains an 8:1 camper-to-instructor ratio with a maximum of 48 participants per session. All coaches are CPR certified and background-checked. Instruction focuses on age-appropriate drills and long-term athletic development, helping children build strength, coordination, and confidence. Albany Ninja Lab Announces 2025 Summer Camp Programs To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: Each day of camp follows a consistent schedule that balances instruction, obstacle challenges, and active play. Morning sessions begin with open gym time and continue with structured classes and skills training. Afternoon sessions follow a similar format tailored to their time block. Campers participate in obstacle navigation, fitness games, and teamwork activities throughout the camps for kids will be held during the following weeks in 2025: July 7-11, July 14-18, July 21-25, July 28-August 1, August 4-8, August 11-15, and August 25-29. Half-day sessions are available at $75 for single drop-in days or $299 for a full week. Full-day sessions are priced at $115 per day or $400 per week. Quintuple steps To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: Registration is now open for all summer sessions. For more information or to enroll, families can contact Albany Ninja Lab directly. About the company: Albany Ninja Lab is the Capital Region's premier obstacle training facility, located in a modern 12,000-square-foot gym in Albany, NY. The gym features a wide range of ninja and parkour obstacles suitable for all ages and abilities. Committed to creating an inclusive and empowering space, Albany Ninja Lab emphasizes positive reinforcement, a zero-tolerance bullying policy, and strong community engagement. The facility offers youth classes, birthday parties, open gym access, and seasonal programs focused on helping participants develop strength, confidence, and resilience through movement-based training. Contact Info:Name: Daniel KirchnerEmail: info@ Albany Ninja LabAddress: 161 Washington Avenue Ext Suite 104b Albany, New York 12205Phone: 518-608-4725Website: Social Media:Facebook: Video URL: To view the source version of this press release, please visit
Wales Online
05-06-2025
- Business
- Wales Online
Regional body's bungled handling of contract will cost the taxpayer £5.25m
Regional body's bungled handling of contract will cost the taxpayer £5.25m An independent investigation has been launched how the Cardiff Capital Region handed the process Aberthaw Power Station (Image: John Myers ) Taxpayers will have to pay £5.25m bill after a regional body responsible for handling the Cardiff City Deal bungled the awarding of a demolition contract for Aberthaw power station. The Cardiff Capital Region, a public body which was set up to invest more than £500m in the south Wales as part of the 2016 City Deal, was taken to court over how it awarded a demolition contract for Aberthaw power station, the disused power station it controversially bought from energy giant RWE. The body, which represents 10 councils, lost a high-court legal challenge brought by a losing bidder, Brown and Mason Group, which concluded in February. The former coal-powered station was acquired for £8m by the city region in 2022, with contractors Erith beginning demolition work last year. For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here Today, the region's chair Mary Ann Brocklesby gave an update to the Senedd, telling the economy committee that a settlement of £5.25m had been agreed. Brown and Mason had previously said they were seeking £10m. "I'm not able to say much more at this point because we are undergoing an independent review which we commissioned as political leaders to set in train precisely at the point that we knew we were going through a legal process," she said. Article continues below Cllr Brocklesby said: "We had to wait until that legal process was over before that independent review could start. "We are awaiting the findings which – subject to legal caveats – we will be making public." Kellie Beirne, chief executive of the south-east Wales c orporate joint committee and Cardiff Capital Region, said: "We're taking this extremely seriously, we recognise the gravity of it and again yes, [it's] something that we don't come and report. "Apologies again for the short notice but we had clearance, we briefed our internal stakeholders and we felt it important to be as transparent as we possibly could by conveying that this morning at this committee." She said a full independent review has been ordered. "When that review concludes and we have findings, we'll be able to be much more open about what happened and take steps to ensure that this can't happen again," she said. Asked whether the court case has impinged on work at the 500-acre site, Cllr Brocklesby insisted: "No, it continues at pace." Conservative MS Andrew RT Davies said: "When you came before this committee in September 2023, Kellie you said that £40m is but a drop in the ocean. "I think the words you used were hundreds of millions of pounds will be required. Obviously, this court case has not helped instil confidence in the private sector in coming on board as partners… so, how are you progressing in that goal?" Cllr Brocklesby replied: "Let's look at the wider ecosystem of CCR: one of the absolute strengths of it is that we have people across the region who are highly valued within their own sectors… who are highly respected not just in Wales but globally." "In terms of the future of Aberthaw, it does actually look very bright and we're not feeling any effects from the impacts of this highly regrettable procurement issue." Article continues below Ms Beirne said Cardiff Capital Region does not have deep enough pockets for what Aberthawr requires following the initial demolition and remediation phase.
Hindustan Times
25-05-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
UPSCR project set to roll: Chennai firm to draft master plan, cabinet approval soon
The Uttar Pradesh State Capital Region (UPSCR), envisioned as a major driver of regional development and real estate growth, is poised for a formal launch with the state government selecting a Chennai-based firm as the top bidder to prepare its master blueprint. Officials confirmed that the selected firm emerged as the Level-1 bidder among three applicants. Its appointment is expected to be cleared by the state cabinet shortly. According to government sources, a team of 18 experts from the consultancy will be tasked with preparing a detailed project report (DPR) for the SCR, a regional planning initiative modelled on the National Capital Region (NCR). The project will integrate six districts, Lucknow, Barabanki, Hardoi, Sitapur, Rae Bareli and Unnao, covering a combined area of 27,826 square kilometres. The SCR is being developed as a balanced urban-rural growth region around Lucknow. According to the 2011 Census, Lucknow district alone has a population of 45.89 lakh over 2,528 sq km. Barabanki, its immediate neighbour, spans 4,402 sq km with a population of 32.60 lakh. To ensure seamless intra-regional mobility, the government plans to introduce a Rapid Rail Transit System (RRTS) connecting the six districts. The project will mirror the operational Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor, which has drastically reduced commute times and eased pressure on roads. Sources said that the proposed plan includes the construction of two 100-km-long ring roads and five elevated corridors aimed at reducing traffic congestion and improving regional connectivity. Urban development minister AK Sharma said that the project will move forward shortly, with groundwork for planning and coordination already underway. Officials said the integrated approach of the SCR will open up large-scale investment opportunities across its constituent districts.
