Willard (although not contemporary) and Monaco are both excellent options.

If you don't mind using cabs a lot, the Mandarin is in the mix because it's a great property. I believe in years to come, that neighborhood will become more tourist friendly. Just not much action there right now.

When the Hotel Washington becomes a W, it will be a fabulous option.

Just checked the Hotel Monaco's web site. The location is great and the hotel looks very nice, but the view of the fitness centre shows it is way down the scale from the one at the Ritz.

If anyone is interested, I have been visiting a relatively new travel site. This is the Washington DC hotel listing.

http://www.professionaltravelguide.c...hotels-168756/

<i>My feeble attempt at humour.</i>

And I thought it was very funny!