Where’s the best place to live in America?

Charlotte, N.C., leads Relocate-America.com’s annual ranking of the top 100 cities.
By Amy Hoak, Marketwatch.com

Apparently, there's just something about North Carolina. For the second year in a row, America's best city in which to live lies within its borders, according to Relocate-America.com's annual list.

This year, Charlotte is in the top spot, the site announced late last week. Last year's winner was Asheville, which slipped to No. 7 on this year's list.

"North Carolina is very active on our radar," said Steve Nickerson, president and CEO of HomeRoute. "It continues to get a flood of interest from all over."

HomeRoute is the real-estate firm that operates Relocate-America.com, a source of community information and real-estate resources for people who are relocating. Each year, the site ranks the top 100 places to live in the country.

Areas need to be nominated on the site in order to be eligible for the list; more than 2,000 were nominated this year, Nickerson said. Special efforts are made to prevent spamming campaigns from influencing the results, he added.

But the site's editorial team also takes into account an area's growth, its educational and employment opportunities, crime rates and housing options before granting it a spot in the top 100. Environmental highlights also play a role, with a city gaining points for good air and water quality or the strength of its recycling efforts, Nickerson said.

Home-price appreciation does get some consideration; however, it's only one piece of the analysis, Nickerson said — explaining why some struggling real-estate markets in California and Florida, for example, still made the top 100. Areas that offer a comfortable climate and economic opportunity tend to be the most sought-after communities on the site, he said.

Charlotte's diversity of housing options and home affordability were two of the reasons users nominated the city, Nickerson said. The city's strong economy, boosted largely by the banking industry, was another selling point.

Second on this year's list was San Antonio, which people praised for its cost of living, recreational opportunities and diversity, he said. Chattanooga, Tenn., came in third place, noted for its vibrant downtown and affordable home prices in the nominations.

Below are the top 10 cities on Relocate-America.com's 2008 list:

• Charlotte, N.C.
• San Antonio
• Chattanooga, Tenn.
• Greenville, S.C.
• Tulsa, Okla.
• Stevens Point, Wis.
• Asheville, N.C.
• Albuquerque, N.M.
• Huntsville, Ala.
• Seattle

Read the full list at Relocate-America.com.

The firm also plans to release a coffee-table book on the top 100 soon, Nickerson said. Proceeds will benefit American Red Cross and Habitat for Humanity, he added.

The view from the topCertainly, being ranked as the top city to live in has its benefits, mainly as a marketing tool for the area, said Tony Crumbley, vice president of research for the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce. An e-mail blast sent news of this list to thousands of residents, and the chamber actively keeps track of where Charlotte falls in many of the lists that are published.

"They are important," Crumbley said of the good rankings the city receives. But he also knows that these rankings come and go and that they're somewhat subjective; the city's appeal can change from one day to the next, depending on who is writing the list.

There weren't any significant changes in Charlotte during the past year that would account for boosting the city to the top of this particular list, he said. But the city definitely gets recognized a lot more today than it did 25 years ago, he added.

Bank of America and Wachovia have their headquarters in Charlotte, and it's also a hub for US Airways — all of which seem to have increased the visibility of the city outside its boundaries, Crumbley said. The addition of professional sports teams since the 1980s has also helped.

In recent years, Charlotte has been successful in attracting young, educated workers to relocate there, he said. Asheville, on the other hand, has become a popular choice with retirees, he added.
But cities can easily make it to the top of one list and rank poorly on another, he said. Case in point: One recent Forbes.com list ranked Charlotte as one of the country's most miserable cities, a ranking, not surprisingly, that Crumbley and others disagree with.

Forbes also ranked it as one of the best places to invest in foreclosures, in part because the real-estate market there is relatively stable.

"If they're good, you use them. If they're bad, I won't tell you you should ignore them — you look at them," he said of the lists on which Charlotte appears. But negative rankings aren't likely to end up getting used as a marketing piece for the city.

Ornamental Grasses - Their Place In A Dry Climate Garden

By Jonathan Ya'akobi

The use of grasses and grass-like plants in garden design is well established throughout the world. As they can solve a variety of design issues they are to be found in many different types of garden. While not specific then to dry climate gardens, ornamental grasses nonetheless provide the dry climate gardener with a number of exciting design options. These can be summed up as follows.

*Whether very low growing or billowing to 2 meters in height, they provide a sense of movement in the garden and a very definite vertical accent.

*By virtue of their feathery growth habit, a very clear texture is created in the garden composition, allowing ornamental grasses to function amongst broad-leaved plants as an emphasis element, or as a transitional element between fine textured plants, and courser textured ones. When placed amongst fine textured ornamentals which are not grass like, a subtle variation on the theme of delicate texture is created. In this way, two principles of good design are addressed - namely unity on the one hand (feathery texture) and variety (grasses and broadleaved plants) on the other.

*In dry climate regions where water is at a premium a few grasses can be dispersed in a bed of ornamental pebbles or wood chippings. With the addition of some stepping stones, such a configuration could replace a thirsty lawn and be aesthetically pleasing at the same time.

*They associate excellently with narrow leaved plants of outstanding sculptural value such as Yucca, Nolina, Dracaena, Phormium and Dietes. Therefore grasses of varying heights and shades can be massed to form the basis of a composition, playing a supporting role to a few special plants which function as emphasis elements. As the mass of grasses share a common leaf shape with the sculptural plants, the criteria of both unity and variety are again satisfied.

As previously mentioned, different species of decorative grasses vary greatly in terms of size and color. Here are a number of examples.

*The Pampas grass, Cortaderia selloana is suitable for large scale situations only. The real beauty is in the massive plumes that billow spectacularly from the foliage. The leaves of Pampas grass are serrated along their entire length, making the plant potentially dangerous. It should never be planted close to paths and entrances. A safe alternative to the Pampas grass could be the giant sedge, Cyperus papyrus

*Fountain Grass, Pennisetum setaceum grows to almost 2 meters, and also sports beautiful flower plumes. The main drawback is its tendency to disperse seed profusely, thereby becoming a noxious weed in certain circumstances. The purple leaved variety of the same species, 'Rubrum', does not seed itself and its foliage color is magnificent providing the plant is not over-used. It needs to be cut to the ground a couple of time a year and sometimes degenerates after a few years, but can nevertheless make a stunning contribution to the design. P.s.'Rubrum' covers about a meter in width, and therefore tends to smother neighboring flowers in an herbaceous border.

*Of similar size and habit is the Silver grass, Miscanthus sinensis. A number of varieties of the species have been developed, the most famous being the elegant M.s. 'Gracilimus'.

*There are a large number of low growing grass-like plants to choose from which are suitable in a herbaceous flower border, and indeed "hold" the bed for the period of time when annuals have to be replaced, or perennials cut down and rejuvenated. Examples are Liriope, Ophiopogon, the ever dependable Festuca, and various species of the sedge, Carex. Care should be taken though in choosing species that do not spread vegetatively and become a weedy pest. Some 5 years ago I added the cute and delicate Bulbous Oat Grass, Arrhenatherum elatius bulbosum to a flower bed, only for it to totally take over the border. It looked very nice, but my customer had enjoyed her flower color and so we had to spray the grasses to eliminate them before replanting the border. You have been warned!

About the author - Jonathan Ya'akobi. I've been gardening in a professional capacity since 1984. I am the former head gardener of the Jerusalem Botanical Garden, but now concentrate on building gardens for private home owners. I also teach horticulture to students on training courses. I'd love to share my knowledge and experience with you. So you're welcome to visit me on http://www.dryclimategardening.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Ya'akobi

Wonder In Rajasthan - A Great Place To Visit!

By Michael Braganza

Are you looking for a comprehensive holiday vacation? Have you desire to visit India? Come to India and wonder in Rajasthan which is a great place to visit. The vibrant state of Rajasthan is one of the most colourful regions in the sub-continent of India. The vibrant state of Rajasthan exhibits magnificence and royalty in every walk of life. The vibrant and colourful state of Rajasthan offers perhaps everything what a tourist can ask for? Here are discussed about brief Rajasthan information which will be surely beneficial for your tours to Rajasthan.

According to area, Rajasthan is the largest state in the sub-continent of India. The state of Rajasthan is encircled by Pakistan to the west, Punjab to the north, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana to the northeast, Madhya Pradesh to the southeast and Gujarat to the southwest. The largest state of Rajasthan occupies an area of 342,239 square km. A great part of Rajasthan is occupied with the vast Thar Desert.

Rajasthan is known as the land of kings and magnificient monuments. The vibrant state of Rajasthan exhibits narrates amazing legends of bravery and romance. The land of Rajasthan is endowed with many magnificient palaces, architecturally beautiful structures and invincible forts which prove why it is called the land of monuments. The vibrant state of Rajasthan is also endowed with waves of sand dunes, serene lakes and amazing wildlife. Can any region in the country pull together as much diversity as does the vibrant and colourful land of Rajasthan?

The capital of Rajasthan is Jaipur, which is also popularly known as the Pink City. All the major cities of Rajasthan are too fascinating and must to visit. It is sure that fascination of cities of Rajasthan never fails to allure you. All the cities of Rajasthan are endowed with many architecturally beautiful structures and many other beautiful attractions. To wonder in to Rajasthan in more easy way Rajasthan maps and guide can be very useful to you. It is sure that Rajasthan Map and guide will help you plan your tours to Rajasthan easy. The maps of Rajasthan with wide detailed travel destinations and road routes will surely help you to locate destinations of your preference.

The geography of Rajasthan is also fascinating and attention-grabbing. The major geographical feature of Rajasthan is the vast Thar Desert and one of the oldest mountain ranges, the Aravalli Range which runs through the state from south west to north east. Mount Abu is the only hill station in the desert land of Rajasthan. The climate of Mount Abu is very pleasant and cool. The town of Mount Abu is also endowed with natural beautiful and famous Jain Temples. Come to the vibrant state of Rajasthan and enjoy everlasting experience of tours to Rajasthan.

Michael Braganza is an eminent analyst and writer in Travel & Tourism related topics. He has authored many books on tour guide for Rajasthan Map and India Tours. Now he is rendering his services to http://www.indiatraveltours.com/

Find the Right Place to Stay in London With Careful Planning

By Adam Singleton

As one of Europe's largest and most imposing cities, it's easy for tourists and travellers to feel daunted in London. After all, with the tube network confusing you at one turn and vast swathes of people on Oxford Street overwhelming you at another, it's likely that you'll get lost more than once! However, with a bit of careful planning you'll be able to locate a London hotel that suits your needs - so it's less likely that you'll misplace yourself and your travel companions in the big city's diversity of attractions.

If you're keen to spend your holiday sightseeing in London, for example, hotels in Westminster are most likely to suit your purpose. By using Westminster as your base, you'll be able to enjoy fast and convenient access to some of London's most iconic attractions: including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Waterloo Bridge. What's more, you'll be just a stone's throw away from the London Eye - the perfect way to survey the city of London's breathtaking architectural skyline in style.

On the other hand, people keen to spend their time in London's most fascinating museums and premier art galleries should find a hotel in Russell Square or South Kensington. Russell Square is home to the British Museum, the British Library and a range of antique bookstores and cafés - an ideal area for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in London's more sophisticated pursuits. Additionally, hotels in South Kensington offer travellers easy access to the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum - so you'll find it simple to indulge in London's cultural hotspots without getting lost among its imposing buildings.

Of course, many people looking for hotels in London are visitors hoping to indulge in a little - or a lot! - of retail therapy during their stay in Britain's bustling capital. And it's perfectly possible to find hotels in London's premier shopping districts in order to minimise the amount of transport you'll need to take during your shopping holiday. For instance, if high street shopping is your major point of interest, you'll be able to find hotels in and around Oxford Street - so you'll be able to locate the UK's busiest and best shopping location with no hassle whatsoever.

Moreover, if you're planning to hit London's most exclusive fashion outlets and designer boutiques, there are many hotels to be found in the West End and Knightsbridge. From here, you'll be able to locate top retail destinations, like Harvey Nichols and Harrods, and you'll even be close to London's vibrant theatre district, making it possible for you to take in a show in the evening as well.

Whatever the purpose of your holiday in London, it's certain that you'll be able to find a London hotel that's appropriate for your favourite pursuits. All it takes is some careful planning and you'll be on your way to an unforgettable London adventure in no time!

Adam Singleton is an online, freelance journalist and keen amateur photographer. His portfolio, called Capquest Photography is available to view online.

There Is No Place Like Home... Or ... I Would Live Here

By Iuri Tarabanov

Many people are traveling across the world, some of them have already visited all major countries of the world and have enough experience to compare it all. Others are planning their first trip – as the recent news told us – a Briton wants to cross the Europe – several thousands miles – on the skateboard! An unusual means of transport, isn't it? Though he is a professional and rides the board for already 11 years.

Anyways, if you are traveling, that surely brings you pleasure. I mean not those business trips, when you don't have even time to think about yourself, and only meetings, meetings, meetings, talks and other things that make the trip actually to everyday work.

No matter if you it is an experienced traveler and this trip is another one from the dozens that he had already made, or a rookie that stares with the wide open eyes at all that surrounds him and wonders how beautiful this world is – these both have one thing common. They both have already thought at least once in their lives - “I would live here.” Right here – that window, or that building, or this city... this country. Anyway, sometimes, while you explore this planet, some places seem to be fabulous and so wonderful, beautiful... that the good old “there is no place like home” loses it's sense. And you stark to think of something better.

Once after you have seen something that exploded you mind, changed your way of thinking and does not let you sleep anymore, you are infected. You have only a couple of choices. One of them - you become one of those restless idealists that rush across the world, seeking for a better place to live in. And always better. They probably live for a couple of months, maybe years in a specific place, that could be a marvelous seaside location, or a mountain slope, or whatever they would dream of. And after that, this poison of idealistic knowledge that there is always something better out there – makes them stand up and travel again, on and on, throwing glances at other, a little bit worse locations, which bring them short-term happiness that they have made the right choice. And after that, comes another beautiful place to live in. And they are full of emotions again – because they found... found another paradise for their souls. Which will disappear after a couple of months or years at the new place.

Actually, this is not the worst way to spend your lifetime. I am not sure if it makes happy, but at least – you have touched this planet, know what where is, and possess the knowledge about the things that are probably better for you. Not many people have such an opportunity and freedom.

But there is another way, when you think of it - “Yes, I would surely live here. For the rest of my life.” And then you struggle and do everything to get there. And after you get there – this does not make you happy anymore. I am living right now in a city that is visited with several tens of thousands of tourists per day. And I do not notice the beauty of this city. Only a couple of days a month I realize what wonderful city it is and how many people dream to live here. And this makes me happy for a while and I am glad that it happens so oft, not really seldom. This is the worst side of this sickness and let it pass you by.

The main thing about the travel is to have maximum pleasure of it. And no matter where you are – at Grand Canyon or Niagara Fall – even if you live there and you are not the tourist this time – feel it deeply, truly, from the very beginning till the end – because I think, this is the only thing we live for – such emotions, feelings and pleasure.

Have fun in all the places of the World.

Iuri Tarabanov writes about interesting travel experiences. His Travel Deals site is http://www.travelime.com

Freeport Bahamas Is A Fantastic Place To Enjoy Your Holiday

By Suzane Gray

Going for an exotic holiday is what most of us would like to do. A holiday is the perfect way to take a break from work to relax and refresh the mind and body. For a vacation you can go to Freeport Bahamas which is one of most attractive tourist destinations in the world. After all, this wonderful island has all the amusements that you have always dreamt. The place is full of natural beauty, has unending beaches where one can indulge in playing water sports and various other activities as well. The blue water and cool atmosphere is what fascinates many nature lovers to visit that place again and again. Once a while all of us want to go for a vacation to rest, relax, and rejuvenate. Once you go on the vacation with your family or friends, I am sure this vacation will turn out to be one of the most memorable ones. So, just plan make plans to visit this magnificent and lovely place to enjoy your break.

Tour and travel agencies operate in many cities and they offer different types of packages to people who want to go to Freeport Bahamas for their holiday. Depending on the budget you have, you can take any package for the vacation and indulge in all the fun activities with your family or friends. The island has sandy white beaches that appear to be never ending and are completely litter free. The white sandy beaches are free of pebbles and stones and obviously who would not like to go there time and again. This place creates a fantastic atmosphere and is the perfect palace for newly weeds to go on a honeymoon. The main attraction of Bahamas is the unending stretched beaches and you truly feel that you are at a perfect place. Imagine how wonderful it would be as if you are sitting at the beach and enjoying the calm atmosphere of Bahamas.

If you want to visit Freeport Bahamas for your vacation and are facing a financial crunch, there are solutions for that as well. There are several tour operators that provide cheap holiday package and discount holiday packages for visiting Bahamas. You just have to find out a tour operator that givens this offer. If you are not satisfied with the package that they offer, you can browse on web as almost every tour operator has web presence. You will surely find out a tour operator that offers you the perfect package which you are looking out for. If you are going there by making your own arrangements then make sure that you do an advance booking either in a hotel or in a villa whichever you prefer. Visitors can also find various houses that the owners offer on rent and you can enjoy a homely environment at your vacation destination.

If you are a nature lover then Bahamas is full of delight and natural sights which are a perfect place for a nature ardent like you. Shopping is another aspect that most of us like to do especially when we are in a tourist destination. Freeport Bahamas has big market and you can buy mementos to take it back home for your family or others.

Suzane Gray has been offering Bahama travel and vacation packages advice for quite some time.To find Cheap Bahamas vacation packages,freeport bahamas,Bahamas travel package that best suits your needs, visit www.gobahama.com