After 3 tough weeks trudging through Europe in luxury, our Travel-Expert-in-Residence, Rudy Maxa, is back in his hometown of Washington, DC, with a new deal.

So, back to DC, with its broad avenues and elegant circles -- which were laid out by a Frenchman, after all -- and the new International Spy Museum, which has just opened downtown...reason enough for any Austin Powers or James Bond fan to want to visit.

How about a deal on a very nice downtown hotel?

A double room at The Madison, which is just across the street from The Washington Post, and within easy walking distance of all the monuments and Smithsonian buildings, is available for just $119 through the month of August. And, if you say you heard about this price on The Savvy Traveler, the hotel will knock another $10 off your room rate. To get the special deal, you have to call the hotel at 800-424-8577.

All kinds of heads of state and VIPs have stayed there. It is going to close this winter for 6 months for a massive renovation, but that's not to suggest it isn't first class right now -- don't worry, it is. And, with the special "Savvy Traveler price," it's quite a deal.

Savvy Resources: The Madison Hotel: http://www.themadisonhotel.net; 800-424-8577. Be certain to ask for the "Savvy Traveler" extra $10 off the special August double room rate of $119/night. International Spy Museum: http://www.spymuseum.org; 202-393-7798.