New Employee Guide

WELCOME TO ATLANTA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL!

On behalf of all here at AIS, we want to let you know how pleased we are that you will be joining our thriving and vibrant community.

We hope that this booklet will be a handy resource as you join us. It contains a wealth of information to help you navigate your way around Atlanta and the school, including tips on finding housing, obtaining a driver's license, buying furniture, accessing medical care, and more! Whether you're joining our community from Atlanta or you are moving into the area for the first time, these are a few suggestions to get you started. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your colleagues in People and Culture if you have any questions or need additional help during your transition

Again, our warmest welcome to you! We look forward to seeing you on campus.

Yours sincerely,

Kevin Glass Head of School

ABOUT AIS

MISSION

The mission of Atlanta International School is to develop courageous leaders who shape their world for the better.

CORE VALUES

At our core is creating a joy of learning and purposeful effort, and mutual respect and understanding, in an inclusive and intercultural community

OUR APPROACH

We create a safe, stimulating educational environment, promoting the wonder and curiosity that motivates a student to learn in and beyond the classroom, and throughout life We believe that achievement comes from sustained, purposeful effort and by learning to think critically, debate confidently, question assumptions and push limits

We believe language and culture shape and inform identity. We delight in difference, opening ourselves to authentic and meaningful interactions with cultures both in and outside school. We commit ourselves to grow and change individually and together, to ensure every learner’s identity, language, and values are respected.

To lead as individuals and as members of their communities, future-ready young people must learn to thrive in an uncertain world, pairing deep self-knowledge and empathy with the skills to think analytically and constructively We believe it is essential to develop the capacity to make decisions and take actions within an ethical framework, grounded in a spirited sense of hope in human potential

ANTI-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

Atlanta International School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation or gender preference in its admissions, educational and employment policies, programs, and practices.

SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM, PRINCIPALS & DIRECTORS

*Head of School - Kevin Glass, kglass@aischool org

*Associate Head of School & Head of Secondary School - Erin Robinson, erin.robinson@aischool.org

Upper School Principal - Gary Paterson, gpaterson@aischool org

Middle School Principal (Interim) - Tina Santilli, tina.santilli@aischool.org

Director, Community & Belonging - Katrina Daniels-Samasa, katrina daniels- samasa@aischool org

Director of Athletics - Jaclissa Haislip, jaclissa haislip@aischool org

*Head of Primary School - Matthew Hajdun, matt hajdun@aischool org

Upper Primary School Principal - Alain Poiraud, apoiraud@aischool org

Lower Primary School Principal - Carmen Baker, cbaker@aischool org

Early Learning Center Principal - Helen Munoz, helen munoz@aischool org

Director, Community & Belonging - Mary Yeboah, mary.yeboah@aischool.org

*Head of Technology, Innovation, & Research - Marsha Maxwell, marsha.maxwell@aischool.org

Director of STEAM - Peluchi Flores, pflores@aischool.org

*Associate Head of School & Head of Finance and Operations - Paul Saeger, psaeger@aischool org

Director of People & Culture - Jarrett Walton, jarrett.walton@aischool.org

Director of Operations - Anna Ellington, aellington@aischool org

Director of Accounting - Saily Eidizadeh, seidizadeh@aischool org

Director of IT Operations - Charles Allen, charles allen@aischool org

Director of Auxiliary Services - Kelley Chiapetta, kchiapetta@aischool org

*Head of External Relations - Reid Mizell, rmizell@aischool.org

Director of Marketing & Communications - Emily Hands, emily hands@aischool org

Director of Development - Elizabeth Martin, elizabeth.martin@aischool.org

Director of Enrollment- Anita Vucic, anita.vucic@aischool.org

Director of Alumni Relations - Pierrette Maillet, pierrette.maillet@aischool.org

*SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM

PEOPLE AND CULTURE PROCESS WORKFLOW

ADP AND PAYROLL

ADP Workforce Now is your primary source for all things HR and Payroll related. You should have received (or will shortly receive) an individualized registration email from ADP Workforce Now with the subject line “Welcome to ADP” with instructions on how to register and gain access to your profile. It is imperative that you register without delay as the link is valid only for 15 days.

Once you register, under the MYSELF tab please complete or verify the following information:

Full Legal Name

Date of Birth

Address

Contact Information

Emergency Contacts

Dependents and their information (necessary for insurance purposes)

Direct Deposit - we strongly recommend to enroll if you already have your bank account set up

Tax withholding rates (start with Federal before you can start State withholdings)

We encourage you to review various functionalities under the Myself tab.

How does the ADP system benefit you?

User-friendly experience for all HR tools and technology

Online access to personal information with easy update functionality (e.g. all changes to your personal information or deductions such as TIAA will be through ADP)

Mobile application that can be accessed anywhere

Immediate access to your personal information and personnel documents (e.g. digital distribution of appointment letters with compensation including your digital signature)

One fully integrated system for benefits, payroll, time sheets, policies

All benefits information:

Go to Resources > Company Information > Forms Library

Policies & Handbooks:

Go to Resources > Company Information > Company Policies

BANKING INFORMATION

Banking information for Expats:

Opening a bank account in the U S , as in any new country, can be a challenge Most banks will require you to have a Social Security Number (SSN) before opening an account AIS will assist you with this process during orientation week Your most important first task is to apply for a social security number

For J-1 visa holders, you must contact the Cordell Hull Foundation as soon as you enter the U S Write an email to pro@cordellhull org giving the date of your arrival in the U S , the port of entry (city of arrival), and passport number CHF must validate your J-1 visa status before you are eligible for a social security number.

AIS has established a relationship with a few local banks in close proximity to the school Depending on the bank you select, it may not be required to have a SSN before applying for an account. Banks will, in some cases, issue a debit card until you have sufficient credit history to qualify for a credit card, which takes about six months.

To open a bank account in the US, you will need to submit the following documents:

1. Two forms of picture identification

2. Social Security Number (SSN)

3 Some banks require an additional identification (options would include your DS-2019 form, credit card, international driver’s license or international identification card)

4 Proof of residence in the U S , such as a lease or utility bill with your name and address

5 Local or cellular phone number

Details to consider in opening your bank account:

The location, is it convenient to make deposits, use an ATM, or talk with a bank employee?

How many ATMs the bank offers, if they charge a fee, whether 24-hour customer service is available by phone, and online banking options. What are the fees associated with wiring money from/to overseas?

What requirements and penalties are there regarding a minimum balance?

Does my account earn interest?

Are there monthly service fees or other fees?

The deposit amount needed to open a bank account varies depending on which bank and which type of accounts you choose to open

WELLS FARGO

(Can open without SSN, need passport & AIS contract)

31 Pharr RD NW Atlanta, GA, 30305

404-842-2894

SYNOVUS BANK

334 East Paces Ferry RD NE

Atlanta, GA 30305 888-796-6887

FIRST CITIZENS BANK

79 W Paces Ferry RD #100 404-365-4661

TRUIST BANK

3020 Peachtree RD NW

Atlanta, GA 30305

404-479-2364

BANK OF AMERICA

3116 Peachtree RD NE

Atlanta, GA 30305

404-262-6340

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST

International and Domestic

If you are arriving from an international location, keep all of these important papers and documents together and carry them on the airplane with you (not in your checked baggage, and not in your shipment!).

Travel Documents:

Passport and Visa for each family member

Plane tickets

Hotel confirmation, if applicable

Family Documents:

Original birth certificates or certified copy

Original (or certified copy) marriage certificate and/or divorce papers if applicable for visa

Copy of wills

Health and Life Insurance policies

Social Security Cards

Inventory of all items packed, shipped or stored

Financial Documents:

(If not in English, a certified translation is recommended):

Cash or Traveler’s Checks for 1-2 weeks of expenses

Copy of last 3 months’ bank statements from host bank (may assist in establishing credit)

Copy of most recently filed income tax in host country

Letter from employer verifying your employment, position, title and income

Letter from a Credit Bureau, or a current Credit Report, if available

Letter from landlord confirming residency

Copy of rental lease in host country and landlord’s contact details

Copy of final utility and home service invoices

Automobile Documents:

International or domestic current driver’s license

"No Claim" letter from insurance company stating your good driving history

Medical Documents:

Medical records for each family member including immunization records

Current prescriptions

Contact lens and eyeglass prescriptions

Educational Documents:

Educational records for children

Copy of college diplomas for adults

Miscellaneous:

Child safety seats

Electrical converters/adaptors

GEORGIA DRIVER'S LICENSE INFORMATION

CURRENT US RESIDENTS AND CITIZENS

You may drive on license from another US state license before you become a resident of Georgia (GA) Once you become a resident and/or you'd like to purchase a car, you need a Georgia Driver's License Before going to the location, go to:

https://dds drives ga gov/ / and complete the information Then you can take your confirmation information to any GA Dept of Driver Services. The one near AIS is located at 400 Whitehall St. SW, Atlanta, GA 30303.

EXPATRIATES

You may drive on your International Driver's License before you become a resident (prior to getting your Social Security Number). However, once you are a resident and/or you'd like to purchase a car, you will need a Georgia Driver's license To begin the process go to https://dds drives ga gov/ / and once you have completed the information, you should be able to schedule a time to take your test Be careful, the test may not be as straightforward as some may think Go to this website (https://dds.georgia.gov/dds-forms-and-manuals/manuals) to upload and study.

Georgia currently has reciprocity with South Korea and if you hold a license from that country, you will not be required to take a test.

Once your test is scheduled, you can go to any Georgia Department of Driver Services to complete the process, some of our staff have visited the one located at 400 Whitehall St. SW, Atlanta, GA 30303.

NATIONALS/CITIZENS

If you want to purchase a car in Georgia, you will need a Georgia Driver's License If you have a Driver's License from a US state/territory, go to https://dds drives ga gov/ / and complete the information before you go to the Georgia Department of Driver Services. It will save you time.

SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER INFORMATION

Social Security numbers (SSN) are used to report a person’s wages to the government and to determine a person’s eligibility for Social Security benefits.

Why Do I Need a Social Security Number?

You need an SSN in order to be paid, to pay or be exempt from appropriate taxes, to open a bank account, to get a driver’s license, to buy a car, and to get a work permit for J-2 dependents, among many other uses

Can I Work Before I Have My Number?

From www socialsecurity gov/employer/hiring htm

Schools may hire foreign workers who have applied for and are waiting to receive Social Security numbers and cards. The teacher may work while the Social Security number application is being processed. If the teacher applied for an SSN but does not have it by the first official day of work, enter “Applied for” on the Form W-2. When the teacher receives the SSN, the employer can file, Form W-2c, Corrected Wage and Tax Statement, to show the employee’s SSN

For J-1 Visa Holders:

Upon arrival, it is imperative that you email your sponsor and receive confirmation from Cordell Hull that your immigration information has been updated in SEVIS Please remember that there is a 10-day waiting period from when you enter the country for your information to be downloaded into the Social Security system, and accessible to the SSA. If you do not wait the 10 days, your information may not yet be available in the system.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) strongly suggests that J-1 exchange visitors be in the United States for at least 10 days before applying for a Social Security number J-1 exchange visitors must also report to the Cordell Hull Foundation, the sponsoring organization, before applying Taking these actions will ensure that the SSA can verify the immigration Status with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Incoming teachers may apply for a card within 48 hours of arrival so long as SEVIS has been updated by Cordell Hull, and your paperwork is in order.

Note: If you are NOT on a J-1 Visa you can go directly to the SSA office and apply for a new Social Security Card.

How do I apply for a Social Security number and card?

Applying for an SSN and card is free. To apply for a work-authorized SSN, you will need to:

• Complete an application at www ssa gov/online/ss-5 html

• Show original documents proving your: Identity, Work-authorized immigration status and Age

Take your completed application and original documents to your local Social Security office.

You may also apply for an original SSN by answering the SSN-specific questions on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ (USCIS) Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) or Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status), also commonly known as Green Card USCIS transmits the data from approved applications to us to assign an SSN The SSN card is mailed to the address provided on the USCIS application

Please visit www.USCIS.gov for more information.

An in-person interview is required for 12 years plus. All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. Photocopies or notarized copies of documents are not accepted. Receipts showing you applied for the document are not accepted One document may be used for two purposes, e g a DHS work authorization document as proof of both your identity and work-authorized immigration status A birth certificate/passport may serve as proof of age

Identity and work-authorized immigration status; To prove your identity and workauthorized immigration status, you will need to show us your current U.S. immigration documents and your unexpired foreign passport. Acceptable U.S. immigration documents include: • Unexpired foreign passport with a current admission stamp showing a class of admission permitting work. • Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card. SSA.gov• Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record showing DHS work authorization • Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document, (EAD, work permit from DHS) Exchange visitors: J-1 visitors must also show us a DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status Additionally, J-1 students, student interns, and international visitors must show a sponsor letter to prove employment The letter should be on sponsor letterhead with an original signature that authorizes your employment.

Age; You must present your foreign birth certificate if you have it or can get it within 10 business days. If not, we can consider other documents, such as your passport or a document issued by DHS, as evidence of your age.

How long will it take to get a Social Security number?

Documents must be verified with DHS before an SSN is assigned After receiving verification from DHS, you will receive your Social Security card in the mail If your documents can’t be verified online, DHS may take several weeks to respond to our request

Do I need to have my number before I start working? We don’t require you to have an SSN before you start work. However, the Internal Revenue Service requires employers to use your SSN to report your wages. While you wait for your SSN, your employer can use a letter from us stating you applied for a number. Your immigration documents can prove your authorization to work in the United States. Employers can find more information online at www ssa gov/employer/hiring htm

Contacting SSA: The most convenient way is to visit www ssa gov to get information and use online services There are several things you can do online: apply for benefits; start or complete your request for an original or replacement Social Security card; get useful information; find publications; and get answers to frequently asked questions. When you open a personal my Social Security account, you have more capabilities. You can review your Social Security Statement, verify your earnings, and get estimates of future benefits. You can also print a benefit verification letter, change your direct deposit information, request a replacement Medicare card, and get a replacement SSA-1099/1042S. Access to your personal my Social Security account may be limited for users outside the United States If you don’t have access to the internet, use automated services by telephone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week If you need to speak with someone, call toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 or at our TTY number, 1-800-325-0778, if you’re deaf or hard of hearing A member of our staff can answer calls from 8 a m to 7 p m , Monday through Friday Interpreter services upon request. For quicker access , try calling early in the day (between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. local time) or later in the day. We are less busy later in the week (Wednesday to Friday) and later in the month.

Address:

STE 2860 FLR 28 401 W PEACHTREE ST NW

ATLANTA, GA 30308

Phone: 1-800-772-1213

TTY: 1-800-325-0778

Fax: 1-833-950-2558

Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Saturday and Sunday Closed

WHERE SHOULD I LIVE?

AIS is located in the Buckhead Neighborhood of Atlanta Other popular neighborhoods close by include Sandy Springs, Brookhaven, Virginia Highlands and West Midtown

You will want to consider your primary means of transportation when considering the neighborhood you want to live in

MARTA (www.itsmarta.com Atlanta's public transportation) has buses and a limited underground metro The Buc is a low cost shuttle service that operates from MARTA stations

If you have a mobile device with internet data, you can use the following apps to get a ride to your preferred destination: Lyft or Uber

THESE WEBSITES PROVIDE AVAILABILITY AND PRICING FOR APARTMENTS IN ATLANTA:

APARTMENTS.COM

ZILLOW COM

RENTCAFE.COM

APARTMENTFINDER COM

FURNITURE & HOME FURNISHINGS

Rooms to Go - moderately priced room packages

3256 Peachtree Rd NE Ste A, Atlanta, GA 30305

Atlanta Used Furniture - vintage and period furniture

1080 Katherwood Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30310

Ikea - global brand homegoods

441 16th St NW, Atlanta, GA 30363

Target - Home goods and grocery

2539 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324

Crate and Barrel - upscale chain

3256 Peachtree Rd NE Ste A, Atlanta, GA 30305

Homegoods affordable furniture and housewares

2625 Piedmont Road NE Atlanta, GA 30342

Pottery Barn - upscale home goods chain

3393 Peachtree Rd NE Suite 4070, Atlanta, GA 30326

The Dump - Discount home furnishings

815 Sidney Marcus Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324

UTILITIES, MOBILE PHONES, ETC

MOBILE PHONE SERVICE PROVIDERS

When purchasing a cellular (mobile) phone, you will be asked to provide the company with a Social Security Number (SSN). The SSN will be used to check your credit information If you do not have one and are not eligible for one, you will be asked to pay a security deposit The amount of the deposit varies according to the provider

VERIZON

3255 PEACHTREE RD NE

ATLANTA, GA 30305

(800) 880-1077

T-MOBILE

2900 PEACHTREE RD NW SUITE 105, ATLANTA, GA 30305

(404) 262-2229

AT&T

2561 PIEDMONT RD NE SUITE C110, ATLANTA, GA 30324

(404) 949-0707

T-MOBILE

2900 Peachtree Rd NW

Suite 105, Atlanta, GA 30305

(404) 262-2229

INTERNET PROVIDERS

AT&T

2561 Piedmont Rd NE

Suite C110

(404) 949-0707

XFINITY

3637 Peachtree Rd

Suite C1, Atlanta, GA 30319

(800) 266-2278

GA POWER ELECTRICITY

Customer Service

1-888-660-5890

HOME UTILITIES

ATLANTA WATERSHED MANAGEMENT

Customer Service

404-546-0311

SCANA GAS

877-467-2262

GEORGIA NATURAL GAS

855-936-7438

ATLANTA WEATHER Despite having a mild climate, Atlanta does experience all four seasons The average annual temperature in Atlanta is 61 degrees July is the hottest month, averaging 89 degrees and January is the coldest, with the average low at 34 degrees With less than two inches of annual snowfall in Atlanta, it’s not easy to ski or sled, but you can enjoy more than 100 golf courses, 200 public tennis courts and hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails more than 300 days a year. The moderate Atlanta climate also allows us to take advantage of many outdoor festivals, concert venues and parks nearly year-round.

MEDICAL & DENTAL PROVIDERS

When to visit an Emergency Room (ER) at a Hospital: First and foremost, the ER is meant for true emergencies and is equipped for nearly any type of medical emergency Emergency rooms are found at most hospitals and they are typically open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Emergency rooms can handle trauma, x-rays, surgical procedures, and other life threatening situations

When to go to Urgent Care: Visiting an urgent care center is a great alternative where you will be treated quickly while saving money. Most urgent care centers are equipped to handle non-life threatening situations that you can typically find at your doctor's office Most urgent care centers are open late and on weekends and holidays A true urgent care center will be staffed with doctors and nurses who have access to x-ray and a lab onsite.

URGENT CARE FACILITIES

Piedmont Urgent Care

2292 Peachtree Road NW Atlanta, GA 30309 404-996-0120

Atlanta Urgent Care at Peachtree

2140 Peachtree Rd NW Ste 232 Atlanta, GA 30309 Phone number (678) 805-7425

DENTISTS

Atlanta Dental Spa

3235 Roswell Rd NE UNIT 400, Atlanta, GA 30305

(404) 816-2230

Tend

265 East Paces Ferry Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 (404) 882-7864

HOSPITALS

Piedmont Hospital

275 Collier Rd NW UNIT 450 Atlanta, GA 30309

(404) 351-8873

Emory Hospital

550 Peachtree St NE

Atlanta, GA 30308

(404) 686-4411

Northside Hospital

1000 Johnson Ferry Rd NE

Atlanta, GA 30342

(404) 851-8000

PRIMARY CARE DOCTORS

Family Practice Center

993 Johnson Ferry Road NE, Suite F210, Atlanta, GA 30342 (404) 256-1727

Piedmont Internal Medicine

3280 Howell Mill Rd NW West Tower Suite 150 Atlanta, GA 30327 404-351-7467

DERMATOLOGISTS

Dermatology Associates of Georgia 2061 Peachtree Road NW, Suite 400 Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 554-0810

Peachtree Dermatology Associates

371 E Paces Ferry Rd Ste 900 Atlanta, GA 30305 (404) 355-1919

PEDIATRICIANS

Peachtree Park Pediatrics 3193 Howell Mill Rd NW # 250, Atlanta, GA 30327 (404) 351-1131

Piedmont Pediatrics

105 Collier Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30309

(404351-6662

FOOD, PHARMACIES & PETS

BAKERIES

The Buttery

2137 Manchester St NE, Atlanta, GA 30324

Alon's Bakery

3500 Peachtree Rd Suite 1095 D, Atlanta, GA 30326

Café Vendôme

4969 Roswell Rd #155, Atlanta, GA 30342

PET CARE

Petsmart

3221 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305

PetCo

3756B Roswell Rd, Atlanta, GA 30342

VETERINARIANS

Pharr Road Animal Hospital

553 Pharr Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 (404) 237-4601

Peachtree Hills Animal Hospital

3106 Early St NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 404-812-9880

Emergency Vet BluePearl

1071 Howell Mill Rd Ste. B Ste. B, Atlanta, GA 30318 404-649-6333

GROCERY AND FOOD STORES

Publix - at the Peach 2900 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305

Kroger

2452 Morosgo Way Atlanta,GA 30324

Whole Foods

Upscale Organics 77 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305

Fresh Market

Boutique markets 2099 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30309

Dekalb Farmers Market International produce 3000 E Ponce de Leon Ave, Decatur, GA 30030

Buford Highway Farmers Market International produce 5600 Buford Hwy NE, Doraville, GA 30340

Peachtree Road Farmers Market Saturdays only, March - December local vendors 2744 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305

PHARMACIES NEAR AIS

Walgreens

Wender

FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN

An overview of the American Education System:

The American education system is unlike that in many other countries Formal schooling lasts 12 years, until around age 18. Compulsory schooling ends by age 16 in most states; all other states require students to attend school until they are 17 or 18. All children in the United States have access to free public schools. The education system is divided into three levels:

Elementary/primary education, Secondary education, and Postsecondary/higher education (college or university)

Every State has its own department of education and laws regulating finance, the hiring of school personnel, student attendance, and curriculum Though the U S Federal government contributes approximately 10% to the national education budget, education is primarily the responsibility of state and local government. Public schools have also relied heavily on local property taxes to meet the vast majority of school expenses. American schools have thus tended to reflect the educational values and financial capabilities of the communities in which they are located Consequently, there is huge variation among schools regarding courses, subjects, and other activities

FOR FAMILIES

REGISTERING YOUR CHILDREN IN ATLANTA PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM:

All registration must be done online: https://www atlantapublicschools us/Domain/1

Your child will need certain health records to enroll in the Georgia School system; please refer to the following link:

https://georgia.gov/get-required-health-records-attend-school

THINGS TO DO IN THE ATL

High Museum of Art - the High Museum of Art is the largest museum for visual art in the Southeastern United States

National Center for Civil and Human Rights - a museum dedicated to the achievements of the Civil Rights Movement in the U S and the broader worldwide human rights movement

World of Coca Cola - is a museum showcasing the history of The Coca-Cola Company.

Fernbank Museum - a museum with exhibitions and programming about natural history.

Children's Museum of Atlanta - a hands-on museum that allows children ages 0-8 to experience the possibility of play.

The Beltline - Atlanta's spectacular outdoor space, this 22-mile trail loops the city, connecting neighborhoods and showcasing why Atlanta is “The City in the Forest ” With ever-changing artwork, unique shops, lively bars and restaurants, the BeltLine is the best way to explore the city on foot, on wheels or with your furry friends In addition to BeltLine trails, PATH maintains a network of biking and walking trails in Metro Atlanta, including one that traverses Atlanta's east side, traveling past the Carter Center and through Freedom Park

Breweries - Atlanta is home to more than 50 breweries that serve their own craft beers and often excellent food with more opening in the coming months - try Hopstix in Brookhaven, Halfway Crooks in the Summerhill area, and Bold Monk and Monday Night on the Westside

Parks and Greenspaces - Atlanta is full of beautiful public parks to enjoy. From Piedmont Park, Chastain Park, Freedom Park, Grant Park and much more, there is always a way to get into nature nearby. Don't miss the Chattahoochee River National Recreation area as well as Cochran Shoals for beautiful river walks.

Chattahoochee Nature Center - Zipline across a beaver pond, get up close and personal with hundreds of butterflies, take a hike or enjoy a concert by the river There are infinite opportunities for fun with nature in the forest, on the river or in the wetlands

Atlanta Botanical Garden - Enjoy 30 acres of stunning gardens and spectacular exhibits at this year-round family attraction Learn more about the 25-foot tall Earth Goddess sculpture with flowing locks and a waterfall cascading from her hand Every season, the ever-growing garden offers events on the lawn for visitors to experience

Georgia Aquarium - exhibits hundreds of species and thousands of animals across its seven major galleries, all of which reside in more than 11 million US gallons of water

Centennial Olympic Park - This downtown Atlanta park is an urban oasis offering f activities and things to do for visitors, families, convention attendees and locals.

Alliance Theater - A regional theatre Tony Award Winner and leading producing theater in the Southeast, this is where hearts and minds expand on and off stage. Deeply community-rooted, Alliance Theatre offers productions for all ages.

Fox Theater - With stunning gold leaf details, Egyptian architecture and a gorgeous starry-sky, the Fox Theatre is a piece of art on its own The ornately designed venue hosts top performances and events, including Broadway shows and movies Whether you visit for a show or a tour, keep an eye out for the famed ghosts

WHERE TO EAT IN ATLANTA

Dining in Atlanta is a constantly evolving and vibrant journey, with a wealth of culinary delights for everyone and every occasion. Here are a few top choices to get you going on that journey! In no particular order, here are some favorites from your AIS colleagues...

SEAFOOD

Fishmonger

1025 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

The Optimist

914 Howell Mill Road, Atlanta 30318

Bon Ton Atlanta

674 Myrtle Street, NE Atlanta 30308

CURRENTLY TRENDING...

Snap Thai Fish House

3699 Lenox Road Atlanta, 30305

Tyde Tate Kitchen

229 Mitchell St. Atlanta, 30303

Carmel

3009 Bolling Way Atlanta, 30305

The Wurst Beer Hall

863 Ponce De Leon Ave, Atlanta 30306

RANDOM FAVES...

Miller Union - Upscale Farm to Table

Taqueria Del Sol Inexpensive Tex-Mex

Delbar - Mediterranean

Bistro Niko - Classic French Brasserie

Spring Restaurant - Fine Dining

Virgil's Gullah Kitchen & Bar - Lowcountry

Heirloom Market BBQ - Southern/Korean fusion

Bacchanalia - Special Occasion

Twisted Soul Cookhouse - Upscale Southern

Sushi Nami Too- Japanese / Sushi

Talat Market - Modern Thai

Kimball House - Modern American

VEGETARIAN/VEGAN

La Semilla780 Memorial Drive Atlanta, 30316

Cafe Sunflower 2140 Peachtree Road Atlanta, 30309

Slutty Vegan

1542 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd. Atlanta, GA 30310

BUFORD HIGHWAY - ATLANTA'S WORLD RENOWNED INTERNATIONAL CULINARY TREASURE

Canton House - Dim Sum and Cantonese 4825 Buford Highway, Chamblee

Hae Woon Dae BBQ - Korean

5000 Buford Highway

Nam Phuong - Vietnamese

4051 Buford Highway, Atlanta

Lee's Bakery - Vietnamese

4005 Buford Highway, Atlanta

Mamak - Malaysian

5150 Buford Highway, Doraville

Advice on Tipping in Restaurants...

Servers in restaurants in the US make less than minimum wage and rely on tips It is customary to add an additional 15% - 20% as a tip to your bill.

HTTPS://ATLANTA EATER COM/MAPS/BEST-RESTAURANTS-BUFORD-HIGHWAY-CHAMBLEE-DORAVILLE-ATLANTA HTTPS://ATLANTA.EATER.COM/22587452/BEST-FOOD-ATLANTA-RESTAURANTS-WHERE-TO-EAT