Nashville, Capital of Country Music, is nestled on the Cumberland River in Davidson County, north-central Tennessee. The city is viewed as being among the best places to live in the US. Along with its unrivalled music scene, the city has an effervescent nightlife, great restaurants, chic shops and loads of outdoor activities.

In recent years businesses have flocked to Nashville to take advantage of its ideal, centralized geographical location, its affordable real estate and exceptional quality of life.

The city has an abundance of fantastic parks. Kids will love splashing in the creeks, exploring the deer-tracked trails and hiding out in the antique barns at Bells Bend Park. Mountain bikers will love Hamilton Creek park, while the tennis courts, playgrounds and soccer fields of Sevier Park offer something for everyone.

Business professionals relocating here often head for the upscale condos of the West End, or to the more arty Green Hills. Upmarket residential areas include the ‘old money’ area of Belle Meade, and the chic villas of Sylvan Park. Up-and-coming areas include East Nashville (Germantown, Inglewood, Cherokee Park and Berry Hill).

What is special or unique about your city?

It is the largest city in Tennessee with a population of nearly 1.5 million residents who call the metropolitan area home; and in addition to being the center of the country music scene; it is a major hub for publishing, banking, health care and transportation.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

People arriving in Nashville for the first time often get the impression of having arrived in a large country town, rather than a large, populous city. For the most part, people are friendly and willing to help you find your way, and recommend a good restaurant or music hall.

Are these impressions likely to change?

Most people fall in love with the city from the first moment they arrive. Nashville's hospitality will draw you in and you might never want to leave.

What is the local language?

The primary language spoken in Nashville is English. However, there many nationalities represented in the city and you will at times hear several different languages spoken around the city.

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

It is recommended that you have a basic knowledge of English. Without the basics of the language, you will face some challenges.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

Because Nashville is a major Music and finance hub, people from many walks of life live here. As such, it is a diverse culture. Respect and acceptance of other cultures should be demonstrated at all times.

As a general rule, people in the United States value their personal space, which is at least an arm’s length between you and the person next to you. Also, asking too many personal questions when you first meet someone and/or using certain hand gestures (such as displaying your middle finger) is considered offensive.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

Nashville has a hot, subtropical climate with humid summers and cool winters. On average, it receives 48 inches of rain and nine inches of snow (mainly in January and February each year) per year. Nashville's location is prone to severe thunderstorms during the spring, summer and autumn with occasional tornados touching down around the Nashville area. It is therefore a good idea for you to secure an emergency kit containing blankets, food, water, battery powered radio, etc., for such times.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

The people of the South have a reputation for being very hospitable and Nashville is no exception. People are warm and accommodating to others moving into the area. It is very easy to develop friendships with people who live in Nashville and many friendships become life long.