we will be in washington dc in mid july and would like a recommended hotel in dupont circle which is nice and clean and will not break the bank.

I grew up in DC, and although I've never stayed in a hotel there, on more than one occasion friends stayed at the Tabard Inn in Dupont Circle when visiting me and enjoyed it very much. It is a historic small inn on a pretty, quiet street a couple of blocks from the actual circle, with a great restaurant and patio and cocktail area too. I've been to the restaurant and lobby areas--the atmosphere is very charming. I believe the rooms range from about $85 up to $150 (but they may be more in July--it's tourist season). I think some of the cheapest ones have shared bathrooms. But I've been told the rooms are clean and comfortable. I believe breakfast is included in the rate as well. They have a website, although I don't have the address--I'm sure you could type in Tabard Inn on any search engine and find it.

Another possibility is the Kalorama Guesthouse. I don't know anyone who's stayed there, but it has been around for a long time and has a good reputation while having reasonable rates. It's a little farther from Dupont Circle, though, but in the general area.

I would recommend the Carlyle Suites which is about 2 blocks from Dupont Circle. Have not stayed there but have looked at the rooms to check it out for friends. You should be able to get a summer rate from them of about $79 or check them out on www.cheaptickets.com at their hotel section. Romms are good sized with a sitting area ,fold out sofa and arm chair , and small eating table. Also has a fully equipped tiny kitchen with two burner stove and small fridge , no micro wave. This is not luxurious but is a very suitable tourist hotel. Area is mostly embassies , consulates and brown stones. At $79 I think it is a very good value. Again you can look it up on cheaptickets.com.

Opps. Forgot to give their number 1-800-964-5377. And the rooms have either a queen sixed bed or two double beds (twin sized?)I would book as far in advance as possible as this is fairly popular in tourist season.`

I vote for Carlyle Suites also. Great location and price!

The Radisson Barcelo would be an excellent choice.

Hotel Soffitel just a few blocks north of Dupont Circle on Connecticutt Ave is advertising a $149 weekend rate. It's a lovely restored old building and I've heard it's very nice.