After living and working in Washington DC for some years now, I've come across a plethora of so-called city guides, most of which are lacking in nightlife fundamentals. However, it is my opinion that I have at last found my Shangri La. The website DC Social Insider.com seems to tout a very comprehensive website on Washington DC and her many exciting features. I suggest you check this site out should you live, visit or work in the DC metro area.

If you want to see our nation´s Capitol interns at their absolute worst, I mean best, go to Politiki just steps from the Capitol. While at times Washington is all work and no play, many alcoholic, libidinous donkeys and elephants can be found at this Polynesian-themed bar setting themselves up for the scandals that will haunt them later in their career. Beautiful interns from all over the country take a break from flirting with elderly senators to break it down with some guys their own age. Split their patented jumbo drink, the Volcano, with three of your friends and you´ll all be taking the cab home. Remember, don´t pose for any pictures. Your nights at Politiki could be sure to haunt you later in your career.

Adams Morgan can appear like any other college drinking strip, especially if you stick to 18th St. and don't venture into some of the smaller ethnic places. El Rincon Espanol is a Cuban restaurant and lounge featuring caribbean cooking, and even more smoking Cuban jazz and salsa. Upstairs holds the Tropical Lounge, a small venue (20 seats) and bandstand. This is a very friendly atmosphere, and on Thursdays you can find most of DC's latin musicians here to hang out, jam, and tell stories. The owner came out to offer delicious free chicken and rice to all the patrons. When was the last time a restauranteur offered you comida gratis? Check it out.

The Lucky Bar is situated on a strip of fairly well-heeled clubs on Connecticut Ave. near Dupont Circle. The bar itself is long and narrow, and always appears lively, mostly due to being crushed all the time. The crowd is typical Washington--kinda high-powered and pretentious, though semmingly pent-up and looking to get some action. If you're going out to raise some hell, not to sip sherry and feel euro, this place may fit the bill.

This club is small but very funky. It has some of the best hip hop in the front room and OK techno in the back. It's also located on U St., which is much less intern and college student infested than neighboring 18th St. It's one of the few night spots in DC that I haven't thought was cheesy within the first two seconds of entering.

The Common Share is a classic Adams Morgan destination, and it's usually packed beyond all common sense on weekend nights. There's no doubt as to why it's a popular place. US$2 gets you any drink in the joint. Bass Ale, Caffrey's, Guinness, Boddington's and every other top shelf beer I can think of comes pouring off the taps for just two bucks. The building looks like a converted sweatshop textile factory or former whorehouse, I can't tell. If you don't mind smelling the armpits of all of DC's college students for a couple hours, it's a grand place to start a night of stupid excess.

Come here on Saturday nights to see how salsa should be danced. You'll hear more Spanish than English and the beautiful bodies will delight the eyes! Watch some great moves on the dance floor and learn a step or two.

A great, dark, hole-in-the-wall bar jammed pack with chairs and sofas. Climb your way around people and grab a spot, even if you don't know who you are sitting next too. Laid back atmosphere with a young urban crowd.

Nestled into Northwest Washington's relaxed-yet-upscale Cleveland Park district, Nanny O'Brien's is the quintessential neighborhood pub. Irish expatriots will probably quickly recognize that Nanny's is in fact a bar and not a pub, lacking the couches, low ceilings and homey atmosphere of a real pub. But this bar may serve the same purpose for Washingtonians. In a city seemingly obsessed with posturing and power ties, Nanny's is a seedy but not scummy place to get away from it all. Great, if predictable beers on tap include Caffrey's, Guinness and Bass, while cheaper domestic brews are available in bottles. The bar staff is the pinnacle of the watering hole profession: welcoming and friendly, as quick with a round of drinks as with a smile and a story. A passable Irish session takes place on Monday nights, and usually packs the place. Solid live entertainment is featured 6 nights a week. You should get a beer here.

Have a cold beer while listening to the great Blues and Grass. Madams Organ in Adams Morgan on 18th street is three stories of dimly lit bar, with atmosphere that is DC, electic, fun and warm. The music is great and make sure you get to listen to Billy play his Funk!