What's not to like about free!

Asheville's edgy mountain culture is moving to the big city. Every day for 30 days in March, Atlantans will experience the sights, sounds and flavors of an Asheville vacation during 30 Days of Asheville.  No need for Groupon -- we're talking free events, goodies and surprises across Atlanta.

30 Days of Asheville is a full month of events to tempt Atlanta travelers including free hot air balloon rides, cupcakes to artisan food tastings, brew tap takeovers, farm-fresh cooking classes, concerts, film screenings and a flash mob surprise from the Asheville Drum Circle.

Visit www.30DaysofAsheville.com for the full calendar of events, giveaways and classes.

Recently listed by Fodor's as one of the top must-see cities in the world for 2011, Asheville is often first recognized as the site of one of our nation's historical and architectural treasures -- America's Largest Home, Biltmore.

Recognition for Asheville's diverse culture continues to grow as AmericanStyle's number one small-city arts destination, the reigning "Beer City USA" micro-brew capital, and home to one of Rolling Stone's top five rock clubs in the country, The Orange Peel.

This is good news for Atlantans, as Asheville is only 3.5 hours away.

Plan a visit at the Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau's link: www.exploreasheville.com.

Clara Bosonetto is a retired travel consultant.