Destination Information - Atlanta, Georgia, USA

Georgia's capital city, Atlanta is at the heart of America's Southeast and typifies the hospitality and old-fashioned good manners that are so intrinsic to the way of life in America's Southern states. That said, if you come to Atlanta with romantic notions of meeting Scarlett O'Hara or Rhett Butler, think again. Atlanta is a modern, cosmopolitan metropolis with a thriving local economy. It is home to one of the leading media groups in the country, several national league sports teams, and a whole host of educational and cultural establishments.

Atlanta has a real sense of energy and purpose. Much of its downtown has been restored in recent years, breathing new life into neighbourhoods that were once nearly slums. Nearby, a whole host of gleaming modern buildings are testament to the city's forward-looking and upwardly-mobile populace.

Atlanta is justifiably proud of its cultural heritage: it's no coincidence that so many famous musicians have emanated from Georgia. Creative talent is almost taken for granted in these parts and the diverse array of music and theatre on offer - highbrow and lowbrow, and every level in between - can keep anyone entertained. Music is not the only creative outlet for Georgians though, this is after all the birthplace of - and inspiration for - Margaret Mitchell, author of Gone with the Wind, and also the location of the superb High Museum of Art, a stunning building designed by Richard Meier, housing an impressive collection of world-class paintings and objets d'art.

Atlanta is no stranger to political activism either. As the birthplace of Martin Luther King, the city has a whole area dedicated to the Civil Rights leader, and you could spend the best part of a day exploring his birth home and the various landmarks relating to his life.

The diverse cultures of the city are celebrated in the numerous festivals that are held throughout the year, and also in the wealth of restaurants that abound, serving anything from traditional fare to Italian, Mexican or Japanese cuisine. And after your meal, there's a great choice of bars to relax in where you'll find the true meaning of Southern comfort.