You are a lady after my own heart - NO SNAKES. I have a completely unrational, ridiculous fear of them. The old saying "they're more scared of you than you are of them". That would be impossible. I've been told the only state in the union that states don't reside in is Alaska; so much for being temperant.
On a serious note, a very close friend of mine moved to Johnson City, TN about 3 years ago. Gorgeous area in the mountains. I understand there is some snow but not in an obnoxious way. We visited this spring and we have never encountered more friendly. Good hospitals, shopping, nice cultural events. I visited two quilt shops and a Hancock Fabrics. It's at least worth visiting on a vacation. Good luck in your search.