Public Transport in Atlanta

Hi Folks,

I will be in Atlanta in march and need a few tips about public transport:

1- I will be hosted at Baymont Inn Downtown at Piedmont Av. NE (I have read now that neighborhood is bad...). At which Station must I stop if I take Marta at Airport?

2- Is there public transport from Downtown to Stone Mountain Park (I did not found at website)?

3- Is there public transport from Downtown to Six Flags Theme Park?

Thanks very much for any help.

See you

Public Transport in Atlanta

You can take MARTA (ItsMARTA.com) from the airport to the Peachtree Center Station if using public transportation. A cab or shuttle will run you about $20 - $25. There is no public transportation to Stone Mountain Park. MARTA stops in the city of Stone Mountain and it%26#39;s about a mile walk to the park. MARTA does run a shuttle to Six Flags from it%26#39;s last station on the west line. Info is on web site

Public Transport in Atlanta

I agree with ridecs. Re the Baymont I would find something else if you can, but would exercise extreme caution if you cannot find something else. I think you can find something better.

Ridecss,

Thanks for tips... I think I will take public transport to the Citi of Stone Mountain and then walk to the park...

JAtlanta,

Thanks for advice... I will consider to change my hotel reservation... If not change, I will take a lot of care...

Thanks again

Coming from Rio I would think you would have no problem with where you are staying. Atlanta has a homeless population just as Rio does. I would think if you stayed on International Blvd while walking you would be fine. Taking the Atlanta Trolley Tour Line will get you around to most attractions in the city itself. There office is located at Underground Atlanta which is on the MARTA Line Five Points station. I%26#39;ll be running a shuttle to Stone Mountain starting in April. How many people will be traveling with you?

I don%26#39;t think there%26#39;s a clear walking path to the park, but maybe someone more familiar with that area can confirm that.

Ridecss,

You are right, probably our situation in Rio is much worse than Atlanta (besides panhandlers we have robbers, with guns!). I believe I will be able to deal with the problem in Atlanta, taking a lot of care, including walking on main streets.

I will be alone in Atlanta only a week, in march.

Thanks for your advices.

Hi,

I stayed for a week and liked Atlanta. When there, I visited Stone Mountain Park.

How to go there if you do not have a car: Take the Metro on Eastbound direction until KENSINGTON Station. Drop and take the bus 118 (there is the name STONE MOUNTAIN on bus). This bus ride will take about 25 to 30 minutes. Drop at final stop, it is some half-mile walking from one park entrance (I believe it is west gate entrance). There is a big building, where you can learn about Stone Mountain creation and history of park (You must see, is very good!).

Then you can walk the trails until summit (it is easy, if you are a good walker) or walk on Robert Lee Boulevard until Main entrance of Park, where you can take the Skyride to climb mountain (round 6$ up or down and 10$ to up and down).

If you like to walk, this is the place to go, I really enjoyed to walk there.

Thanks to the people of Forum, your advices really helped me.

See you,

Hi,

I stayed for a week and liked Atlanta. When there, I visited Stone Mountain Park.

How to go there if you do not have a car: Take the Metro on Eastbound direction until KENSINGTON Station. Drop and take the bus 118 (there is the name STONE MOUNTAIN on bus). This bus ride will take about 25 to 30 minutes. Drop at final stop, it is some half-mile walking from one park entrance (I believe it is west gate entrance). There is a big building, where you can learn about Stone Mountain creation and history of park (You must see, is very good!).

Then you can walk the trails until summit (it is easy, if you are a good walker) or walk on Robert Lee Boulevard until Main entrance of Park, where you can take the Skyride to climb mountain (round 6$ up or down and 10$ to up and down).

If you like to walk, this is the place to go, I really enjoyed to walk there.

Thanks to the people of Forum, your advices really helped me.

See you,

Thanks for the trip report slowr. Which hotel did yo choose?

JAtlanta,

I stayed at Baymont Inn (a good hotel, overall), 3 blocks from Marta Peachtree Center Station.

It was exactly what people said at Forum: there were some panhandlers, but I used the method discussed here and worked fine: 1-No eye contact 2-Not stop walking 3-Just say ';no';. A little annoying, but I have seen no act of violence when in Atlanta, and it was good. Anyway, I did not felt comfortable coming back hotel late night (there are really few people at streets).

If back to Atlanta, I would prefer to stay in Midtown, but Downtown is not bad, only few persons walking on streets.

Thanks for your hospitality, I liked to stay and to know Atlanta.

The pocket and Keowyn Falls

We will be spending a night/day in a couple of weeks at the LaQuinta in Calhoun and I wondered how far these trails/falls are from there and if anyone can give me directions.

Also, any ideas on a relatively cheap restaurant that has good food??

Thanks

The pocket and Keowyn Falls

Take Sugar Valley Rd (conn. 136) to Rte 136, and right before 201/East Armurchee Rd. take a left on Pocket road. You%26#39;ll see a Favorite Market on the Right. There is a sign with mileage to the pocket and the falls.

By the pocket, you mean Johns Mountain, not Pidgeon mtn, right? There are two Pockets, and the better trail is Pidgeon mtn (though it is farther.) John%26#39;s mtn. pocket the one close to Keown, is built on the remains of an old CCC camp, has modern campsites, and a couple of trails; a small nature one and a longer one we haven%26#39;t taken yet.

I%26#39;m going to make a wild guess and say 30 minutes to get to the Keown Falls, and 60 minutes to get to Pidgeon Mtn. Pocket trail...or maybe it%26#39;s 60 minutes to the Rocktown trail on Pigeon...I love Rocktown.

Oh well, have fun.

The pocket and Keowyn Falls

Thanks for your reply. Will check out the Falls for sure. Are there any trails relatively close that we would be able to take our dog on that you know of?

Your original plan is good. Keowyn Falls gets a bit steep, I don%26#39;t know the kind of dog you have.

You can drive to the Overlook, then take the trail on the top to the Falls. It starts out really flat but has a steep section closer to the falls. It has great rocks for snake sunning or human picnicing.

The most level ones and shortest ones are Pilchers Pond (left side of the Pocket Road, hidden signage, either right before or right after Keown Falls entrance-Keown Falls will be on the right side of the road) and the Pocket campground. There%26#39;s a spring at the campground with some bridges. It%26#39;s a nice place.

Pilcher%26#39;s Pond trail connects to the Pinhoti trail, and that trail will take you to Alabama if you have the time.

Rocktown is our most famous trail in Northwest GA. I don%26#39;t know where you live or if you%26#39;ll ever be back. It%26#39;s a flat trail, one mile in to the boulders, but you%26#39;re driving on a rutted out dirt road to the top of the mountain. All this rain we%26#39;ve had recently could%26#39;ve have closed the road. It%26#39;s worth looking into.

Please find out when turkey season ends. And wear something bright if it%26#39;s still on when you go.

I mean it.

Thanks for all your great tips! Do you know if there is a website that would tell me if turkey season was open or not on the weekend of the 17th ?

Ah, you%26#39;re from Canada. I will help on this one. Hunting regulations vary by state, so for Georgia, you would look under the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. I did this and saw that the turkey season is until May 15.

I have thought of another option. Rome, GA is 25-30 minutes away. You could walk along their riverwalk. It%26#39;s fairly woodsy. The hotel should be able to help you, or Randmncally.com for directions.

Thanks SO much for all your help with this!

No problem. If you do go to Rome, then I can recommend a restaurant. Well, deli. It may not be open for dinner. Come to think of it, it%26#39;s been three years since I worked in Rome, so it may not be there, but the locals loved it. It%26#39;s called Ana%26#39;s Deli. Very italian influence.

An Italian deli in Rome!! I love it!

Thanks!

Savannah and Charleston in 3 days

We are going to be in Jacksonville in mid-May and plan to visit Savannah and Charleston, but unfortunately have only three days. We want to stay in one place and my husband doesn%26#39;t mind driving. Leaving Jacksonville at about noon, would it be best to stay in Savannah, spend the next day in Charleston, and finish our tour of Savannah on the following day?

Savannah and Charleston in 3 days

It takes 1.5 - 2 hours to Charleston from Savannah, leave early and you could see the sites and be back in Savannah for a late dinner.

It is about the same Jax to Savannah so you will have time to wander around or take a trolley tour your first day here. Then have a nice relaxing full day in Savannah before you head out.

That is how I would do it.

Savannah and Charleston in 3 days

Thank you. We have some free nights at La Quinta. How is the one in Savannah?

Weather 2nd week of April

My family and I are coming to tybee island from April 6thy-11th. Will the ocean be warm enough to swim in for children?

Weather 2nd week of April

Probably not; see this table of averages, which shows the average high to be 74 degrees:

weather.com/weather/…

Water temps need to be in the 80s to be comfortable, 60%26#39;s-70s would be very cool

Weather 2nd week of April

It will be warm enough to PLAY in. Actual swimming might be a bit chilly unless they were used to that temperature. Swimming in the ocean is not a good idea for children. There are tricky tides out beyond the surf line.

The weather has been so unusual this year that it might be almost anything.

Hey, my family are coming to Tybee in June. Is the ocean not safe for children at all, or just in April? I have 16, 11, and 8 year-olds who swim very well. What do you think?

face mask

safety walking downtown Atlanta

We will be in Atlanta from April 16-19. We have an event at the Aquarium on Friday night from 6-10pm. It%26#39;s within walking distance from our hotel (Omni,3 blocks) according to google maps. It%26#39;s just going to be me and my 14 year old son. I have read many remarks about safety concerns.

Wondering if anyone can comment on that.

safety walking downtown Atlanta

I wouldn%26#39;t have a problem with making that walk. It%26#39;s not exactly the part of downtown where you%26#39;re likely to encounter many panhandlers, and the area is very well-lit. The walk is not as far as three blocks, closer to 2.

Saturday Night in Macon

Hello

I am on a music/civil war road trip and will be staying at the HI Express and would like a decent hangout in the city for a beer food and some tunes - preferably blues and rock. I would rather not drive can anyone suggest a place in the city that might fit the bill? I will be with my American girlfriend who has the same tastes and will be visiting the Music Hall of fame on the Sunday. Also to pay my respects to Duane Allman at Rose Hill.

Thanks in advance

Saturday Night in Macon

Rose Hill is a must- Duane and Berry are laid to rest side by side, and it%26#39;s a beautiful place.

Sorry don%26#39;t know about Macon nightlife, only been to concerts there at the colisseum.

Saturday Night in Macon

Spider,

Your best bet for food, a few beers and some live music would be to hit the Rookery on Cherry Street its about 2-3 block from the music hall of fame. There used to be a rock/blues venue next door to the Rookery called Liz Reed%26#39;s not sure if its still there or not or if the music format has changed. Also if you want to meet the woman in charge of keeping Duane, Greg and the rest of the gang fed when they were young starving musicians go visit mama Louise over at H %26amp; H restarurant. It is also located right downtown.

hiring a car in atlanta

Hi, can anyone help. we are doing a 16 day tour of georgia, nc and sc starting and ending in atlanta in june this year. the whole thing is booked apart from the hire car, they are all much of a muchness but we are coming in late and with a 4 year old so would really appreciate a heads up on which is the easiest car hire company to deal with at the atlanta airport so we can reduce our stresses as much as possible

thanks for any help

Emma

hiring a car in atlanta

Hi

I have found that www.netflights.co.uk give the best deal on car hire and it is best to book from the UK to make sure you get all the insurances you need in advance, some car companies will really push extra%26#39;s at high price%26#39;s once you are there. I have not picked up from ATL before but are doing so this May. We have gone with Thrifty, as was the best price, hopfully they will be alright. As far as I could see all the rental companies are bus pick up to their car lot%26#39;s.

Clive

hiring a car in atlanta

While Thrifty is usually less expensive than most other companies, I have found that at least with the airport rental location you get what you pay for. The cars are older, cheaper and not as clean (expect a Kia), and the facilities are run down and further from the airport. I have found it understaffed too.

If renting from the airport, Avis has the nicest facilities and most convenient check-in. I like Enterprise as well, and generally use Enterprise most because of its prices. I have not used Hertz in Atlanta, but would expect it to be on par with Avis and Enterprise.

Hi

Oh dear, JAtlanta, I hope we don%26#39;t end up with rent-a wreck! We were told a Sebring or similar. The website we booked from offer the same deal with dollar or thrifty, just that thrifty were about 拢40 cheaper for supposidly the same car.

Clive

I wouldn%26#39;t be too worried. The car should be new and reasonably clean. It%26#39;s just that you might get a Kia or the like. The rental office at that Thrifty isn%26#39;t very nice but it is probably worth a small inconvenience to save so much money. My advice to emmauk is just that, price being equal, Thrifty would not be my first choice.

thanks so much for the help, I booked with Avis since I got a voucher from my BA flght booking and got quite a bargain for a 4x4 which we wanted for our long trip. looks like they have a 3minute check in - to the car which sounds perfect for our daughter!!!

I have hired with just about every bodge it and badge it company through africa and have never had anything that%26#39;s worse than my own car at home, I really wouldn%26#39;t worry at all.

Hi

Thanks for that, it is the fist time we have used Thrifty, we have in the past used Alamo,Dollar and Hertz and they have been fine. This year the prices have soared, we are paying the same or possibly a bit more for a mid size when we usually have a luxury or premium. We have had some really nice car%26#39;s before like a Park Avenue, wanted to take that one home!

Clive

If it is any consolation I have used Thrifty the last 3 times that I have travelled, just because they are a good deal cheaper than the anyone else. The car I have consistently gotten has been a Chrysler Sebring which is pretty decent. Most come in a convertible model if that is of any interest to you and always have been reliable, nice cars to drive.

Hi

Thanks moonlightmile, we have just booked a standard car, as long as it is reliable and preferable clean, that%26#39;s all we need.

Clive

Masters Tix

We paid a fortune today for 3 Masters Tix (face value is 36 dollars - add a 0 and that%26#39;s what we paid)....Anybody know where we could get 3 for the next few days...otherwise it%26#39;ll be costly, but worth it.

Masters Tix

Sorry, but your best bet is probably the same route thru which you got your tickets on 4/7 (and count on them costing a little more if tournament badges). Actually, the cost of badges is down some this year as the big corporations aren%26#39;r coming into town this year. It is still a pricey ticket since the waiting list for face value badges closed over 20 years ago.

thank you

thank you for smoking info for atlanta. hope its still that way.

Everything (decent) seems to be booked - Help!

I would like to know what locations/towns are in the Savannah vicinity, as so many places where we%26#39;d like to stay (B %26amp; B%26#39;s, hotels in historic district, etc.) are booked for the time we will be in Savannah. We will be there 4/16, 4/17, 4/18.

At this point, we%26#39;d be willing to stay in the Savannah vicinity, but aren%26#39;t sure what is a decent drive from there. We don%26#39;t want to be too far out, but about the only thing available in Savannah are hotels at or near the airport.

Any comments/suggestions would be most appreciated. Thank you.

Everything (decent) seems to be booked - Help!

What price range are you looking at?

I can only guess that some of the B%26amp;Bs still have availability for that weekend due to recent conversations with owners about the economy.

I%26#39;d contact some of the larger properties (more than 4 rooms) - ie: Catherine Ward House, Dresser Palmer

Also - you may want to call places - see if there is anything available if you%26#39;re willing to move (if you are) - sometimes it%26#39;s not that they%26#39;re actually booked solid, just that they don%26#39;t have one room for all three nights.

Everything (decent) seems to be booked - Help!

If you are near I-95 at the airport, you are 10-15 minutes on the freeway form downtown. It is an easy drive, a little traffic early but nothing like a big city.

Also the ';gateway'; area, Hwy 204 and I-95 is about the same length trip, use the freeway, not 204 to get to the HD.

We stayed at the Catherine Ward House and loved it!! Give them a call. Super nice people

I say take what you can get NOW! Even if it is out by the airport.

Recession, schmession, this week and next week are the two busiest tourist weeks of the year in Savannah because of school spring breaks around Easter. There are tens of thousands of people here now visiting and there will be next week, also. I went to River Street Sweets yesterday at 5pm on River Street and picked the shortest of 4 check out lines - I still had to wait behind 6 other customers checking out.

Also, look at hotels/motels listed in the Midtown area. just about 4-5 miles from the historic district.

Call Destination Savannah, at 912-231-8235. This is a hotel reservations booking company located in Savannah. They do not charge for their services. We had friends who arrived here without reservations and were told to try Destination Savannah. They did, and ended up in a hotel in the heart of old Savannah, with a discount that was not being advertised onlien or anywhere else. Apparently this company has a working relationship with the hotels %26amp; inns, that%26#39;s all they do.

I%26#39;d say, give them a call, see if they can help. Ya nevers knows untils ya tries.

Go to Hilton Head and get a beachfront property, then drive to savannah

Miketeresa, I disagree with your suggestion of renting beachfront property on Hilton Head, in mid-April. Tybee Island, Savannah%26#39;s own beach would be much closer and easier to see Savannah, nd a heck of a lot less expensive than HHI. Hilton Head is a good 45-55 minutes way, and think how awful the traffic along 278 will be in April. It rivals Atlanta%26#39;s mess.

The Bed and Breakfast Inn www.savannahbnb.com has availability. Check the website for rates/specials and pictures of the rooms.

well i do agree with what you are saying about tybee, the problem with tybee is that it will also most likely be completely booked, due to the small number of rooms that you have to start with. And although HHI is more expensive than tybee, it is less expensive than savannah. I have booked 4 star hotels consistently for $79-99/night. You cant do that in savannah%26#39;s historic district. Its onlly about a 30 minute drive once you figure out where you are going.

face mask

Atlanta Marriott Marquis Aug 8-15, 2 adults 2 kids (4&7)

Hello TA members, I am looking for resturante/food discount coupons and entertainment package deals to Six Flags, Georgia Aquarium, etc....

Also do you guys also think a rental car is neccessary? Thanks in advance for any info you may have.

Atlanta Marriott Marquis Aug 8-15, 2 adults 2 kids (4%26amp;7)

Here%26#39;s a good option for an entertainment package:

http://www.citypass.com/city/atlanta.html

Also, the aquarium%26#39;s own website sells packages for the aquarium and other attractions:

georgiaaquarium.org/acb/stores/1/Special-Off…

You don%26#39;t absoluately have to have a car, but getting to the zoo and 6 Flags will require a train then a bus, which is a lot of hassle with a family. I would rent a car if I were you.

Atlanta Marriott Marquis Aug 8-15, 2 adults 2 kids (4%26amp;7)

Thanks for the info...

Coca Cola often offers a Six Flags discount on the side of locally sold cans of Coke. You might want to see if this is available when you come. Also, check out Whitewater. Have fun.

Also, the Atlanta Braves are running a promotion:

buy on upper box or lower outfield ticket, receive one free- for Sunday through Thursday games.

braves.com/shopper

promotion code: BRVSAVVY

I would rent a car for sure.

buy ';one'; not ';on';- whoops

highway 411

how busy is this road from I-59 to I-75 -looking for a way from Marietta to Gadsden- will be in Marietta the weekend of Talladega race and trying to avoid I-20 or is there a better way?

Single CA Dad with 17 year old son

We%26#39;ll be in Atlanta July 3-8 for volleyball tournament at World Congress Center. My son will be staying at team hotel.My parental responsiblity will be watching VB during day and going solo at night. Dont mind driving to WCC to watch VB and staying in Buckhead, Midtown etc. Enjoy nice retaurants and a good bar for people watching. Let me know. Thanks

Single CA Dad with 17 year old son

What%26#39;s the question?

Looking for nice overnight trip from Atlanta

Wants..To see northern parts of Ga on the way, and mountains on the way to whatever place we pick.

I know there is Biltmore house, this sounds like a good choice, lots of stuff to do and see around there.(hopefully nice things to see on the way up) This may be what we end up doing, as we would see mountains and sights on the way to Biltmore, but wandering if there are any other good options.

We mainly want to see mountains on the way and whatever we pick as a destination should have lots of things to do and see. Scenic stuff, nice resturants and shopping. Not so big on camping or rafting or things like that.

Anyone have suggestions or does Biltmore sound about what I am looking for?

We would probably want to leave in the morning and come back the evening of the next day...

Looking for nice overnight trip from Atlanta

Go up 985 to Clayton and Dillard- eat at Dillard house and go over to Franklin NC then to Highland NC and on to Biltmore House. 64 is a nice mountain route with waterfalls and scenic river setting.

Thank you All for suggestions for (decent place in Savannah!

I appreciate the many people who took the time to respond to my inquiry. I%26#39;ve taken all your suggestions and have been working on your ideas. I did find one B%26amp;B with rooms, just have to switch. With the third night, I think we%26#39;re pretty solid on a decision. I%26#39;m looking forward to the trip...it sounds like we picked the wrong time to be there. Oh, how I hate crowds. Oh well...will enjoy it anyway.

Again- many thanks to all for your responses. This forum is travelers%26#39; gold, isn%26#39;t it!!!

Thank you All for suggestions for (decent place in Savannah!

When thinking ';crowds'; don%26#39;t think Disney world. At our busiest, it is still pretty easy to move around and see what you want to see.

Enjoy your visit.

Dinner after cooking class?

Hey Guys,

On our anniversary I am surprising my husband with a cooking class at the Mansion at Forsyth Park. The class is from 3-6pm and is on Southern Food, and I believe you eat the food after its prepared.

Since its our anniversary, I really wanted to go out to a romantic dinner at The Olde Pink House, but am not sure if we would want to eat again by later that night.

Soooo whats everyone%26#39;s opinion on cooking class ending at 6pm, and maybe a late dinner at the Olde Pink House at 9pm?

Thanks!

Dinner after cooking class?

You%26#39;ll be stuffed! Why not go for romantic dessert and a nice after-dinner drink or coffee?

Dinner after cooking class?

Nice idea Mame, maybe go to Vic%26#39;s, the bar has tables and a nice little balcony over River Street. We have spent hours on that balcony. Enjoy the view maybe a cocktail, then dessert and coffee, it doesn%26#39;t get much better...

Great idea guys- thanks!!

I have a quick question about Vic%26#39;s- if we are going there for dessert %26amp; drinks do we need a reservation? Thanks!

face mask

Lake Lanier or Savannah

Hi

We are coming to Atlanta in May (me, husband and 4 yr old) but before we come home would like to spend a couple of nights in Savannah which I know is approx 4 hours drive.

I have also looked at Lake Lanier which is obviously a lot closer but entirely different to Savannah.

I am struggling to decide which to do and wish I had time to do both!

Any advice would be greatly appreciated, thanks a lot.

Lake Lanier or Savannah

I%26#39;m not sure what to tell you. You%26#39;re talking about very different experiences. What is your goal in the destination?

Lake Lanier or Savannah

I can answer your question. SAVANNAH!!!

The water levels are not where they need to be to enjoy Lake Lanier, plus the water may still be cold in May at Lake Lanier, but if you want to go to Tybee Island in Savannah, you can enjoy the beach.

Savannah/Tybee - Great historical city, not much to do around Lanier, lake is very low.

I live near Lake Lanier and love it here but cannot imagine it as a vacation spot unless you enjoy fishing or boating. There are outlet malls nearby but that is not my idea of a vacation either. Savannah would have much more history but I cannot say it is too geared toward a 4 year old...lots of historical buildings,etc. I think the adults would like it...just depends on the child%26#39;s ability to hang in there. There are tours by bus or trolley avaliable. One of these you can hop on and off at locations you want to visit. I would check with TA Savannah forum. Have a great trip:-)

Savannah, hands down. Lake Lanier is really not that special.

Unless you have a particular water-related reason to go to Lake Lanier, there%26#39;s no real reason to go there over Savannah. I have been a few times sailing with my grandfather, but that was as a day trip from Ellijay, not the latter part of a vacation. (Plus, we have a sailboat.) :)

What exactly are you looking for in a destination? Given a certain set of interests, the North Georgia Mountains, Biltmore Estate in Asheville, Nantahala National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, or Chattanooga could make just as good options as Savannah. (And the N. GA mtns and Chattanooga are half the driving distance.)

Kristian

Savannah,no question.

Hands down, Savannah. There is absolutely nothing to do at Lake Lanier, especially now that the water level is down. And even when there wasn%26#39;t a drought, it%26#39;s still incredibly boring.

Savannah is a beautiful historical city loved it when i went there you will love it too.

I live about 10 mins from Lake Lanier and it%26#39;s one huge benefit is that it is beautiful, more so of course, when the water is high. We%26#39;ve had loads of rain lately (think: ';Seattle';) and the water levels are up but probably not to table. So, if you do choose it, keep that in mind. If you like to camp %26amp; boat %26amp; fish, it would probably be a very relaxing albiet, laid back vacation. There are also a lot of hiking trails around the lake, for the outdoorsy person.

For children, there is Lake Lanier Islands though as someone else said, in May the water is probably not going to be as warm as you might like. That said, I%26#39;m thinking June or July would be better for a trip to the lake and even then, I%26#39;d would use it as a ';home base'; to getting out and seeing the mountains, hiking the Appalachian Trail and possibly taking a driving, motorcycle or horseback riding tour.

But, I%26#39;m an outdoors person and the thought of going to the outlet mall on vacation makes me feel all pinched up inside. :D

Good luck!

LB in GA

Vrakhon Open Air Theatre in Athens ? where is it

Hello All,

1) Do you know location or Vrakhon Open Air Theatre in Athens ? any websites or good links. The place is for concerts etc.

2) Any decent places to stay Hotels etc ..

Thankyou

Alan

Liverpool

Vrakhon Open Air Theatre in Athens ? where is it

I think you are looking for Athens, Greece, rather than Athens, Georgia.

New Restaurants in Midtown

I will be staying at the Georgian Terrace in Midtown in a few weeks and was wondering if any new good restaurants were in that area. I have been to Mary Mac%26#39;s Tea Room, Ecco and the Greek restaurant ???.

I am planning to see Chitty Chitty Bang Bang on Tuesday at the Fox, Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris at the Alliance Theatre on Wed and And Her Hair Went With Her at the Horizon Theatre on Thursday.

Thanks,

Porc

1 Year Anniversary on Tybee Island

Hey everyone. My wife and I plan on spending our 1 year anniversary at Tybee Island/Savannah. It will be from Aug 9 - 14th. We would like to keep the price at $90 - $100 a night if possible. Where are the best options to stay? Where are the best places to go on Tybee Island? I will post later on in the Savannah thread for places to go there.

Thanks

1 Year Anniversary on Tybee Island

We stay at the Savannah Beach and Racquet Club most of the time when we go to Tybee. The condos are nice and usually reasonable. It is on the North side which has its pro%26#39;s and cons. The water for some reason is on the grey side color wise but it is very quiet with private access to the beach and has its own pool. It is usually quiet especially when me and my wife aren%26#39;t there partying on deck by the pool until 4 in the morning.

The thing with Tybee is that everything is close no matter where you stay because the island is so small.

Tybee is a magical place. For some reason all troubles go away once you cross the bridge. it isn%26#39;t the prettiest place overall and God help you if you stay anywhere the sewage treatment plant in the hot summer months but for those of us who ';get it'; there is no place on Earth better than Tybee.

Best places to eat in Historic District

My husband and I are going to visit Savannah sometime this summer and we were wondering where would you suggest that we go for plenty of food for not a not so high price.

We are looking for southern and seafood. We wanted to try Paula Deen%26#39;s restaurant but just in case we do not get in there we want a lot of food for little price if possible.

Thank you in advance for your help.

Best places to eat in Historic District

Here is a quick list of the ten best restaurants in Savannah. Most of these are in the Historic district, including Lady and Sons.

what-are-the-best.com/the-best-savannah-rest…

Best places to eat in Historic District

I%26#39;d give Mrs. Wilkes a try for Southern food served family-style. They are only open for lunch and only during the week. There%26#39;s usually quite a line so try to get there early to beat the crowds. For me, it%26#39;s a ';must-do'; experience---a true Savannah institution!

If you%26#39;re looking for '; a lot of food for little price';, then you%26#39;ll do well to go to a place like Golden Corral or S%26amp;S Cafeteria..the food at Lady and Sons is about the same quality, way over hyped as a tourist trap.

Thanks everyone.

soona99 and everyone else, if you believe that ';what is the best'; list, you will be disappointed, I assure you.

Some belong there others absolutely do not.

Which do you think belong and which do not? ';Best'; is such a subjective word it%26#39;s hard to say what would be considered best by one person. Many people rave about Lady %26amp; Sons while others think it%26#39;s mediocre at best. I always liked it though because I%26#39;m a fan of Paula Deen%26#39;s.

Just got back from a ';girls week'; trip to Savannah and Charleston. While we did enjoy both Mrs. Wilkes and Lady %26amp; Sons, I have to say one of my favorites was J. Christopher%26#39;s on Liberty St. for Sunday brunch.

Molly MacPherson%26#39;s Scottish Pub %26amp; Grill

We got back from Savannah on Saturday. Many of the locals warned us against eating at Lady and Sons. We did go to Mrs. Wilkes and it was wonderful! We got there at about 12:30 on Friday and waited a little over 1 hour. It%26#39;s the best fried chicken I%26#39;ve ever had. Not greasy at all. We had 22 side dishes, dessert and sweet tea.

hope you enjoy Savannah as much as we did!!

We%26#39;ve figured out that the best way to avoid standing in long lines at Mrs. Wilkes is to arrive around 10:30am and you%26#39;ll be the first group seated at 11. Just remember to skip breakfast!

Time to kill in ATL

Hello,

I will be in ATL next week for a conference that ends on Friday afternoon and I will have about 5.5 hours before I need to get to the airport for my flight back. I wanted to check out a few places and I am still deciding between the Downtown or Midtown areas. Downtown is probably getting a slight edge as my hubby and I are CNN freaks. The only problem is I will have my bags with me as the hotel is way out at the Dunwoody MARTA so I was wondering if there are baggage storage options or attractions that offer storage in either of those areas? Does anyone know if a hotel that you are NOT staying at would let you store there for a fee? Also, any recommendations for some good, cheap, fast food in either area would be greatly appreciated!

Time to kill in ATL

There isn%26#39;t any storage in CNN Center (I%26#39;m assuming that ';CNN freaks'; would be taking the CNN tour). You could call the Omni hotel in the CNN Center to see if their concierge will store your luggage for a fee.

face mask

Hyatt Regency Atlanta

We will be staying at Hyatt Regency Atlanta next week. Does any knows the difference among the 3 towers? Are all the rooms already renovated? Which is the best tower to stay? Is the concierge level worth it? Thanks.

Hyatt Regency Atlanta

Try checking the recent reviews for the hotel. You can message someone who has posted a review and ask these questions, too.

tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g60898-d86214-R…

St. Patrick's Day Tip for attending Mass @ Cathedral

The annual St. Patrick%26#39;s Day Mass, held at 8a.m. at the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist attracts thousands of parishioners as well as visitors, Catholic and non-Catholics.

It%26#39;s impressive, full of pomp and ceremony and worship. The sanctuary falls silent when the parade Grand Marshall enters, then everyone bursts into applause. This year%26#39;s honoree is the Rev. Patrick O%26#39;Brien. Ask anyone in Savannah about Father O%26#39;Brien. We all know him, Catholic or not.

The doors open at 7a.m. if you plan to attend Mass, be seated no later than 7:30a.m. It will be packed to the rafters, and no holding of seats in the pews is allowed. Everyone is welcome, just remember to observe the Catholic rules governing Communion, etc.

The St. Patricks%26#39; Day Mass is well worth the effort, especially if you are here for the first time. I never miss it.

St. Patrick's Day Tip for attending Mass @ Cathedral

How about Easter Mass? or is there another church with an awesome Easter service?

St. Patrick's Day Tip for attending Mass @ Cathedral

Every church in town will have an awesome Easter service. The Cathedral has 4 Sunday Masses:

An 8am Mass which is quiet

a 10am Mass with the men%26#39;s choir (wonderful baratones and tenors)

An 11:30am Mass with the women%26#39;s choir (voices of angels)

A 1pm Latin Rite Mass (in our diocese, the Latin Rite Mass is not recognized as fulfilling your Sunday obligation)

If you go to the Cathedral for their vigil Mass on Saturday, the Bishop will be the celebrant but be forwarned, every year about 25-30 new Catholics are recieved into full communion at that Mass, and your normal 1 hour service will be a 2.5 to 3 hour service. The Deanery Choir sings at that one (a mix of men and women) and it is beautiful, albeit time consuming for those who don%26#39;t have loved ones converting.

Getting ready to head north to Savannah and if we don%26#39;t over party tonight hope to be at the Mass Tuesday morning. Thank you for the tips!!

Aye, will see you there ! Will make sure you make it to Mass ! Party !

A 1pm Latin Rite Mass (in our diocese, the Latin Rite Mass is not recognized as fulfilling your Sunday obligation)

May I ask how this could be? I think there may be a mis-understanding.

I am traveling and was planning on going to tht mass.

Tony.

The Latin Rite Mass has been allowed by Pope Benedict as a concession to many traditional Catholics. The Vatican has stated that the Mass can be celebrated for the faithful who find spiritual renewal from the Latin Rite, but it does not fulfill weekly obligation.

I am not a theologian, and I am only guessing, but because the Catholic Church is ';universal';, I think that regular Mass is what fulfills obligation because that is the liturgy celebrated world-wide. The Latin Rite Mass is not celebrated world-wide.

Once again, I am not a theologian, so please, please don%26#39;t take that guess as the reason. I would call the Diocese of Savannah and ask them for the reason. But I do know that at least in this Diocese it doesn%26#39;t meet weekly obligation.

Here is contact info:

www.diosav.org

On the contrary, the Latin Mass (the Extraordinary Form of the Mass) most certainly fulfills a Roman Catholic%26#39;s Sunday Obligation.

Please read:

ewtn.com/library/鈥16SummorumPontificum.htm

The Latin Mass is celebrated widely, and across the globe.

I understand, but you have to realize that each (arch)diocese%26#39;s jurisdiction rests with their Cardinal/Achbishop/Bishop. Our local bishop has stated that in the Diocese of Savannah the Latin Rite Mass does not fulfill Sunday obligation. So even though it might in other areas, it doesn%26#39;t here.

Where has Bishop Boland said anything to this effect?

It would certainly be strange to welcome the Mass at the Cathedral and even have it said by the Chancellor if it were in some way not wholly valid.

I advise you to contact the Rector at the Cathedral (who also says the Latin Mass) if you have any further doubts on the matter.

Hello Everyone!

I heard there is a new place Sans Boutique ( hotel) ? Close to 95 can anyone give any details? I did a search and nothing came up.

Thanks in advance

Hello Everyone!

do a google search for Sans Boutique, Savannah Ga. It%26#39;s there.

Hello Everyone!

Thanks...

Goggle is a great tool and yellowpages.com as well just wondering if anyone has heard anything good and or bad about the place.I have read the reviews and nothing very recent.

Oopsie Daisy I had left out an apostrophe

tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g60814-d625278-…

Savannah With Kids

I will be traveling to Savannah next week with my 2 kids, age 4 %26amp; 6. Anyone have any resturant recommendations for dinner? My kids are very well behaved and I am not just saying that because I am thier mom ;) I plan on seeing Tybee in the evening for the neat tide pools and maybe a little toe dipping because it is going to be cool. Anything else I shouldn%26#39;t miss while I am there that my kids might enjoy?

Savannah With Kids

For a restaurant, I%26#39;d suggest the Pirates House. Your kids would love the Pirate theme and the food is very good. The building is old with a lot of character and history.

Savannah With Kids

Sorry to piggyback on your topic, Jennifer. I also have a question relating to Savannah with kids. I%26#39;ll be there in a couple weeks with an 18 month old, and I%26#39;m wondering if there are spots in and around the historic downtown where we can stop for a breather. I understand there are some parks, but any good playgrounds, and any places that the particularly small set would enjoy visiting?

Thanks!

Every ';square'; (if you call them parks everyone knows you are a tourist) is a little green space with benches and most with fountains. They are pretty much every other block in all directions, in the HD.

There are no tide pools on Tybee, it is pure sand beach, lots of water though.

Forsyth park has a little playground, unfortunately the one designed for tiny kids is closed because of some construction adjacent. The older kids section, swings, slide etc is open though.

There is also a playground with a couple of picnic tables adjacent to Colonial Park Cemetary, which is a bit more centrally located. Off of Abercorn and Oglethorpe

Dolphin Tours

We%26#39;re interested in taking a dolphin tour/cruise. Love those beautiful creatures. If anyone has taken one of these tours, could you please tell me about your experience(s) and which company you chose to take the tour/cruise....the pros and cons, etc.

All information you could supply would be most appreciated.

Thank you.

Dolphin Tours

The Atlantic bottlenose dolphin are everywhere in our local waters. They will come right up to the boats but remember that it is illegal to feed any dolphin, no matter how cute they are. Just this week there our Savannah Morning News ran an article with a picture showing a foolish tour operator feeding a dolphin like it was a SeaWorld show. The Ga. Dept. of Natural Resources is on to these idiots with stiff fines, and if they keep it up, I can see them being shut down. Dolphin are not Flipper, they%26#39;re a wild animal.

One dolphin tour departs from River Street ---Dolphin Magic? You%26#39;re all but guaranteed to see dolphin, and on a rare occasion, a manatee.

Dolphin Tours

Thank you for your response. I appreciate your input.

Day Spa/Salon Atlanta

Hi All. I%26#39;m flying to Atlanta tomorrow and am in despeate need of some tlc! Can anyone give me an idea where to go for a massage, mani/pedicure, facial..general spoiling?! Please. I%26#39;ll be in Sandy Springs. Thanks xx

Day Spa/Salon Atlanta

I would recommend the Spa Sydell in Sandy Springs:

www.spasydell.com/Locations/Park-Place.aspx

Day Spa/Salon Atlanta

Thank you so much, I%26#39;ll check that out. Thanks for getting back to me so quickly

No problemo. You%26#39;ll have a more relaxing day that I%26#39;m having.

Definitely Spa Sydel -- be careful, as many of our ';massage parlors'; that you would find in the yellow pages are just fronts for prostitution businesses.

Well JAtlanta, wanna join me?!

Thanks miketeresa, I appreciate the advice. That%26#39;s all i need, make an appointment at a place like that!!

yes, thats why i warned you -- if they ask you if you want a ';happy ending'; you are in the wrong place. LOL

You%26#39;ll know before you even get out of the car whether it%26#39;s an upscale spa or a ';massage parlor.'; Actually, you%26#39;ll know by the name.

Rucey I wish I could join you. I am getting ready for a ';relaxing'; 14 hours flight to Dubai tonight.

Ooh Jatlanta-ick on the flight but yay on Dubai! Hope you have a safe trip. I hear you, I have to fly home to London at some point soon. Miketeresa, thanks so much for the advice-don%26#39;t think my boyfriend would see that as me having a pampering session!

face mask

How to dress?

Traveling to Savannah for a week in the beginning of May......we are basically Tevas, shorts and t-shirt guys and gals in the day time........prefer dressier casual in the evening..are we OK for Savannah?

How to dress?

You%26#39;ll look like you were born here!

Just don%26#39;t forget the dressier casual in the evening, especially if you go to one of the better restaurants.

How to dress?

Thank you, looking forward to our trip.

Getaways close to Atlanta

My husband and I will be celebrating our anniversary in a couple of months, but we can%26#39;t stray far form Atlanta, as our anniversary is within a few weeks of my due date (I%26#39;m pregnant). Can anyone recommend a nice getaway that is within an hour of the city? It looks like the Ritz at Lake Oconee is going to be a little too far (though it would otherwise be perfect). Thank you!

Getaways close to Atlanta

You don%26#39;t have many options. Maybe Chateau Elan but I%26#39;ve read some tepid reviews about that resort recently. Why not just get a room at a fancy hotel in Atlanta and treat youselves to some spa treatments?

Getaways close to Atlanta

I am not sure what you are into, but I have heard some good things about Madison, GA. It is a beautiful small town with a lot of historic structures. They have 6 or 7 Bed and Breakfasts. It might be a nice getaway and is about an hour east of Atlanta off I20.

Barnsley Gardens would work....60 miles north of atlanta.

Lake Oconee isnt that far, about 1.5 hours from atlanta, and the Ritz might have a romantic package, but if you are not into the ';lake activities';, there isnt much to do out there. We often make Atlanta our destination, we will get a hotel room in town with an indoor pool (during the cold months) and then enjoy dinner somewhere and go see a play at the Fox. Obviously there are many other things to do and see, depending upon what you have already done.

The next place on our list to visit is this one in palmetto, havent been yet, but it looks great:

http://www.serenbe.com/

Of course there is always the north ga mountains, madison, stone mtn, callaway, and antiqueing in Chamblee or Jonesboro.

And dont forget the state parks, as many have lodges or cabins that are very nice and affordable.

There are also several resorts around Lake Lanier.

Why not try Madison Georgia, like the other poster suggested?

It is not as far as the Ritz at Lake Oconee and it does have more to do.

I would recommend the James Madison Inn, as they do a variety of romantic getaway packages, as can be seen on their website. www.jamesmadisoninn.com

Depending on when you arrive in Madison, there are the tour of homes, chamber music festival, mini car festival and all other sorts of wonderful events.

Check out www.madisonga.org for details.

The Ritz at Lake Oconee is amazing! I would hightly suggest that. They also allow complimentary service of the spa facilities (sauna, hot tub, etc). It is only 30 mins from Madison and should take 1.5 hrs. It is a pretty quick drive.

Check out a beautiful inn in a farm community which boasts organically-farmed ingredients only in their restaurant:

www.serenbeinn.com

Go to the New York Times web site and search under ';Serenbe Inn'; for a recent article about the history of the unique and quaint farm community within an easy drive of the Atlanta airport.

www.nytimes.org

Read about, or ask the inn management, about their ';Thursday'; specials, or the special they run whereby you can get a beautiful room at a sizeable discount.

Happy anniversary!

I like the Serenbe idea. There%26#39;s also Glen Ella Springs Inn.

I took a similar trip to the Evergreen at Stone Mountain and had a wonderful pre-natal massage and pedicure. It was a great experience.

Thanks for the suggestions. We%26#39;ve been to the Ritz at Lake Oconee a couple of times and loved it, but the more I think about it, the more an hour to an hour and a half in the car seems too long if something should happen and I go into labor early. Serenbe looks good, but the reviews of accommodations look mixed. I%26#39;m not sure I want to risk it right now -- maybe we%26#39;ll try it next year. I will check out the Stone Mountain idea. Otherwise, I like the suggestion that we stay in town. A couple of nights at the Ritz in Buckhead or something similar with a prenatal spa package, dinner and a show could be nice. Thanks all!

Have fun and all the best with the new baby:-)

Need a Motel close to 6 Flags

Does anyone know of a good CLEAN Motel close to 6 Flags . looking for safe , clean and priced good !!! can u help me?

Need a Motel close to 6 Flags

The area around Six Flags really is not the nicest or the safest. If Six Flags is the only reason you%26#39;re coming to Atlanta, I would recommend staying a few exits west of Six Flags, perhaps in Douglasville, and just driving a few minutes more to get to the park.

Need a Motel close to 6 Flags

thankyou. yes I was told the motels around 6 flags were not that good. Do you know of an exit with motels and food?

Stay at the Sleep Inn at Highway 5 exit. There is a McDonalds, Zaxbys, Cracker Barrel, Walmart and Arbor Place Mall close by. We stayed at the Sleep Inn when our house was struck by lightning last year. It will only take you about 15 minutes to get to Six Flags.

The main exit for Douglasville is Chapel Hill Road, which is Exit 36, but I think anyway in Douglasville would be OK. You probably won%26#39;t fine fine dining, but there should be plenty of chain restaurants around.

The Douglasville exits are Hwy 5, Chapel Hill, Fairburn Rd. The Lithia Springs exits are Lee Rd, and Thornton, with thornton being the closest to six flags. There is a fairfield inn on thornton rd that should be fine.

The Hwy 5 exit is close to a mall and super walmart. Hwy 5 is about 8-10 miles from Thornton rd.

Roll tide

As far as dining in douglasville, check out Gumbeaux%26#39;s Cajun and Hudson%26#39;s BBQ both downtown dville on Hwy 278.

miketeresa-- Thanks for all your help and ROLL TIDE to you !!! I appreciate your help!

How far is the Douglasville exits from the Six Flags exits ? What is the Six Flags exits ?

12 miles or so. You can answer most of your logistical questions using Google maps here:

http://tinyurl.com/d8edht

Thanks jatlanta

Rental Car that doesn't charge for people under 25?

Are there any rental car places that don%26#39;t charge for people under 25 years old? It%26#39;s really annoying when I try to find a car to rent and I have $100-150 to do it

Rental Car that doesn't charge for people under 25?

Try this site:

http://www.bnm.com/uage2.htm#atl

Rental Car that doesn't charge for people under 25?

Thanks!!

Marta to Philips Arena

I am going to be using the Lindbergh station to goto Philips Arena tomorrow. I am wondering does it take you directly to Philips or where will I need to switch trains at?

Marta to Philips Arena

You will have to change trains at Five Points stations and take the West bound train to the phillips arean stop. See maps at www.itsmarta.com

Marta to Philips Arena

K. Thanks, I just wanted to make sure I sometimes get confused with maps.

New Restaurants in Blue Ridge - REPAZ & Blackberry Ridge

There are supposed to be 2 new restaurants in Blue Ridge. Has anyone tried them?

1. REPAZ Restaurant - downtown Blue Ridge on Main St

2. Blackberry Ridge Eatery - 5140 Appalachian Hwy

Would love to hear feedback!

New Restaurants in Blue Ridge - REPAZ %26amp; Blackberry Ridge

Many mixed reviews on REPAZ can be found towards the bottom of this link: blueridgegeorgia.us/dining-restaurant-reviews

My husband and I ate dinner at REPAZ in late July, it was not busy that night. Great location, good atmosphere, interesting menu, unfortunately not a well managed restaurant. Poor service, missing ingredients from one entree (for me a key ingredient which they substituted with no notice--when I asked I was told ';we%26#39;ve been out of that';), cold food, stale bread, somewhat pushy owner. We sort of got the impression someone thought it would be ';fun'; to have a nice little restaurant in a cool building and they seriously got in over their head.

This COULD be a great place and a welcome addition to the dining options in Blue Ridge. Hopefully, they will hire someone with restaurant experience and get the place under control. The potential is definitely there. My husband will not be happy, but I would give this place another chance.

New Restaurants in Blue Ridge - REPAZ %26amp; Blackberry Ridge

Blackerry Ridge is home-cooking food. Try the carrot cake. Great burgers and sandwiches.

Ellijay has a new restaurant called ';Mimi%26#39;s'; it is excellent. Even was excellent on opening night which I think would be very difficult. The chef%26#39;s know what they are doing and are top notch. Think Duck L%26#39;orange, crab/lobster cakes, mussels. Really great stuff. They are working on their wine list, and they have a full bar. Try their Mimi%26#39;s Martini%26#39;s they%26#39;re great.

Cabin Queen,

Do they have a website? Where in Ellijay are they located?

Thanks!

this is for blackberry ridge my son and his wife and church group went there and he RAVED about the prime rib best he ever ate and he%26#39;s in his 40%26#39;s .

they can%26#39;t wait till they can go back(and i want to go too) and they can cater to CELIAC people. WOW

shirley wilkins

blairsville

We tried Repaz this weekend. Very disappointing. It took 1.5 hours to get the food. Owner was extremely rude. Portions were tiny. I would not go back.

We tried Blackberry Ridge last week and enjoyed it. The menu is primarily southern food and the dinner menu offers more variety than lunch. My mom had meatloaf, I had a veggie plate. Everything was wonderful and I loved the bite sized corn muffins and little sourdough like biscuits with blackberry butter. Prices were very reasonable and service was good. We will definitely go back.

we walked in repaz, and promptly walked back out turned off by attitude and unimpressed with over priced menu. and this was at lunch. mrs bbq remarked on the way back out the door....who do they think they are? we ended up with a tasty sandwich from southern highlands seafood, and then a glorious meal at the cajun depot in ellijay. i still haven%26#39;t seen blackberry ridge....hope to sample it soon though

';What a shocker!!! FINALLY a GREAT place to eat in Blueridge! My husband and I have seen so many bad restaurants come and go so what a great surprise REPAZ was to us. We had the tasting menu and it did not disappoint. The food not only tasted excellent but the presentation was beautiful. The staff at Repaz is top notch and seemed to really care about our dining experience. A big thank you to Michelle, Adam and our waitress... My advice: If you go to Blueridge - do not eat anywhere else! I can%26#39;t wait to go back and try Brunch!!!';

Give REPAZ another try! We had a great experience and would go back again and again... Michelle and Adam are top-notch!!!

Just back from SAV and Jekyll Island

HI all, I don%26#39;t do trip reports but here%26#39;s a few tidbits on our trip last week to Savannah (where we bought a house last year since we loved the city so much) and a two day trip to Jekyll Island:

1) Great food- at Hungry Hannahs%26#39; in downtown Brunswick- best hashbrowns I have ever, ever tasted. Great seafood at Speed%26#39;s Kitchen on Shellman Bluff- very down to earth, BYOB, friendly service, laidback. Great downtown bistro food in SAV at B. Matthews on East Bay St. Also had a decent breakfast with some unusual choices at Sunrise on Tybee Island. You can%26#39;t go wrong with food in Savannah. Dinner at Cha Bella was expensive but very good (downtown Savannah, forgot the street)

2) accomodations- Days Inn on Jekyll was the usual Days Inn motel- very clean though, nothing fancy but it is on an exquisite beach, one of the most beautiful stretches of beaches I%26#39;ve ever seen. I%26#39;d stay there again just for the beach. Savannah- we stayed at the Mulberry Inn which is a Holiday Inn property and loved it- great service, very clean, got an upgrade to a junior suite which was great. This is a real hotel, much to my surprise. Excellent place!

3) Jekyll Island- as others have said, its pretty low-key, not much to ';do'; unless you want to walk the great beaches. Very little nightlife, not many places to eat and none, IMHO%26lt; that were outstanding. We%26#39;re glad we went but next time will try St Simon which was clearly huge compared to Jekyll, very much a town-like atmosphere. Bike rental was worth it on Jeklyll.

4) Advise- bring bug spray for sand knats if you%26#39;re planning a trip soon- they were ferocious!

5) Otherwise, enjoy yourself, there is nothing like Southern Hospitality. I wish I was there right now. Back to work, rats!

Just back from SAV and Jekyll Island

Thanks for that.

Never heard of Hungry Hannah%26#39;s will have to give it a try.

Just back from SAV and Jekyll Island

Hungry Hannah%26#39;s is on a main street, and I could look it up for you since I took home a placemat so if you need it Brian, let me know.

One Restaurant that is a must

Since we%26#39;re going to be in Savannah one day only, what restaurant is a must. I think Paula Deen%26#39;s is overrated for what I have read.

What is a good breakfast place in historic district?

Best lunch and dinner places?

Thanks

One Restaurant that is a must

Will your visit be on a weekday? We love the southern family-style lunch (not open for dinner or on weekends!) at Mrs. Wilkes. You can look at the day%26#39;s offering on their website. Get there early....they open at 11 so it%26#39;s best to get there as early as you can to avoid waiting in line.

One Restaurant that is a must

We%26#39;ll be getting there on a Thursday (late afternoon) and leaving Friday late afternoon

Looks like you could do lunch on Friday afternoon there..... Mrs. Wilkes has always been on our ';must-do at least once'; short list! You will be seated at a big table, family-style and bowls and platters of all kinds of yummy southern food are brought out and passed around the table. I believe it%26#39;s around $15 per person and trust me, you won%26#39;t walk away hungry!!

The Wilkes House ( aka Mrs. Wilkes%26#39; House) is a true Savannah institution. Lunch only, M-F, 11am -2pm.

Arrive by 10:30 am if you wish to eat at 11, the opening time--skip breakfast or just have morning coffee to appreciate the food you%26#39;ll be served.

207 West Jones St., in the historic district.

Amen to the other contributors for Mrs. Wilkes. I ate there last week and had the following:

Spiced beets

candied yams

cheesy mashed potatoes

pole beans

black-eyed peas

dressing and gravy

cole slaw

turnip greens

cabbage

squash

beef stew

fried chicken

blueberry cobbler

cornbread

I didn%26#39;t make room for

red rice

white rice

lima beans

okra succotash

banana pudding

Truth is, there were probably 3 or 4 more dishes on the table that I can%26#39;t remember.

It is now $16 cash only - no traveller%26#39;s checks or credit cards

A real ';sleeper';. But if I had a guest who had only one dinner opportunity in Savannah, I%26#39;d take them to Kasey%26#39;s Grill. It%26#39;s in midtown in a little strip mall across from Memorial Hospital. Had dinner there recently with an out-of-town guest and it was just perfect. One had shrimp and grits, one had stuffed snapper and one had scored flounder. Everything was cooked to exact requested preferences, the wine was wonderful, the Oysters Rockefeller was divine. %26#39;Twas all just grand. Oh, and.....atmosphere and service great, too.

The Old Pink House for lunch or dinner would be my pick.

reservations a must.

Kacey%26#39;s Grill is wonderful but is several miles from the historic district, in a strip shopping center surrounded by doctors offices %26amp; a hospital. Kacey%26#39;s works well for us locals but if you%26#39;re touring in Savannah for one day only, I recommend that you stay within the historic downtown side.

A new breakfast place winning raves is Harris Bakery, on the groud level of Drayton Towers, the funky glass building on E. Liberty %26amp; Drayton St. The newspaper food critic rated Harris%26#39; French toast as the best in Savannah. Their baked goods are made from scratch daily.

But the reviewer dissed Harris%26#39; filthy bathroom. Eat there but avoid the loo. After the recent newspaper review perhaps Mr Harris will get going with some Old Dutch Cleanser and Lysol.

Around the corner on E. Liberty %26amp; Abercorn St. is J Christopher%26#39;s. Locals go there in droves for breakfast...open till 2pm. daily.

Certainly recommend J Christopher%26#39;s as a great breakfast spot. Nice variety, friendly staff.

We had breakfast a couple of times at B. Matthews on Bay Street close to where we stayed at the Mulberry Inn. Very funky, good menu. For dinner one night we tried Cha Bella%26#39;s ,also on that side of town and it was great, pricey, but great. There are a ton of postings here comparing places so enjoy all the reading!

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Paula Deen Cooking Classes

Just HOW does one go about getting into one of Paula%26#39;s Cooking Classes in Savannah? Contact #s or any direct information would be appreciated. I have spent considerable time on websites by searching for ';Paula Deen Cooking School'; and now know how to sign up for culinary schools all over the globe...but not the information I am seeking! Thanks so oooo much! Fran

Paula Deen Cooking Classes

Have you tried Paula%26#39;s web site? Go to www.pauladeen.com and that should bring up all you need to know. I do know her classes fill up months in advance.

Paula Deen Cooking Classes

Thank you so much, Foggybottom! I should have known it would eventually be something simple....dum ole me! Fran

I called the main number listed for the restaurant and was informed that ';Paula Deen%26#39;s Cooking School'; does not exist ';at this time.'; Oh well. There is another highly respected chef in Savannah who is currently teaching a cooking class (about $80.00 per person) at the Mansion at Forsyth Park. Anyone have any feedback about this cooking class?

Marla

The cooking classes at the Mansion are great! Go for it!!!! Even if Paula had classes, I would pick these over her%26#39;s any day! I would also pick the Mansion to dine at, over Lady and Son%26#39;s any day as well!

DITTO! I and two friends are looking for a Paula Deen class in Savannah this summer and if anyone hears anything about it please let me know.

Me and two friends are trying to find out when Paula Deen is having a cooking class this summer in Savannah. Has anyone any knowlege of one?

Check her website but I believe Paula%26#39;s Savannah-based cooking classes are a thing of the past. She can make more $$ by traveling to large cities and selling hundreds of tickets in an arena setting. Next weekend she%26#39;s scheduled to make appearances on her yee-haw road show in Atlanta.

If it%26#39;s a real cooking class you%26#39;re looking for whilst in Savannah, I recommend the cooking school at the Mansion on Forsyth. It%26#39;s also one of the highest-rated activities here, for both locals and tourists. Chef Darrin puts on a show in an intimate professional setting, and he knows his stuff. Paula Deen can%26#39;t come close to his knowledge and expertise. But she does like to drop her pants onstage and use an obscenity-laced vocabulary, the likes of which Chef Darrin will thankfully never try. (it%26#39;s called character).

Ditto Foggy!,

My opinion from eating at Lady and Sons 3 times hoping the next would be better and the low ratings . If I where going to a cooking class I would go to learn what I was going for . If I want a comedian I will pull out my DVD of the '; Cable Guy'; charm is one thing . Sorry Paula I think you have spread the butter a little to thin maybe you should go back to the restaurant that made you?

Capt!!!!!

Have you ever thought of a comedy show? thats killer! The late night shows will more than likely use it!HAHAHA

I-75 traffic northbound and where to stop

Will be returning to Kansas in the next week or so from Florida. Saw the following ';There is construction on I-75 south below Mt Zion Road (McDonough area),';...due to this would it be better to stop for the day before getting to this area...We will most likely arrive in your area around 5pm on a Friday. Last year we stayed at Stockbridge on our trip home.

Also if we should stay farther south of the McDonough area, any suggestions....I like the comfort suites due to their no smoking policy and larger rooms with sitting area...

Thanks for any help....

I-75 traffic northbound and where to stop

I have family that lives in the McDonough area. Whenever I visit them-day or night, weekday or weekend, there is always a traffic jam. And they give me grief for living on the Northside. Anyway there is an area just south of McDonough, called Locust Grove, around exit 112 I believe. It seems to be just far enough south before all the traffic starts backing up. I know there is a Tanger Outlet center, restaurants and several hotels at that exit. Good luck!

I-75 traffic northbound and where to stop

Depends on what time you arrive in the atlanta area. If you can figure out a way to not hit Atlanta until after 7pm on Friday (unless it is raining) then I would try to get north of atlanta and stop. But if you are in the Macon area around 2-3p, I would stop in Locust Grove or McDonough/ Stockbridge and spend the night.

thanks for your suggestions.....

Friday, late afternoon in Atlanta. Please put me out of my misery. I am so glad I moved away from the Atlanta area many years ago. However, I have been subjected to this scenario from time to time by relatives who had to be picked up at the airport and doctors%26#39; appointments at Emory.

Yes, settle in South and venture North later on Saturday. It is doable. Just know you need a lot of patience.

update....we will be leaving this Wednesday 4-15, so will be in the Atlanta area day after tomorrow....

if traffic backed up, will try for Stockbridge....thanks everyone...kc

condo/townhouse

I live and work in Alabama and am wanting to buy a condo or townhouse since we are in Atlanta almost every weekend. I would like to stay in an area where we can walk to a park, restaurants, shopping, etc. but would like to be able to have some peace and quiet when it is time to sleep/rest. Any suggetions?

condo/townhouse

You really should talk to a real estate agent. If you pm me I can recommend mine. Midtown definitely fits the bill, but you have to be careful because there are so many interchangeable high-rise condos that have trouble re-selling. Atlantic Station has some really good deals if that interest you. Since you come to Atlanta every weekend, I%26#39;m sure you%26#39;re familiar with the neighborhoods. This really should be a decision you make with a RE agent.

condo/townhouse

The only intown neighboorhoods that I know of where you could walk to all of that stuff and still have some peace and quiet would be either the Virginia Highlands or Inman/Candler Park area.

Since you%26#39;re talking about a second home, I think the Atlantic Station rec is a good suggestion. We drove through there on Sunday and you have some great options for new or for established homes.

Thanks for the replies. I forgot to add that we have a dog that travels with us all the time, I wonder which of these areas would be most fun with a four-legged companion walking along side us.

Atlantic Station seems like a good option too, especially with the number of foreclosures in that area. I would also look at places near Piedmont Park for dog-friendly condos. I believe the dog park is under renovation, but they are expanding it.

There are several park options that would be great for a four legged compantion should you choose the Va Highlands or Inman/Candler park areas. The most notable and the largest is piedmont park which is located on the border of Va Highlands.

Plantation visit

We will be in Charleston and Savannah (then driving down to Florida) in August, and want to visit a plantation home. We are interested in the history, something about the slaves conditions and somewhere scenic. Boone Hall looks like it possibly fits the bill, Middleton Place less so. Any comments or other suggestions?

Plantation visit

There are no plantation homes open for visit in the Savannah area. Charleston is the closest we have. You may want to post this on the Charleston forum as the readers on it will be more familiar with the differences in Middleton and Boone.

Plantation visit

I have been to Magnolia Plantation, near Charleston, on the way to Savannah. It is not as much emphasis on the slave life as the gardens, really amazing, acres and acres of theme gardens and just beautiful. I think they have a website.

That is the only one I know anything about.

I hope you are aware of the temperatures here in August. Be prepared for very intense heat and humidity.

Thanks for the tips. I had already posted this on the Charleston Forum and have some replies. My wife and I have visited plantation homes elsewhere in the South, so this one is for our kids.

I know it will be hot and humid, but it will compare well with a London summer, and we have spent time in South East Asia so we will acclimatise.

need advice re park/fly options

Am driving to Atlanta for good fare on Spirit Airlines. Live about 4 hours from Atlanta. Flight leaves 9am, return 12 days later at 10pm. After doing homework on park/fly and park/sleep/fly, I have reached the conclusion that my best bet is stay at a motel near the airport, make a reservation for the night of my return, drive myself to long term parking at airport. Comments, please? Recommend inexpensive motel near airport? Am coming from TN.

need advice re park/fly options

You are probably better off staying at an airport hotel that offers free airport parking, which will take you to the airport in its own shuttle.

Or, look for parking coupons at longtermparking.com, which will beat the airports own long term parking rates. Also, you might think about staying in the perimeter mall area and parking at the Sandy Springs or Dunwoody Marta stations, which just charge $4 a day. You can take MARTA straight into the airport, and it%26#39;s a much safer neighborhood.

Driving through on a Saturday

Hello,

We are driving from Birmingham to Savannah next Saturday afternoon and are asking for advice on the easiest route...around or through Atlanta? We are not familiar with the area and have never driven through before, so any ';heads up'; on construction delays and/or advice to help us is greatly appreciated. We ALWAYS get the best from TA. Thanks in advance.

Driving through on a Saturday

You shouldn%26#39;t have any problems on a Saturday afternoon with either route, but if you%26#39;re not planning on stopping anywhere in downtown Atlanta there%26#39;s really no reason not to take I-285 around to I-75. You can get current information on any and all road construction projects, traffic or accident delays, etc., from the Georgia DOT%26#39;s Georgia Navigator site (http://www.georgia-navigator.com) or by dialing 511 from anywhere in Georgia.

Driving through on a Saturday

Every few months I drive from TN to FL and back. I travel on the weekend, go straight through,and I still get messed up between I-75 and I-85, coming and going. I spend more time trying to get back on track than I would if I just took the bypass. I can%26#39;t even imagine what it would be like on a weekday! And the strident voice on the GPS just adds to my distress. I guess I am ';driving-deficient'; so I%26#39;m giving up and taking the by-pass from now on.

A few Masters Practice Round Questions

My wife and I are attending the Monday practice round and I have a few questions. My first question is if reentry is permitted, ie can I buy souvenirs and then take them back to the car, and if so is this something that is more hassle than it%26#39;s worth? Secondly, how strict are they about bag sizes, specifically a camera bag? I see a size spec on the Masters page, but I was wondering if they are super strict about adhering to exactly that size or as long as I%26#39;m fairly close I%26#39;ll be ok, I%26#39;m certainly not going to attempt a backpack or anything, but I know they are very strict about a lot of things.

Thanks,

Jamie

A few Masters Practice Round Questions

They are very strict about bag sizes. How big is your camera bag? If it does not fall in the size limits listed on the Masters website, I would leave it behind.

I am not sure about re-entry. Realize it will most likely be quite a hike from your car to the entrance to the course.

Remember to leave the cell phone behind. They are very strict about cell phones for ALL tournament days (including the practice rounds). Actually, they are strict about enforcement of all of their rules, so just plan to adhere to them as written on the website.

A few Masters Practice Round Questions

I beleieve they allow re-entry as often people sell there badges after they leave for the day.

What time would everyone recommend arriving at the parking lot? We will be driving from Covington and expect heavy traffic near Augusta. First time attending and any advice is appreciated.

Get there very early OR plan to get there a little later. From what I heard, traffic last year was horrendous. The gates to the course open at 8 am, and last year everyone apparently tried to get there at the same time, making for a huge mess. If you plan to get there around 10 am, you should not hit any traffic. Of course, the seats in the grandstands will be gone by then, but if you are one who likes to walk the course, it is no problem. Supposedly, local law enforcement has worked with the Augusta National to improve traffic flow this year; we will have to see.

The Club just purchased a dozen city blocks, leveled the houses, and turned it into a huge parking lot. You can no longer park on the Club%26#39;s grounds. www.masters.com/en_US/about/parking.html

You can re-enter as often as you wish. Consider visiting the gift shop just before you leave.

Hi, Was the traffic any better this year? And was someone able to confirm if they can walk in and out with practice tickets? Thanks, Mike

Shanes Rib Shack

Ellijay is getting a new BBQ restaurant, it%26#39;s near Lowes in the building of the short-lived ';Golden Rule'; BBQ. I understand Shane%26#39;s Rib shack it a chain restaurant. So what say you BBQ man, is it any good?

Shanes Rib Shack

it%26#39;s fair. i enjoyed the shanes in dahlonega, have been to the one here in gainesville too. they do not use a wood wired smoker though. at one time they had a tasty nc inspired sauce, which i haven%26#39;t found the past few visits. for chain bbq it%26#39;s not too shabby.

Shanes Rib Shack

We ate at the Shane%26#39;s in Canton, and the meal we got was very good. Better than Golden Rule ever thought about serving. It%26#39;s comparable to Rib Country in Blairsville, if you ever have eaten there.

I wasnt impressed with shanes, as the sauce just doesnt do it for me, but they are growing by leaps and bounds so someone must love their food.

Thanks all... for the reviews. It%26#39;s amazing how many BBQ places have been popping up in the area over the past year or so.

i wish them all the luck in the world, and they are going to need it in that building. the overhead at that location i can only imagine would choke a horse. especially not having a wood fired smoker, which essentially IS bbq.

I tried it this weekend since Wolf Creek Canyon moved on me. It was o.k. (beats me having to cook) But I prefer Col. Pooles if I can%26#39;t get Wolf Creek.

we had an excellent meal here last week. the ribs may have needed a little seasoning but every thing else was magnificent, sides were splendid, chicken delicious, bbq scrumptious, and exceptionally friendly caring attentive service. great bbq joint!

we were also pleased with la paz on main st in blue ridge

Shane and Stacy live in my neighborhood so I%26#39;m biased.....but the food is delicious. The service we receive is fast and friendly every time we go to the one in McDonough!

travel to Turner Field

I am staying at Embassy Suites - Perimeter and would like to know the best way to get to Turner Field - I will have a car - but if there is a better way to get there - I am all for it. Also, any food suggestions in the Perimeter area would be appreciated... I like most foods.

travel to Turner Field

You can drive or you can take MARTA to Five Points station and take the free shuttle. Run a search on this forum for Marta and Turner Field and you%26#39;ll see tons of discussions on this.

travel to Turner Field

As JAtlanta says, there%26#39;s plenty of threads on this question, but:

From the Embassy Suites Perimeter, you%26#39;re only a few steps away from the Sandy Springs MARTA station, so you can take the train down to Five Points and catch the Braves Shuttle to the park from there, or you can drive straight down GA 400 to the Connector and continue to the Capitol Avenue exit, get off, follow the crowds/signs, and park in one of the stadium lots.

If it%26#39;s just you, MARTA probably makes more sense. The fare will be $3.50 round trip (plus 50 cents for a reusable Breeze ticket if you don%26#39;t already have one). The hassles involved are:

* the long (~ 1/4 mile) walk through Underground Atlanta from the train to the shuttle buses on your way to the park

* the crowds to get on the bus after the game

* the potentially long wait for a train after the game (it%26#39;s 10 minutes between trains in the evening, and I%26#39;ve seen situations where the crowds were heavy enough we couldn%26#39;t cram onto the first one that stopped)

* the need to change trains at Lindbergh Station on your way back to the hotel (the trains that run through downtown only run to Doraville Station after 9 pm, so you have to get off at Lindbergh and wait for another train to take you up the North line to Sandy Springs)

Also, if you have several people with you, you%26#39;ll be paying the $3.50 (or $4) for each of them -- once you have three people the cost is a wash compared with stadium parking ($10 advance, $12 day of game), though you%26#39;ll also have $1 in toll charges if you drive (50 cents each way). It%26#39;s also non-trivial to keep all the members of your party together as you fight through the crowds to get on and off the buses and trains, etc.

For driving down, the hassles are:

* Getting through downtown at rush hour (assuming a weekday night game -- from the GA 400/Connector merge to the Capitol Avenue exit can be anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour, depending on how traffic is flowing that day

* The congestion between the exit and the stadium lots -- it%26#39;s more or less a straight shot and you really can%26#39;t take a wrong turn, but it just takes a while to creep along.

* The congestion getting out of the lot after the game. Just getting out of the lot can take a half hour or more at times.

* The greater potential for taking a wrong turn and ending up someplace you don%26#39;t want to be. While it%26#39;s not terribly difficult to navigate back to I-85 North, if you%26#39;re not familiar with the area it can be somewhat stressful, and you don%26#39;t want to be randomly lost in most areas near the stadium.

In my experience, neither option is particularly likely to be faster than the other -- though I find that my patience for the crowds, delays, and waits involved in taking MARTA is significantly lower at 11 pm after a long game, and that%26#39;s when it%26#39;s the bigger hassle.

I-95 northbound: need good motel

In past years heading back north, we haven%26#39;t found anyplace especially pleasant. I%26#39;m hoping that there may be some new places? Can%26#39;t get as far as Savannah. Needs to be around FL/GA border, or at most an hour or so north. Hoping to find somewhere very comfortable and quiet and with good restaurant close by. Thanks very much.

I-95 northbound: need good motel

The Richmond Hill exit south of Savannah is good. We stayed there on our way back from my daughter%26#39;s wedding shower in St. Simons Island. Also the Golden Isles (Brunswick) exit has several nice hotels and restaurants.

I-95 northbound: need good motel

Thanks for replying. I%26#39;m hoping that someone can give me some specific ';been there'; recs. Mainly about whether a particular motel is quiet, i.e. not thin walls, decent plumbing, etc. (I%26#39;m checking under hotel recs as well.) I know that there are plenty of places, just trying to find which might be better for our purposes. (Most quiet)

We stayed at the Wingate inn at the Richmond Hill exit. The hotel was very quiet and had a good hot breakfast.

Thank you. Still hoping for more feedback.

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Thrifty car hire atlanta

Hi everyone

Please can you reasure me on this company.Ive booked a sebring convertable on netflights and got an excellent price 拢307 for 10 days, I%26#39;m getting a little worried because some of the reviews are terrible, and when Ive done a dummy booking on their own website the price is 拢600. I dont want them to charge me anymore when I get there. What do you all think, should I carry on with the booking or cancel.

Toni

Thrifty car hire atlanta

Anyone????

Thrifty car hire atlanta

We%26#39;ve used Thrifty a few times near our house. They pull the cars up from the airport. I think you%26#39;ll be ok.

Thanks for your reply, I feel a bit better, but would still like to know who has experienced them, is there service good, ie, picking you up from the airport and taking you to your car.

Thanks again

Toni

I wish I could reassure you, but my experiences with the lower-tier rental agencies in the Atlanta area haven%26#39;t been all that positive. They%26#39;re cheap, to be sure, but will try to sell you extras, will be fanatically picky about possible damage to the car (which they%26#39;ll charge you for, in addition to the lost revenue for any time the car%26#39;s in for repairs), and the cars tend to be older and not particularly clean or nice, and will usually be bare-bones base-model versions (the only time I%26#39;ve seen hand-cranked windows in years has been on cheaper rental cars).

I%26#39;ve rented from some of them in the past, and would do so again if I just needed a car for a few hours or overnight, but if I were going to have it for any length of time I%26#39;d be concerned about the potential for something to go wrong.

Thankyou for your reply, I think I will be changing my rental company. I will pay alittle bit more, for my piece of mind. Thanks again

Toni

Do NOT bother with Thrifty. I loaned a car from them for 11 days, shortly after the 9th I discovered a bald drivers side front tyre, this was just after a trip up and down black mountain. I am now in dispute with the Company. How far do I need to check the vehicle over, oil, water, break fluid the list goes on. The only check was when I left the compound by some random barrier operator. BE WARNED.

I wouldn%26#39;t say that Thrifty is not a legitimate rental car company. It%26#39;s not that at all. It%26#39;s just that you get what you pay for. Its facilities are seedy; its employees not as well-trained; its cars are not as clean or as nice. If the price is far better than other companies, it may be worth a little hassle.

Thanks everyone for your replies, I will be talking to netflights to cancel my car hire, and I will be going with someone else.

Thanks

Toni

That%26#39;s good feedback from rack. None of the things he mentions bother me if I can get a good rate (except the imagined damage which Enterprise finally stuck us with after about 50 rentals). If the extras on the car bother you, go with a different agency. If the price is what is important, you%26#39;ll be fine with Thrifty and I%26#39;d advise you to get their insurance since it%26#39;s an international rental.

I am not certain whether you can use these websites to book cars if you%26#39;re in the UK, but I use them to book overseas travel arrangements all the time, so I don%26#39;t see why not. I would suggest using expedia.com, travelocity.com, kayak.com or orbitz.com to try to get the best car rental rate.