If in your mind, Atlanta, 7 million people and eight American megalopolis, is first Coca Cola and Gone with the Wind, you must quickly take a flight ticket to get an idea of the city.

Place to Visit

Atlanta History center: Even if most of my friends coming from Europe have seen Atlanta in Gone with the Wind, they don’t know much about the city. So a start to learning more about Atlanta and the South could begin with a visit to Atlanta History Center. Here, you will learn of the historical and cultural diversity of the South.  130 West Paces ferry

Emory University: Visiting the campus of an American university should be a must, because it is so different form French university. This campus is beautiful with large areas of green landscape. Emory is a rich University with a heavy endowment from Coca Cola. Part of this richness lies in a must see Carlos Museum, situated on the campus. A true  filled with antiquities from ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. There are also concerts in accordance with the exhibitions. It is an intellectual center of the city. 571 South Kilgo Cir, NE

The Betline: Similar to New York’s Green Line, the Beltline is a 33 miles ring around the city connecting neighborhoods. It is home to permanent and temporary art exhibits, making it the largest art project in the Southeast. You can stroll along leisurely, ride your bike, or stop for lunch in one of the many restaurants along the way. Rina is a charming Israeli restaurants. Or there’s a cozy coffee house called Parish at the beginning of the Betline, I can be found here writing or reading. 699 Ponce de Léon

My 3 favorite restaurants

Question all my friends visiting US ask me: Where to eat the best burger in the world? 

Chez Marcel ! Not at all French despite its name. It is first class  steakhouse.  The owner ambition in naming the restaurant was to pay tribute  to Marcel Cerdan, famous boxer, lover of Edith Piaf. The decor is very sexy with beautiful leather and red furnishings, and the food is amazing. 

1170 Howell Mill Rd

-Umi: This high end, chic Japanese restaurant is a place to be seen while eating delicious, fresh Sushi on plates that are like pieces of art.  Personally, I like the coziness of eating at the bar while peering around for potential famous people or Hollywood stars. . In fact, it happened once, that I saw Danny Glover, the hero of the series “ Atlanta”.   Jennifer Lawrence has been seen at Umis during her stay in Atlanta while shooting a movie.  Actually,  Cardi B who lives in Atlanta is known to dine at Umi’s , regularly.  It’s worth , mentioning, that because of Georgia’s tax laws , Atlanta is a strong attraction to the production of movies and series. Hence, stars can be seen out and about and especially at the wonderful Umi’s Japanese restaurant.

3050 Peachtree Rd.

Rumi’s : Rumi is the name of a 12th Century Persian poet.  It’s possible that this will be the featured theme of a new Hollywood movie, starring Leonardo DiCaprio.Aside from this prelude, Rumi’s has delicious, authentic Persian cuisine . A few of my favorites are lamb kabob with saffron rice and Persian vegetable stew.

Go here with a group of friends and join in on the acoustic vibrancy of conversations and laughter. 

There are 2 Rumi’s restaurants. Prefer the one at Colony square

Shopping ideas

Victoria’s Secret: The founder, who loved the Victoria period, gave this name to his first lingerie store in the 80’s. Since then, the brand has shifted to  to highlight the ethnic and physical diversity of women. I love to rummage through my drawers to find the perfect Victoria Secret,  sexy lingerie  , saved for a special occasion . Because of the modest prices, I can afford folly plus the comfort of everyday lingerie easily found ar Victoria Secret. Its just a fun, reasonably priced store that can satisfy a women’s lingerie needs for any occasion. Lenox Square , 3393 Peachtree Rd.

Le  Maison Rouge: Though the owner doesn’t care to link this establishment with the french “La Maison Rouge” it is a big  barn, full of vintage clothes, shoes and unusual decorative objects.  It is such a fun place to get lost in while shopping. You are sure to find something special and unique here. 716 Ponce de Leon

Dry bar is a great place to go for a hair wash and blow dry especially after a 10 hour flight across the Atlantic!  

However, don’t ask for a cut or a balayage because they only offer hair styling .    Nice and convenient, at times. It’s designed with comfort in mind as you’ll find armchairs lining the bar and TV screens, not mirrors showing girly movies, like fun Meg Ryan films. 102 West Paces Ferry rd

My beauty adresses

Piedmont Nails: manicure or pedicure treatment for a rock-bottom price

There is a “Sex in the City” style in this place where one is served a glass of champagne while getting a manicure or pedicure treatment. In Atlanta, there is a huge demand for nail art.  Nail Art is practiced with talent in this salon, not seen everywhere. Estheticians work to accommodate both unique and traditional requests.  It’s hard to imagine pieces of M&M glued to one’s  nails but I actually saw that in this salon. 1000 Piedmont Ave., open evenings and Sundays.

Sport as entertainment

The Chattahoochee river 

I challenge anyone allergic to foliage to not succumb to the charm of nature in Atlanta. It is everywhere and totally endearing.  Beautiful trees, flowers , rivers, parks and hiking trails.It hard not to become addicted to the Chattahoochee river in the heart of Atlanta . In the heart of Atlanta you will find the Chattahoochee River(name from Indian derivative). This river flows from the mountains of Georgia and is known for hiking trails, canoeing,running or leisurely  strolling for the the peace and serenity it offers.It is truly a real break after work or anytime ridding one of the hustle and bustle of urban life.

 Ichran Shoals Columns Dr. Marietta