Following my recent trip to Georgia, I'm shifting focus from home decor to share travel memories, much like when I wrote about Hawaii.
Prepare yourselves; we are sharing our Georgia adventure!
***
Some vacations are meticulously planned, with all activities and routes mapped out beforehand.
Our trip differed; despite months of anticipation, we only had basic plans confirmed.
We knew we'd land in Atlanta, the world's busiest airport, and my husband would attend his leadership course a two-hour drive away. I imagined relaxing in a lovely hotel room, reading, blogging, watching television, perhaps some shopping, and visiting coffee shops. Although I've never traveled solo in a major city, overcoming past anxieties, I decided to be courageous.
{What a surprise…}
Upon booking a hotel near the airport online, I realized my initial plan needed revision; the reality was far from the pictures—blaring rap music and loud neighbors through thin walls prevented any 'cozy' time or blogging; I couldn't even hear myself think, and there were no nearby restaurants or shops.
Finding an alternative plan became necessary.
I utilized the free airport shuttle back to the airport and settled into the pleasant lounge with my laptop. While listening to the pianist, I intensely researched Atlanta and transport, finding a helpful travel bulletin board where a woman asked about a 'safe place near public transportation in Atlanta.'
Her suggestion became my direction.
After calls and visiting the airport's helpful travel center, the new itinerary was set. For a country girl, traveling alone in an unknown city was a big step; I took a deep breath and decided to be brave, meeting Marta.
Marta is the city train system in Atlanta, and we became companions.
With just one train transfer, I reached Decatur, Georgia, in 30 minutes, walking from the station.
The hotel provided clear walking directions, leading me to my temporary residence, the Courtyard Marriot, in just 2 blocks.
It was truly lovely.
My room was on the 4th floor, offering a view into the courtyard below.
The space felt tranquil and comfortable, featuring stylish furnishings and elegant details.
Crucially, it felt very secure, and the staff were both kind and supportive.
This matched the ideal experience I envisioned when we first planned the trip—even surpassing my initial dreams!
I enjoyed relaxing, blogging, and video chatting with my sister, reading, and watching amusing television; when restless, I walked through Decatur's town square, enjoyed a Starbucks, and discovered charming little shops.
As I browsed these wonderful stores, I wished you all could share the experience with me; they held beautiful items and imaginative decorative concepts.
Therefore, I requested permission from the shop proprietors to photograph these items for you.
They were incredibly welcoming and graciously agreed!
Please return the next day.
Today is the day for shopping in Decatur!
