A beginner's guide to Georgia

As a huge state in the southeast corner of the USA, there is never a dull moment in Georgia. With a healthy dose of southern charm and great food, and Georgia makes an ideal place for a USA getaway.

What to do

Atlanta and Savannah are where it’s at in Georgia. When spending some time in Atlanta, there a number of attractions you shouldn’t miss. The Georgia Aquarium is one of the world’s largest, and houses hundreds of species of marine life. Nature lovers looking for some open spaces should check out Stone Mountain Park, where you can also find a bit of history, and Centennial Olympic Park, located right in the centre of downtown with gorgeous views of the skyline. Museums and art buffs will also have plenty to do in Atlanta, and the Fernbank Museum of Natural History and High Museum of Art are two that should go one everybody’s list.

Savannah is the oldest city in the state. Its downtown area, which includes the Savannah Historic District, the Savannah Victorian Historic District and 22 park-like squares, is one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the United States. Take some time to wonder around Forsyth Park, a 30-acre green space in the Historic District, made especially stunning by the Forsyth Fountain. Art lovers in Savannah should take a look at the Telfair Museum of Art, one of the oldest public art spaces in this part of the USA. Finally, for a quick escape and also a popular beach getaway from Atlanta, check out Tybee Island, just less than 20 miles outside Savannah.

The beauty of Georgia is that it’s a state located next to so many other great places, making it the perfect part of the USA to explore. Take a tour in and around Georgia, to its major attractions and nearby states, such as Louisiana, Tennessee, and Florida.

Where to eat

Atlanta has numerous great dining options, from upscale food experiences to old-fashioned southern fare. Head to Restaurant Eugene for some modern, creative cuisine, prepared by award-winning chefs. For some traditional regional food with a modern twist, you can’t do better than Miller Union for some southern flavour. For the sweet tooth among us, do not miss Cacao, the ultimate chocolate experience in Atlanta.

Those in Savannah with a little money to burn should head to Local 11 Ten for the latest in fine dining in the city - the scallops are a particular highlight. To eat where President Obama himself has eaten, head to Mrs Wilkes’ Dining House for some comfort food, and also don’t forget to check out the supposedly haunted The Olde Pink House for even more delicious traditional food.

Where to sleep

You have plenty of options for accommodation all over Georgia, especially in Atlanta and Savannah. The Georgian Terrace Hotel and Omni Hotel are both great options in Atlanta for luxury and comfort, with spacious rooms and plenty of amenities. In Savannah, the Hilton Savannah Destoto is one of the best hotels to find plush comfort right in the centre of the city’s Historic District.