10 Things I've Learned While Living in Atlanta

1. Traffic is terrible - It does not matter what time of day, 7a.m. or 10p.m., Atlanta's traffic is terrible and the reasoning... because people CANNOT drive! There is literally not a day I drive in the city and don't see a car accident. I try my best to avoid all major highways.

2. Most people aren't from Georgia - most people I've met here have either recently moved to ATL or are in town visiting the city. It's becoming rare to find true ATLiens also, I've realized a lot of people say they live in Atlanta but actually live on the outskirts of the city like Decatur, Buckhead, etc.

3. Highly competitive - ATL is all about who you know. Depending on what industry your career is in, Atlanta can be very competitive. If you're trying to get into entertainment, music, film, or anything to do with the arts you'll find that everyone here wants to be somebody. Everyone has some sort of brand or craft they are working on. Network, network, NETWORK!

4. There is a Waffle House on every corner- No literally, there's a waffle house pretty much on every corner probably right next to a wing spot (Atl's 2nd fav food) or a Chick Fil-A

5. "Hollywood of the south"- Atlanta is definitely the hollywood of the south. As a home to many artist, athletes and a hub for film and television be prepared to see celebrities all around the city. Plus there are always celeb events happening in the city!

6. There's something to do EVERY weekend- It is impossible to keep up with everything that goes on in the city from everyday tourist attractions to festivals and networking events. You'll never have a dull moment in the city.

7. There is such a thing as southern hospitality- There is not a time I leave the house and I don't make a new "friend" people are so friendly and will treat you like family even though you just met them.

8. Side hustle capital- For the most part everyone in Atlanta is on the up and coming. To keep up with the expensive cost of living most people I've met have some sort of side hustle (additional income) from seeing people do jobs like Lyft and Uber Eats to selling water bottles and snacks on the side of the road. There's no shame in the hustle here.

9. Parking in Atlanta- Free parking does not exist, like anywhere. Whenever you go to the city please expect to pay atleast $5 to $25 for parking. If you do not pay for parking they will boot you - a $75 fee - or give you a ticket -usually $35. If you're anything like me and don't mind a walk I use the park mobile app to help me find metered parking for only $2.60 an hour.

10. Outdoor activities - Atlanta has the best outdoor activities! Between the beltlines, piedmont park, stone mountain, and the countless number of trails around the city you'll never have a dull day outdoors! Centennial Park, the beltline and Cascade preserves trail are my personal favs.