Summer Travel Guide, Charleston, South Carolins

Southern traditions abound along the Ashley River and the Inter-coastal Waterway. Immerse yourself in all that Charleston has to offer; its cordial people, balmy breezes, stately mansions bordered with magnificent floras of magnolias, palmettos, azaleas, dogwoods and camellias.

From its beginning, Charleston was always the aristocratic capital of the south. Named for King Charles II of England and gifted by King Charles to eight friends, the Eight Lords Proprietors, Charleston established its first settlement in 1670 along the banks of the Ashley River. Visitors are amazed to see "Charles Towne Landing", authentically restored. Moored nearby is a full size replica of the settlers' ship. Children love to play on the ship. The zoo, with animals indigenous to the area, is located at Charles Towne Landing.

Daytime downtown is a beehive of activity and Charleston is "open for business". Merchants and tourist haggle back and forth for the best market vendor prices and profits. From sophisticated antiques to homemade art, King Street and The Charleston Marketplace are a bargain hunter's dream come true.

After the sun goes down, Charleston brings her charm and grandeur and becomes the "Lady of the South". She entices you with all that is her culture and romances with her soft Southern soirees. The nightlife explodes with ambiance. Fine dining still lives in the Charleston. Tradition is important and Charleston locals dress for dinner. Check with the restaurant.

Many excellent establishments have no particular dress codes. Nightlife has something for everyone. Sing along with the "karaoke krew", which is a favorite with my group. We are a large family and come from the four faces of the earth for our Charleston Family Reunions. The kids pick a karaoke spot and sing, "We Are Family" until management and/or patrons ask them to leave. Put on your happy feet and dance, dance, dance. The older generation enjoys dancing "the shag" or beach music.

After shopping, eating, singing and dancing, catch your forty winks at a Charleston Bed and Breakfast. Each is distinct and picturesque. The feel and smell of fresh cotton and the delicate feel of lace will put you down like a lamb. The "Lady" shares her morning glories and beckons you to see her lovely gardens; showing off the passions of generations past, their love and their labor. The many mansions, plantations and gardens are not only pleasing to the eye, but also provide a history of a beautiful people.

Charleston, the people; Charleston, the city; Charleston, the culture have all flourished with the abundance of nearby beaches, water sports, seaport trade, cruise lines, antiques shops and past and present craftsmen. . Visit the homes in the city and the county. See with open eyes Broad Street, Meeting Street, The Four Corners of Law, St. Michaels, Dock Street Theater and the first French Huguenot Church in America. Understand the history that is Charleston; the sadness of the past and joys of future dreams.

Not to be over looked is Charleston's connection to the best of best, our military. War began here, and The Charleston Navy Base and the Charleston Airforce Base trained many to put an end to the same. The United States Nuclear Submarine Base calls Charleston Home. The "Fighting Lady", the USS Yorktown, permanently moors at Patriot's Point in the Charleston Harbor, her credentials befitting a majestic retirement. Open daily for visitors.

Fort Sumter, located in the Harbor, was once the "breaking news of the day". Fort Sumter enjoys a wonderful tourist trade, especially for history buffs. Ferry from land-side to the island, and you may hear cannon fire echos and a few Fort Sumter secrets. A fun day for the entire family.

The Citadel, The Military College of the South and steeped in tradition, proudly represents Charleston and the State of South Carolina. Many Charleston and Carolina families have long legacies with The Citadel. Our sons and daughters have made the ultimate sacrifice for the United States, and The Citadel is pleased to call them family. The campus is open and a gift shop is available. Kids love the cannons and planes.

Charlestonians have their own language. "Gullah" is an island mixture of many languages including English, French, Dutch, German and the native languages from the slave trade. "Charleston Gullah" translation books are available at most novelty shops.

Enjoy Charleston, South Carolina. The Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce at 843.577.2510.