During the 23 years that we called the National Capital Region (aka the Washington, DC metro area) home, the approach of Spring also meant the arrival of tourists.

Although Washington is a year-round tourist area, Spring and Summer remain the busiest times, much like they are here in the Blue Ridge.

It is a time when visitors of all nations visit the capitol of America.

While government stands as the primary industry of Washington and political money is the town’s cash crop, many businesses in the area depend on tourism to survive and look forward to the arrival of warm weather.

The welcome mat goes out and tourists are welcomed.  It is a tradition that other areas who need tourist dollars to help their struggling economics would do well to study and take to heart.