Culture, quaint architecture and an elegant harbor stand out as much as the people. Shopping, hanging out at dive bars and ghost hunting are just a few of the ways to feed the soul in the jewel of the south.

First stop for fashion is King Street, by far some of the best shopping in the southern hemisphere. Well known designers and hand crafted trinkets fill the cobblestoned streets from end to end. Everything from Louis Vuitton to Michael Kors to local celebrity favorites Shoes on King.  http://susanlucas.typepad.com/kingstreetfashiondistrict/

Then onto Market Square which is filled with local artisan’s crafts and culinary fare for even the most fussy. A few hours to really hunt for treasures here is highly recommended.  The most popular attraction near Markets Square are several tours  operating Clydesdales pulled carriages that bring tourists by the thousands on a historical ride where drivers tell of tales of the city. (But make sure you have a reservation or you may get bumped or placed on stand-by waiting for hours.)

https://www.yelp.com/biz/charleston-city-market-charleston

When the shopping bug wears off, head down to the Charleston harbor for a relaxing boat trip with https://www.charlestonharbortours.com. Bravo Tv’s Southern Charm fans will relish going under the Arthur Ravenel Bridge during the journey while glimpses of all the intracoastal properties dotted along the shoreline allow riders a sneak peak into the laid back life of the locals.

Once back at the dock, there are several amazing restaurants right within a five mile radius.   Two local favorites are Hominy Grill ( located just off Rutledge Ave.) http://hominygrill.com and Fleet Landing at the intersection of Concord and Cumberland: http://fleetlanding.net.

For even more scene and eats, take a short drive across the bridge that leads to “Lowcountry” to experience the contrast of sky, city and harbor mixed amongst the low tidal ponds and tiny rivers that connect for miles. The harbor is filled with gorgeous yachts and bountiful bridges promises to bring  photos at sunset promising many envious facebook friends.

If you search Trip Advisor you can also use a feature called Open Table where you can secure your reservation for most restaurants of Charleston..

After thrills in the downtown area, its time for a 30 minute drive out to Folly Beach where you can relax amongst wildlife and make even a few wild locals.

There is so much to do that it is hard to experience the city in just one day, give yourself a  treat and stay awhile.

For a list of hotels visit: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g54171-Charleston_South_Carolina-Hotels.html

During December, don’t   don’t miss the Holiday Festival of Lights in James Island