Nashville's flavor - Part I

After walking the city for 4 hours, I can definitely tell this is a fun town. So much so that I almost bought a pair of boots and a Stetson. It has a rich history, grand architecture and humble little shops. Plus it is sports crazy for its hockey, pro football, and even the Kentucky v. Clemson bowl game tomorrow night. It has its share of homeless and pan handlers too, but I never feel unsafe.

I am going to have dinner at the kind of place I favor most- the same place the locals like to eat. I'm not even sure what food is considered local, but I'll know soon. Right after dinner I will head to the Ryman Auditorium for some country and blues. The Ryman was the Grand Ole Opry for 30 or so years before the new facility was built across town. While I am not a big country fan, I am a huge fan of experiencing other cultures from food, to music, to history.

I also self-toured the Hermitage Hotel- a 100 year old, grand hotel that has been witness to this country's most famous personalities from presidents to performers. I have some pics I will post later tonight. Incredibly lavish, elegant, and classy with the bell hops wearing period top hats and tails. Quite a bit pricier than my budget for this trip, but I will ask them if I can pitch my tent in a corner of the grandiose linen closet.