Explorer Giovanni da Verrazano landed on what is now North Carolina's shore in 1524, and wrote in his log, "as pleasant and delectable to behold as is possible to imagine." That apt description still holds true and the city of Charlotte, is the crown jewel of the state.

Charlotte is the largest city of North Carolina, and the economic center for the Carolinas. The city was built on the gunnies of the St. Catherine's and Rudisill gold mines, and today, is headquarters to many financial institutions, being the second largest banking center in the World, after New York City.

The city center is also the cultural soul of the city, with the Charlotte Museum of History, Museum of the New South, and Discovery Place. Charlotte's famous Freedom Park is a favorite recreational area. The city is also home to professional sport franchises, basketball's Bobcats and Sting, and football's Panthers, who made an appearance at the SuperBowl 2004.

Charlotte continues to experience enormous growth as evident by its ever expanding skyline. Real estate has become hot commodity, as more and more people are flocking to Charlotte for all the opportunity and activities it provides, as well as that famous southern hospitality.