Arlington: The Gateway to American History and Modern Charm

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Arlington's history dates back to the Native American tribes that once roamed the region. Originally part of the Ten Miles Square surveyed in 1791 to be the United States capital, the area now known as Arlington was ceded back to Virginia by the federal government in 1846.

During the Civil War, Arlington was strategically important due to its proximity to Washington, D.C. The Arlington House, once the home of Confederate General Robert E. Lee, was seized by Union forces and transformed into a military headquarters and burial ground, which would later become Arlington National Cemetery.

Established during the Civil War on the grounds of the confiscated Arlington House, Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most hallowed military cemeteries in the United States. It is the final resting place for over 400,000 military personnel and notable figures, including President John F. Kennedy.

Completed in 1943, The Pentagon is the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense and one of the world's largest office buildings by floor area. It was designed to consolidate the various offices of the War Department and has been a critical hub for military operations ever since.

Arlington played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement with events like the 1960 sit-ins at the lunch counter of the Drug Fair store in the Cherrydale neighborhood. These protests were part of a larger effort to desegregate public spaces in the area.

Over the past few decades, Arlington has seen significant urban development, especially in areas like Crystal City and Rosslyn. The arrival of major corporations, including the future headquarters of Amazon's HQ2, has transformed Arlington into a bustling urban hub with a vibrant cultural scene.

Arlington, Virginia, is easily accessible by air, road, and rail. The nearest major airport is Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), located just a few miles away. Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) are also options, albeit farther away. By train, Amtrak serves nearby Union Station in Washington, D.C. For those driving, major highways such as Interstate 66 and Interstate 395 provide direct access to Arlington.

Arlington has an excellent public transportation system, including the Washington Metro, which has multiple stops in Arlington on the Orange, Blue, Silver, and Yellow lines. Additionally, Metrobus and Arlington Transit (ART) buses cover the area extensively. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. For those preferring to bike, Arlington has a robust network of bike trails and Capital Bikeshare stations.

The currency used in Arlington is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are plentiful. Digital payment methods such as Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and other contactless payments are also commonly used. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit smaller establishments.

Arlington is generally considered a safe place to visit. However, as with any urban area, it is wise to remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas and always be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, neighborhoods like Nauck and parts of Columbia Pike have higher crime rates compared to other areas.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Arlington has several medical facilities, including Virginia Hospital Center. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather; casual attire is generally acceptable. Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting historical sites or government buildings. Religion: Do respect religious practices and ceremonies if you happen to visit places of worship. Public Transport: Do stand on the right side of escalators to allow others to pass on the left. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite 'Hello' or 'Good morning/afternoon.' A firm handshake is customary in professional settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local and international cuisine available in Arlington. Don’t forget to tip around 15-20% in restaurants unless the service was unsatisfactory.

To experience Arlington like a local, visit the farmers markets, especially the one in Courthouse on Saturdays. Take a walk or bike ride along the scenic Mount Vernon Trail. Explore the diverse culinary scene in neighborhoods like Clarendon and Ballston. Attend local events and festivals, such as the Arlington County Fair. Lastly, don’t miss visiting the historical Arlington National Cemetery and the Marine Corps War Memorial.