Map: Washington DC, Viringia & Maryland (aka: the DMV)

One of the first steps in understanding the lay of the land in DC is to recognize that the city is divided into quadrants, referred to as NE, SE, NW and SW. Each quadrant has its own unique qualities whether real or perceived. The generalized view of each is as follows: NW - money and privilege, NE - a real mixed bag, SW water front and the new baseball stadium and SE Marion Berry and the expanding Capital Hill neighborhood.

I have only lived in the SE so far, and prefer it for its less dense and quieter environs.