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As a hub for international travel with one of the world’s busiest airports, Atlanta is home to a vibrant community of global explorers, immigrants, and visitors.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport connects us to destinations worldwide, but recent policy changes from the U.S. government could impact plans for many.
State Department Pauses Immigrant Processing for 75 Countries
On January 14, 2026, the State Department announced an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026.
This move, part of the Trump administration’s broader immigration crackdown, targets countries whose nationals are deemed likely to rely on public assistance in the U.S.
While this primarily affects those seeking permanent residency, it’s worth noting for anyone in Atlanta planning family reunions, business expansions, or long-term relocations involving these nations.
Understanding the Pause: Immigrant vs. Non-Immigrant Visas
The suspension specifically halts processing for immigrant visas, which are for individuals intending to live permanently in the U.S.
This does not impact non-immigrant visas, such as those for tourists, students, or temporary workers.
So, if you’re an Atlantan heading to Brazil for Carnival or Egypt for a Nile cruise, your B-1/B-2 tourist visa should still be processed as usual. However, for immigrants from these countries already in the Atlanta area—perhaps working in tech hubs like Midtown or contributing to our diverse food scene in Buford Highway—this could delay family sponsorships or green card applications.
The State Department cited concerns over “public charge” rules, aiming to prevent entrants who might depend on welfare programs.
This expands on earlier policies and reflects ongoing efforts to tighten legal immigration pathways.
Officials have not released a timeline for resumption, so affected individuals should monitor updates closely.
The Full List of Affected Countries
Here is the complete list of 75 countries where immigrant visa processing will be paused, as confirmed by multiple sources including the State Department and immigration experts:
- Afghanistan
- Albania
- Algeria
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Armenia
- Azerbaijan
- Bahamas
- Bangladesh
- Barbados
- Belarus
- Belize
- Bhutan
- Bosnia
- Brazil
- Burma (Myanmar)
- Cambodia
- Cameroon
- Cape Verde
- Colombia
- Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast)
- Cuba
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Dominica
- Egypt
- Eritrea
- Ethiopia
- Fiji
- Gambia
- Georgia
- Ghana
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guinea
- Haiti
- Iran
- Iraq
- Jamaica
- Jordan
- Kazakhstan
- Kosovo
- Kuwait
- Kyrgyzstan
- Laos
- Lebanon
- Liberia
- Libya
- Macedonia (North Macedonia)
- Moldova
- Mongolia
- Montenegro
- Morocco
- Nepal
- Nicaragua
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Republic of the Congo
- Russia
- Rwanda
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Senegal
- Sierra Leone
- Somalia
- South Sudan
- Sudan
- Syria
- Tanzania
- Thailand
- Togo
- Tunisia
- Uganda
- Uruguay
- Uzbekistan
- Yemen
This list includes a mix of nations from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
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The queen of Atlanta reality TV is making her long-awaited comeback! Nene Leakes, the larger-than-life star who helped put The Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA) on the map, is returning to Bravo after years away from the network.
Production sources confirmed to TMZ that Leakes will appear on Bravo’s newly announced series with the working title The Real Housewives: Ultimate Road Trip, where she’ll have a notable presence during the show’s Atlanta leg.
Report: Nene Returning to Bravo for Cameo
Leakes, 58, originally rose to fame as an original cast member on RHOA when it premiered in 2008. Known for her sharp wit, iconic catchphrases like “I am very rich, b–,” and unfiltered drama, she became a fan favorite and a staple of Atlanta’s pop culture scene.
She departed the show after Season 12 in 2020 amid contract disputes and allegations of unfair treatment, but has since expressed openness to returning under the right circumstances.
In a recent interview, Leakes even told TMZ she would consider rejoining RHOA, praising superfan Cynthia Erivo and hinting at unfinished business in the Peach State.
While this isn’t a full-time return to RHOA – sources emphasize Leakes won’t be a regular cast member – her involvement in the road trip spin-off is sure to thrill local fans.
The new series, which promises to bring together Housewives from various cities for cross-franchise adventures, will feature Leakes when the action hits Atlanta, potentially stirring up old rivalries and new alliances. Social media is already buzzing over the news.
As a proud Atlantan, Leakes has deep roots in the city, from her early days as a stripper (which she openly discussed on the show) to building a successful career in acting, fashion, and business.
Her return could signal a revival for RHOA, which has seen fluctuating ratings in recent seasons without its OG powerhouse. Local hotspots like her former lounge, The Linnethia, might even get a shoutout if the road trip cameras roll through town.
Final Word
Bravo has yet to announce an official premiere date for The Real Housewives: Ultimate Road Trip, but with Leakes on board, expect fireworks – Atlanta style. Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for more updates on this developing story and all things reality TV in the ATL.
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The Atlanta Falcons have officially named legendary quarterback Matt Ryan as their new President of Football Operations.
The announcement, made Tuesday, Jan. 13 at a packed press conference at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, marks a triumphant homecoming for the man who once led the team to Super Bowl glory and now steps into a pivotal front-office role to shape the franchise’s future.
In his first remarks as president, Ryan expressed gratitude and enthusiasm: “I am so excited to be a part of this organization. I didn’t know much about the city before I got here, and now here we are, however years later, and it’s home. It really is.”
“I’m at the same table, but my seat has changed,” Ryan said, alluding to his new role in the organization. “There is a sense of unfinished business. We were close at times and had some success here and there, but i truly believe we’re going to get there.”
Matt Ryan: ‘There’s a Sense of Unfinished Business‘
Blank said that the Falcons interviewed five people, including Ryan. Fresh off the firing of their head coach and general manager, the Falcons are looking for Ryan to immediately work on filling those positions.
Ryan, affectionately known as “Matty Ice” during his 14-year tenure with the Falcons, retired from playing in 2023 after a storied career that included stints with the Indianapolis Colts.
A first-round draft pick out of Boston College in 2008, he quickly became the face of the franchise, amassing over 59,000 passing yards, 367 touchdowns, and earning the NFL MVP award in 2016.
At the end of that same season, he orchestrated one of the most memorable campaigns in Falcons history, guiding the team to Super Bowl LI with his poise under pressure and pinpoint accuracy.
After hanging up his cleats, Ryan transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting and philanthropy, but his heart never strayed far from Atlanta. Blank praised the decision, stating, “He led us through the most successful 14 years of our franchise. Everything between football and grass he is responsible for.”
The role of President of Football Operations places Ryan at the helm of the team’s football strategy, overseeing scouting, player personnel, coaching staff decisions, and long-term roster planning. This comes at a crucial time for the Falcons, who have been rebuilding since their last playoff appearance in 2017.
With a young core including quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and running back Bijan Robinson, Ryan’s expertise could be the catalyst for a return to contention in the NFC South.
Local fans are buzzing about the hire. “Matt Ryan back in the fold? That’s huge for us,” said longtime season ticket holder Jamal Thompson. “He knows what it takes to win here—no one’s better equipped to fix our front office.”
As the Falcons gear up for the offseason, Ryan’s immediate priorities include evaluating free agency targets, preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft, and fostering a culture of excellence. Insiders suggest he may draw from his experiences under coaches like Mike Smith and Dan Quinn to implement data-driven decisions and innovative training regimens.
This appointment isn’t just a nod to nostalgia; it’s a strategic play to leverage Ryan’s deep football IQ and Atlanta roots. For a franchise hungry for success, Matty Ice’s return could be the chill factor that turns the heat up on the competition.
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Tex-Mex is that particular fusion of good Mexican food done Texas-style, and Atlanta has been here for it for a long time. If you want good Tex-Mex in Atlanta, there are some standout establishments that you should definitely check out.
This article will show you some of the best Atlanta restaurants for Tex-Mex cuisine.
What’s The Difference Between Tex-Mex And Mexican Food?
The difference between Tex-Mex and Mexican food may be one of semantics to many people: Mexican food quite naturally encompasses the food and culture inspired by a whole country, while Tex-Mex are the select Mexican dishes popularized and influenced by Texas sensibilities.
With all that said, Tex-Mex has some ingredients that you can find in many American cupboards and kitchen tables, while Mexican food has more hard-to-find products and is thus more exclusive.
Best Tex-Mex Food In Atlanta: What The People Say
Let’s look at some Atlanta restaurants with the best tacos according to the people. These eateries all have reviews with them so you can see how real customers feel about the place.
Red Pepper Taqueria
3135 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 869-2773
Here’s what one customer says about Red Pepper Taqueria: “The queso dip was good, but on the thick side. The salmon taco was soggy & had no taste. The lamb taco was the best thing I had. What made this place a bad experience was the wait staff. They were weird acting & we felt really rushed & unwelcome. The busboys were really nice tho. I wouldn’t go here again. Tin Lizzy’s is a million times better.”
Superica Restaurants
Atlanta Locations:
- Krog Street Market: 99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
- Buckhead: 3850 Roswell Rd NE #100, Atlanta, GA 30342
- The Battery Atlanta: 455 Legends Pl #800, Atlanta, GA 30339
- The Avalon: 1130 1st St #1030, Alpharetta, GA 30009
Here’s what one reviewer says about Superica: “Wow! Talk about the place to be on a Friday night. I highly recommend putting your name on this list 30-45 before you want to eat, but it will be worth the wait. Cool decor, atmosphere was positive and up beat. We got a text saying our table was ready, before we knew it we were greeted by Randall who was very knowledgeable of the menu. We received our drinks and guacamole rather quickly. You MUST try the tequila martini, because it is good.”
Chido & Padre’s
128 E Andrews Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 848-9100
Here’s what one patron says about Chido & Padre’s: ” The Birria Tacos were tasty and delicious and the drinks were just great. . This isn’t a typical Mexican restaurant which is obvious due to the creative menu. But nonetheless wonderful and worth every penny . Thank you for a wonderful experience can’t wait to return.”
Taqueria del Sol
Atlanta Locations:
- 1200-B, 1200-B Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
- 2165 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 | (404) 321-1118
- 359 W Ponce de Leon Ave, Decatur, GA 30030
- 5001 Peachtree Blvd Suite 910, Chamblee, GA 30341
Here’s what one reviewer says about Taqueria del Sol: “I had a brisket taco and a fried chicken taco. Both were delicious. The prices are very reasonable for the portions delivered. The ambiance is fresh and the staff is quite pleasant. I will go again and try other items.”
Bartaco
Atlanta Locations:
- 969 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 607-8226
- 299 North Highland Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (470) 400-8226
Here’s what one customer says about Bartaco: “The pork belly tacos are amazing (5/5), the flavor just melts in your mouth ! The margarita drink was delicious! The chicken empanadas were good too — good texture and flavor (4/5) and the salsa that came with it had great flavor too.”
Agavero Cantina
1133 Huff Rd NW c, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 464-5250
Here’s what a customer says about Agavero Cantina: “Who knows Mexican food better than someone who grew up eating it, right, Jasmin? It’s always great to see you! Hope you’ll be back soon to join us for more of your favorite meals and margaritas.”
Final Word
When it comes to Tex-Mex, the best Atlanta restaurants have a knack for presentation and with creativity.
Tex-Mex food is delicious in that it uses many foods that other cuisines don’t. Try not to overdo it with the shredded cheese, beans and hot peppers. At the same time, it’s delicious.
Aside from Tex-Mex and Mexican eateries, Atlanta also has trendy restaurants that continue to draw big crowds.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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Grindhouse Killer Burgers, the beloved Atlanta-born chain famous for its custom-blended burgers, is set to fire up its newest location in the Upper Westside this week.
The restaurant officially opens its doors on Wednesday, January 14, at 1221 Chattahoochee Avenue, right at the bustling corner of Ellsworth Industrial Boulevard and Chattahoochee Avenue.
Free Burgers at the Grand Opening
To mark the grand opening, the first 100 guests through the door will score a free Grindhouse Style Jr. Burger—loaded with American cheese, caramelized onions, lettuce, pickles, and that signature Grindhouse sauce.
If you’re a true Atlanta burger fan, you’d know that this marks the brand’s sixth standalone spot in the metro area, owned and operated by partners Alex Brounstein and Johnny Farrow.
Spanning a generous 7,000 square feet on a prime corner parcel next to Selig Enterprises’ The Works development, the new Grindhouse offers plenty of dedicated parking for dine-in guests and easy takeout pickup—perfect for the neighborhood’s mix of families, workers, and visitors.
Since Brounstein launched the first Grindhouse at the historic Sweet Auburn Curb Market back in 2009, the brand has built a loyal following with its proprietary Certified Angus Beef blend of chuck and brisket.
Burgers come in creative signature styles or fully customizable, with options like the recent addition of grilled chicken breast as a protein choice. Sides, hot dogs, salads, and a solid lineup of drinks round out the menu.
“The Upper Westside has a strong sense of community, and it felt like the right place for our next location,” said Brounstein. “The rooftop is an important part of our restaurants, and this one was designed as a comfortable place to enjoy good food and drinks. We’re looking forward to serving the Upper Westside.”
Designed by Studio SOGO Architecture, the two-story building delivers versatile vibes: the ground floor provides spacious indoor and covered outdoor seating geared toward quick-service meals and family-friendly dining. Upstairs (21+ only), you’ll find a full-service rooftop bar and shaded patio—ideal for catching games on multiple large-screen TVs, lingering over drinks, or soaking in the views.
Beyond its standalone spots across Atlanta and Athens, Grindhouse has airport outposts in Concourses T and D at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
The brand also ramps up with catering, a food truck, and partnerships like serving fans at University of Georgia games at Sanford Stadium. In 2025, they boosted their presence at Truist Park with three locations, including the Outfield Market and sections 315 and 335.
“Alex and Johnny have built an iconic Atlanta brand, and we are excited to welcome them as a tenant in the Selig portfolio,” said Mindy Selig, Co-CEO of Selig Enterprises. “This location is the perfect place for Grindhouse and they are a great addition to the community.”
When it opens, the Upper Westside Grindhouse will operate Wednesday through Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (closed Tuesdays, based on the provided details).
Final Word
Burger lovers in Underwood Hills and beyond—get ready. The Upper Westside just got a whole lot tastier. Head over starting Wednesday and see what the hype is about!
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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After a year of cooling off—with increased inventory, modest price adjustments, and lingering effects from higher rates—the Atlanta metro housing market is transitioning toward greater balance and stabilization in 2026. And that’s a good thing.
Experts describe it as a “more normal” environment, offering opportunities for both buyers and sellers without the frenzy of prior years.
The indications are that it may be an opportune time to jump into the real estate market if you’re looking for a home in metro Atlanta. According to Zillow, the city has one of the nation’s best real estate market.
Current Market Snapshot
The Atlanta housing market is no longer the overheated seller’s paradise of the post-pandemic boom. Instead, it’s shifting to a more buyer-friendly landscape with rising inventory and longer days on market.
Median Home Prices
Recent data varies by source and timeframe, but metro Atlanta’s median sale price hovers around $400,000–$440,000 depending on the exact area and month. For instance:
– November 2025 showed a median of $440K (up 8.4% year-over-year in some reports).
– Other late-2025 figures point to around $398,950–$411,000, reflecting slight declines or stabilization from 2024 peaks.Overall, 2025 brought a correction after years of rapid appreciation, with some submarkets seeing minor dips (e.g., 0.3–1.3% projected through mid-2026 in certain forecasts). Prices are trending stable to modestly upward as we enter 2026.
Here are the hottest markets forecast for 2026:
10 Hottest Housing Markets
Metro Median rent (0-2 bedrooms) YOY (0-2 bedrooms) Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Alpharetta, GA $1,583 -3.4 % Austin-Round Rock-Georgetown, TX $1,495 -4.2 % Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD $1,827 0.1 % Birmingham-Hoover, AL $1,253 -2.3 % Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH $2,944 -1.7 % Buffalo-Cheektowaga, NY NA NA Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC $1,520 -3.8 % Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI $1,780 -4.1 % Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN $1,397 4.2 % Cleveland-Elyria, OH $1,222 0.0 % Columbus, OH $1,210 1.1 % Inventory Levels
Supply has surged significantly—reaching multi-year highs (e.g., 33,600+ homes listed in late 2025, with months of supply around 3.4–4.7).
This gives buyers more choices and stronger negotiating power, including price reductions from nearly 40% of sellers.
Mortgage Rates
A welcome relief! As of early January 2026, 30-year fixed rates average around 5.9%–6.2% (down from highs above 7% in prior years, following Fed cuts in late 2025).
This improvement is boosting affordability and drawing sidelined buyers back into the market.
Why Atlanta Remains Strong in 2026
Despite the slowdown, Atlanta’s fundamentals are solid:
Employment: Steady job growth in tech, film, logistics, and corporate relocations.Looking for employment? Here’s how to get hired in Atlanta.
Population growth: Despite its fullness, the city continues to attract a crowd as job seekers and empty nesters flow into the suburbs around Atlanta.
The reason people from the West Coast and Northeast continue to find Atlanta attractive is because of the amount of house they can get for the price.
Housing affordability: Even in a pandemic, Atlanta continues to be an attractive market for families looking for relatively cheap property as well as those interested in investing in rental property.
That is especially the case when 50% of the households in the metro area rent rather than own
How To Find A Home In Atlanta
The way to go about finding a home in Atlanta is to begin your search by following three steps:
Get Your Credit Score Up
Before you’re ready to buy a home, you’re going to need to get your credit score into shape. Anything under 600 will put you in a high-interest category. The way to avoid this is to take the steps months ahead to raise your credit score. You can even boost your credit score by paying your bills.
Read up on some ways to increase your credit score.
Get Pre-Approved For A Mortgage
Once you’re pre-approved for a mortgage, your lender and any Realtor you decide to work with will take you more seriously and devote the much-needed time and energy your home search requires.
Here’s how to get pre-approved in Atlanta.
Work With A Realtor
Once you’re pre-approved for a mortgage, it’s time to find a Realtor. Do yourself a favor and ask those closest to you if they have any friends you have used Realtors. Referrals go a long way in the real estate industry.
Make your decision based on someone who really knows the area you want to buy in. When you talk with them, have a conversation in which you ask the questions that will let you know how knowledgeable the Realtor is.
Some questions you might ask include:
- How long have you lived in the city?
- If you could afford to live anywhere here, what neighborhood would you choose?
- What is the most important aspect of a property in your opinion?
- What are the best schools in the city in your opinion (if you have kids)?
Some of the larger realty names you should consider are:
- Keller Williams
- Harry Norman
- REMax
- Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
- Coldwell Banker
- SWG Realty
- Boardwalk Realty
- Palmer House Properties
Read our guide on the best real estate companies in Atlanta.
Final Word
Finding your dream home may seem intimidating at first, but by putting in the time, it can happen for you. The pent-up demand that has been gaining steam last year is poised to emerge this year, so it’s important that you act fast if you’re in the market to buy a home in Atlanta.
The best way to do that is to start off with learning your budget. So here’s a question for you: How Much Home Can You Afford? (Calculator)
See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.
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In a move that’s already sending shockwaves through the Dirty South sports scene, the Atlanta Falcons announced Saturday, Jan. 10 that franchise icon Matt Ryan has been named the team’s new President of Football.
Owner and Chairman Arthur M. Blank made the blockbuster hire official on Saturday, bringing back the former NFL MVP to lead all football operations for the organization.
Matt Ryan Named President of Atlanta Falcons Football
Ryan, who spent 14 unforgettable seasons under center for the Falcons (2008-2021), assumes the role immediately.
He’ll report directly to Blank and work closely with President and CEO Greg Beadles to align football and business sides of the team.
Both the incoming head coach and general manager — positions currently open following last week’s firings of Raheem Morris and Terry Fontenot — will report directly to Ryan, giving the 2016 league MVP final say on major football decisions.
“Throughout his remarkable 14-year career in Atlanta, Matt’s leadership, attention to detail, knowledge of the game and unrelenting drive to win made him the most successful player in our franchise’s history,” Blank said in a statement. “From his playing days to his time as an analyst at CBS, Matt has always been a student of the game, and he brings an astute understanding of today’s NFL, as well as unique knowledge of our organization and this market. I have full confidence and trust in Matt as we strive to deliver a championship caliber team for Atlanta and Falcons fans everywhere.”
Ryan, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft out of Boston College, holds virtually every major passing record in Falcons history: 59,735 yards, 367 touchdowns, a 94.6 passer rating, and a franchise-best 120-102 regular-season record.
He led Atlanta to five playoff appearances, two NFC Championship games, and a Super Bowl run in 2016, when he earned NFL MVP, Offensive Player of the Year, and first-team All-Pro honors.
After a one-year stint with the Indianapolis Colts and three seasons as a respected CBS Sports analyst, Ryan is back where it all began.
“Arthur gave me the chance of a lifetime almost twenty years ago, and he’s done it again today,” Ryan said. “While I appreciate the time I had with the Colts and with CBS, I’ve always been a Falcon. It feels great to be home. I could not be more excited, grateful, or humbled by this new opportunity.”
Ryan emphasized his commitment to rebuilding the culture in Flowery Branch: “I know first-hand what a great foundation this organization has and I’m confident we can build on that and cement a culture of accountability, tenacity, resilience and winning… My commitment to the success of this franchise has not changed. I’m beyond ready to help write a new chapter of excellence.”
The Falcons have missed the playoffs for eight straight seasons — a drought that started before Ryan’s final year as starter in 2021.
Fans are hoping the return of “Matty Ice” signals a new era of competitiveness for the black and red.
Ryan will jump straight into the search for Atlanta’s next head coach and general manager, with the team expected to move quickly.
Welcome home, Matt. Rise Up.
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With fewer than 160 days until the first kickoff at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta is preparing to welcome soccer fans from across the world for eight FIFA World Cup 2026 matches scheduled between mid-June and mid-July.
As the city gears up for this massive international event, MARTA officials are assuring residents and visitors that the transit system will be fully prepared to handle the surge in riders heading to and from the stadium.
MARTA’s FIFA Focus: Safety, Cleanliness & Accessibility
MARTA Interim General Manager and CEO Jonathan Hunt addressed state lawmakers at the Georgia State Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 7, emphasizing the agency’s comprehensive planning efforts.
“Is MARTA going to be World Cup ready? Our resounding answer is yes,” Hunt declared, according to Fox 5 Atlanta.
Key priorities include enhanced operational reliability, improved security, and better passenger flow. On game days with high expected demand, MARTA plans to run additional trains and increase service frequency to accommodate crowds.
Safety remains a top focus, with Hunt highlighting significant progress: violent crime on the system has decreased by 50% over the past six years, and overall crime dropped 28% last year
To bolster security during the tournament, MARTA has recruited more police officers and will bring in support from other national transit agencies.
“We’re focused on cleanliness. We’re focused on delivering a safe, clean, reliable service to the region for the World Cup,” Hunt said. “We’ve deployed a lot of resources and have a very large World Cup planning initiative underway.”
As the city preps for the matches overall, looking ahead, MARTA is set to roll out several upgrades before the matches begin, including new rail cars, an improved payment system, and a new bus rapid transit line.
These improvements aim to provide a seamless experience for global visitors while delivering lasting benefits for daily commuters and boosting overall ridership.
Hunt acknowledged that some short-term disruptions may occur during these enhancements but stressed the long-term payoff: “We’re not satisfied with a good transit system here in the state. So, we’re going to go from good to great.”
As Atlanta steps onto the world stage, MARTA’s preparations underscore the city’s commitment to hosting a smooth and memorable World Cup experience for everyone.
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Atlanta food lovers, the wait is over—Mirae, the sleek modern Asian-fusion gem from husband-and-wife team John and Grace Lee (the creative minds behind beloved Chamblee spot Fūdo), is officially rolling out its complete dining experience at Parkside on Dresden.
After debuting in late October with a limited menu and weekend-only service, Mirae is now expanding its offerings and hours starting today, Thursday, January 8, 2026.
The restaurant has evolved into a thoughtful, coursed dining destination that beautifully blends rich Asian culinary traditions with comforting, reimagined classics—perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying a special night out in Brookhaven.
Highlights from the expanded menu include:
- Chilean Seabass soy-infused with cauliflower puree, nasturtium oil & tuile
- Matsukasa Yaki featuring king oyster mushroom, truffle shoyu, rice cracker & consommé
- Miso Short Ribs paired with wasabi mashed potatoes
- Aged Wagyu Don with goma abura, nori, Nanatsuboshi rice, yuzu cream & nama tamago
- Luxe pasta options: bafun uni & truffle or Hokkaido scallop & wasabi cream
Plus, plenty of shareable plates, hearty hot dishes, and artful desserts to round out the lineup.
The bar program steps up too, with an impressive selection of craft cocktails, sakes, sojus, and a refined wine list designed to match the menu’s layered flavors.
New sips to try include the Winter Blossom (spiced rum, lychee, citrus & falernum) and the refreshing Jade Highball (reposado tequila, shochu, matcha, lemon & orgeat).
To mark the occasion, Mirae is hosting a special neighborhood gathering tonight, Thursday, January 8, from 5-10pm.
Stop by for live music from 6-9pm, complimentary amuse bouche bites, and a free glass of sparkling wine—no RSVP needed.
It’s the perfect way to check out the new vibes in Brookhaven’s walkable dining scene!
Mirae is now open for dinner:
- Tuesday–Thursday: 5–10pm
- Friday–Saturday: 5–11pm
Reservations are recommended via Resy, but walk-ins are always welcome.
Photos of the stunning space and dishes are available courtesy of Andrew Thomas Lee—trust us, they’ll make you hungry just looking!
Head over to 1350 Dresden Dr. in Brookhaven and see why Mirae is quickly becoming a must-visit for Atlanta’s Asian-fusion scene. We’ll see you there!
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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As Atlanta continues to draw tourists, business travelers, and event-goers — from major conventions to the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup matches — visitors often face the classic dilemma: hotel or Airbnb?
With rising costs across the hospitality sector and Atlanta’s booming short-term rental market impacting local housing, price is a key factor.
But which option truly offers better value in 2026?
Recent data shows that hotels are generally cheaper than comparable Airbnb stays in Atlanta, especially for short trips or solo/couple travelers. However, Airbnbs can pull ahead for larger groups, longer stays, or those prioritizing space and amenities like kitchens.
Average Prices in Atlanta (2025-2026 Data)
- Hotels: Average nightly rates hover around $190-$200, with budget options starting at $64-$100 in low season and mid-range properties in popular areas like Midtown or Downtown averaging $150-$225. Four-star hotels often fall under the national average of $226, making Atlanta a relative value for hotel stays. Prices dipped slightly in 2025 (e.g., -6% in some segments), with modest 1% growth expected into 2026.
- Airbnbs: Average daily rates (ADR) for entire places range from $160-$200+, with medians reported at $162-$202 depending on the platform and season. Listings start as low as $20-$100 for basic options, but whole-home rentals frequently hit $167-$214 before fees. Annual host revenue data points to occupied-night averages in this ballpark, with occupancy around 50-57%.
Key Factors Driving the Cost Comparison
- Fees Push Airbnbs Higher: Atlanta has some of the highest Airbnb fees in the U.S., with cleaning, service, and occupancy taxes adding up to 36-48% on top of the base rate. A “cheap” nightly rate can balloon with a $75-$150 cleaning fee (even for short stays) and local hotel-motel taxes.
- Short Stays Favor Hotels: For 1-3 nights, hotels win on transparency and no surprise fees. Studies comparing whole-unit Airbnbs to hotels found hotels cheaper in most U.S. cities, including Atlanta (differences as low as $2-$50 per night here).
- Groups and Longer Stays Favor Airbnbs: For 4+ people or week-long trips, an Airbnb’s space (kitchen, multiple bedrooms) and per-person cost can save money. Larger rentals drop to $60-$125 per person, versus multiple hotel rooms.
- Location and Seasonality: Both options spike during events (e.g., World Cup prep could push Airbnbs to $400+). Neighborhoods like Midtown, Buckhead, or near the BeltLine offer competitive rates for both, but hotels cluster downtown with consistent amenities.
Impact on Atlanta’s Housing Market
The surge in short-term rentals has contributed to Atlanta’s tight housing inventory, with median home prices around $394,000-$428,000 in 2025.
Regulations limit hosts to primary residences plus one additional property, aiming to preserve long-term housing. This caps Airbnb supply, keeping prices elevated compared to hotels.
Bottom Line for Visitors
In 2026, book a hotel if you’re staying short-term, traveling light, or want amenities like daily housekeeping and on-site dining.
Opt for Airbnb if you need more space, a kitchen for savings on meals, or are splitting costs with a group.
Always compare total costs (including taxes/fees) on platforms like Booking.com, Hotels.com, or Airbnb directly.
Atlanta’s vibrant real estate and tourism scenes mean options abound — but crunch the numbers for your trip to get the best deal.
Of course, Atlanta’s Airbnbs offer some of the best homes in the Southeast, but as with anything, it needs to make financial sense.
Atlanta has some affordable apartments, but you may be inclined for a hotel or an Airbnb.
