7 Tips for Living in Atlanta

This is a must read if you're moving to Atlanta or thinking about moving there.

Atlanta, Georgia, is a vibrant city with a rich history, diverse culture, and a thriving economy. It's a city that welcomes expats and digital nomads with open arms, offering a plethora of opportunities for work, leisure, and exploration. Here are seven key tips to help you navigate life in Atlanta and make the most of your time in this dynamic city.

1. Understand the Neighborhoods

Atlanta is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Midtown is known for its arts scene, with the High Museum of Art and the Fox Theatre. Buckhead is the city's upscale district, home to luxury shopping and fine dining. Little Five Points is the city's bohemian hub, with vintage clothing stores, record shops, and eclectic eateries. Decatur, located to the east of downtown, is a vibrant community with a small-town feel, known for its food scene and annual festivals. Understanding the different neighborhoods will help you find the one that best suits your lifestyle and preferences.

2. Embrace the Food Scene

Atlanta's food scene is diverse and exciting, with a range of cuisines to explore. For traditional Southern fare, visit Mary Mac's Tea Room or The Colonnade. For a taste of Atlanta's international flavor, head to Buford Highway, where you'll find everything from Vietnamese pho to Mexican tacos. For a fine dining experience, try Staplehouse or Bacchanalia. And don't forget to try Atlanta's famous peach cobbler!

3. Get Around with MARTA

The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) is the city's public transportation system, providing bus and rail services throughout the city. It's a convenient and affordable way to get around, especially if you're living in the city center. The rail system has four lines that connect downtown Atlanta with the city's northern, southern, eastern, and western suburbs. The bus system complements the rail service, with routes that cover the entire city.

4. Enjoy the Green Spaces

Despite being a bustling city, Atlanta is home to numerous parks and green spaces. Piedmont Park, located in Midtown, is the city's most popular park, offering walking trails, sports facilities, and beautiful views of the city skyline. The Atlanta BeltLine, a former railway corridor turned multi-use trail, is a great place for walking, biking, and exploring the city's neighborhoods. And don't miss the Atlanta Botanical Garden, a 30-acre garden located adjacent to Piedmont Park.

5. Explore the City's History

Atlanta has a rich history, from its founding in 1837 to its role in the Civil Rights Movement. Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site to learn about the life and legacy of the civil rights leader. Explore the Atlanta History Center, which includes the Swan House, a historic mansion that offers a glimpse into the city's past. And don't miss the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, a museum dedicated to the achievements of both the civil rights movement in the United States and the broader worldwide human rights movement.

6. Network with Other Expats

Atlanta has a large and diverse expat community, making it easy to connect with others who are also living abroad. Join expat groups and attend social events to meet people from all over the world who are living and working in Atlanta. These connections can provide valuable support and advice as you navigate life in a new city.

7. Get Involved in the Community

One of the best ways to feel at home in a new city is to get involved in the community. Volunteering is a great way to give back, meet locals, and learn more about the city. There are numerous opportunities to volunteer in Atlanta, from helping out at local schools to participating in community cleanups. Research groups and organizations that align with your interests and get involved.

Living in Atlanta as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. By understanding the city's neighborhoods, embracing the food scene, using public transportation, enjoying the green spaces, exploring the city's history, networking with other expats, and getting involved in the community, you can make the most of your time in this vibrant city.