Atlanta

Metro Atlanta, the beacon of America's New South, blends a rich history with a bright future. From the Civil War to civil rights to Olympic gold, the Atlanta region has been instrumental in America's development and a center of proud achievement. And as major hub of modern commerce and technology - think world headquarters of Coca-Cola and CNN, and the division headquarters of Macy's South and Macy's Systems and Technology - Atlanta is poised for continued progress in the America of tomorrow. No wonder it's known as "Hotlanta."

City Snapshot. With a population around 5.1 million, metro Atlanta is the nation's 9th largest metropolitan area.

Places to Live. Such a diverse metro area offers a wide variety of urban and suburban living, including affordable apartments and rental homes.

Places to Relax. Atlanta sizzles in The Highlands and Buckhead with a variety of eclectic restaurants, high-energy clubs, sports bars and laid-back pubs. Another popular area is Little Five Points, a melting pot of Atlanta's many ethnic influences. Plus literally hundreds of BBQ joints, as well as a full slate of international cuisine.

Major Attractions. Atlanta Aquarium is the world's largest, showcasing more than 500 aquatic species in over half a million square feet. Sweet Auburn District hosts the Martin Luther King Center for Nonviolent Change and the final resting place of the late civil rights leader. Other attractions include the 14th Street Playhouse, the High Museum of Art, The Atlanta Ballet, the Atlanta Opera and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.

Pro Sports. Braves (baseball), Falcons (football), Hawks (basketball), Thrashers (hockey) and NASCAR races at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Places to Get Away. Stone Mountain Park - an expansive park centered around the South's version of Mt. Rushmore - serves up the area's Civil War history and features 15 bike and jogging paths among spectacular surroundings. Lake Lanier, just an hour northeast of Atlanta, is a nature-lover's paradise. Within three to five hours or less, you can be in the Blue Ridge Mountains or soaking up sun on the Georgia or South Carolina coasts.

More Info. To learn more about life in Metro Atlanta, go to www.atlanta.com, www.accessatlanta.com, www.HelloAtlanta.com