I'm in upstate SC (Near Greenville) and love the area. Winters are more mild but you still have a change of season unlike FL and southern GA.

Folks are friendly so long as the Yankees don't make comments about how things were done "Up North" (I'm was born north of the MD line so I can say that) Grits are good, Sweet Tea is even better. And you are right about the Highland events. I'm looking forward to attending Grandfather Mountain this year.