all around the world

most countries around the world have an embassy in DC. and many of them are clustered near dupont circle in an area known as "embassy row". many of the embassies are old homes that have been converted into their current use and are stunning beautifully restored homes. once a year, they open their doors and welcome visitors inside for an event called "passport DC". there are samples of food, culture offerings, information for potential visitors etc. it's a great chance to experience part of a culture of another country (well, many in one day) and see inside many of the gorgeous embassies.

some are more interesting than others, but all offer up some sort of cultural experience, even if it is just interacting with the people who work at the embassy.

indonesia:


[entrance]


[entryway stairwell]


[i can't remember what this is. perhaps war dressings for a horse?]


haiti:




[haitian kites]


chad:


[playing the finger drum]


cote d'ivoire:


[bringing drinks to people waiting in line to get in]


[cote d'ivoire-ian food]


venezuela:




turkey:




brazil:


[ambassador's house]


[sitting room]


[wall murals]


[capoeira]


sri lanka:


[traditional costumes - sari on me and sarong on ivan]


benin:


[crafts from benin]


[dancing and singing in benin]


we missed the EU embassies, which were open the next weekend. and we only went to 16 of the 40 embassies that were open, so there will be plenty of the world to explore next year :)