Goosebumps in Washington, D.C.

Starting My Travel Year 2026 in the United States

My year 2026 began in Washington, D.C., and from the very first moments, it was clear that this journey would be different. Shortly before my arrival, a heavy snowstorm had hit the city, with temperatures dropping to minus seventeen degrees, even during the day. The Winter felt intense and quiet at the same time. The cold settled over the city almost silently, giving it a unique atmosphere. Monuments, wide streets and the deep history of the US capital felt even more powerful in this winter stillness. Despite the freezing temperatures, the days were sunny with clear blue skies and toward the end of my stay, the weather slowly became more pleasant.

Monuments and Personal Moments

Despite the cold, I was out exploring every day. I consciously took two days to discover Washington, D.C. on foot. My route included the White House, the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. Walking through the city meant many kilometers, cold cheeks and tired legs but also countless moments where I stopped, took it all in and simply observed. I was never truly alone, as Levi the dog was my loyal companion every step of the way. Walking through the city, is one of the best ways to experience the city and its history.

Goosebump moments that stay with you

One absolute highlight of my Washington, D.C. trip was attending an NBA game. The Washington Wizards played against the New York Knicks and the atmosphere inside the arena was unforgettable. At first, we were seated higher up, but with a bit of confidence, we suddenly found ourselves much closer to the court. The energy and intensity of an NBA game live is something you truly have to experience.

Another deeply moving moment was my visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The history of slavery and African American life in the United States is heavy, emotional and thought provoking. You do not leave this museum unchanged. As if that experience was not already powerful enough, I unexpectedly toured the museum alongside the basketball players from the Los Angeles Lakers, who were in the city for a game and used their free day to visit the museum. We shared meaningful conversations and I could not help but smile, feeling almost tiny standing next to them.

I truly appreciated my time in the US. Traveling constantly reminds me how much you learn about yourself, how much you grow and especially the incredible people you meet along the way and the unexpected surprises that travel brings. I explored Washington, D.C. mostly without Internet, relying on my sense of direction and simply walking and believe me it worked perfectly. Not always online, not always planned but always open to what comes next. That is where real travel begins for me.