It was a wonderful opportunity to teach children things about their country that they will probably not learn in school My almost 11 year old grandson enjoyed the experience immensely. His only complaint was that he did not have enough time to spend in the museums. He enjoyed interacting with the other children and kept notes in his workbook so he could report back to his parents. I enjoyed watching his enthusiasm over exploring all the places he had only read about. On our free time we visited Arlington Cemetery and watched the changing of the guard.

In general, Hendrika, Dirk and I enjoyed our fast-paced week in Washington, D.C. I enjoyed the variety of sights and ease of visiting because of the planning and experience of our very talented guide.

What was missing was some discussion of context, both historical and institutional, of what we seeing. This could be provided by appropriate reading, especially for the young members of the tour. For instance we passed by the Pentagon on several occasions; what goes on there? why was it built? why does it have to be so big? The Capital tour was led by an accomplished speaker who had an encyclopedic knowledge of the art work, etc., but what goes on there? I was lookimg for more than Comgress makes laws. Perrhaps this can be accomplished by giving the guide more instructional time with the younger students. There was no qustion cocnerning our guide having the ability to this.

The accomodations were clean and adequate; however, the management of hotel appeared remote and inept. Meals were adequate.
I would scratch Cavanaughs and the Hard Rock Cafe. I have never felt as unwelcome in any resturant as I did in the HRC.