The little town of Boquete offers a good selection of restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets. Since Boquete is an agricultural town, chefs have access to the freshest organic vegetables and herbs. One praiseworthy local restaurant, The Rock, is located on the banks of the Palo Alto River, just outside of central Boquete. The large windows allow for fantastic views up the valley, and the fireplace seating area is a cosy spot at night. "Food without pretences" is their motto, and the menu focuses on locally available produce and meats. Steaks and ribs are cooked to perfection and may be accompanied by artisan beers made exclusively for the restaurant or the perfect wine. Thursday is All-You-Can-Eat Rib Night. If you are in Boquete, a meal at The Rock is a must.

Located on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe, Pope Beach offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, creating a perfect backdrop for relaxation. The smooth sand and gentle winds, often mitigated by the surrounding pine forest, contribute to a pleasant atmosphere for visitors. The area features picnic tables and grills, though wood and charcoal fires are not permitted. And while parking incurs a fee during the summer months, biking and hiking are free year-round. A few tips for visitors: pets are not allowed on the beach, and the water can be quite chilly, so be prepared if you plan to swim.

Still maintaining its reputation as the 60s psychedelic-hippie-counterculture capital, this quarter's streets are dotted with Victorian houses, piercing salons and vintage clothing shops. Music and bookstores are the biggest draws to this area.

The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world, and its three buildings — the Thomas Jefferson, James Madison Memorial, and John Adams — are well worth exploring. Free tours show off the architecture and highlight the rare collections, while exhibitions, gallery talks, concerts, and lectures give visitors plenty to see and do.