not to sound like the previous poster, but i lived near asheville for 4 months in 98 (then moved to DC)
I actually really loved asheville. it's a litte hippie-ish, but it's amazingly good for artisans and the like.
there was also a neat little club called "be here now" i think. that place was good.
i'm actually going there on vacation in july. i can't wait.
i (and i have no qualms admitting this) really love the Biltmore.