Charleston's Preeminent Luxury Boutique Hotel--Ghostbusters Welcomed

Battery Carriage House Inn 2018

The house sits in one of the most visited areas of Charleston. Hundreds of picture-taking tourists stroll past its black wrought iron fences and broad porches on a daily basis. Caravans of horse-drawn carriages filled with visitors pause in front of it everyday while animated guides mesmerize them with stories explaining the mystique and grandeur that oozes from its windows and doors. Cataclysms of the destructive kind have befallen it. Owners have showered it with renovations. Its place of abidance is its name, 20 South Battery.

As you view the house today, while standing on the fringes of White Point Gardens, it would be difficult to imagine when first built, it had a front-row view of the Charleston Harbor. The year was 1843, the builder was broker Samuel N. Stevens. The main home and carriage house reflected the prosperity that was prevalent in South Carolina during this era.

In the Civil War beginning 1863, the house survived the longest bombardment of a civilian population in the history of warfare. Though severely battered, the structure remained intact. Colonel Lathers of the Union Army purchased the property in 1870. He hired John Henry Devereaux, a well-known Charleston architect, to renovate the house in the New York fashion of the time. A mansard roof was added, which housed a library. A new ballroom was also constructed.

The Simonds family purchased and lived in the house until 1912. In the 1920's, the rear outbuilding was converted into a "motor court" by the Pringle Family and the once-private residence became a more recognizable place of hospitality. Its newly rentable rooms for the most part catered to a patronage of rowdy and carousing sailors of the United States Navy and during the 1960's college students.

Famous Charlestonian Drayton Hastie and his wife purchased 20 South Battery in the 1980's and restored it to a Charleston Historic District hotel. The main house was the Hastie's private residence and they opened the rooms in the carriage house to guests. The well known Battery Carriage House Inn came to host a clientele of more than just paying guests. During the ensuing years, the inn would become known as the most haunted hotel in downtown Charleston.

Reportedly, it's home to several ghosts. While the owners have never seen the otherworldly inhabitants themselves, guests and employees have had some odd encounters. Curiosity seekers would bring all kinds of equipment and light meters and heat meters and set up cameras in the rooms hoping to catch a glimpse of anything out of the ordinary. Room 3 is known for a couple's cellphone waking them up making a loud and odd noise even though it was shut off. They witnessed glowing shapes floating about the room the nights they stayed at the inn. Room 8 is the most ominous of the rooms. One visitor was waken by a disturbance and confronted by a headless torso. He decided to reach out to touch the lumbering spirit, only to retract his hand upon hearing it let out an animalistic growl, which is odd in itself, seeing it had no head, thus no mouth. Room 10 is occupied by The Gentleman Ghost, known for graciously sharing his room with any and all comers. It is described as a grayish shadow, average height and build, and tends to glide about the room rather stylishly. It likes to recline in the bed with the patrons, minus any hanky-panky.

Hurricane Hugo struck on September 21, 1989 producing the highest storm tides ever recorded on the East Coast, causing catastrophic damage to homes along the water, 20 South Battery included. It continued to be a favorite haunting stop for walking tours and horse-drawn carriages. The stories persisted and its haunting fame continued to grow.

Dr. Jack Schaeffer purchased the inn in 2018 with passion and an intent for restoring and maintaining historical integrity. The property has undergone extensive preservation efforts in a labor of love revitalizing it to its former grandeur. On September 10th, 2020, Dr. Schaeffer and the staff unveiled 20 South Battery hotel to their first guests.

20 South Battery today with haint blue porch ceilings

The luxury boutique hotel is the home of unique and rare antiques from all over the world and various different time periods, some dating back to the 1500's. The Grand Ballroom has gold leaf trim surrounding a metal tile ceiling with a skylight and crystal chandeliers. The Grand Parlor showcases bright red antique furniture contrasting the white walls. A spiral staircase runs up all four stories of the home. One of the oldest pieces in the house is the decorative handrail. The original Italian Mosaic tile flooring was restored piece by piece. Crown molding and marble fireplaces are unique to each space. Metal tile ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and antique sconces are also a common element throughout the home.

The Concierge Level in the mansion features the Lathers, Pringles and Simonds Suites. The Stevens Suite is located on the ground floor and faces White Point Gardens. The Devereux Suite is the former cistern and wine cellar. Blacklock-Ravenel King Room is located on the first floor. The Battery Carriage House has suites on the first floor and rooms on the second floor. Originally built as a private residence for $4,500, Handsome Properties listed it on the market in 2017 for $4,250,000. It is worth far more than that now.

Dr. Jack Schaeffer apparently has embraced the stories that have become a part of his beautiful hotel. He seems to know them well as seen in the following video by CountOn2.

Just how the apparitions feel about their upgraded surroundings, you will have to reserve one of the rooms and ask them. The headless torso may be speechless for obvious reasons.

Battery Carriage House Room

Enjoy the Ghostbuster Package-Prepare for a Ghostly Adventure at 20 South Battery and Charleston! Built in 1843, 20 South Battery has seen its share of reported friendly ghost encounters. This experience is for you if "You ain't afraid of no ghost!"

PACKAGE INCLUDES: "Ghostbusters of Charleston" souvenir book. Stay in the reported haunted room 8 or 10 (based on availability)2 tickets to a walking ghost tour with our friends at Bulldog Tours

One Man's Sold Dream Becomes Another Man's Great Gain--Wentworth Mansion

The Second Empire Style bricked behemoth, characterized by its mansard roof and dormers,
benevolently stands four stories above Charleston's intersecting streets of Wentworth and Smith. To get a complete photograph of the impressive mansion, I had to cross over to the other side of Wentworth and Smith where I took an angled shot for the best panorama. Beyond the mansion’s encircling black wrought iron enclosure, the beautifully landscaped grounds beckoned me to enter through its front gate. I accepted the enticement and stepped over the threshold into the present past.

Constructed by the finest artisans of the day, the nearly 24,000 square foot architectural treasure was completed just in time to have its infrastructure rocked and its constitution tested. In August of 1886, The Great Earthquake of Charleston struck with violent fury. While bricks rained down onto the streets of the Holy City, the magnificent Wentworth home of wealthy cotton merchant, Francis Silas Rodgers, emerged from the upheaval virtually unscathed. It is considered one of the finest homes in Charleston.

Francis Rodgers had a dream. Not the kind you conceive in your sleep and awaken from, but more along the lines of a concept. With a family of 13, Rodgers had envisioned that the mansion be used to live in by his children and their children. He employed architect Daniel G. Wayne to bring it to reality.

Rodgers spared no expense in the building of his lavish mansion. The exterior was covered in Philadelphia pressed brick and the windows and quoins were finished in stone. Interior features included inlaid floors, two grand matching Italian chandeliers from Europe, marble mantles carved by sculptor Emile T. Viett, elaborate wooden staircases, a double parlor, Louis Comfort Tiffany glass panels, and a rooftop cupola with panoramic views of the city. A bas-relief cornice above the dining room window depicts a cotton plant, representative of Rodgers' business.

In regards to the two commissioned grand matching chandeliers, which still hang today in the grand mansion suite, it is said Rodgers brought back their maker to ensure proper installation.

The family flourished, but 34 years later his heirs sold it for $100,000 to the Scottish Rite Cathedral Association, who in 1940, sold it to the Atlantic Coast Life Insurance Company. The insurance company used it as their office headquarters until 1996, when Richard Widman had a dream of his own, purchased the unappreciated mansion, and changed its destiny.

Widman renovated the mansion with the noble resolve of preserving its famed historic features. Modern conveniences were added like gas-lit fireplaces, king-size sleigh beds, whirlpool tubs, and double glass-walled, walk-in showers, and air conditioning. After 18 months and 7 million dollars, the grand historic mansion opened as a 21-room, award- winning luxury hotel offering guests a true taste of Southern hospitality in an unsurpassed setting. Wentworth Mansion is a must-see for history buffs and a one-of-a-kind authentic Charleston experience where patrons are immersed into luxury living and good ole Southern hospitality at its best. The year was 1998 and this was only the first phase of Widman's plans.

In 2000, Widman converted the carriage house behind the home, which once housed the stables and carriages, into Circa 1886, today a AAA Four Diamond, Forbes Four Star award-winning restaurant. In 2004, the structure that was originally used as the stable for the Mansion was renovated to house the Spa at Wentworth Mansion. The 1,000 square foot spa offers patrons a full range of treatments.

Wentworth Mansion has been named the #1 Small City Hotel in the U.S. in the 2015 Travel and Leisure World's Best Awards, #2 Best Hotel in Charleston of the Top 25 Best Hotels in the U.S. in the 2015 Condé Nast Traveler Readers Choice Awards, and One of the Top 50 Hotels in the U.S. in the 2015 US News.

Amenities: Southern breakfast served from 7:30-10:30 a.m. at Circa 1886 restaurant; afternoon tea and lemonade from 2-4 p.m.; evening wine tasting and hors d’oeuvres from 5-6 p.m.

Specials and packages.

Average rates depending on room selection: August--$440-$595, January--$359-$800, April--$460-$610.

(All photos are original work except the photo of the chandeliers--courtesy of Wentworth Mansion.)

A Charleston Bed And Breakfast That Has Stood The Test Of Time

Strolling down Broad Street, you can't miss it. Standing proud and adorned in the finest iron works, the John Rutledge House has stood the test of time--with a little help. During its two hundred and fifty-two year history, it has weathered two natural catastrophes, quenched a conflagration of a great magnitude, and evaded the destructive forces of political dissension. Inspired by love, it is now a prominent, 4 diamond rated bed and breakfast.

John Rutledge was a leading figure in the countries early years. He was a delegate to the South Carolina Assembly, the Stamp Act Congress, the Continental Congress, the U.S. Constitutional Convention, where he signed Constitution, and six years the Governor of South Carolina. He built the home on Broad Street in 1763. It was a wedding gift for his young bride Elizabeth Grimke, the daughter of Charleston lawyer Frederick Grimke. Elizabeth is known in the history books for having breakfast with George Washington when he was a guest at the Rutledge House while on a Presidential visit to Charleston in 1791.

The house went through a renovation in 1853. A third floor was added at this time along with architectural enhancements, Italian marble fireplaces, parquet floors and the elaborate palmettos and eagles ironworks believed to be the work of famed nineteenth-century wrought iron manufacturer, artisan, and entrepreneur Christopher Werner.

On Dec. 11, 1861, Charleston would experience a night of terror and disaster. It would be called the Great Fire of 1861 and it consumed much of the cities famed landmarks. With the flames literally at the home's doorstep, surprisingly, it escaped the conflagration, but the building next door was completely destroyed--St. Andrews Hall was the location where the Articles of Secession were drawn up. The house did take a hit from a Union cannon ball that put a hole in the upper right side on the front.

For more than a hundred years after the Civil War, it served as a residence, office, and a school. Eventually, its hallowed halls fell silent. It remained that way for several years. Then, in 1989, an effort to return it to its former glory with a major restoration was undertaken. When completed, the beautiful inlaid floors, decorative plaster work, and welcoming staircase that was inspired by love and presented as a gift were back in place along with an array of modern conveniences and ready for the next phase of its continuing history. It opened for business as the John Rutledge House Inn.

The Inn has 19 rooms and suites, all elegantly appointed with period pieces and reproduction furniture--some suites have 12 foot ceilings and whirlpools. Two secluded carriage houses are also available. For a view overlooking Broad Street, you can sit on its piazza, and for a more intimate setting, there is the private courtyard--both ideal places to enjoy the complimentary breakfast and afternoon teas offered by the Inn
.

The rates range from $260 for a Ground Floor suite to $445 for the Grand Suite with prices in-between depending on accommodation. The Inn is pet friendly.

Surrounded by the best of Charleston, the John Rutledge House Inn is ideally outfitted for you and your family to absorb the ambiance of the cities famed hospitality and historical charm. With a glorious history of its own reaching back 252 years, for a brief moment you will live like a Charlestonian Rutledge being served the traditional afternoon tea and evening brandy. Inspired by love, it has stood the test of time.

Just a short walk down Broad Street from the John Rutledge House Inn is Fast and French.

Charleston Rises High Despite History's Uncontrollable Forces

Charleston, like many cities meandering in the stream of time, has both joyously celebrated and tragically suffered through changes inflicted on it by forces beyond its control. Through the upheavals, the city has licked its wounds and rebounded to become what it is today, one of the most popular destinations in the nation to visit.

Time, the most unrelenting of the forces, mercilessly moves in only one direction and either you seize the moment and prepare for the next or you end up a "decaying American city", likened to a "poisoned ecosystem", doomed to becoming a ghost town. (No pun intended, Charleston lives off of its ghosts.) Joe Riley, mayor of Charleston, unflatteringly characterized the downtown district by those words, and then seized the moment. Charleston Place rose from a huge, sandy lot where a JC Penney once stood. The Holy City celebrated its rebirth.

On various occasions, Charleston has been tried and tested by the uncontrollable forces wielded by nature in form of earth, wind, and fire. An earthquake devastated the city on August 31, 1886 damaging 2,000 of its buildings. Three-quarters of the homes in the historic district sustained damage of varying degrees when Hurricane Hugo struck the city on September of 1989 causing over $2.8 billion in losses. Five major fires have been documented throughout its history, which occurred in 1740, 1778, 1796, 1838, and 1861.

Some city icons have been systematically dismantled. In recent years, residents watched as the two aged, stately bridges traversing the Cooper River gracefully met their planned demise and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge ascended in their place--the third longest cable-stayed bridge in the Western Hemisphere. It now stands in the Charleston skyline as a shining beacon of progressive evolution. In early spring, tens of thousands descend upon it for the Cooper River Bridge Run to tread their way into the very heart of Historic Charleston.


Other Charleston icons of the past are now only footnotes in history and few Charlestonians are around that can even recall where they once stood. They can only be learned about in places housing the city archives or photos floating around on the Internet, and only if you are specifically looking. The Charleston Hotel was one of these vanquished icons.

The 170-room Charleston Hotel proudly graced Meeting Street for over 120 years and was a cornerstone building near the Old Market area. Extending eastward 264 feet on Pinckney Street and 200 feet on Hayne Street, it was an imposing four stories high--the city's largest hotel. Made of stucco and brick, its architecture was antique with two large dining rooms and high ceilings throughout. A 75 by 80 foot open courtyard surrounded on three sides by wooden balconies was at its center.

I only happened to stumble upon it while searching through old pictures of Charleston. It carried the distinction of being counted among the first major buildings to be constructed in the Greek revival style in America by the renowned German architect, Karl Friedrich Reichert, known as the initiator and ultimately the most prolific builder of landmarks that would contribute to the character of the American South.

A compelling part of the Charleston Hotel's story revolves around a little known fact--there were two Charleston Hotels. The original Charleston Hotel went up in smoke along with a large section of the city’s Ansonborough neighborhood in the famous fire of 1838. It stood less than two years. The second rose from its ashes. It survived the Earthquake of 1886, but not unscathed. The center portion of the parapet of the hotel's block-long Corinthian colonnade had been hurdled to the sidewalk during the massive upheaval reportedly crushing two ornate gas lamps that flanked the entrance door. After surviving the earthquake, 74 years later it succumbed to time and had a date with the wrecking ball. Some of the wrought iron railings that were part of the old hotel's colonnade are rumored to be displayed at an office building three blocks south of the hotel's original sight. 200 Meeting Street was the hotel's address.

When you are downtown on Meeting Street and walking in the area of Hymans Restaurant, look across the street. The Bank of America building occupies the sacred ground where the Charleston Hotel previously stood 52 years ago. It was built in the early 1990's. After a protracted public debate, the developers were permitted to reclaim the historic height and scale but was not allowed to restore the original facade. The concrete colonnade on the modern building is a poor knockoff for the dramatic colonnade of the original hotel. It says little about its famous predecessor, which became the precursor, if not the icon, for tall, white columns in the American South.

While standing in the front of Hymans, close your eyes and do a "Somewhere in Time." Maybe, if you concentrate hard enough, upon opening your eyes you may find yourself in 1886 dressed in a hoop skirt or a gentleman's suit of the day, sipping on a mint julep and basking in the aura of Charleston's premier hotel of the day.(It certainly would help the transition--the mint julep that is.)

Pay attention to the date and the time. Check the newspaper of the day, the News and Courier. If it is August 30th, check into the Charleston Hotel--soak in the antiquity and ambience. Make sure you register for only a one night stay. If you reserve August 31st, at 9:50 pm you will be running out of a pitch-black hotel with the rest of the guests seeking to escape the toppling furniture and falling plaster. You will have just experienced the famous Great Charleston Earthquake, which jolted the Lowcountry like an alligator rolling its quarry.

One Charleston Hotel Ranks Number Two Among The World's Best-Plus A Hotel Horror Story

Rosen Plaza Hotel pool

I have always loved staying at hotels and resorts. The moment I drop my suitcase on the floor of the room, it is confirmed to me that I am finally on vacation. Then, the very first thing I check out, even before I crack open my suitcase, is the pool. In fact, the quality of the pool can make or break a deal. For the most part, I have been very satisfied with the hotels I've stayed at. There have been only a few occasions where I've made a quick exit because of disappointing conditions. You can call them hotel horror stories.

There was this one stay in Orlando, Fla. We had received an invitation to check out a time share. Upon arrival, we received our papers and hotel assignment, which was an Extended Stay Hotel, a chain I had no experience with. I had an initial uneasy feeling about the hotel when we pulled into the parking lot and it turned into a queasy feeling when I saw the bulletproof glass that encased the reception desk. We signed in and took possession of the key. We entered the room and the queasy feeling turned into a revolting feeling. The pillow cases on the bed were a dirty shade of white. When we pulled back the bed covers, there were little brown dots on the bed sheet, and they were moving, and so was I, right out the door past the bulletproof reception desk and to the car.

Rosen Plaza Hotel

It was late, so finding an alternate hotel was difficult and costly. The next day, at the time share tour, we wisely voiced our displeasure and disgust. They compensated with amenities and two free nights at the Rosen Plaza Hotel on International Drive, an award-winning 832 room hotel with a beautiful pool. I soothed away the previous day's discontent in the hot tub next to the pool.

First World Hotel

     
When I vacationed in the city of "Lost Wages", I stayed at the third largest hotel in the world, the MGM Grand. The MGM  Grand boasts a total of 6852 rooms. It is topped out by another Las Vegas hotel, the number one Venetian/Palazzio Megacenter, with 8108 rooms and suites. In fact, of the top 10 biggest hotels in the world, Las Vegas is home to six. The First World Hotel in Malaysia came in at number four with 6118 rooms and was at one time the largest, but despite giving up number one status, it by far still remains the most colorful hotel in the world. A Russian hotel named Hotel Izmaylovo came in second. With an abundance of rooms available at any of these behemoths, booking should never be an issue. But does bigger mean better?

Copacabana Palace

Don CeSar Beach Resort

None of these hotels appeared on Five Star Alliance's 2012 list of Top 30 Luxury Hotels and Resorts worldwide, but a Charleston hotel did, and why not. Since Charleston was named the number one destination in the world by Conde Nast Traveler, it is only fitting one of its hotels appears on a list somewhere even though it comes in as a virtual lightweight with only 360 rooms and suites. This Charleston hotel, respectively honored, came in at number 2 on the list, beating out some of the absolute best and most luxurious hotels in the world. No small accomplishment when you consider some of the prestigious names it beat out, like The Carlyle in New York, Waldorf Astoria in Chicago, St Regis Grand in Rome, Copacabana Palace in Rio De Janeiro, Viceroy in Bali, and Don CeSar Beach Resort on St. Pete Beach to name some.

Charleston Place

Charleston Place is more than just a hotel, it is a complex including a collection of world-famous stores, a Mobil Four-Star restaurant, and a spa. It was the single initiative that set in motion the beginning of the revival of Charleston. On the list of the top 10 hotels in the Holy City, it is number one.

Charleston Place is like a time machine. Housed within its brick exterior is the Charleston of today. Step out its doors-and your imagination will take you wherever you want, past or present.

There are no ghost stories that I know of associated with the hotel, unlike other hotels and inns in the historic district. But give it time, maybe a former JCPenney employee will appear looking for some closure(Charleston Place is built on the lot where a JCPenney once stood). Consider some of the special offers and packages being offered during 2013.

During Charleston's Restaurant Week, other top hotels are offering discount rates. Charlestowne Hotels will be offering up to 20% and 30% off, which include six downtown hotels such as Andrew Pinckney Inn, French Quarter Inn,  Harbourview Inn, The Elliot House Inn, King Charles Inn, and The Society House. For the complete details go to Charlestowne Hotels. Charming Inns are a collection of these downtown hotels: John Rutledge House, Fulton Lane Inn, Wentworth Mansion, Kings Courtyard Inn, and Circa 1886 Restaurant. For the complete details go to Charming Inns.

Do you have a hotel horror story of your own? Feel free to share it in "Comments".

Charleston Just Gets Better With Age-Number One Destination In The World Seen From The Top

Fountain at Charleston Place

What makes Charleston the number one destination in the world according to the readers of Conde Naste Traveler? The writers of the magazine cited Charleston as having the "best beaches in the southeast, allowing for some picturesque views." Commenting further on the cities coastal location, "The seaside proximity doesn't just allow for some picturesque views, but for some one-of-a-kind seafood as well." Quoting one of its readers, "The food, history, architecture and people are wonderful. A bucket list city!"

At a business network meeting on the third floor of the heady Southend Brewery, while sitting near one of the huge glass windows with the Vendue Rooftop Bar in the background, I posed that question to a well dressed gentleman I had gotten into a conversation with. Although he spoke highly of Charleston, he lamented that other cities in the world were possibly more deserving of the designation--cities like London, Florence, Sidney, or San Francisco.

Later that evening, during another conversation with a gentleman originally from England and a prior resident of San Francisco, I mentioned the earlier exchange and posed that question again. His response was strikingly different and punctuated with excited enthusiasm for Charleston. With a pronounced English accent, which he said had become somewhat muddled over the years, he summed up why he felt the recognition was deserving. He detailed, "All those other cities are sprawling metropolises, making commuting within them from one place to the other challenging. They are full of high rise structures that lack character and charm. Charleston is surrounded by water on three sides with some of the most awesome, beautiful views." He continued, "Where else can you sit on a warm, sandy beach with a drink in your hand and within ten minutes be in the heart of the city surrounded by countless dining establishments featuring the finest cuisine, all in walking distance of one another. And not just one beach, but three. It is artsy, photographic, and great festivals. And the people are wonderful, a great place to do business." The gentleman spoke more eloquently than I can type and his evaluation was spot on.

Calhoun Mansion

You, the reader, will have to plan a visit to form your own opinion on this "confounding mystery to some people" because seeing is believing. Once here, there are a number of ways to see the best of Charleston. You can board one of the numerous carriage rides located in the Old Market area.

The carriage rides are a great way to get a quick summary of notable points of interest throughout the historic district that you can later revisit to take in more of their storied history up close. Historic places such as Chalmers Street and the Little Pink house that resides there. The Calhoun Mansion, the largest residence in Charleston, featuring Japanese water gardens that can be viewed from the street. Find out why Charleston is called the Holy City.

Take a leisurely stroll through the streets and alleys via one of the many popular walking tours, either with a knowledgeable guide or self-guided. Learn about Theodosia and her mysterious disappearance or the tale of Perdita's relationship with Dr. Joseph Ladd and their connection to the Whistling Ghost of Church Street. You can enter through the iron gates of the homes and gardens of Charlestons most notable residents. The Holy City is home to over 1,000 registered historic landmarks.

Step onto the deck of one of the numerous boats and catamarans operating in and around Charleston Harbor and Shem Creek for a panoramic view of its waterfront from the tip of White Point Gardens to the pillars of the Arthur Ravenel Bridge. Explore the sites that cannot be reached on foot. Charleston’s old forts, antebellum houses, and decommissioned ships are the centerpiece of many of the South’s most famous ghost stories.

Now, imagine observing all of this from a bird's eye view. You could lease a four hour block with Dinner in the Sky, an unusual and fascinating dining experience that originated in Belgium, where you dine on a platform lifted 160 ft into the air by a crane. I wrote an article about it back in May, but it is an expensive proposition.

There is a less expensive way to soak in Charleston's ambiance from above. You can do it perched on top one of the three rooftop bars located throughout the city-the Vendue Rooftop Bar, the Market Pavillion Hotel rooftop bar, and a fairly new addition, the rooftop bar at Stars Restaurant on King Street.

Market Pavilion rooftop

The Vendue Rooftop Bar overlooks the Vendue Range in the French Quarter. It was named the best rooftop bar in Charleston for the last eight years by Charleston City Paper. It has two levels with a bar on each. An amazing place to enjoy the pleasant harbor breezes and view of Waterfront Park. It remains my favorite for capping off a day in the city. Reserve one of the Vendue's rooms for a night and you can sneak a peak at the letters guests leave in the bedposts.

The Market Pavilion Hotel's rooftop bar prevails over one of the busiest landmarks in the historic district, the Old Market. The Pavilion is the only property in Charleston with a cascading pool on its roof. Very Romanesque. It boasts prime harbor views, superb cuisine, and premium drinks.

The Stars Restaurant opened in 2012. It received the name from the wonderful view guests have of the stars from its third floor rooftop, especially the Milky Way. You can soak in a 360 degree view of Charleston while courting a drink from its full service bar. It is one of the only rooftops in the country open for walking all the way around the roof's perimeter covering North, South, East, and West. The outside edge of the bar space is surrounded by beautiful wooden planters with herb and seagrass to provide a perfect green environment.

To those who doubt, remember everything is subjective. The readers of Conde Naste Traveler voted Charleston number one in the world. It is one of the oldest cities in the United States. It just gets better with age.

Charleston Parrotheads-The Jimmy Buffet Party Is Coming To Town

It is somewhere between the Port of Indecision and southwest of Disorder, but no parallels of latitude and longitude mark the spot exactly. You don't have to be a navigator to get there. Palm trees provide the camouflage. Ocean breezes bring the seaplanes and sailboats, tourists, and travelers. Passports are not required. This is where it is, but what is it? It is Margaritaville, and the exact physical location can be anywhere you want it to be, for the reason that Margaritaville is purely a state of mind.

This coming February 2nd, a Thursday, that state of mind will be transformed into the North Charleston Coliseum. The Kahoona of the Parrotheads, Jimmy Buffet and the Coral Reefer Band, will breeze into town for a one night party starting at 8 PM. Passports are not required, but a ticket will be essential.

You know when Buffet is around it's going to be a party. His music is catchy and lyrics easy to remember. His songs portray a laid-back, easy going lifestyle with a humorous, carefree outlook towards setbacks and problems. Nothing some booze from a blender, likely a frozen concoction made from tequila, couldn't solve. An "island escapism" kind of state of mind outfitted with flip-flops, shorts, and tank tops. Margaritaville is his signature song and a crowd favorite. Why, you may even see me singing it while on a cruise in the Caribbean. Other crowd pleasers are Cheeseburger in Paradise, Bama Breeze, Fins, Come Monday, A Pirate Looks at Forty, and Volcano.

If you want to get the true feel of Margaritaville, book a stay at Margaritaville Beach Hotel in Pensacola Beach, Florida. The hotel sits on over 800 feet of gulf-front property. An additional 800 feet overlooks the bay. The new beachfront hotel features 'barefoot elegance' with 162 newly appointed guest rooms. It has a poolside tiki bar, LandShark Landing with live entertainment, snacks, beverages and an array of activities including beach ping pong, volleyball, hammocks under the palm trees, and Frank and Lola Love Pensacola Cafe named after "Frank and Lola," a 1982 Jimmy Buffett song. Room prices range from $129-$199. Check out the special packages.

If you are in or plan to visit Myrtle Beach, put Margaritaville Cafe located in Broadway at the Beach on your restaurants to visit list. Great seafood or just try their famous Cheeseburger in Paradise along with the concoction most likely to be offered while your are in Margaritaville. The last time I was there the Stiltwalkers were out entertaining the young ones with their tricks and balloon figure-making skills. Click here for the complete schedule of the Stiltwalkers. After dinner, the restaurant transitions into a swinging nightclub where dancing is a must and live bands perform every night of the week.

There are no hotels or cafes in Charleston, but there is a Margaritaville Store for all the Parrotheads to buy the latest goods. It's located at 282 King Street. To access a complete list of Margaritaville's click destinations.

Where does tequila come from? It is made from the Blue Agave plant. It takes 8-12 years for the plant to reach maturity and ready for harvesting. Tequila is a small town in the valley of Jalisco, Mexico. Who is the largest consumer of tequila? The United States consumes more than Mexico.

Travel Traditions And Legends Abroad And Here In Charleston

Would you like to have the ability to deceive without offending? If you do, this ability can be acquired by simply kissing a stone, but not just any stone, a particularly popular stone, and simply is an understatement when it comes to the dangers involved in doing so. If you are a resident of the Lowcountry, you will have to travel over 3700 miles to do this.

The place is Cork, Ireland where Blarney Castle is located and the infamous stone is the Blarney Stone. People from all over the world descend upon this castle to kiss the stone built high into its battlements. Of course, all of this supposed ability obtained by caressing a stone with one's lips is in itself nothing but a bunch of blarney, so to speak.

Still, visitors to this castle brave the dangers involved in this practice. To touch the stone with one's lips, you must ascend to the castle's peak, then lean over backwards on the parapet's edge to reach the bluestone. Presently, bars you can grasp have been installed to make it safer, but before safeguards were installed, the kiss was performed with real risk to your life. Participants were held by the ankles and dangled bodily from the height. Another sobering thought is the idea of putting your lips on something millions of other people have planted their lips on. Before doing so, you may want to ponder this question: Did all past participants brush their teeth and goggle with mouthwash before performing the ritual?

This is just one of many practices or traditions travelers engage in for fun. Another famous allegory involves the practice of throwing coins into Trevi Fountain in Rome. The traditional legend states if a person throws a coin into the fountain they will return to Rome, throw two and you will experience new romance, a third and you will get married. Depending on what results you want, the idea would be knowing when to stop.

Charleston has a fountain of its own located in Waterfront Park called Pineapple Fountain, which represents the welcoming hospitality for which Charleston is so well known, but I don't know of any practice of throwing coins into it, and to take it a step further, I don't know of any practice of kissing any stones either. However, I have become aware of one tradition in Charleston, if that is what you want to call it.

The place is the Vendue Inn and the custom is writing a letter and sticking it into one of the bedposts in the room. The specific room I will leave a mystery. I first heard of this while sitting at the pool in my neighborhood talking to a lady whose daughter was staying there.

The Vendue Inn is a downtown Charleston hotel located right in the heart of the French Quarter of the Historic District not far from the Battery and Waterfront Park. It is a small boutique hotel with wrought iron beds, exposed brick walls, and Egyptian cotton sheets, to name just a few of its unique features. It is host to a popular rooftop bar that overlooks Charleston Harbor, which is a local hot spot in the evenings. There is live music six nights a week with no cover charge. Hotel specials and packages are available including a "Charleston Romance Package" and a "Hysterical History Package".

So, make your mark in history. Stay at the Vendue Inn and write a letter to stick in the bedpost for future occupants to read, but try not to get too personal or descriptive. If you know of any other customs or practices unique to Charleston, I would like to hear about them. Send me an email describing it.

A Charleston Icon Of The Past-The Charleston Hotel

Charleston Hotel

Charleston, like many other cities in America, has both joyously celebrated and tragically suffered through changes inflicted either by planned design or forces beyond its control.

Time, the most unrelenting force, mercilessly moves in only one direction and either you seize the moment and prepare for the next or you end up a "decaying American city", likened to a "poisoned ecosystem", doomed to becoming a ghost town. (No pun intended, Charleston lives off of its ghosts.) Joe Riley, mayor of Charleston, unflatteringly characterized the downtown district by those words, and then, seized the moment. Charleston Place rose from a huge, sandy lot where a JCPenney once stood. The Holy City celebrated and was reborn.

Charleston has on various occasions been tried and tested by the uncontrollable forces wielded by nature in form of earth, wind, and fire. An earthquake devastated the city on August 31, 1886 damaging 2,000 of its buildings. Three-quarters of the homes in the historic district sustained damage of varying degrees when Hurricane Hugo struck the city September, 1989 causing over $2.8 billion in losses. Five major fires have been documented throughout its history, which occurred in 1740, 1778, 1796, 1838, and 1861. Through these upheavals, Charleston licked its wounds and rebounded fairly quickly to become what it is today, one of the most popular destinations to visit.

City icons have been systematically dismantled and others have risen in their place. In recent years, residents watched as the two aged, stately bridges traversing the Cooper River gracefully met their planned demise and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge ascended in their place - becoming the second longest cable-stayed bridge in the Western Hemisphere. It now stands in the Charleston skyline as a shining beacon of progressive evolution. In early spring, tens of thousands descend upon it for the Cooper River Bridge Run to tread their way into the very heart of Historic Charleston.

Some icons of the past are now only footnotes in history and few Charlestonians are around to even recall where they once stood. They can only be seen in places containing the city archives or photos floating around the Internet, and only if you are looking. The Charleston Hotel was one such icon. It proudly graced Meeting Street for over 120 years and was a cornerstone near the Old Market area. I only happened to stumble upon it while searching through old pictures of Charleston. It carried the distinction of being counted among the first major buildings to be constructed in the Greek revival style in America.

A compelling part of the Charleston Hotel's story revolves around a little known fact due to a lack of a photographic record - there were two Charleston Hotels. The original Charleston Hotel went up in smoke along with a large section of the city’s Ansonborough neighborhood in the famous fire of 1838. It stood less than two years. The second rose from its ashes but in 1960, it met the wrecking ball. Some of the iron works that were part of the old hotel's decor is rumored to be displayed at other places in Charleston. Its address was 200 Meeting Street.

Bank of America

When you are walking in the area of Hymans Restaurant, look across the street. The Bank of America building occupies the sacred ground where the Charleston Hotel once previously stood 52 years ago. The Bank of America building was built in the early 1990's. 

While standing at the front of Hymans, close your eyes and do a "Somewhere in Time." Maybe, if you concentrate hard enough, upon opening your eyes you will find yourself in 1840 dressed in a hoop skirt or a gentleman's suit of the day sipping on mint julep. It certainly would help the transition, the mint julep that is.

Charleston Is Both Fascinating and Entertaining-Come And Live The Story

Charleston is amalgamated with stories brimming full of mystery, intrigue, and historical importance. Whether fact or fiction, they are an intregal part of Charleston's persona. They breath life into every brick, plank, cobblestone, and iron gate that have been fused together into the mass of buildings and homes that form today's Holy City. They are spouted from every corner and doorstep. They are inescapable.

It wasn't always like this. There was a period of time when the life spark was close to being extinguished. Charleston, like the Planters Hotel, had fallen into near ruin. The stories were there, but the bricks, planks, and cobblestones had become infested with disinterest, dangling from a noose like Stede Bonnet at White Point. Although, the fate of Charleston turned out differently then the "gentleman pirate's" fate thanks to a modern day renaissance, an awakening into everything historical.

You will be warmed by the story of Poogan, a once homeless dog that found his way onto the porch of a home being renovated into a restaurant now known as Poogan's Porch. Maybe, while you are there enjoying some upscale Lowcountry cuisine, you might hear a ruckus in the kitchen, pots and pans banging around. That would be Zoe St. Amand making her presence known, a native Charlestonian who lived in the house at one time. Yes, lived, as in the past tense.

One of Charleston's most infamous characters, Lavinia Fisher, is the climax of Charleston's scariest tours at the Old City Jail. Lavinia, along with her husband, poisoned guests at their inn with oleander tea, robbed them, and hacked up their bodies and stashed them in the cellar. She was put on trial and executed by hanging at the Old City Jail where she is said to make appearances from time to time. Supposedly, her final words before the rope snapped were, "If anyone has a message for hell, give it to me-I'll deliver it." She maybe somewhat ticked-off because a recent investigation into the legend shows she may have been innocent. Something to do with corrupt politicians. Now, that I can believe.

Another quaint story you will hear on a carriage ride in the French Quarter pertains to three houses at 23, 25, and 27 Meeting Street. The guide speaks of how they were built by a wealthy Charleston father for his three daughters, who were so ugly that he figured they would never marry and have a home of their own. That's the narrative. The simple truth may point to a different explanation. Their similar architectural styles may have something to do with the title, Three Sisters. Which account is more intrtiguing to you?

If you are a bit squeamish or easily frightened by such stories of ghosts and things that go bump in the night, there are plenty of iron gated mansions with gardens to tour that are filled with real life artifacts, not to leave out the beautiful plantations, each with a documented history of its own. Fort Sumter guards its harbor and greets the passing cruise ships. The South Carolina Aquarium gives you a quick peak at its topography and wildlife.

The fact of the matter, Charleston is both facsinating and entertaining. Its hotels are a testimony to its hospitality and grace. Its restaurants are a declaration to its unique blend of Lowcountry cuisine. Its numerous tours and historical carriage rides will familiarize you to what is the beating heart of the South.

Come, step into the antebellum past for a day or a week. As an added bonus, immerse yourself into everything the present has to offer in the way of sandy beaches, boating, fishing, golfing, and shopping. Click on Charleston Attractions for a complete list of things to do.  

Charleston Place-Inspired The Holy City To New Heights

It's hard to imagine some thirty years ago an Atlanta magazine wrote this unflattering sentence about The Holy City, "Downtown Charleston, in many ways, epitomizes the decaying American city." Joe Riley, the mayor at the time, likened the downtown area to a poisoned ecosystem. The Historic District was anything but historic and King Street was a realestate of empty storefronts. Pedestrian traffic was scarce. Tourists were rare.

Something needed to happen to rekindle the historical flame that once burned in Charleston. It would be one single initiative that set in motion the beginning of a revival and Charleston was on her way to being restored to her former glory. The brainstorm was the envisionment of what would become Charleston Place. It was said, "I hate to use the cliche that the hotel put Charleston on the map, but it's certainly accurate." Charleston Place rose from a huge, sandy lot where a JCPenney once stood.

Charleston Place, known for its traditional southern hospitality, sits on Market Street where the entrance to the property is marked by a fountain. The Hotel has 320 deluxe rooms, 80 Club level, which occupies the top two floors and offers a private concierge service along with a wide array of enhanced services, amenities and cuisine. There are 40 suites.

The Spa at Charleston Place, located on the 4th floor, is available by appointment to local visitors and guests. Amenities are a health club, a beautiful indoor/outdoor salt water pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, steam room and children's splash pool. Charleston Grill is South Carolina’s most notable Mobil Four-Star restaurant and has received the AAA Four-Diamond award and Distinguished Restaurants of North America Award. On the lighter side is The Thoroughbread Club and Palmetto Cafe.

Top to bottom, the hotel complex has it all. The Shops at Charleston Place are an exclusive collection of world-famous stores located on the ground floor and a pool graces the rooftop. Adjacent to the Old City Market and the renowned King Street, it is situated at the heart of a local economy that considers tourism as its No. 1 industry. All within walking distance of the historic center of the city and major attractions.

Charleston continues to grow and change. In the six years I have been here, I have seen two old icons come down and the Author Ravenel Jr Bridge take their place. It has a vibrant theater scene and an endless list of fine dining establishments. It is well-known across the United States and beyond for its unique culture, which blends traditional southern American, English, French, and West African elements. So, let Charleston Place be your host and guide to all of this and more.-Vacation Rick Ttravel

Walk It Or Ride It-Charleston's Waterfront Is Eye-Catching

The rythmic clip-clop of the horses hoofs sets the tone for an nostalgic trip back to simpler, more gential times of Charleston's past. The horse drawn carriage makes its way onto East Battery. The elevated walkway along the waterfront of East Battery stretches on ahead, a beautiful vantage point for taking in the scenery of Charleston Bay. Our attention is quickly diverted to a house on the right of us, a house with a split personality. Half is Roman architecture and the other half Greek. All listen intently as the story is told about how this unusual collaboration came about.

House with split personality

This is only a brief description of what the Charleston waterfront from The South Carolina Aquarium to White Point Gardens in Battery Park offers in the way of entertaining activity, relaxing sightseeing strolls, and historic tours. The panarama includes the Ravenal Bridge, the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown docked at Patriot's Point, Sullivan's Island and Fort Moultrie, Pinckney Castle, Fort Sumter, and on around South Battery overlooking James Island.

South Carolina Aquarium-Visitors can explore Southern aquatic life in an attraction filled with thousands of enchanting creatures and plants in amazing habitats, from five major regions of the Appalachian Watershed. Meet the Aquarium’s newest reptile resident, an albino alligator.

Fort Sumter Tours/SpiritLine Cruises-Offers a tour of Fort Sumter beginning with a museum tour detailing the history, cruises of Charleston Bay, and three-hour dinner cruises.

Waterfront Park-An eight-acre park and pier along the Charleston Harbor entry. The park masterfully combines spectacular fountains, spacious lawns, intimate garden "rooms", walking and jogging path and a long pier with picnic tables and wooden swings. The Pineapple Fountain located here represents the welcoming hospitality for which Charleston is so well known.

Battery and White Point Gardens-Provides a spectacular view of Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor. It boasts many large oak trees, a bandstand, a few memorials, and pieces of artillery. Historical point: Scene of some famous hangings of pirates.

Edmondston-Alston House-Offers tours and a sweeping view of the harbor from its location on Charleston's High Battery. Built in 1825 by merchant Charles Edmondston, Greek revival details were added in 1838 by Charles Alston.

Two Meeting Street Inn-A Charleston bed and breakfast hotel advertised as the oldest and most recognized Charleston inn. Located in prestigious South Battery at White Point Gardens.

Slip Sliding Away-Charleston's Waterparks

It's summer in Charleston. It's hot, it's humid, and people are looking for ways to cool themselves off. The good ole garden hose could be one way to do it or the common backyard pool could be another. Charleston residents are blessed with an alternative. It has beautiful beaches where you can stake out your claim to a plot of sand for a day next to the Big Blue in which you can cool yourself in its salty waters when the urge strikes.

But if you are looking to occassionally stray from the norm, Charleston also offers three of the waterpark variety to soak your body in when the temperatures are on the rise: Splash Island Waterpark, Splash Zone Waterpark, and Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark. Water slides, lazy rivers, a giant bucket that dumps 1,000 gallons of water on you, wave pool action, sprays, and soaking pools of varying sizes are all a part of the experience.

Splash Island Waterpark is located within Mt. Pleasant Palmetto Islands County Park. All of the water attractions here are designed for toddlers to pre-teen children. Great place for Moms and Dads to take their little ones for a low-key water experience. There are also trails and paddleboats in the park for kids and adults alike to enjoy. It is off of Long Point Road on Needlerush Parkway near Boone Hall Plantation.

Splash Zone Waterpark is located within James Island County Park on Riverland Drive. This park features a Caribbean style structure with slides, wheels, and sprays and a 500-foot lazy river with an adventure channel with sprays and a waterfall. Two water slides are featured here, both 200-feet long.

Finally, Charleston's big daddy of its waterparks, Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark is located in North Charleston within Wannamaker County Park. You will get wet, afterall that is the objective, isn't it. Some of its attractions include the Big Splash Tree House, a play structure that has a giant bucket that dumps 1,000 gallons of water, a 870-foot lazy river, that's almost three football fields of cool relaxation, and a multi-slide complex with 3 different selections of thrilling spills, each approximately 300-feet long. It also has a wave pool with 27,000 square feet of different types of wave action.

All three parks feature what they call extra value days: Military Monday, Two for Tuesdays, and Wet and Wild Wednesdays and you can use your Greenbax.

A final bit of trivia on water slides. Blizzard Beach Water Park in Walt Disney World boasts to have one of the world's tallest, fastest water slides, Summit Plummet. Height of slide is 120 feet and top speed varies according to rider-approximately 60 mph for adults and 50 mph for kids. It sends riders zooming through a short tunnel pelted by a curtain of water where they will begin the descent and may momentarily float into the air and freefall as if the slide vanishes hitting the straightaway at the bottom where they create a huge plume of water and possibly, an industrial-strength wedgie.-Vacation Rick Travel