{Biltmore, Tapas-style: }

If my word's not enough, seems e v e r y o n e has something good to say about Asheville, North Carolina ~

• According to the Southern bible aka Southern Living, Asheville is "one of the South's coolest cities"
• AARP calls it a "Top 15 dream town" and says it's "one of the best places to reinvent your life"
• National Geographic included it in its list of "America's Top 100 Adventure Towns" 
• Retirement.com asserts it's the "most popular retirement town in the U.S."
• The Huffington Post ranks A'ville in its "Top Ten Undiscovered Cities for Local Food"
• After years in second place, Asheville lands the top spot in American Style's "Top 25 Arts Destinations" (small cities category)
• Imbibe Magazine awards it the "Best Craft Beer City in America"
• "Best Place for Business and Careers"?  Forbes says so
• It might not be going to the dogs, but DogFriendly says it's Top Dog.

While my list is hardly comprehensive, it demonstrates the diverse appeal of this small city with big heart.  George Vanderbilt was visionary in choosing its location for the Biltmore Estate.  

It will serve you well to make Asheville's Convention and Visitor's Bureau your first travel stop; there, you'll gain great perspective from helpful staff and volunteers about the "what to dos" and "where to eats".  I highly recommend a fun and informative Gray Line Trolley Tour to get you started–with unlimited "hop ons & offs" there's time to explore the nine stops along the way.  Touring with Sarah was one of my favorite treats along the way…even though !

Prior to a visit, be sure to follow @Foodtopia (Sherida Buchanan) and @AshevilleTravel (Dodie Stephens) on Twitter.  Both ladies will offer suggestions that will help you make the most of your visit.

Why do I really, REALLY like this city?  It's a feast for the senses! Not only is it a place leading in delicious, local farm-to-table restaurant options, but the architecture, beautiful landscape, arts culture, and outdoor adventures beg my enthusiasm!  

 
 
 For the bargain shopper who wants to do everything–an investment in a "Go Blue Ridge Card" will allow you entry for the Trolley Tours, Biltmore Estate, museum tours, whitewater rafting, discounts and so…much…more! 

Head's up if you're planning a trip to the area:  I'll have TWO to giveaway at the end of this series!  If you don't already, subscribe (for free) in a reader or by email so you'll be sure to learn details of the giveaway as soon as I post 'em!

Next up:  The Inn at Biltmore