Following is cut from a recent Washington Post article:

Leave the car at home and take Metro, which goes right to the airport's doorstep; catch a cab or a shuttle; or bum a ride from a friend. Another option: Nearby hotels with park-and-fly deals that are only slightly more expensive than the airport's $9 daily economy rate. Some possibilities:

• Crowne Plaza Hotel in Arlington, about five minutes from the airport, offers $12 parking per day to nonguests. It also has a park-and-fly package for $199, including seven days of free parking. Free shuttle. 703-416-1600, www.ichotelsgroup.com.

• Holiday Inn National Airport in Crystal City, minutes from the terminals, offers $10-per-day parking. Free shuttle. 703-684-7200, www.hinationalairport.com.

• Best Western Old Colony Inn in Alexandria, two miles from National, doesn't offer parking-only, but for one night's stay ($109-$149) you can park free for three days (after that, it's about $10 a day). Free shuttle. 703-739- 2222, www.bestwestern.com.