There were so many things to do in Charleston that could suit most anyone. There's good shopping, there's good food, there's good fishing, there's good beaches and there's good history... so make sure you bring good shoes! Paul and I walked and walked until I rubbed a blister in my cute flats, then we walked some more. The downtown area is so interesting with the old buildings that have been beautifully restored. There is something so charming about walking down an old cobblestone street, lined with historical lanterns between southern mansions. It makes you want to put on a sundress, grab a glass of sweet tea and sit in a rocking chair watching the tide come in.
Charleston is just so dang old and they've done a wonderful job preserving so many things from yesteryear. Our first stop in Charleston was The Angel Oak, recommended to us by a friend. Even the trees are old in Charleston, and this tree is no exception. I've never seen such a spectacular tree. Pictures really don't do it's size justice.
Next we checked in at our hotel. This cute place was situated on a busy canal used by shrimpers. We loved watching the shrimp boats come in and go out towards the ocean. We had awesome views of the water and had a boardwalk down the canal for romantic walks by the water.
Now, from then on out I don't remember which order things played out, so I'll just list a few. One morning we had a private kayak tour into the saltwater marshes and out into the ocean. It was so peaceful kayaking around the peaceful backwaters, seeing dolphins in the ocean and listening to the waves crash around us. Despite the sunburn and sore arms, it was well worth it.
We of course spent some time at the beach and splashed in the waves for an afternoon. Unfortunately, the jellyfish were very attracted to me and I got stung not once, but twice before we called it a day. We ate at wonderful restaurants and enjoyed browsing the homemade crafts and goodies at the open market. And every time we passed a candy store with warm praline pecans, we stopped for a free sample. Vacationing on a budget is key. :)
One of my favorite days was spent going to the Boone Hall Plantation. It has the longest avenue of oak trees and it is beautiful to see. There is so much history there at the plantation and it was interesting to take a tour inside of the house, as well as tour the original slave cabins on site. We spent hours there exploring the grounds, the house, the gardens and the oak trees.
My favorite night of our trip was going on a haunted ghost tour! I've always wanted to go on one and Charleston was the perfect place to do it! We chose a ghost tour of the old jail. Come on, old-school jails are creepy enough, then they turn the lights off and talk about ghosts of old prisoners. Pretty scary stuff if you ask me. Glad I can check a ghost tour off my bucket list now!
Charleston was a great end of summer vacation that we desperately needed. I'm glad we were able to fit it in before we left Johnson City and have one last great adventure before we left the area.
Love and Happiness,
Bethany
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