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The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a game-changer for our city, with Mercedes-Benz Stadium (temporarily renamed Atlanta Stadium for the tournament) hosting eight high-profile matches, including a semifinal on July 15, 2026.
This includes five group-stage games starting June 15, a Round of 32 match on July 1, and a Round of 16 on July 7.
Renting your home out on AirBnb may be one of the easiest ways to achieve your goal and make extra money
Hotels don’t give tenants the same amenities and square footage as a typical AirBnb. That gives the homesharing site and app a clear advantage.
Atlanta is poised for massive demand: projections estimate around 216,000 visitors needing accommodations, with Airbnb guests alone contributing about 45,000 guest nights and potentially $70 million in economic impact. Local hosts could earn an average of $3,700 during the event period, with nightly rates spiking significantly—some listings already showing ADRs over $470 compared to normal rates around $107.
Bookings are surging early, with year-over-year demand up thousands of percent in neighborhoods like Buckhead, Vine City, and Chosewood Park.
If you’re considering listing your home (or a portion of it) on Airbnb, now is the time to prepare. This in-depth guide walks you through every step, from legal compliance to optimization strategies that can help you capitalize on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
In this article, we’ll cover all the details on how to rent your home on Airbnb.
Is It Profitable To Rent Your Home On AirBnb?
Renting your home on AirBnb can be very profitable. Because many hotels charge high rates, it makes for an opportunity if you’re willing to list your home.
But before you do, make sure that you own a property in an area / neighborhood where new faces are welcome and guests feel safe.
It’s also a good idea to to make sure your neighbors are aware of what’s going on to a reasonable degree. You might also want to check to see if your homeowners association forbids it.
If you’re all clear, then you just need to prepare to rent your home.
Legal Requirements: Get Licensed Before Listing
Atlanta has regulated short-term rentals (STRs) since 2022 under Ordinance 20-O-1656. Operating without compliance risks fines or shutdowns—especially during a high-visibility event like the World Cup.
- Short-Term Rental License (STRL): Required for rentals under 30 consecutive days. Apply via the City’s online portal (atlantaga.gov). Fee: ~$150 annually. You can license your primary residence plus one additional unit.
- Display License Number: Must appear prominently on all ads, including Airbnb listings.
- Zoning: STRs are allowed in all residential zones.
- Taxes: Collect and remit hotel-motel tax (around 8%), state sales tax, and any local fees. Airbnb often handles this automatically.
- Other Rules: Post house rules (noise, occupancy, parking), notify neighbors for new applications, and ensure safety compliance.
Check for HOA restrictions or neighborhood-specific bans (e.g., recent limits in areas like Home Park near Georgia Tech). Start the licensing process now—approvals can take weeks.
Setting Up or Optimizing Your Airbnb Listing
If you’re new to Airbnb:
- Create an account and verify your identity. Set up an account and log onto Airbnb.com, click on “Add a listing.”
- List your property as an entire home, private room, or shared space (entire homes perform best for events).
For existing hosts: Refresh everything.
- Title and Description: Use keywords like “World Cup 2026 Ready,” “Near Mercedes-Benz Stadium,” “Mins to MARTA/Fan Zones,” or “Perfect for Soccer Fans.”
- Photos: Professional shots are essential—highlight large TVs, outdoor spaces for gatherings, comfortable bedding, and event-friendly amenities.
- Amenities: Emphasize essentials (Wi-Fi, parking, AC), plus World Cup perks: big-screen TV for watch parties, international power adapters, extra seating.
- House Rules: Clear guidelines on noise (quiet hours 10 PM–7 AM), max occupancy, no parties, parking.
2. Once you go through the prompts, you’ll choose whether this is a guest house or one where you “keep your personal belongings.”
You’ll also need to disclose whether you’re listing on behalf of a company or just yourself.
3. Under “Sleeping Arrangements,” add how many beds are in the bedroom(s) as well as if you have a sofa bed.
4. Once you add your address, you’ll need to confirm on a Google Map embedded in the page. Next, list any amenities like Wi-Fi, heat, AC (yes, those are all amenities) so that guests know what to expect.
5. Next list all the “Spaces” that guests can use (pool, washing machine, dryer, etc.).
6. Upload pictures of your home then describe your place, neighborhood and surrounding features to really sell it to would-be guests.
Pricing Strategy: Capitalize on Surge Demand
World Cup pricing can be 3–5x normal rates.
- Dynamic Pricing: Use tools like AirDNA or PriceLabs to track comps. Current data shows massive uplifts; expect $400–$1,200+ per night for well-located properties.
- Minimum Stays: Set 3–7 nights to reduce turnovers and lock in revenue.
- Event Blocks: Open calendar now for June–July 2026. Set custom rates higher around match days, with buffers for pre/post-game.
- Fees: Add cleaning, extra guest, or security deposit fees.
Monitor bookings—early inquiries are already pouring in. Competitive yet premium pricing wins during surges.
Once you do that, you’re ready to press the button to list your home.
Preparing Your Property for International Guests
World Cup visitors will be diverse—fans from Spain, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and beyond.
- Deep Clean and Declutter: Remove valuables; secure personal items in locked storage.
- Stock Essentials: Extra towels/linens, toiletries, coffee/tea, basic kitchen supplies. Consider soccer-themed welcome basket (flags, snacks).
- Event-Ready Touches: Large TV with streaming, guidebook with MARTA tips, stadium directions, local restaurants, fan zone info.
- Safety and Comfort: Working smoke/CO detectors, first-aid kit, clear emergency instructions. International plugs, multilingual welcome notes.
- Professional Help: Hire reliable cleaners; book them early as demand will spike.
If renting your entire home, plan where you’ll stay—many hosts travel during peaks.
Guest Experience and Operations During the Event
- Communication: Fast responses; pre-arrival info on traffic, parking, public transit.
- Security: Airbnb’s AirCover provides protection, but consider extra homeowner’s/rental insurance for events.
- Reviews: Exceptional service leads to great feedback from guests, which can benefit your property with more business.
3 Tips & Tricks When Renting Your Home On Airbnb
- Remember, all transactions should be handled by Airbnb. Do not accept cash payment outside of the online system, that’s how trouble and discrepancies can arise.
- Always draft some house rules: Let your guests know that this is not an anything-goes residence and that big parties are a no-no.
- Before you accept a guest, make sure they have great reviews. If you read their ratings on Airbnb, that will give you the greatest indication of what type of guest they are.
Final Word
As you can see, there is some money to be made from renting your home out on Airbnb. To make the most of your home, always communicate your house rules to your guests ahead of time so there’s no misunderstanding.
Also, we can’t stress it enough: Let your close neighbors know that you’re listing your home on Airbnb.
There’s nothing worse than you renting out your home only to get a call from the cops hours later, saying that your neighbor reported a suspicious person on your property.
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ATLANTA — As the Atlanta Falcons limp toward the end of another disappointing season, owner Arthur Blank is taking decisive action.
With the team sitting at 6-9 and officially eliminated from playoff contention for the eighth straight year, Blank has enlisted the services of consulting firm Sportology to conduct a thorough “health check” on the organization’s football operations.
Falcons To Bring in Consultant To Gauge Football Operations
Sportology, founded by former Chelsea FC executive Mike Forde and featuring former Houston Texans general manager Rick Smith as a key partner, has previously worked with Blank’s group on projects including Atlanta United and the new NWSL expansion team.
Now, the firm is turning its attention to the Falcons amid mounting questions about the team’s direction.
The review, first reported by Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, comes at a critical juncture. The Falcons face uncertainty at quarterback beyond veteran Kirk Cousins, whose future remains unclear despite solid recent performances filling in for the injured Michael Penix Jr. Key decisions loom for star players like Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts, all navigating contract situations.
Compounding the challenges are salary cap constraints and the absence of a 2026 first-round draft pick, traded away in previous deals.
Head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot are squarely in the spotlight. Reports indicate Blank will evaluate the entire football operation at season’s end, with buzz around the league suggesting potential changes could be on the horizon.
While Blank has historically shown patience, the prolonged playoff drought — the longest in franchise history — has amplified calls for accountability.
Fans have expressed a mix of frustration and dark humor online, with social media threads highlighting the irony of yet another offseason overhaul looming. One common sentiment: “Same old Falcons,” punctuated by memes of endless rebuild cycles.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium Earns Rave Reviews
On a brighter note, Mercedes-Benz Stadium continues to shine as one of the NFL’s premier venues.
The iconic halo board, retractable roof, and fan-friendly concessions — including top-rated food options and affordable pricing — consistently earn rave reviews from visitors and locals alike. Even in tough seasons, the stadium remains a point of pride for Atlanta sports enthusiasts, as well as foodies who love cheap food.
Final Word
As the Falcons close out the 2025 campaign with games against the Rams and beyond, all eyes will be on Blank’s next moves.
Will this external review spark the changes needed to end the postseason drought?
Falcons Nation can only hope 2026 brings more than just another evaluation. Rise up — or reset? Time will tell.
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As holiday gatherings ramp up, health officials are warning of an unusually early and aggressive flu season driven by a variant dubbed the “superflu” by some media outlets.
The strain, scientifically known as influenza A(H3N2) subclade K, has become the dominant form of the virus circulating in the United States, accounting for nearly 90% of characterized H3N2 cases according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Early, Intense Flu Season Marked by ‘Superflu’
While “superflu” is not an official scientific term and experts emphasize there’s no evidence this variant causes more severe illness than typical H3N2 strains, the subclade K has mutations that make it a poorer match for this year’s flu vaccine.
This, combined with low vaccination rates and increased indoor gatherings, is contributing to rising cases, hospitalizations, and strain on healthcare systems nationwide.
CDC data shows flu activity increasing rapidly, with at least 4.6 million illnesses, 49,000 hospitalizations, and 1,900 deaths estimated so far this season.
Positive flu tests reached 8.1% nationally in early December, and hospitalizations have risen sharply. The season started weeks earlier than usual in many areas, mirroring patterns seen in the Southern Hemisphere and parts of Europe.
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of subclade K infections are similar to standard flu: high fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, headache, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea.
Complications can include pneumonia, especially in young children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with underlying conditions.
Experts urge vaccination even now, as the shot can still reduce severity and protect against other strains.
Early UK data suggests it prevents 70-75% of hospitalizations in children and 30-40% in adults despite the mismatch. Antiviral treatments like Tamiflu are also recommended if started early.
States with Reported Superflu (Subclade K) Cases or High Flu Activity in December 2025
The subclade K variant is circulating widely across the United States, but the following states have seen the highest levels of influenza-like illness activity or rapid increases as of mid-December CDC surveillance:
- Colorado
- Louisiana
- New Jersey
- New York (including very high activity in New York City)
- Georgia
- New Mexico
- Idaho
- Michigan
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Massachusetts
- Connecticut
- Maryland
Note: Washington, D.C., is also reporting elevated activity. Flu levels are rising in most states, and experts predict widespread high activity in the coming weeks.
Local health departments, including the Georgia Department of Public Health, recommend getting vaccinated, practicing good hand hygiene, covering coughs, and staying home when sick to curb spread during the holidays.
For the latest updates, visit the CDC’s FluView or your state health department website. Stay safe this season, Georgia!
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) expects a massive holiday surge with 5.3 million travelers from Dec 19, 2025, to Jan 4, 2026, the busiest since the pandemic, peaking around Dec 26.
Travelers should arrive 2-3 hours early, use ATL’s website (atl.com) for parking/wait times, consider pre-booking parking, and follow @ATLairport on social media for updates to navigate potential bottlenecks at check-in and security
Hopefully you’ve already booked your ticket for travel during the holidays.
This article will show you how to save money on travel for new year if you’re an apprehensive traveler. Here’s what you need to know about flying this holiday season.
Holiday Travel: How To Save Money And More
For winter travel, there have been some good sales, especially with Southwest Airlines, so you can save money if you want to. The real issue is whether you’re ready to risk it all to fly to a vacation destination or home for the holidays.
If you want to know what safety measures airlines have put in place, here’s what to know:
Typically, you may be asked to quarantine from 10 to 14 days, so you’d better have some vacation days to spare.
How To Save On Holiday Travel
Let’s talk about some ways you can save on holiday travel. Always check Southwest’s Fare Calendar for days with cheaper prices. If you’re traveling abroad, I love Going.com as well. Also…
1. Be Flexible With Your Travel Dates
The Sunday after a holiday weekend is always the most expensive day to travel. Make sure you remain flexible so that you can book the cheapest travel days, which are typically a few days earlier or later than the weekend.
The cheapest days to buy travel is typically a couple days before a holiday — except when those days happen to fall on any of the three weekend days. So that means buying on Tuesday through Thursday is typically your best bet.
Read about the best days to book a flight.
2. Pack One Bag Only
If you want to save money, always only take one travel bag with you. Most airlines charge between $35 to $45 for a carry-on bag. That’s up to $70 to $90 coming and going.
For example, Delta Air Lines charges $45 for a second checked bag.
Even if you have to wear the same thing for a day, it’s worth it to save on baggage fees.
3. Look For Travel Bundles
If you need a rental car, you can save money if you bundle that purchase with your airfare. The same is true for hotels, although you typically won’t need one if you’re going home for the holidays.
Travel sites like Priceline and Orbitz has deals galore on trip bundles that include flights and hotel itineraries.
4. Plan For Cancellations
The holiday travel period is the most vulnerable time for airline cancellations. The sheer volume of passengers makes it almost inevitable that cancellations will happen.
What you can do is prepare by planning alternate travel plans, including a road trip.
Final Words
If you plan on traveling for the holidays this year, now is the time to book your ticket. Airfare is likely to increase in the weeks ahead as the airline industry tries to make grow profits for the holidays.
The main thing you need to remember is that airline travel has changed drastically since early in the pandemic. You will need to pack differently, including bringing plenty of masks and gloves.
You will also need to adjust your eating habits as many restaurants close their kitchens earlier or still have limited menus.
Whatever you do, try to have fun and be safe on your travels.
Once you get your passport, you should be ready for your trip. Make sure you have found the cheapest flights from Atlanta that are on sale. And don’t forget these travel hacks to save money and time.
To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.
Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interesting in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.
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Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist
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If you’re looking for a job, it may be time to go high-tech to get results.
In today’s competitive job market, artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT, Grok, and others are revolutionizing the way people search for and land jobs.
Many job seekers are still relying on traditional methods, but leveraging AI can accelerate the process dramatically—tailoring resumes, crafting applications, identifying gaps, and even strategizing outreach.
It’s official: There are proven AI techniques that have helped users secure interviews and offers faster. In this article, we’ll show you how to leverage AI for your job search.
Why AI is a Game-Changer for Job Hunting
AI can analyze job descriptions, compare them to your experience, generate personalized materials, and provide honest feedback that mimics a hiring manager’s perspective.
Users report getting multiple interview calls in days by using targeted prompts. The key is using AI thoughtfully to enhance your authentic skills, not replace them.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using AI Effectively
1. Get Brutally Honest Feedback on Your Fit for a Role
One of the most powerful uses of AI is simulating a hiring manager’s review. Paste the job description and your resume/CV into an AI tool with a prompt like:
“Act as a hiring manager for this role. Here is the job description and here is my CV. Tell me honestly why you would not interview me, and what I should change to look like a safe, strong hire.”
This identifies red flags, gaps in experience, or weak phrasing before you apply. It helps you refine your materials to appear as a low-risk, high-value candidate.
2. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
AI excels at customizing documents. Provide your base resume and the job posting, then prompt:
“Rewrite my resume to better match this job description, highlighting relevant skills and experiences. Use quantifiable achievements where possible.”
For cover letters:
“Write a compelling cover letter for this position based on my resume and the job requirements. Make it concise, enthusiastic, and tailored.”
Always review and personalize the output to ensure it sounds like you—recruiters can spot generic AI-generated text.
3. Prepare for Interviews
Use AI to anticipate questions:
“Based on this job description, generate 10 common interview questions and suggested answers using my experience from my resume.”
Or practice behavioral questions:
“Role-play an interview for this role. You ask questions as the interviewer, and I’ll respond.”
This builds confidence and refines your responses.
4. Boost Visibility and Networking
AI isn’t just for applications—use it to stand out on platforms like LinkedIn:
- Choose ideal employers.
- Find decision-makers.
- Generate short, insightful comments on industry posts to appear daily in their feeds. Prompt example:
“Suggest 5 concise, value-adding comments on recent posts about [industry topic] to build visibility with hiring managers.”
5. Strategize Your Overall Job Search
Turn AI into a “recruiter” with broader prompts, such as:
- Listing hidden job opportunities.
- Suggesting companies that match your skills.
- Outlining a weekly job search plan. Advanced users have reported 5+ interview calls in a week by systematically applying these.
Tips for Success and Avoiding Pitfalls
- Be Authentic: Edit AI outputs to reflect your voice. Over-reliance on generic text can backfire if detected by AI-screening tools or recruiters.
- Combine with Human Effort: AI speeds things up, but networking, follow-ups, and genuine enthusiasm win jobs.
- Tools to Try: ChatGPT, Grok (accessible on x.com or grok.com), Claude, or Gemini—all free or low-cost for basic use.
- Ethical Use: Use AI as an ally to highlight your real strengths, not fabricate experience.
By integrating AI into your job hunt, you can apply smarter, stand out more, and land opportunities faster. Start with one prompt today and build from there—your dream job might be just a few refined applications away!
Read more: Best Work From Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia
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In a homecoming performance for the ages, Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson eclipsed 2,000 yards from scrimmage for the season, powering his team to a hard-fought 26-19 comeback victory over the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday at State Farm Stadium.
The third-year star from Tucson finished with 168 all-purpose yards — 76 rushing on 16 carries and 92 receiving on seven catches — including a pivotal 13-yard touchdown reception that sparked Atlanta’s rally from a 10-point deficit.
Robinson Has Big Game Vs. Arizona
Robinson’s milestone makes him just the third player in Falcons history to reach 2,000 scrimmage yards in a single season, joining William Andrews (1981 and 1983) and Jamal Anderson (1998).
“This is so special,” Robinson said postgame, surrounded by roughly 200 family and friends in attendance. “Playing back home and hitting that mark — it’s a blessing.”
Quarterback Kirk Cousins threw for two touchdowns — one to Robinson and another to tight end Kyle Pitts — while adding a 1-yard rushing score of his own.
Cousins finished with 197 passing yards and one interception, efficiently guiding the offense in a game where the Falcons converted a season-high 50% on third downs.
The Falcons (now 6-9) trailed 13-3 early in the second quarter before Robinson took over.
On a crucial three-play drive, he hauled in a 41-yard pass, rushed for 11 yards, and capped it with his touchdown catch to pull Atlanta within 13-10
Later, a 29-yard run by Robinson set up another scoring opportunity, helping Atlanta tie the game at 16-16 heading into halftime despite a blocked extra point.
Cousins’ sneak in the fourth quarter extended the lead, and cornerback C.J. Henderson — elevated from the practice squad just a day earlier — sealed the win with a late interception of Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett.
For Arizona (3-12), suffering their seventh straight loss, Brissett threw a touchdown to wide receiver Michael Wilson but couldn’t overcome missed field goals and a blown early lead. The Cardinals’ struggles continued despite efforts from tight end Elijah Higgins and a strong ground game.
Robinson now sits at 2,026 scrimmage yards (1,250 rushing, 776 receiving), leading the NFL and putting him in striking distance of Andrews’ franchise record of 2,176 set in 1983.
With two games remaining, the dynamic back has cemented himself as the cornerstone of Atlanta’s offense.
“I’ve been calling him the best player in football all year,” head coach Raheem Morris said. “He’s phenomenal.”
The Falcons return home for a Monday night matchup against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 17, looking to build momentum in a disappointing season salvaged by Robinson’s brilliance.
AtlantaFi.com
Your home for Falcons coverage and Georgia sports news. -
As the Atlanta Falcons limp toward the end of another disappointing season, even winning a few games in the final month, fresh rumors are swirling about the organization’s front office and potential coaching changes.
According to NFL insider Josina Anderson, upper-level personnel within the Falcons remain “fond” of legendary coach Bill Belichick, fueling speculation that head coach Raheem Morris’ job could be on shaky ground.
Insider: Falcons Still Have Feelings for Belichick
Anderson reported on December 18 that there has been recent interest from at least two NFL teams in speaking with Belichick on an “exploratory basis.”
She specifically noted that Belichick still has admirers in high places in Atlanta, as well as in New York (Giants) and Cleveland (Browns)—all teams dealing with struggles this season.
This isn’t the first time Belichick’s name has been linked to the Falcons. Back in early 2024, after parting ways with the New England Patriots, Belichick interviewed twice for the Atlanta job and was widely considered the frontrunner.
Owner Arthur Blank appeared eager to bring in the six-time Super Bowl champion, but the team ultimately pivoted to Raheem Morris, the former Rams defensive coordinator with prior ties to the organization.
Now, nearly two years later, the Falcons sit at a disappointing record with another playoff miss locked in—extending the drought to eight straight seasons. Morris, in his second year, has overseen a team plagued by inconsistencies, quarterback transitions, and defensive lapses. While the Falcons showed fight in recent games, including a gritty win over a division rival, the overall results have fallen short of expectations.
The Belichick rumor adds fuel to an already hot seat for Morris. Reports suggest that some in the organization—possibly including Blank himself—still hold the future Hall of Famer in high regard.
Belichick, currently coaching at North Carolina after a challenging first college season, has a low buyout in his contract that could make an NFL return feasible.
Falcons fans are no strangers to coaching carousel drama, and this latest whisper has reignited debates about whether revisiting Belichick would be a stroke of genius or a sign of organizational dysfunction.
Blank has yet to comment publicly on Morris’ status, but with three games left in the season, the evaluations are undoubtedly underway.
For now, Morris and the team are focused on finishing strong against tough remaining opponents.
But as Black Monday approaches, all eyes will be on Flowery Branch to see if the Falcons’ fondness for Belichick turns into something more.Stay tuned to Atlanta Sports Chronicle for the latest updates on the Falcons’ offseason outlook.
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The House of Creed, the iconic French perfume house renowned for its handcrafted fragrances favored by royalty and celebrities for over 260 years, has officially opened its newest boutique in Atlanta.
Located in the upscale luxury wing of Phipps Plaza, this marks the brand’s 15th location in North America and its first dedicated boutique in the Southeast.
The elegant new space invites Atlanta’s fragrance enthusiasts to immerse themselves in Creed’s legendary collection of scents.
With an open-concept design, visitors can explore the full range of best-selling and exclusive offerings while experiencing the brand’s rich heritage.
The boutique’s sophisticated interior features signature green Luana Verde marble, warm walnut wood, and polished brass accents, blending modern luxury with timeless craftsmanship.
Highlights of the Atlanta boutique include a private VIP room and a dedicated fragrance & gifting bar, where guests can schedule personalized consultations.
These one-on-one appointments allow clients to discover their perfect signature scent while learning about Creed’s storied legacy of artisanal perfumery.
Exclusive in-store offerings include premium leather goods, oversized 1000ml flacons of select fragrances, and the complete Creed lineup—from the latest release, Oud Zarian, to enduring favorites like Aventus, Absolu Aventus, Carmina, Green Irish Tweed, Millésime Impérial, and Silver Mountain Water.
Creed now operates 15 boutiques across North America, with other locations in cities including New York City, Las Vegas, Miami, Beverly Hills, Dallas, Houston, Mexico City, and Toronto.
The new Creed Boutique is located at 3500 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30326, inside Phipps Plaza in Buckhead. Fragrance lovers are encouraged to visit and experience the world of Creed firsthand.
No matter if you want to catch a comedy club, go out for a night of cocktails and hookah, or go to the club, Atlanta has it all. And if you want to eat in a special place, Atlanta new restaurants continue to pop up every week!
Atlanta has so much to do that you need a curated guide to help you sort through it all. Make sure you subscribe to our #ATLHaps newsletter that gives you a weekly tab of Atlanta events you don’t want to miss.
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A nostalgic pre-9/11 airport tradition — saying goodbye to loved ones right at the gate or greeting arrivals as they step off the plane — is making a comeback at select U.S. airports through new visitor pass programs.
However, travelers and families in Atlanta will have to wait, as Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), the world’s busiest airport, is not currently participating in these initiatives.
U.S. Airports Increasingly Allowing Gate ‘Guest Passes’
Several airports nationwide have introduced “guest passes” allowing non-ticketed visitors to apply in advance, undergo TSA vetting, and pass through security to access gates, shops, and restaurants airside.
Oakland International Airport (OAK) in California is the latest to launch such a program this week, joining others like Cleveland Hopkins (Hangout Pass), San Antonio (SAT Pass), Kansas City (Guest Pass), Philadelphia (Wingmate Pass), and Detroit Metropolitan (Destination Pass).
These programs require visitors to submit applications online up to seven days ahead, receive TSA approval, and present a digital or printed pass along with a valid photo ID (such as a Real ID or passport) at the checkpoint.
Participants go through the same standard TSA screening as ticketed passengers.
The shift revives a practice common before the September 11, 2001, attacks, when anyone could accompany family or friends to the gate or even hang out at the airport to watch planes.
Post-9/11, the newly created TSA restricted secure areas to boarding pass holders only for enhanced security.
Many Atlantans may feel a twinge of nostalgia reading about these changes elsewhere. Reddit users in travel forums often reminisce about the old days: “Family could accompany you to the gate,” one wrote, while another recalled “greeting someone at the gate was nice” or simply watching takeoffs and landings as a fun outing.
At ATL, access beyond security remains limited to ticketed passengers.
The airport does allow airlines to issue limited escort passes at their discretion for cases like accompanying unaccompanied minors or passengers needing assistance due to disability. But no general visitor pass program is available, per the latest information on the official ATL website.
As holiday travel ramps up through Atlanta’s massive hub — with millions passing through during peak seasons — local families will continue saying goodbyes curbside or in the pre-security atriums.
Airport officials have not announced any plans to join the trend, though similar programs at other major airports could inspire future changes.
For now, if you’re flying out of ATL, pack those hugs in before the security line. Safe travels, Atlanta.
Final Word
Seeing the world with your partner is the best way to go. Looking for a destination? There are some great cities that you can vacation in for cheap right now.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
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Trilith LIVE, the region’s newest entertainment and special events venue, is set to debut with a dynamic grand opening season starting January 15, 2026.
Located on the Trilith campus in Fayetteville, the multi-purpose venue will kick off its inaugural entertainment programming on January 15 with the family-friendly show Gabby’s Dollhouse Live!.
Trilith Live Announces Inaugural Season
The season promises a diverse lineup of concerts, comedy acts, performing arts, and community gatherings designed to appeal to audiences of all ages.
Trilith LIVE will also introduce a luxury nine-screen cinema, delivering a next-generation moviegoing experience to South Metro Atlanta.
The venue will further celebrate the arrival of Passion City Church to the Trilith campus, enhancing the area’s growing cultural and community offerings.
“Trilith LIVE is more than just a venue; it’s a new epicenter for arts, culture and entertainment in the region,” said Matt McClain, executive director and general manager of Trilith LIVE. “We’ve built a space with state-of-the-art technology and incredible flexibility to attract a diverse lineup of live entertainment and special events. We are incredibly excited to open our doors and provide unforgettable experiences for this community and beyond.”
Designed for versatility, the 2,800-capacity venue features an immersive sound system, massive LED walls, and a full broadcast suite, making it ideal for major concerts, theatrical performances, corporate meetings, banquets, and conventions.
Officials say the development is already drawing touring artists, television productions, and large-scale events, boosting Fayette County’s profile as an economic and cultural hub.
Inaugural Entertainment Lineup Highlights
The grand opening season features an eclectic mix of national acts:
- Jan. 15: Gabby’s Dollhouse Live!
- Feb. 7: Jackie Hill Perry (sold out)
- Feb. 13: 38 Special
- Feb. 14: An Evening with October London & Lalah Hathaway
- Feb. 17: Popovich Comedy Pet Theatre
- Feb. 20: Dwight Yoakam
- Feb. 27: Hairball
- Feb. 28: Rick Braun
- March 20: Home Free – Highways & High Seas Tour
- March 28: Little River Band
- April 11: Legends of Laughter featuring Sommore, Earthquake, Lavell Crawford, and Don DC Curry
- April 18: Michael W. Smith
- April 24: Handyman Hal Comes to Town
- May 22: Randy Travis – The More Life Tour with guest vocalist James Dupré
Corporate and Community Events
Trilith LIVE is already booked for a robust schedule of business and community gatherings, beginning this month:
- Dec. 15, 2025: Etherio Company Meeting
- Dec. 17, 2025: City of Fayetteville CPR Training
- Jan. 20: Fayette County Development Authority Meeting
- Feb. 12: Fayette County Intergovernmental Business Outlook
- Feb. 26: CREW Leadership Summit
- March 11: Georgia Chamber of Commerce Conference
- March 21: Fayette County Board of Realtors Awards Gala
- March 27: Fayette PRC Spring Gala
- April 30: Harp’s Crossing Christian Academy Annual Fundraising Gala
- June 4-5: Faith & Institutional Investing Summit
- July 21-23: Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas Conference
- Oct. 22: State of the Industry hosted by Trilith Studios
- Nov. 13: Two Sparrows Village Bird Bash
Local leaders say Trilith LIVE will play a key role in transforming Fayetteville and surrounding communities into a premier destination for entertainment, business, and cultural events in the Atlanta region.
For tickets and more information on upcoming events, visit the official Trilith LIVE website.
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