Boldly Go Solo

The paths are lined with cherry trees. Whitish-pink petals rain down from the canopy of trees above like a Technicolor summer storm. Spring at the tidal basin in Washington, D.C.?

No, spring a little farther north, in the Kenwood area of Maryland. Not quite a dirty little secret, but certainly not known by a lot of tourists. Yet, it's a much easier place to bask in the glory of the famous Japanese cherries. And certainly an easier place to park.

True, there are no paddle boats to rent and no way to frame a photograph of the Washington Monument or the Jefferson Memorial through the blossoms. But so very much easier to stroll around.

The Tidal Basin this time of year is clogged with people. The sidewalks are narrow and the baby strollers have right of way. Maryland not only is more peaceful but there seem to be more trees. And while you're at it, you can gawk at the multi-million dollar homes and pick your favorites. Tudor? Modern? Stone?

Yes, you must see the blossoms at the tidal basin as a visitor to D.C. But if you've already done so, here's a new place to gawk. No car? Both spots are accessible to solo travelers by public transportation. Kenwood requires a Metro ride and a bus. The Tidal Basin, a Metro and a longish walk.

Today, just past peak, people had their cameras out, trying to capture the fleeting beauty. If you're anywhere in the area, hurry, hurry. Green leaves are poking up here and there, meaning the blossoms are already on their way out. If you're not, make a plan to visit next year.

Photos: Ellen Perlman. Kenwood, MD.