Location

Atlanta is the state capital of Georgia and the seat of Fulton County. The city has recently been commended by the Environmental Protection Agency for its eco-friendly policies. Atlanta has in recent years undergone a transition from a city of regional commerce to one of international influence. Most relevant to Colloquium 2009, Atlanta is home to the Weather Channel and is only 31 miles north of the National Weather Service Southeast River Forecast Center.

Colloquium 2009 will take place in the recently incorporated city of Dunwoody, located to the northeast of Atlanta. 

Climate and topography

The area has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild to chilly winters. Average high temperatures at the time of the Colloquium range between the upper 50s and mid 60s; lows may approach freezing. Like the rest of the southeastern U.S., the area receives abundant rainfall that is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year.

The Eastern Continental Divide line enters Atlanta from the south and proceeds to downtown. From there, the divide runs eastward along DeKalb Avenue and the CSX rail lines through Decatur. Rainwater that falls on the south and east side runs eventually into the Atlantic Ocean, while rainwater on the north and west side runs into the Gulf of Mexico. Atlanta draws most of its water from the Chatahoochee River, located on the northwestern side of the city.

What to wear
Dress according to the weather and your personal preferences; layered clothing is recommended as the average high temperatures are in the 50s and 60s. Casual jeans or upscale apparel is acceptable in most area restaurants. More formal attire is appropriate, but not required, for cultural performances, fine restaurants and some nightclubs.

Tipping
If people do a good job for you in the Atlanta area, tip 'em; you’ll be surprised how helpful someone is after they receive a tip. For waiters, waitresses, bartenders and taxi drivers, usually 15 to 20 percent is sufficient — 30 percent for truly great service. Hotel bellmen, porters and airport skycaps should receive no less than $1 per bag.