As a native Washingtonian, I'm often asked by tourists what's my favorite monument. For many years, I said the Washington Monument. The pencil. It stood tall. Simple, yet elegant.

But I've changed my mind since the World War II Memorial opened a couple years ago. It is in a perfect location between the Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument. The view is stupendous as you can see the Lincoln Memorial on one side and Washington Monument on the other. It has a great fountain and the white marble is in keeping with the city's style. And if you have handicapped parking, there are six slots just a few steps from the monument. Just access it off the 17th Street entrance. Oh, and there's a nice restroom facility that is a rarity on the Mall.

I took some family and friends to the WW II Memorial today. The place was crowded with tourists, especially foreign ones taking advantage of the low U.S. dollar. Of course, there were a few adults committing the cardinal sin of wading in the fountain despite many signs saying not to do so. Please, please, please don't do this if ever coming to Washington. Remember this is a monument to the dead who gave their lives for us. You wouldn't do it in a cemetery . . . I hope. It's not OK here, either.

The Lincoln, Vietnam and Korean memorials are a short walk away. I'm including some photos. It's well worth the walk. Even better, it's free and you're outside on beautiful days. And go ahead and splurge for the tour busses that gather by the Lincoln Memorial. It's the best way to get around town. They even cross the river to Arlington National Cemetery where anyone older than 40 definitely wants to pay for the tour mobile up the hill to the eternal flame of JFK

Welcome to my town. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.