I've been fortunate enough to spend a fair bit of time in Alabama. My impressions have been largely positive. As someone who likes a smaller-town and laid-back atmosphere, Alabama really appeals to me. The quality of life is good, and the people are generally very friendly. The lakes and hills here are among the most beautiful in the Southeast--check out Weiss Lake or Lake Logan Martin, each only a short drive from Atlanta, for some gorgeous scenery. The smaller towns, like Auburn and Muscle Shoals, have a lot to see and do, while the larger cities like Birmingham and Huntsville offer good job opportunities and culture without a lot of the big-city hassles you see in places like Atlanta or Houston. The beaches of the Gulf Shores area are excellent, and rival some of the best in Florida or the Carolinas. The best part--they're not as crowded or as expensive (yet) as Destin or Hilton Head. Mobile has plenty to offer the history buff. As if all this wasn't enough, you get some of the best barbecue anywhere to go along with the greatest brand of college football on earth. Quite a tailgating combo! Nothing compares to the gameday atmospheres in Auburn or Tuscaloosa, and the "Iron Bowl" rivalry is the greatest football battle in the nation. Time for a road trip to Alabama. See y'all there!
