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Best area

I'm heading to Washington soon and have booked a place in Bethesda - Old Georgetown Road. It seems okay for what we need and want. I've just seen a place in Trinidad. I don't know the area but I see it's near Benning Road NE. I was at the Ross in Benning Road last year and didn't like the area around it. Which is a better area - Bethesda or Trinidad?

When deciding between Bethesda and Trinidad for your stay in the DC area, there are several factors to consider including safety, amenities, transit options, and general vibe.

Bethesda (Old Georgetown Road area):

  • Bethesda is an affluent suburb of DC located just northwest of the city. It is generally considered very safe, clean, and well-maintained.
  • The area offers a variety of restaurants, shopping, and entertainment, including upscale options and family-friendly activities.
  • Public transportation access is good, with the Bethesda Metro station (Red Line) providing easy travel into downtown DC.
  • Walking around the neighborhood is comfortable, and it has a more suburban feel with tree-lined streets, compared to inner-city neighborhoods.

Trinidad (near Benning Road NE):

  • Trinidad is a DC neighborhood in Northeast, historically less affluent, and has a mix of residential and commercial areas.
  • While parts of Trinidad are improving and gentrifying, the area around Benning Road NE still has some concerns regarding safety and street activity, as you experienced last year.
  • Transit options exist, including nearby Metro stations, but overall the area feels more urban and can be less polished than Bethesda.
  • Trinidad has some local dining and shopping options, but it’s more limited compared to Bethesda and may not feel as convenient or comfortable for visitors.

Summary and recommendation:

For most visitors seeking a comfortable, safe, and convenient base with good transit access and amenities, Bethesda is generally the better choice. Trinidad may be more affordable or closer to some specific DC neighborhoods, but if you had a negative experience near Benning Road previously, Bethesda provides a safer and more pleasant environment, especially for longer stays.

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