Did you know that...

When my husband and I travel to a new location we can’t help but Google about it first. We are self proclaimed travel enthusiast and we are always excited to learn new things about the beautiful places we visit. Yes, I dare say it - we are travel nerds! And when it comes to explore a city’s history, culture, food, and (of course) shopping experiences we are on top of it. Many times our conversations begin with “Did you know that…” as we try to one up each other with our new found knowledge. So with 8 weeks to go before the conference I thought it would be a good idea to share interesting facts about Charlottesville that you might not otherwise know.

Did you know that….

• The city of Charlottesville was formed by charter in 1792 and was named after the Queen Charlotte, the queen consort of George III of the United Kingdom.
• Albemarle County surrounds the city of Charlottesville and was named for a colonial figure, the second Earl of Albemarle, who was then governor of the Virginia Colony.
• The city of Charlottesville has been home to three US Presidents - Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and James Monroe and other historic figures such as literary giants Edgar Allan Poe and William Faulkner.
• Presently Charlottesville is home to, or has been the home of movie stars Sissy Spacek, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, and Sam Shepherd, novelist John Grisham, NFL Hallof Fame member Howie Long, the rock band Dave Matthews Band.
• It is the home of the University of Virginia which is currently ranked as the #2 Best Public University according to US News and Report.
• Monticello, the Rotunda and the grounds of UVA are recognized by the United Nations as a World Heritage Sites.
• There are more than 20 vineyards along the Monticello wine trail and several breweries that make up the Brew Ridge trail.
• The mountains, rolling hills, orchards, and undeveloped forest and fields provide breath taking views and make amazing science drives.

So consider yourself a little more informed about Charlottesville. You will be able to amaze family, friends and colleagues with your superior knowledge. In my future blog posts I plan to go in to detail about the wonderful extended stay opportunities that you can have if you decide to spend more time in the city and surrounding country side. In the meantime I hope I have inspired you learn even more this fair city than I shared with you today and when I see you during the conference please stop me and say – Hey Melinda, did you know…..