Akwaaba is a bed and breakfast with an African-American theme in a wonderfully renovated rowhouse along the 16th Street corridor in Northwest DC. Monique Greenwood, who owns this Akwaaba (and others in New York, Cape May, NJ, and New Orleans) with her husband, was once an editor for Essence magazine, but now runs this successful business. Lots of polished wood and high ceilings, with rooms themed after African-American authors -- Zora Neale Hurston, Octavia Butler - or for special occasions. The atmosphere is cozy, elegant, comfortable and restful. I have been here for book readings and private parties, but have toured the guest rooms on two or three occasions, and can vouch for their cleanliness, style and comfort. Akwaaba, by the way, means "welcome" in one of the languages spoken in Ghana, in West Africa.
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