travel inspiration: Charleston, SC

I've only been there once, but Charleston, SC made a BIG impression on me.  It's full of history, charm, and beauty.  If you're looking for somewhere to spend some time, look no further than Charleston!

Like to shop?  Charleston is full of great places to indulge!  If you're a fashionista, don't miss King Street.  In the heart of downtown Charleston, it's home to the likes of Louis Vuitton, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, and J. Crew.  You'll definitely want to plan on parking and walking a bit on King.

Downtown Charleston is also home to quite a few historic inns and hotels.  When my family went in November, we stayed at the Vendue Inn in the French Quarter.  It's a small, intimate hotel with excellent service.  This place would be a great romantic getaway!  I highly recommend paying a little extra and getting a corner room with a fireplace.  It was such a cozy room, and was really like stepping back in time.  The hotel has turn-down service and even serves complimentary milk and cookies every night.  LOVED it!

Emmy & I at the Vendue Inn

 With its sandy beaches and windswept dunes, Folly Beach is a must on your trip to Charleston.  Known as "The Edge of America", Folly is an eclectic beach town complete with beach shacks and huge vacation homes.  There's only one major hotel on the island and if you're staying more than a few nights, it's definitely worth looking into renting a home.  Avocet Properties is a good place to start your search.

Folly on a cloudy day...still pretty!

Folly is also where you can get the best view of the Morris Island Lighthouse.  With origins dating back to 1767, the lighthouse was replaced by the Sullivan's Island Lighthouse in 1962.  There is now an ongoing project to save the lighthouse.

Morris Island Lighthouse from Folly Beach

Do you like seafood?  If so, you should seriously consider driving down to Tybee Island, GA.  It's about an hour and a half from Charleston, and let me tell you...it is worth the drive!  Here is where you will find The Crab Shack, known as the place "where the elite eat in their bare feet".  First of all, the place is just neat!  It's like a giant tree house built into its surroundings, and it's open air.  And the food...oh my goodness, my mouth waters just thinking about the deviled crab!  The crab legs and shrimp were amazing too!  I really cannot say enough good things about it!

Emmy & I with a "gator" at The Crab Shack

entrance to The Crab Shack

Back in Charleston, if ghosts pique your interest, you should consider a walking tour!  Visit Tour Charleston's website for information on the four tours they offer.  Also, don't miss out  on the historic home tours that the city has to offer.  

With everything Charleston has to offer, you definitely don't want to overlook this city when you're planning your next trip! For more information, visit the official page for the city of Charleston.

Do you have a suggestion for the next travel inspiration?  Leave a comment below!