Having spent an extra day in Floyd, I needed to make up some time on my way to Asheville. Interstate 81 was fast and unremarkable, but things changed once I was on I-26, rightly designated as a Scenic Highway. It goes straight through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains and the views were dramatic and stunning.
I stayed two nights in an Airbnb on Hazzard Street, a short walk to the city center. It was simple, modern, quite comfortable and nicely fitted out. The only potential drawback was that it involved a climb up a serious set of stairs; on the other hand, the house itself was perched high on a wooded hill and was a nice spot for sitting on the porch and reading.
I was able to tie up a couple of loose ends here. I had purchased a dash cam, but delivery was delayed and I had Amazon reroute it here. There were also a few things I neglected to pack and Chris sent them to me. Both arrived on time.
I had supper at Limone’s, a fine dining establishment – good food, though expensive. Some Internet research led me to an open mic that night which went really well. “Captured the house,” as they say. Once again, the wireless headset mic was a real asset.
The next day I walked all over town trying to get a feel for the place. Definitely artsy and alternative-friendly, but with a wide mix of population. Lots of young people with a variety of body art and facial jewelry, but also lots of “just folks” and tourists. Many restaurants, galleries, gift and clothing shops, craft stores. As at other places in the South, people smile a lot, chat readily and spontaneously ask “how y’doin?” as you pass by. In Boston you’d be suspicious, but it feels genuine and warm here.
I found a nifty crafts store and thought to pick up a loom for Hilary, but it was just a bit too large for the car. I also stopped at a candy store, lured by the prospect of Jelly Belly sizzling cinnamon jelly beans, and ran into Zoltar. I thought to drop in a quarter and ask to be “big” but decided I was already big enough. No sign of Tom Hanks. Lunch at an excellent Indian buffet (Mela).
Ended my second night with dinner at Nine Mile – Caribbean inspired cuisine that totally wowed me and made me consider moving to Asheville just so I could eat here regularly. Went to bed early so I could get a timely start in the morning for Knoxville.
All in all, I found Asheville to be inviting and interesting – as many people have told me. It’s a hip and very livable city.