My Hometown One of Nation's 'Friendliest' Places

Asheville: No. 4 on the list.

My hometown, Asheville, N.C., has just been named one of the nation's "friendliest" cities by Conde Naste Traveler. It's No. 4. Here's what the citation says,

"For 'great locally sourced food and friendly people,' savvy travelers head to Asheville, North Carolina, known for its compelling combination of 'free thinkers and Southern hospitality.' A vibrant local art scene, plenty of microbreweries, and 'excellent restaurants' make for a city with 'hidden treasures around every corner.' Visitors insist that above all, it’s the 'conscientious locals' who truly make this 'welcoming' metropolis a 'fun, quirky place to visit.'"

I'm not sure what locally-sourced food and good restaurants have to do with being friendly, but, hey, I didn't do the survey. Asheville is a nice place, though. So is Roanoke.

Newark, N.J., is ranked No. 1 among the "unfriendliest" cities.

(Photo: evolvenetwork.org)