Mike and I traveled to Charleston for a few days, celebrating his birthday while we were there. It was a lovely trip. I had not been to Charleston for perhaps ten years and had forgotten how much I enjoy the city. I vowed to not let so much time pass again without a visit to this wonderful city.

The weather was unseasonably warm, with breezes to break the heat. I walked several miles each day, and Mike walked a lot also. We ate some delicious food and had several things that we both said were the best that we have had. We walked to most of the restaurants where we ate. That, of course, limited our choices, but we had plenty of good food. 

The first night we ventured out to a restaurant recommended by the hotel, the East Bay Biergarten. I was out of our room, and we were on our way when I realized that I had left my phone at the hotel. I did not need my phone, but then, what does need have to do with our phone obsession? I had to make myself get comfortable with being without my phone for an hour or two. I decided that there was absolutely no reason that I needed my phone during that time. I was proud of myself for making that decision.

The next morning, I left for my walk and forgot my AirPods.  Since I enjoy listening to podcasts and books on Audible while I walk, I almost went back to the room to retrieve them. I decided that I should just enjoy the scenery all around me, and not be engrossed in a book or podcast that could detract from my enjoyment of the city on my walk. So, I left the AirPods in my room and kept walking. I was so glad that I did. I realized that I probably miss the magic of too many moments due to technology accompanying me on my walks.  

One of the highlights of our trip was lunch with Mike’s cousin, Spike, and his wife Cam at their lovely home. Cam prepared a delicious meal for us, and we were nurtured by the good food and wonderful conversation. I am reminded of the gift of time and family and do not want to take either for granted.

We had another special meal with friends from Raleigh at Tavern and Table in the Shem Creek area of Mt. Pleasant. While we missed seeing all the water around the restaurant due to the arrival of Daylight Savings Time, we had a wonderful meal and visit with friends.

The only shopping I did while in Charleston was at the Market, which I frequented several days, although I did not purchase anything. One just has to go to the Market while in Charleston, but as I have learned from my year of no spending (2006,) shopping does not have to involve spending.

Charleston has many beautiful hotels, and we stayed in different ones on our previous trips. On this trip, we stayed at Liberty Place, a Hilton Club property, and it was one of the nicest hotels we have stayed in anywhere. We will definitely choose Liberty Place on our next trip to Charleston.

I would be remiss if I failed to mention the friendliness of the people in Charleston. From hotel staff to restaurant staff and salespeople in stores, all were friendly, in a southern charming kind of manner.

This trip reaffirmed why Charleston is considered the number one city in the United States by Travel and Leisure Magazine, a designation it has held for ten consecutive years. Wonderful restaurants, beauty, easy walkability, and great shopping are just a few of the reasons for its attraction.

But don’t just take my word for it. Head on over to Charleston while fall is in full swing and judge for yourself.