☀️ Bay Area Friend Visits Charlotte NC | Summer is Summering! 🌴

My old neighbor from college invited me to her Charlotte home—and since we had Prime Day code freeze at work, I took a few days off to escape! 🎉 Charlotte’s summer is scorching—90°F+ (32°C+) these past two days—but the humidity is real! No need for hand cream at all—my skin’s never felt so moisturized 😂. This city is super livable: just the right size, convenient, and so affordable! I was shocked to see gas under $3/gallon🚗—total culture shock coming from the Bay Area. 🗺️ Charlotte Highlights (Not a Tourist City, But Charming!) It doesn’t have tons of iconic attractions, but there’s plenty to keep you busy: Optimist Hall: Trendy food hall with tons of delicious eats The Alley at Latta Arcade: Cute indoor food alley with unique spots Truist Field: Catch a baseball game for that classic American vibe🎮 Pins Mechanical Co: Fun bar with arcade games and drinks 🍻🌊 Carowinds: Water park + amusement park—perfect for beating the heat! Peter Catholic Church: Stunning architecture (great for photos!)🧁 Amélie's French Bakery & Café: Adorable French bakery with sweet treats🍔 Cook Out: Famous Southern fast-food chain (try the milkshakes!)🍗 Bojangles: Iconic Southern fried chicken spot—must-try! 🌄 Day Trip Ideas (Need a Car!) Fred W. Symmes Chapel: Beautiful chapel with scenic views Great Smoky Mountains: Breathtaking mountains—worth the long drive! Overall, Charlotte is a laid-back, affordable city with a cozy small-town feel. Perfect for a low-key summer getaway with friends! ☀️ #CharlotteNC #NorthCarolina #SummerTrip #USSouth #BayAreaEscape #Plog #StudyAbroadLife #AmericanLife #TravelDiary