Ideas Sparkling the Capital

If you are looking for a more knowledgeable and interactive trip, Washington D.C. would suit your bucket list. Indeed, the capital consists of the world's top-ranking think tanks, which often organize public meetings and study publications. Informative and free.

(1) Brookings Institution

Founded in 1916, it conducts 5 local research programs, including Economic Studies, Foreign Policy, Governance Studies, Global Economy and Development, and Metropolitan Policy. It stretches its centers globally, which are located in Doha, Beijing and New Delhi.

(2) The Heritage Foundation

Their operations are based on these principles: free enterprise, limited government, individual freedom, traditional values, and a strong national defense. With over 500,000 dues-paying members, it is the largest conservative research and educational institution in the US.

(3) CATO Institute

Founded in 1974, this libertarian think tank advocates a limited role for government in domestic and foreign affairs, and a strong protection of civil rights. A vision is to create free, open, and civil societies founded on libertarian principles.

(4) Congressional Research Service

Founded in 1914, it is one of the Congress think tanks. From the bill drafting to law enactment, it provides assistance at every stage of the legislative process. Regardless of party affiliation, experts work for both committees and Members of both the House and Senate.

(5) CSIS

Center for Strategic and International Studies is a bipartisan think tank. Founded in 1962, it has scholars across various political spectrum, stressing the political, economic and security issues. It was an institution under Georgetown University until 1987.

(6) The Cook Political Report

Founded by the political analyst Charlie Cook in 1984, it is an independent online newsletter, owning two weekly columns for National Journal magazine, and National Journal Daily. Reports mainly focus on analysis of elections and campaigns of the US.

(7) Foundation for Defense of Democracies

Established shortly after the 911 attacks, it focuses on national security and foreign policy. It produces accurate and timely analyses, and provides policy options to eliminate threats posed by adversaries. This think tank also shares its expertise on a bi-partisan basis.

Traveling is a more valuable experience than sitting inside a classroom, unless you have the right place for debate and discussion.