Neighborhood Series: Alexandria (July 2011)

Ireland and cuisine didn’t always belong in the same sentence. But Ireland’s relationship with food has evolved along with its ever-changing economic fortunes. Membership in the Common Market in the 1970s (now the European Union) saw borders and trade barriers come tumbling down, allowing people and goods to move more freely across Europe. The Irish gained access to a broader culinary landscape.

Longing to share a baguette with your special someone, or perhaps taste sumptuous soft cheeses with your best friend?

Lorien Hotel & Spa provides a luxuriously modern twist to anyone’s experiences in Old Town Alexandria in Virginia. 

No trip to Old Town Alexandria would be complete without some time spent browsing its myriad boutiques and antique stores. But while visitors could spend a few afternoons seeing all Old Town has to offer, there are a few must-stop gems:

Sometimes the same old FBI T-shirt and Washington monument snow globe just won’t cut it. When it comes to unique gifts, Old Town Alexandria has many options.

During an Alexandria History Tour, you will meet the George Washington you never knew, the Abraham Lincoln you never heard of, and sides of history you were never taught in school.

Finding good java in Old Town Alexandria is as easy as asking someone with one of those ubiquitous orange cups in hand. They’ll direct you to Misha’s Coffeehouse and Coffee Roaster on Patrick Street, and you’ll never look back.

Christ Church is a history buff’s dream.