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President and First Lady Obama spent this weekend on a mini-vacation in Asheville, North Carolina. This Blue Ridge Mountain town with a population of about 78,000 is known for its thriving art community and vibrant downtown area rich in examples of Art Deco, Beaux Arts and Neoclassical styles of architecture. While in this aesthetically appealing environment, you will find an eclectic mix of shops and galleries and locally owned restaurants specializing in diverse cuisine. The Obamas revisited 12 Bones Smokehouse where they stopped during their 2008 campaign, an eatery that specializes in smoked meats but also offers some vegetarian for non-meat eaters. The MLT for example is a smoked portabella sandwich with your choice of two sides for the reasonable price of $7.00.
The area’s most popular attraction is the Biltmore House, a 250 room French Renaissance-style mansion completed in 1895, that holds the distinction of being the largest privately-owned home in the US at 175,000 square feet. This super mansion also features extensive gardens with mountain views. If you’re interested in visiting Asheville this summer, the Goombay Festival featuring a variety of African, Caribbean, and gospel music, dance, food and other cultural activities sounds like an event well worth attending.
There are numerous major chain hotels as well as privately owned bed and breakfasts to choose from.
The Courtyard by Marriott, my accommodation of choice when I don’t have the time to be creative or experimental with hotels is quoting 134.00 per night for the weekend of the Goombay festival.
Visit the Explore Asheville website for more information.
The Black Travel Guide 