Sports fans come watch the Baltimore Ravens and the Baltimore Orioles play. Walk along the Inner Harbor and indulge in sinfully delicious crabs. Or go catch your own as you drive up and down our beautiful beach-laden coast. But if you prefer different terrain, explore and behold the awe-inspiring Appalachian Mountains, just a short drive away. And that's just for starters -- just a brief introduction to Baltimore, MD -- the Charm City.

Washington D.C. -- 45 minutes. Philadelphia -- 2 hours. New York City -- 3 and 1/2 hours. That's right -- Baltimore sits in a prime location, close to several major cities. But there's a catch -- you'll never want to leave. If you're new to Baltimore, then you're new to a thriving city, a cultural community, an educational mecca, and a sports-lover's utopia. A true patron of the arts, Baltimore is rich in museums and galleries and houses a symphony hall, opera house, science center, zoo and aquarium. Over the past few years, billions of dollars have been invested into projects throughout the city -- everything from an employment rejuvenation to a real estate revival.

Whether you prefer to live in the heart of this lively city, in its suburban outskirts, or out amidst the rustic countryside, Baltimore has got it all. From downtown Fells Point to the rolling hills of Glyndon, each area has its own distinct personality. Whether you're drawn to an area for its shopping, nightlife, parks, schools or solitude, the choice is yours. For more information on finding your new home, visit one of the following websites:

Real Estate Greater Baltimore Apartment Guide: www.baltimorewelcome.com www.hopkinsmedicine.org/housing Long and Foster: www.longandfoster.com O'Conor, Piper & Flynn: www.opf.com

As for getting around without a car, our mass transit system is an efficient and cost-effective alternative. With more than a few options (bus, subway, and rail), you'll never feel stranded. And Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) is only 15 minutes away. For more information, visit www.mtamaryland.com.

While this is all useful information, we couldn't possibly tell you everything there is to know about the Charm City in one shot. So here are several helpful links:

City Guides
City Search: baltimore.citysearch.com
About.com: baltimore.about.com

Media
Baltimore Sun:
www.sunspot.net (major daily paper)
Baltimore City Paper:
www.citypaper.com (weekly alternative)

Weather
USA Today
The Weather Channel