Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, SC
Travelogue
1999 Comments

Welcome to the Charleston, SC Travelogue - a moderated page where you can get the inside information on the best eateries, places to go, local nightlife, and things to do in and around the Charleston area. Tell us about your favorite spots, memories, things to do in and around Charleston, SC. Note: This page is not an advertisement for any particular spot and all opinions contained here are solely those of the individual contributor. E-mail addresses are being removed to encourage the posting of answers  to the Travelogue and to reduce the growing spam problem.

Please see our Accommodations Pages for Places to Stay or use our Hotel Search

Below is an archive of comments prior to 1/2000

Have you ever stayed at the Battery Carriage House? Please tell me how you liked it.
-- Lynn Roberts (teroberts@mindspring) submitted 1/27/1999

Is there still such an animal? My husband has talked so much about it when he was attending DUKE but I can't seem to find any information about it. I'm beginning to think he's making it up! It has to do with a sister city in Italy and is in the spring. Any information would be helpful.
-- Porter, Karin" (kporte@coair.com) submitted 1/27/1999
Editor's Note: I believe you are referring to the Spoleto Fesitval which is held during the month of June. You can find more information at http://www.spoletousa.org/

We visited family in charleston from Jan 16,1999 to Jan 23,1999. Everything was beautiful and you couldnt ask for nicer weather. Having said that, We came from Northern Calif longing for that southern hospitality and charm instead we had a very bad experience with rude staff at the hotel we stayed at which was Inntown suites they completely spoiled our trip. We are a family of six who travel quite often and have stayed at various hotels, this by far has been the worst!!The hotel itself was ok,But the staff couldnt of been ruder if they tried.
-- lynne booker (cadrming) submitted 1/27/1999

My husband and I along with our dear friends visited Charleston some years back and ate a dish at a restaurant called "The Steam Pot." I'm trying to duplicate that recipe back here in Tennessee to celebrate our friends wedding anniversary. Any suggestions?
-- Anonymous submitted 1/27/1999

there was a house on tv recently that used to belong to john s oneal sometime around the civil war and it had been sold to an afro american woman and i do not remember her name. do you know anything about this particular house? it is supposed to have a big O initial in the gates or ironwork and maybe the lattice . there are supposed to be the frenchwrought iron features with an O in them? any help locating the house would be appreciated.. shayne o'neal ford
-- Anonymous submitted 1/27/1999

Would like some information on plantation tours in Charleston. Lodging around town that would be close to places of interest, most of all Plantations and prices. Thank you, Julie Q.
-- julie quimby (pljq@erols.com) submitted 1/27/1999

3DLooking for hotel or B and B for under $100/ night in April. Also, other neat towns around there to visit and stay. Ideas please.. Thanks , Bill=20
-- 3DBill Morey (3Dbillmorey@prodigy.com) submitted 1/27/1999

Emeril LaGasse claims the best cheeseburger in America can be found at Melvin's on Mt. Pleasant. Can anyone vouch for this? I certainly intend to try it on my next visit.
-- Dale Brown (dunes@prodigy.net) submitted 1/27/1999

Hello there! Eight of us from Northern NJ are planning a trip to Charleston for golf (3/30/98 - 4/3/98). We are looking for help in booking challenging courses. We don't have lodging yet, so we would also appreciate recommendations on that topic as well. We'd much prefer to stay as close to the courses as possible and minimize drive time..... If anyone has any suggestions or recommendations we would surely appreciate hearing from you! Thanks, Peter D. Kelly
-- Pete Kelly (NJKelly23@aol.com) submitted 1/03/1999

Help !! I am from Fla. and want to get married in Charleston. Could someone please recommend a romantic place where I could have a horse & carriage type wedding outside!?! Thank you, Henry
-- Henry D (gatorama@worldnet.att.net) submitted 1/03/1999

We're looking at going to Charleston the last week of March, 1999. I'm worried that the trees and flowers will not be in bloom yet, and this may not be the best time to go. What is it like that time of year in Charleston? Thanks
-- Kim Pilon (chuckkim@usinternet.com) submitted 1/03/1999

My grandaugher is attendig college in Charleston and lives on St.Phillips st.I would be most grateful if i could get any information on this area, such as crime and is this a good area. thank you very much for any info.
-- R.HALL (rgh7370@aol.com) submitted 1/03/1999

we are looking for a location that sells emmett kelly figuriens. in charleston or north charleston. thank you for your help.
-- arlene price (jjprice@clis.com) submitted 1/03/1999

I've been to Charleston several times and we make a point to go at least two or three times a year. Someone who hasn't been to this magical city can't understand all of the beauty, history, and wonder that it holds. Everytime we come over there, we take Eddie Macy's ghost tour. This is an excellent way to learn about the history of the city and the events that have made it what it is today. We also like to visit the lighthouse on Sullivan's Island. This is a secluded little spot and is one of Charleston's best kept secrets I believe. I could go on and on. The Market, Fort Sumpter, The College of Charleston and The Citadel, The Battery, and Waterfront Park. All of these contribute to a perfect atmosphere. So if you have a couple of days, make it a point to vist this place where the people are extremely friendly, the food is great, and there is neve a dull moment. I've been to 44 of the 50 states and have yet to see a place as nice as Charleston, South Caroli! na. William Richardson Birmingham, Alabama
-- William Richardson (wrichard@pandora.hhs.k12.al.us) submitted 1/03/1999

Because of our love of Charleston & the most relaxing vacations we've ever had, my wife & I took the plunge and purchased a vacation/rental property on Wild Dunes (1998). So far we've been very pleased. The beach, relative privacy, and proximity of all Charleston offers is an unbeatable combination. On our last visit, we discovered the pleasures of The Boathouse. It is located near the channel between IOP and Sullivan's Island. I would describe it as upscale seafood. The bleu cheese cole slaw is unique. We're also partial to the Long Island Cafe on IOP.
-- Dale Brown (dunes@prodigy.net) submitted 1/03/1999

Hello, I love the city of Charleston is the most romantic city in the US, I have been around the world for 5 years and I will like to live in charleston, I speak spanish, french and portuges and I will like get a job using my language skills. thank you for any information ciao!!
-- wilson wilches (terranove@msn.com) submitted 1/03/1999

I am a graduate of West Virginia University with a BS in journalism, concentrating in advertising and business. I love the south and have heard wonderful things about South Carolina. I love being near the beach and the cultural aspects of Charleston. However, I am in search of a good job in advertising or any related business field. I don't know much about Charleston, jobwise, so it would be great if someone could give me some information about the job market and any other helpful info. I would really appreciate it. Thankyou, Jennifer.
-- Anonymous submitted 1/03/1999

Can anyone recommend a campground in or near the Charleston area? I will be traveling there March of 99 to visit the Patriots Point Naval Museum. Thanks
-- Anonymous submitted 1/03/1999

Does anyone know of a good hotel in Charleston or Charleston area that allows pets? We want to be able to walk around the city or the beach area with him.
-- bjorn (bjornina@aol.com) submitted 1/03/1999

Hey People! Just wanted to say that as we speak I'm on vacation in Charleston for the 3rd time in the last 3 years. I just can't get enough of this place! Thanks to the great directions I found on this website, I actually found The Wreck yesterday--I didn't get to eat though because they are not open for lunch on week days. My family and I are planning to go back on Friday night for dinner and I'll let everyone know how it was, I can't wait to try this place out, and by the way WOW the building really is a WRECK of a place....heeheehee.... Well, happy vacationing! Cynthia Wright
-- Cynthia (cynthehen@otn.net) submitted 1/03/1999

Could anyone comment of their golf experience(s) in Charleston, courses, accomodations, packages? Thank you
-- Bill McDougall (mcd@log.on.ca) submitted 1/03/1999

Hymans': The lobster was too soft, the grilled tuna was not sufficiently cooked and the cole sloe was flaccid at Hyman's at 2:00 pm on 10/20/98. We will never eat there again and will recommend that others not eat there.
-- Anonymous submitted 1/03/1999

My wife and two teens are planning a trip to Charleston arriving on Thanksgiving Day 11/26. Any suggestions where we may find a good local resturant that will be open on Thanksgiving? $$ to $$$ B+ or better, dressy or tie optional any suggestions??
-- dan goss (dangoss@bellsouth.net) submitted 1/03/1999

I recently purchased a house at Shadowmoss Plantation. I will be using this house as a vacation home, one month of the year. The rest of the time I would like to rent it ona weekly basis through the golf package tours in the Charleston area. Can you suggest a few of the reputable agencys that offer this service? Thanks in advance for your help. F. Sisson
-- Fred Sisson" (fudeal801@email.msn.com) submitted 1/03/1999

My wife and I are interested in a one bedroom studio with a kitchenette for the period - arriving on November 18, 1998 and departing the morning of November 24, 1998. My wife is a beginer golfer and would like to play a round or two at a 9 hole par course and I'm interested in playing a couple of rounds at an executive or regulation course. We are both interested in biking and would like accomadations with a water view
-- Edward O'Sullivan (edkathos@worldnet.att.net) submitted 1/03/1999

10-12-98 I will try and keep this shprt but I have a hard time whenever I speak of Charleston. We discovered Charleston in 1990 and have gone back every year since. We have nevewr visited a more beautiful, historical or friendly city. After visiting 10 times we have decided to retire there in 6 years. We have always had many interesting things to do. Visit the forts, take a tour (Old South-Red Sash), eat, tour plantations, browse market street, eat, walk the beaches, visit a museum, tour the homes, eat, take a bike ride, relax at colonial lake, drive to the Islands, eat, visit the churches, tour the cememteries, eat, golf, shop,walk-walk-walk.
Did I mention eat? We prefer casual and our favorites (we've tried many) are California Dreaming, Shem Creek Bar and Grill, T-Bonz in Mt. Pleasant and for lunch Wild Wings on Market Street. We are usually too tired and too full for night life but we had a fantastic fun Friday night at Mt. Pleasants Wild Wings. The food, brew and live shag music (Second Wind) was a great way to end our 1998 trip. Eric, our waiter made sure of that.
Never a day goes by that my wife and I don't mention Charleston. For two Michiganders who can"t wait for retirement, thank you people of Charleston for many memorable vacations. Oh and one more great thing about South Carolina coastline is 98.9 BREEZE RADIO. Mike and Diane (vece67@yahoo.com) Please write.
-- Anonymous submitted 1/03/1999

We are planning a trip to Charleston in March and neither my husband nor myself have ever been there. We need some visitor's information and hope that you will send us that or put us in touch with whoever can. Thanks! slb1325@aol.com
-- (SLB1325@aol.com) submitted 1/03/1999

Try my ghost tour in Charleston! It is Ghost Walk, a name registered with the Secretary of State for South Carolina! The tour is 1 1/2 hours long and we tell more stories than any other tour on the market! Plenty of ghost in Charleston to talk about and we would love to have you on the tour. Tours are 5 pm from The Mills House Hotel and 7 pm and 9 pm from TG's, 170 Church St.
-- Anna Blythe (atblythe@bellsouth.net) submitted 1/03/1999

I would like to know if any courses offer club rental. If so, which resorts, the price, and club selection. Thanks!
-- (mhagedor@UNMCNOTES.UNMC.EDU) submitted 1/03/1999

My husband and I are interested in buying a condo in Charleston. We spotted some on Legeare(?) Street in historic Charleston. Can anyone give us information about these condos?
-- Katie H. (kd84819) submitted 1/03/1999

My husband and I just visited Charleston Sept. 20-24, 1998 for the second year in a row and stayed at the Meeting Street Inn. This charming Inn serves a Continental breakfast every a.m. and wine and cheese 5:30-6:30 p.m. The Inn keepers were helpful and friendly and steered us to one of the best restaurants called The Mint Julep. The fried green tomatoes are a must! Another excellent restaurant was 82 Queen, quite elegant with a beautiful outdoor garden. We also enjoyed Hymans for seafood, Bocci's for Italian and Blossoms for their mushroom stuffed ravioli! We took a horse and carriage tour for two, a little pricey, but better than being cramped into the larger tour carriages especially on a hot day. Enjoyed our visit to Boone Hall Plantation and Drayton Hall. A walk to Waterfront Park in the evening and using the swings was enjoyable. The best thing about staying in town was that everything was in walking distance. We also enjoyed the Fall Candlelight Tour of homes in historic Charleston, put on by the Historic Society. Beautiful homes filled with antiques, and even met some of the homeowners. Since this was a night tour, each home had candles outside to guide you to the right house. It was the best! We will certainly be back to this charming city again. Katie H. submitted 10/4/98
-- Katie H. (kd84819) submitted 1/03/1999

We're interested in taking a cruise from Charleston to Savannah. Do you have such a cruise? And how long are you docked at Savannah? Etc.
-- submitted 1/03/1999

Planning to relocate in Charleston and would love some information on areas to live to include cost of living . Prefer nice, family atmosphere close to the water. I plan on working at MUSC and would like some information about the University. Thank you for your assistance. Karen.
-- Karen (gjohnson@netunlimited.net) submitted 1/03/1999

Hello, My family and I are coming to Charleston In September, this is our second trip and we really enjoy vacationing in Charleston but the this year we are bringing our small dachshund and what i wanted to know is are dogs allowed on the beaches? Thanks,HSchmama@aol.com
-- Lisa (HSchmama@aol.com) submitted 1/03/1999

3DI fell in love with Charleston and the Lowcountry the summer afte= r graduating high school and have been returning as often as possible ever since.
I prefer to stay on the Isle of Palms (or Sullivan's) to enjoy the beach AND the old city in a perfect combination. On the islands, my favorite "soul-cleansing" activity is a walk down the deserted beach before the sun rises, then the spectacularly beautiful break of day as the sun comes over the ocean. (For shelling, this is the best time of day, depending on the tides.) You'll often find yourself alone except for the tiny speck of a jogger or other savvy guest on the horizon.
As for Charleston itself, there are so many spots, I cannot begin to list them all. I definitely agree with fellow travelers who suggest a carriage tour for orientation and WALKING South of Broad. I often park at the garage at the corner of King and Queen Streets for a nice central location near the Market, King Street shopping and the walk to the Battery.
Restaurant suggestions are varied, but I, too like 82 Queen, Poogan's Porch (try lunch for the same basic menu at better prices), and Magnolia's. Although service can be a bit slow, Garibaldi's in the market is also reliably good.
An addiction I have had for years are the pralines and especially the glazed pecans at Market Street Sweets, on the north side of the market.
Some out of the way suggestions for those with extra time:
=80 For nature lovers, there is a remarkable swamp boardwalk about 30-4= 5 minutes from Charleston near Goose Creek managed by the Audubon Society, The Francis Biedler (sp?) Forest. The walk is easy and the forest is pristine.=20
=80 For an extra special hidden spot, find Magnolia Cemetary, just up the river from the city. Check local maps, but it is off whatever street East Bay becomes heading up river. This is an amazing spot (actually more than one cemetary) with incredible monuments and mausoleums in a setting of huge live oaks strewn with moss right on the river. I HIGHLY recommend it.
=80 The drive down U.S. 17 to Beaufort (or even to Savannah for dinner) is also beautiful, with lots of side spots to explore, such as Edisto Island where the shelling is usually abundant on the State Park end of the island. (Edisto is where I spent my first night in the Lowcountry, camping at the park at 17.)
=80 Off the beaten path in Charleston proper is Colonial Lake, a mostly residential area, but worth a drive through.
=80 Magnolia and Middleton gardens are almost otherworldly in late Marc= h and early April when the azaleas are in bloom. I tend to think the gardens are much more the point than the houses, but Middleton Place does have a nice (if brief) tour. At Magnolia, take a break and rent a canoe for a quiet time on the marsh pond next to the river (usually very private, as no one else seems to do this). The water is very shallow, so there are no problems for inexperienced canoeists.
=80 If you aren't staying on the islands, it is still worth your time to drive through Mount Pleasant (take the old roads, not the new connector), take side streets to see the old homes in Mt. Pleasant, drive across the Ben Sawyer bridge to Sullivan's and the Isle of Palms. You can spend a few hours at the beach at Isle of Palms, or simply drive the two islands to see the wonderful beach houses, new and old. On Sullivan's there is the light house and Ft. Moultrie. On your return, dine at Shem Creek (NOT the Trawler...try Ronnie's, R.J.'s or one of the others).
I'll stop there, but I must say, as a frequent traveler, Charleston and the Lowcountry is probably my favorite spot on earth. =09
-- 3DDBurnley (3DBurnDan@aol.com) submitted 1/03/1999

We will be vacationing with another couple next month in Myrtle Beach. Prior to that we will be visisting Charleston for 2 nights and want to make the most of our time there. Please recommend:
1. A lovely inn/hotel/B+B in the historic area that will awaken our senses, as well as be convient for exploring!!
2. Please also recommend restaurants for not only dinner, but also breakfast and lunch
3. Any other suggestions would be great!!
-- Judy and Jack - Pittsburgh, Pa. (pustene@sgi.net) submitted 1/03/1999

Hi There!
One of my graduates asked me to find a reference to "Beach Boogie Blues Satellite Network" located in Charleston. Can anyone help me with a telephone number or E-Mail address?
Many Thanks, Roy Blair Director School of Broadcasting
-- (RoyEBlair@aol.com) submitted 1/03/1999

Good afternoon,
My name is Sergio Sanchez, from Spain. My fiancee and I are now planning our honeymoon tour across Southeastern USA to take place in March, 1999.
We would like to spend a couple of days in Charleston, and would deeply appreciate any suggestions as to where we should stay and what we should not forget to visit.
This will be a very special trip in our lives and we want it to be as romantic as possible. Maybe an old B&B inn in the historic district would be our best choice, but we are not sure as we have never been there before nor know anyone who had.
We are not looking for a fancy hotel or a luxury suite, we want something cozy and warm in the $100 night for two range.
Looking forward to hearing from all of you soon. Thank You.
Sergio Sanchez & Ligia Andres. Benicarlo, Spain (ligia_andres@hotmail.com)
-- Andr\is" submitted 1/03/1999

RE: to Brian's question 5/20/98 about what the rooms are like at the Quality Inn Downtown Charleston on Calhoun Street. They are quite breezy right now. The hotel is under major re-development. All the Exterior walls have been removed. Obviously the property is closed and is expected to reopen spring 99. The Hilton off Montague Avenue in North Charleston is a nice property. A lot of business people like to stay there because I hear their rates are reasonable and it still has decent access time (about 10 Min) to downtown. They also have two shuttle vans. But keep in mind Charleston has numerous good properties. It depends on what level and price of accommodations you desire.
-- Steve (Webmaster@touristpack.com) submitted 1/03/1999

I'm sorry. Your Travelogue appears to be hopelessly out of date. Maybe I'm wrong, but even so, feel I must educate some of these kind people who have written about their experiences.
I live in Charleston and have spent most of my life here. I've also lived in Washington DC and Atlanta GA for some periods of time and have had the priviledge of traveling througout Europe. It has been my good fortune to dine in some of the world's finest restaurants and to have been exposed to a wide range of delightful dining experiences from pubs in the English countryside, to Mama and Papa run trattorias in Tuscany, to hole in the wall Mexican and Cuban Restaurants frequented where we were the only table not speaking Spanish---despite the fact we were thousands of miles from any border. I love food. Correct that. I love all good food---from Escargot at a four star Paris restaurant with a waiter behind every chair to the juiciest cheeseburger served in a working man's greasy spoon--anything, as long as it's the best representation of what it attempts or claims to be as is possible.
I should also add that I come from a long line of good cooks and I like to think that I'm improving on my culinary heritage. That having been said, I believe that I am qualified to make some observations and recommendations to the fine people who frequent this site.
First of all, please, please, please, remember these two important terms: self-promotion and frozen seafood. These are terribly important when considering two restaurants that are mentioned in almost every letter, Hyman's Seafood and Poogan's Porch.
To the lady who couldn't get in, don't worry it wouldn't have been worth it if you had been swept to the front of the line.
Hyman's claims to have been voted the best for seafood in Charleston, but from what I know, they ran their own ballot. No one I know who lives here eats there, unless they are going for quantity and bargain-basement pricing vs. quality and freshness. For seafood I would recommend going East of the Cooper to The Boathouse Restaurant. It is fabulous. But, a word of warning, MAKE RESERVATIONS. It may be a hassle, but when you get there you'll know why. The Wreck is also good, but the price's are not as cheap as one would expect. Still it's as fresh as it should be in it's shrimp dockside location--unlike some of it's neighbors. Another good choice on Shem Creek is Slightly Up the Creek. There are also a few good places on Sullivan's Island, but I haven't eaten there recently so ask around.
Poogan's Porch may have been okay ten year's or so ago when they first opened, but the some food was virtually unpalatable the last time I ate there. I ordered She-Crab soup, a local specialty that I make myself, and was able to stand my spoon up in the middle of the bowl. Unfortunately, this was not an indication of a generous amount of crab meat in the recipe. The soup was so thick and lumpy with flour--the were actually white, dry, uncooked lumps of the stuff throughout--that it resembled aspic or opaque jello. I was unable to find more than one eighth of an inch strand of a piece of what may have been crab or some other fish in the soup, the rest was all flour and water and salt with some other unknown quantities that provided a pale color.
Poogan's promotes itself as on of the oldest purveyors of traditional low country cooking in the area. I is certainly their right to do so.It's called advertising. But, if you want really good low-country cusine go somewhere else. If you're on a budget, try Jestine's or AIice's Fine Foods.
If you'd like a nicer dining experience I can reccomend 82 Queen, Anson's, Magnolia's and--one of my favorites--Slightly North of Broad. If you really want a treat, make reservations for the Peninnsular Grille. It is expensive, but well worth it. All of the seafood is fresh too. Nothing frozen here. If you like fine Italian, Fulton Five is a must, but reservations are a good idea as it's small and intimate. Again, only the freshest and best food. Other good, but less expemsive spots are The Bookstore Cafe, Baker's Cafe---great brunch---, Zebo's, Sermet's, La La Luci and Arizona's--for Southwestern.
I know I'm leaving out lots of fine people and restaurants that I love, but I can't spare any more time. I would recommend reading the Thursday issue of The Post&Courier and looking at the restaurant listing there, it's very informative and up to date. I'm delighted everyone likes Charleston as much as they do and would like to think that I could make their experience that much better. Thanks for the space.
P.C.
-- P.P.S. (golddogmom) submitted 1/03/1999

PLEASE SEND INFORMATION ABOUT FOLLY BEACH AND CHARLESTON. I WOULD LIKE ACCOMODATIONS AND BEST EATERIES AND PLACES TO VISIT. DURING THE WEEK OF SEPT.12-17TH. PLEASE MAIL TO 110 CANNON LOOP,CHUCKEY, TN 37641 THANK YOU. MS. JULIA WADDELL
-- submitted 1/03/1999

Gill and I went to Charleston between Thursday 29th July and Sunday 2nd August 1998. We had a really lovely time staying at the Barksdale House Inn which was excellent. The service was first class we had breakfast in our room served on a silver tray. A wonderful centrally located Inn which didn't charge the earth. We visited all the touristy sites including Boone Hall Plantation which was fascinating but rather overpriced at $10 per person. The house was rebuilt in 1935 and is therefore considerably younger than our home in England. The present owners live in the property and so tourists only get to see the ground floor. The slave street is extraordinary and they have plans to develop this area further and give tourists a real insigt into what life for the slaves was actually like.
I read a number of travelogue entrees before going to Charleston and took the advice of some of the correspondence. Based on our visit I'd make the following suggestions;
1. Do go to Hyman's for excellent sea food and fair prices.
2. Do not go to 82 Queen. We got hot and bitten by bugs, sitting outisde. The food was good but expensive and we felt rushed by our waitress and unable to relax.
3. Try taking a good guide book and driving round the historic district south of Broad Street. The roads are quiet and there is an architectural treat at every turn.
4. If you want to indulge your creative side try Wired & Fired a trendy cafe / workshop where you can paint pottery whilst enjoying a beer or a coffee. Be careful to cost out all items, one guy spent over $60 on two dog bowls!!! But it was fun and they were unique.
Last year we went to New Orleans for a similar break whilst our son was looked after by his granny Annie , grandad Dave and aunties Jenny and Susie. Charleston was less electic and alive but far safer and easier to explore. I hope you enjoy your visit as much as we did. Matthew Milburn
-- Matthew Milburn (Milbs@Compuserve.com) submitted 1/03/1999

We are planning a trip to the Charleston area, and would like to rent a condo on the beach. Anyone have any suggestions on which area (Folley Beach, Isle of Palms, etc) is best for a family vacation? We would like something that's not greatly crowded, and is casual/relaxed/friendly. Thanks for any help. 8/1/98 mbooth@swbell.net
-- (mbooth@swbell.net) submitted 1/03/1999

Trying to find information on Christmas in Charleston. Looking for a child free wine food and spectacular surroundings. reply to clothear@flash.net
-- Sawyer submitted 1/03/1999

I plan on visiting a friend in Charleston the first week in August. But she will be at work during the day and I was wondering if anyone had any insight on some interesting things to do alone (laying out on the beach only goes so far). I look forward to learning about the city's history, along with learning some things about myself. I appreciate your help! Thanks, mdivina@hunton.com
-- Maryann Divina (mdivina@hunton.com) submitted 1/03/1999

My husband & I are planning a short trip to Charleston this December. I would like the names of a couple of nice but relatively inexpensive B&B's or hotels to stay at. Also, if someone could give me the name of one or two good restaurants to visit, I would appreciate it. I have seen the name Poogan's a lot. Thanks for the help!!
-- D. Bush (dabush@bellsouth.net) submitted 1/03/1999

I would like to get hold of the Charleston Chamber of Commerce. Do they have an e-mail address? Thank You. Lori Klein
-- Lori Klein (halo@povn.com) submitted 1/03/1999

Hello, My name is Paul von Wittgenstein and I was wondering if you could tell me where/who I would contact to have 'hard-copy' travel guide and vacation planning information sent to me. and I am very interested in spending some holiday time in the Charleston area. Its beautiful and seems rich in history. Thanks in advance for your help. Paul v.W.
-- submitted 1/03/1999

My husband and I will be visiting Charleston Aug. 23 thru the 26. Never been before. We would love to rent a place nearby for a reasonable rate. Would handle with care...any takers?
-- Martha Otte (gotte@email.msn.com) submitted 1/03/1999

I'm planning a 3 night family trip to the charleston area during 8/98 which includes my husband, two toddlers (under 3) as well as some extended family members. We will be staying at Wild Dunes but would like to spend one day in Charleston. Would love suggestions on hitting the highlights of the area in a short time... tours, sights etc. Which carriage tours are best? Love GOOD FOOD, but most options need to be kid friendly. Are there any good,reasonable restaurants at Wild Dunes...How about Tradewinds? And what's the real truth about the Wreck? What about golfing outside of the pricey resort courses and good fishing for my dad? Any suggestions are appreciated.
-- G. Floyd (eyewise@home.com) submitted 1/03/1999

We vacationed in Charleston June 29 - July 2, 1998. What a wonderful place, we didn't want to leave. We stayed at the Boardwalk Inn at the Wild Dunes Resort on the Isle of Palms. Their beaches are unsurpassed. We had lunch at the Wild Wing Cafe, great selection of wings. For a great dining experience visit J.Bistro in Mount Pleasant. Besides the great tasting food, the menu and presentation were fantastic. We took a carriage ride. It was very enjoyable and we learned a lot of history. For an unforgettable experience go sailing on the Schooner Pride. We took the two hour sunset cruise and loved it. Charleston has something for everyone.
-- Tina (tlutley@computerland.com) submitted 1/03/1999

We have a friend who has had an heart attack in a near by city in SC. He has been transported to a Charleston S.C. hospital. We understand the hospital has University in its name. The telephone operator was not able to help us. Do you know of such a hospital? Thank you, Bob Killelea
-- Bob Killelea (killele@ibm.net) submitted 1/03/1999

To whom ever receives this, I am very interested in going to the college of charlston. I have but one problem I can not find them on the Internet. If yuo have or could get their internet address for me I would be much obliged. Thank you Bill Smith
-- Smith" submitted 1/03/1999

Hello! I am a french writer and journalist, living in Paris, and I would like to know more about the jewish community. My husband and I think to be in Charleston end of July or beginning August. Who could tell me which persons I could contact? For advance, thank you a lot. Mrs Michele Kahn mkahn@pratique.fr
-- Kahn submitted 1/03/1999

Can anyone tell me about a boat called "Silver Dolphin" located at the Ripley Light Marina .I needd a phone number if possible Thanks
-- Veronica (rangerbob@fuse.net) submitted 1/03/1999

We will be visting the Charleston area from July 25 to Aug 2. Are there any 5k runs scheduled in the area?
-- Chris Tilton (christ@infinet.com) submitted 1/03/1999

We just spent our honeymoon in Charleston (6/2-6/9) and had a wonderful time! We traveled by train from NYC - took about 12 hours, most of which we spent sleeping. It is a good way to travel if you don't want to drive long distances and don't feel like flying. We stayed at the Indigo Inn, had a very nice room and found the staff to be very helpful. We were within walking distance to most everything, but got a little wilted by the heat the 1st few days we were there - the heat index was about 105! My husband's favorite restaurant was, without a doubt, Hyman's - we ate there 3 times that week! Captain Stacks was a little lacking in the service area and had way too much in the hot sauce area (the chef was experimenting with EXTREMELY hot sauces the night we were there - he has since stopped we hope :-) We went on 2 carriage rides and thankfully got 2 separate routes in the lottery. The ghost walk was a neat thing to do, but make sure that you have comfy shoes! We also rented a car and went to Magnolia Plantaion - I found the house tour to be very informative and the train ride a nice way to see the ground in the VERY hot weather. I can't really say it is the best plantation, as it was the only plantation we went to! I have been raving about the city since we have returned and look forward to returning sometime in the near future!
-- Mae (isa@westnet.com) submitted 1/03/1999

We took our trip to Charleston with our two very young sons from May 30 through June 6, 1998. The beach on the Isle of Palms is beautiful. (highly recommended) The Audobon Swamp Garden was really cool and there are no mosquitos, in case you were wondering. (recommended) We took a tour of Charleston harbor under sail power on the schooner Pride. (highly recommended find them at the City Marina) We toured The Charleston Tea Plantation, the only tea grown in America! given the first Saturday of the month May through October. (If you're a tea drinker highly recommended) We stopped to see the Angel Oak on the way back from the tea plantation, it is worth the stop. It is estimated to be over 1400 years old and it is a sight to behold. (highly recommended) If you are a train buff or have kids with you check out The Best Friend of Charleston museum right behind the Visitors Center in downtown Charleston. (recommended) We love shrimp! So if your interested in hearing about our shrimp experiences read on. Hyman's is by far the best seafood restaurant in the area! Their ads say come early or late which is good advice. It is worth it to plan ahead to be able to eat there. Go ahead and try the Boiled Peanuts don't be afraid, they are good. (extremely highly recommended) Sullivans on Sullivans Island is pretty good. (recommended) Angel Fish on James Island has a wide variety of fresh healthy food (not a seafood restaurant), we did not have any shrimp there but what we did have was very good. (highly recommended). The Charleston Crab House on the Wapoo River was good and had a great view of the river and drawbridge that our boys really enjoyed. (recommended) Now for our version of the Wreck, it was easy to find and if you like to sweat (no air conditioning) and enjoy the aroma of a seafood processing plant while you dine you will love The Wreck. Besides that the grilled shrimp was excellent but the fried shrimp tasted like it was cooked in very old oil that had already been used to fry a lot of fish. (If your nose doesn't work and you like non-fried food recommended, otherwise avoid it) California Dreaming was a major disappointment we had been there about 5 years ago for the first time and were not impressed, but after having many people rave about it we tried again with the same disappointing results. It is a chain restaurant with that look and feel. (not recommended) Overall our trip was wonderful, we want to move there! Kevin and Angela Avery
-- Kevin & Angela Avery (kevin@pobox.com) submitted 1/03/1999

We just returned after a week long visit to the Charleston area and would like to recomend two lovely B%=FD&B around the city. One, at= McClellansville, a real village is called "Village B&B" at 333 Mercantile Road (843-887-3371). Best thing is to ask for directions at Graham's Grocery. A lovely place situated in a dream-like village. The other is an historic waterfront building at Beaufort, the Cuthbert House Inn (800-327-9275). This one is a real piece of architectural preservation and perfect taste! While in Charleston, we tried a few restaurants and were pleased at Mint Julep but not impressed by the very pretentious Carolinas's. For a light pleasant meal try Zebo's Brewery at King's Str.=20
Dr. Erica Hoffer
Poison Information Center
Rambam Medical Center
Israel
-- Erica Hoffer" submitted 1/03/1999

We were married in Charleston last June at the Charleston Chapel for Weddings on Ashley Avenue. We highly recommend the chapel to anyone planning a wedding in this beautiful city.
-- Angela (amehaffe@westga.edu) submitted 1/03/1999

Hi everyone, I hope asking questions like the following is appropriate for the travelogue. My wife and I are taking a vacation away from the kiddo the end of this month and will spending 6 days in the Savannah/ Charleston vicinity. We'll have two nights in Charleston per se, and, as we don't tend to put our money in our hotel rooms, and we must have a swimming pool, we're staying at the Howard Johnson Riverfront. AAA gives it 3 diamonds, but is there anything particularly bad about it we should know? Also, we love it eat international and want to stay away from variations on american/continental/California cusisine. Based on recommendations from a "Go Carolina" website we plan on dinners at a Spanish restaurant, Andalucia, a New Orleans style restaurant, La Tasha's and/or an Indian place called Taste of india. Any comments? For breakfast we might like to try at least one "southern" homestyle experience. Any suggestions? Also are any of the coffee house breakfast spots in the Historic District to be preferre over on another? And finally, if we do lunches we've picked Alice's Fine Foods and Aaron's. Any thoughts on that? Thanks for any input you can give. Michael Warren Santa Cruz, CA plan to should know?
-- Michael Warren (michael.warren@sen.ca.gov) submitted 1/03/1999

You can contribute to the Charleston Travelogue

Tell us about your favorite spots, memories, things to do in and around Charleston, SC.

• Click here to post your questions or replies in our Travelogue.

Back to Charleston Connection
Back to Southeast Getaway