"Charleston...A charming Southern City" Charleston by jne7299318

I have visited Charleston, S. C. on three separate occasions
In 1997 I made two day trips into Charleston while staying in Myrtle Beach. Last summer, I spent a week in Charleston. I am writing this entry from my condo room in ....you guessed it Charleston.

My fondness with this city is related to the African American culture that is found here. I've spent time visiting plantations (Magnolia, Boone Hall, Drayton Hall, Middleton Place, Aiken-Rhett), learning about the Gullah people that reside in the low-country, and how African Americans prospered within the south after the end of slavery (Edward Ball Slaves in the Family, A Sweet Hell Inside).

There are other areas of interest to be found in this charming City of the South. The architecture, great food, shopping, plentiful beaches, museums, and historical homes and sites make Charleston worth returning to... again and again.

Live Alligator on Magnolia Plantation

Charleston is home to several large plantations known for their architectural design and beautifully sculptured gardens. These plantations have been used in major movie productions and have replicated what life was like as a slave residing on them. I personally have found that it is easier to drive to the plantations, doing no more than two a day (one in the morning, one in the afternoon) instead of taking a planned tour. This way I can meander and wonder around for as long or as little as I want..staying longer in the areas that are of interest to me and spending less time in places that I am not concerned about. Boone Hall Plantaion is located on highway 17. Magnolia Plantation, Middleton Place, and Drayton Hall are all located on Highway 61 also known as Ashley river Road. Pictures and descriptions can be found under Things To Do.

• Pros:There is a lot to see and do in the city. Its compactness makes the city easy to navigate by car or foot.
• Cons:The humidity can be a bit much.