Founded in 1749 as a seaport, Alexandria, cosmopolitan yet friendly, is in the heart of the exciting Washington, DC, metro region. Alexandria was George Washington’s hometown, and many early patriots spent time here, including George Mason and Thomas Jefferson, who celebrated his presidential inaugural in Alexandria.

The esteemed Lees of Virginia were from here, and the most famous member—Civil War General Robert E. Lee— grew up here. From the late 18th through the mid-19th centuries, Alexandria was one of the nation’s most important seaports as cargoes of tobacco, wheat, and sugar passed between the Colonies and Europe. America’s Colonial seaports were known for elegance and cosmopolitan sophistication, drawing visitors from around the world. That tradition continues today throughout the Old Town historic district. The Colonial charm of 18th- and 19thcentury America comes to life in the restored homes and shops throughout the city, and the preserved cobblestone streets and historic waterfront are only minutes away from Washington’s majestic monuments.

Ladies Home Journal named Alexandria the number one city in its “Top 10 List of America’s Best Cities for Women.” The magazine’s readers declared the yardsticks most important to them were the low-crime rate, followed by pleasant lifestyle, great public schools, plentiful job opportunities, and quality health - and childcare resources.

Reprinted, with permission of the publisher, from 50 FABULOUS GAY-FRIENDLY PLACES TO LIVE (www.FabCities.com) © 2005 Gregory A. Kompes. Published by Career Press, Franklin Lakes, NJ. 800-227-3371. All rights reserved.