"Mobile" can be a lot of different places. The city itself (we'll call it west side of the bay) is exurban and spread out. Newest development is westward. I wouldn't call downtown "charming". Lots of fun bars and restaurants, but nothing like boutique shopping...yet. The new cruise ship terminal will be good for downtown and there's much new development going on. The area called "Midtown" is accessible to the suburbs and shopping, yet with the lovely old houses and big oak trees. Two universities: U. of So. Ala and Springhill College. There is a symphony and some decent theater.
The east side of the bay (Fairhope) is perhaps more "artsy". More of a village atmosphere, good shopping, also good rural areas. Good beaches close by.
If you need more info, let me know!
Many thanks for the Mobile info, Timeout. Fairhope sounds great! I may be in touch again as the time to move approaches. Not until my 13-year-old doggie goes to dog heaven, however, as she is basically an arctic dog and needs her cool acre to run around on. She's a Keeshond and their coats really cannot be shaved. Gee whiz, the factors that govern our lives!
All the best,
Veto!