I think you should travel to Atlanta 🇸🇪

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It's time to travel home from Atlanta after a week in a city I've had on my bucket list for a long time. It's not an obvious destination perhaps, even though the city has the world's – by far – largest airport, which probably means that many of you have still been here, even if you haven't done it. The reason why I ended up here this time is because SAS had a phenomenal EuroBonus offer that was ultimately hard to resist.

Whatever the case may be, I'm very happy with the experience, which I think is well worth a visit.

[ plus ] That you should be able to walk around in a vibrant downtown is far from safe in the United States. It's almost only New York, San Francisco and Seattle that I really think deliver there. However, Atlanta falls into this category. It's an unexpectedly nice city that is almost completely devoid of graffiti centrally, police cars are extremely rarely heard (almost Tokyo levels), there is no garbage along the streets or in parks, and many houses are very spectacular. In addition, the Olympic Park is a green gem to enjoy in.

[ minus ] Sure, it's home to one of the world's largest aquariums, a phenomenal Six Flags, water parks, the Coke Museum (where you can sample over 300 of the company's beverages, including an absolutely horrific plum Fanta from China) and much more. But compared to most other American cities, I think Atlanta is a little behind on spectacular things to do (unless you want to hike or are very interested in the Civil War). Therefore, I believe that up to a week is just right here, more is not needed if experiences are a priority for you.

[ plus ] For those who want to experience what the United States has to offer, Atlanta will go a long way. Here you will find giant malls, all the national food chains, fine restaurants, wonderful cinemas, a live live scene and so on. All complete with southern charm. If you don't want a busy schedule of new things to do and just want to experience a really nice American city – then Atlanta goes a long way. This is quality of life.

[ minus ] Together with Los Angeles, Atlanta has the worst traffic situation I've ever experienced in the United States. It's no wonder at all to be stuck on a seven-lane highway. In addition, the city is not as clearly gridded as many other US cities, so make sure you have a good GPS in case the rental car does not deliver (such as in our Chrysler 300). Get a US SIM so you can run Google Maps.

[ plus ] There is a lot of greenery in the city and also around with several nice parks. Me and the lady took the opportunity to go up Stone Mountain (just under 25 meters of elevation) for phenomenal views. Took around two hours with a break at the top. At Stone Mountain there is also the world's largest stone relief depicting three Southern profiles (including Robert E. Lee for anyone who knows their history). A grand thing bigger than a football field, but maybe not a must see. But there are plenty of nice walkways with a lot to see and I liked to walk around.

[ minus ] As I wrote above, Atlanta has the world's largest airport, and that's awesome. Over 100 million passengers pass through here annually, or one Malmö a day, if you will. Of course, this requires space. The airport is nice and fresh, but huge and just the journey from the terminal to the rental car part you have to dedicate around 35 minutes to. And it must still be said to be a minus because you could have eaten a Cinnabon on a cool mall instead.

[ plus ] The southern states undoubtedly have among the world's absolute best cuisines with tasty and light home-inspired food that definitely fills you up. Atlanta is located in the middle of Georgia and is therefore a great place to rub shoulders in grilled and smoked meats of various kinds. The best one I tried was the acclaimed Hattie Marie's, but it's no problem to get good BBQ with sweet tea here – and the size of the town means that there are plenty of other nice options.