Boldly Go Solo

Oh no they didn't….arrggghhhh. The cover headline of today's Washington Post weekend section is…"Staycations." Where's the Alka Seltzer? (see story dissing staycations)

On the bright side, the section lists some nice activities for solo travelers. How about a self-guided gallery crawl? The writer recommends Lou Reed: Romanticism,; a show of digital photos by the "former Velvet Underground frontman;" Introductions 5, featuring works from art-school grads nationwide; and "Finding Beauty in a Broken World: In the Spirit of Frida Kahlo," art inspired by the late Mexican painter.

The writer also recommends eating and entertainment spots, many ideal for solo travelers.  I've always wanted to go hear the drummers jamming in Meridian Hill Park on 16th Street, or go to the park at all. I've seen pictures and it seems beautiful but I haven't made it there yet. (And no, I don't need to take a "staycation" to do so. I just need to head over there on a Sunday afternoon.)

If I were a visitor, I'd also be most willing to go see free Shakespeare on my own. The Shakespeare Theatre Company has a free production of "The Taming of the Shrew" from August 27 to September 12.

And to top off all the things you've treated yourself to, you can head to the Red Velvet Cupcakery, open until 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Yup, sometimes we single travelers just gotta have a cupcake. Or some other sweet indulgence that we don't have to explain to anyone.

Photo: Ellen Perlman

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