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Atlanta, how I love you. I was blown away at how polite everyone was. At first I thought it was just my hotel, The Renaissance Waverly (Marriott), that I wasn’t used to this calibre of hotel. But people said, no, it’s just Southern Hospitality. But, I mean, it was over the top, ya’ll. Never in my life have I experienced so many people who were so friendly, helpful and calm under pressure. Everyone. Everywhere.

By, the way, if you stay in a Marriott hotel, sign up for Marriott rewards so you get free Wi-Fi.

Eat

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Grits. If you’re in the south, you have to. What are grits? Who cares? They’re delicious.

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BBQ. The first place we went was Twin Smokers BBQ. It was so good. Even the pickles were crazy-good. The second place was Jim ‘N Nick’s BBQ. Ohh, man.

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Steak. BLT Steak at the W Hotel. Can a restaurant have 6 stars? It should. Homemade popovers like my mamma used to make. Count how many times the waiter says, “You all”.

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Mexican. Elmyr (pronounced “El Meer”). Not one, but two locals recommended this hidden gem in the hipster neighborhood known as “Little 5 Points”.

Shop

Clothes. Lenox Square Mall. I figured, if I’m going to a big city I should go to some of my favorite  stores that we don’t have in my sleepy little town. My main choice: Madewell. There were others that caught my eye that I’ve never been to, like Topshop, 7 For all Mankind, Diane Von Furstenburg, Penguin, Lacoste and many others I can’t afford.

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Vintage clothes. The Clothing Warehouse. I think they had exactly one million pairs of cowboy boots. A man there seemed to be trying on every pair. They also have rodeo belts — as well as dresses, jeans, t-shirts. Really everything. Also in Little 5 Points.

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“Souvies” Bang On T-Shirts. A great place to get unique, personal gifts for friends and family. You pick from a gazillion t-shirts — every size, style & color — and then chose your design. As custom as you want. This was such a fun experience because the owner was so friendly and helpful and energetic. You couldn’t help getting caught up in it. “Do you have a Pokemon design?” “Yes!”

Explore History

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The Center for Civil Rights and Human Rights might seem heavy, but it was really an amazing experience. I was surprised how much I learned. What an impact.

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I had a great time strolling through some scenic neighborhoods with big stately houses.

Sleep

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I’m not going to lie, I love a hotel room. King size bed, huge down pillows. I did some serious sleeping.

But, I guess you can do that anywhere.