After two summers spent in DC you would think I’d be used to the heat by now. The sweat stained shirt stuck to my back, the chaffed thighs from walking the four quadrants of DC, and the need for a shower and a refreshing drink more than anything else in the world, should no longer be discomforts but rather pleasant indicators that summer has arrived in the city.

However, these pleasant indicators remind that although I love DC, if it were not for my semi-fear of flying and newly enacted outrageous airport costs ($15 to check in luggage), I would be on a direct flight back to Oakland,CA, where right now the weather is a cool 64 degrees. Granted, I would be jobless and bored after the first two days, but in addition I would also be comfortable and cool. Since going back home is not an option, I’ve decided to compile (to remind myself and for your reading pleasure as well) my top five favorite places to stay cool in DC:   

1) The Mocha Hut:

While DC renowned for its Thursday night “Spit Dat!” open mic and it’s plentiful and delicious Big Breakfast (get it with the banana waffle ),the Mocha Hut is also home to a working and powerful AC that is often complemented by the soulful wailings of Ike and Tina Turner, The Isley Brothers, or whatever other Motown era artist is playing on the “Mo’ Soul” station. Before I began working there, many a summer day was spent chilling in the Mocha Hut with a large blended Chai (get it with a shot of vanilla and soy milk) in one hand and a half of a Montague Melt in the other (get it with pesto and red peppers), all the while enjoying the Four Tops “Just Ask the Lonley” and most importantly the AC that wasn’t at my house.

2) The National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden:

Many would find it surprising that I am recommending a place that is outside as a place to stay cool, however I am. Though outside, the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden has a large fountain that spews cold water which you can put your feet in, so put your feet in the water, read a book , people watch, feed the ducks, enjoy the live jazz that happens on Friday afternoons, or even tan, all the while staying cool.   

3) Any of the Smithsonian Museums:

There is nothing better than getting a little culture and staying cool at the same time. Check out the City Paper, find an exhibit that you’re interested in, then go view it without breaking a sweat in a nicely air conditioned building.

 4) A friend’s House with AC:

While I was blessed to find a place to sublet at the last minute last summer, I was also cursed to find that the place was without AC. Many a summer night was spent in a sweat opposite to the one that James was in. Luckily, I had gracious friends who never hesitated to let me sit in their living rooms and enjoy the AC. I suggest that as the days get hotter and hotter, you find yourself one of these friends. 

5) My Room (with my draws on):

Yeah, I said it. There is nothing better than after a long, hard day at work than coming home to your room, stripping down to your draws and laying across your bed or floor. But make sure that your door is locked, unless you want your roommates to know whether you wear bikinis or boy shorts. 

     * Tonight’s title (sans “…But it’s Always Hot in June”) is taken from a track off of Prince and the Revolution's 1986 classic, “Parade:  Music from the Motion Picture Under the Cherry Moon”.