Asheville is one of my favorite places on the planet, and I’ve been plenty of time. Check out where the Driftyland team recommends going when you hit up this eclectic, artsy city in eastern North Carolina.

Seeing Liz Gilbert

It’s a Thursday evening, at dusk.

The residential street I’m walking down is lovely. Cozy homes snuggled into hilltops. Vibrant red and yellow leaves scattered beneath cars, aside curbs.

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Gratitude and Joy

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“Wait, am I still in your phone as this?”

My thumb is hovering over a contact, “Melissa W from Queensboro”.

The petite, dark haired girl driving confirms it, then offers to update it.

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Naked & Only Kind Of Afraid

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My favorite thing about travel are the surprises. I travel with the intention of being surprised. Most of the excursions, restaurants, and people I encounter are by chance.

The Shoji Spa in Asheville, N.C. was no exception.

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Cycling in Asheville

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“Matt, smile.”

I hold my phone at a different angle, cutting out my face. Tess smiles and Matt glances over.

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Good Vibes In The River Arts District

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Morrie and I took a long walk around Asheville’s River Arts District. The sweltering heat was worth the great shots.

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Climbing Max Patch

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It’s hot.

My grey tank has become another layer of skin. I run my hand through my short, cropped hair, taking a deep breath as I push forward.

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How to Spend a Weekend in Asheville

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I’ve been to Asheville a few times now. The reasons varied.

The first was to see The Avett Brothers for Halloween, when I stood in line for eight hours with my ex-boyfriend. The second, was with Claire, where we soaked at Shoji Spa, went to Biltmore, and climbed up Chimney Rock. Third was to see Elizabeth Gilbert read from Big Magic with Annabel. Fourth, and most recent, was to visit my friends Matt and Tess with Morrie. We floated down the French Broad on a raft (it popped) and bar hopped a little.

I figured I had been there enough to give some insight on visiting.