Flights to Washington DC are reasonably price and cost around 300 when flying economy class, from Gatwick, with an airline such as Virgin Atlantic. It's often a good idea to look at a range options when flying, but it might not be necessary if you're going to get a package deal. Take a look at ASDA Travel, which can arrange some of the finer details for your trip so you don't have to.

Where to Stay

Hotels in Washington DC can be expensive as they have a 14.5% sales tax levied upon them. If money is no object you may consider the Renaissance Mayflower Hotel. This is a luxury hotel right in the centre of Washington DC and a stone's throw away from The White House itself. Not only does it have state-of-the-art technology in all of its rooms but includes extras such as a Fitness centre and babysitting facilities. Rooms here cost up from 250 per night. Check out Abercrombie and Kent for more luxury hotels.

For a budget alternative you might want to try the Hotel Inn Express at the Washington National Arboretum where rooms cost a reasonable (in comparison) 107 per night. If you are looking for some thing a little more unusual, try staying the Washington National Cathedral. Bizarrely enough you can stay in one of the cathedral's Gothic guest rooms for prices starting as low as 50. If you're travelling on a budget, then take a look at HostelBookers.com's hostels directory, which is complete with customer reviews.

What to See

Of course you must visit The White House. If you are intending to actually go inside this historic building then you must remember that you have to apply to your Embassy for a ticket, which is usually a long drawn out process that must be undertaken at least 6 month before you visit. However, seeing the outside of The White House is equally pleasurable. The Washington Monument is also a must see. If you have time you should get the elevator to the top although beware - there is often a large queue. This marble, granite and sandstone structure reaches a height of around 555 feet and was built between 1848 and 1884.

Where to Eat

There are many great places to eat in Washington DC but for a truly unique experience you could try the National Museum of the American Indian. This is great place to visit - and eat - for here dishes are served that are inspired by traditional Native American dishes and cooking techniques. For example you can get Campfire Buffalo burgers or smoked chicken. The restaurant itself has been made to evoke the impression of being in a market place and has a number of 'stalls'. Each stall is dedicated to a specific region of the country and hence to specific types of Native American cuisine.