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Ben and I finally started planning some vacations for this summer and fall, and I couldn’t be more excited! For our big trip, we were debating between going to Europe or visiting the South. I definitely want to see both of those places (and then some) within the next few years, but this year we decided on the South. A big reason why we want to go there sooner than later is that I’ve always wondered if I might like to live in the South. It seems so romantic and charming to me--and so different from what we’re used to up here in Seattle. The sun is almost always out, people are friendly, and I'm obsessed with the antebellum style houses! I love the big oaks and Spanish moss too. And of course, there's Southern food...
I’ve never been there and I’m sure there are plenty of downsides (bugs, sweltering heat and humidity, to name a few). But I’d like to see it for myself! I would have loved to go this spring when all the magnolias and dogwoods are in bloom, but it’s a little too late for us to get everything planned and the time off from work...so we’re thinking October. I’ve heard that’s also a beautiful time to visit! We’ll definitely go to Savannah and Charleston, hang out on some of the Carolina beaches, and do some antiquing along the way. I’d love to hear your suggestions as well--we’re still in the very beginning stages of planning this trip! Any states, cities, or specific attractions that we should not miss??
I think my tastebuds are Southern...pecan pie, hummingbird cake, lemonade, chicken and waffles...oh my goodness, I love it all! What are your favorite Southern dishes?
We'll definitely rent a car so we can see things at our own pace. This drive looks breath-taking, doesn't it??
Rainbow Row in Charleston is so cheery!
Okay...is it October yet?? Just kidding. But I do want to hear all your suggestions, for reals! I know some of you must be from the South, or have taken a trip there before...so give me the scoop :)
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Oh this is a hard decision to make!!! I'd love to go to both! I've always been enamored by everything in the South, especially those gorgeous trees!! I've heard renting a house on the Outer Banks in North Carolina is a must once in a lifetime trip! =) Best wishes deciding!
I love the Southern hospitality! With your love of feminine style, dresses etc. you might love it! A different culture full of southern manners. The food is so yummy with great presentation. The trees in the fall are FULL of color. My favorite is the Magnolia in the spring. We loved visiting areas of the civil war. Jim's family is confederate. Mine union. Fun times for us. Enjoy your trip!
I am so glad I came across your blog. I live in the south, NC to be exact. We absolutely adore Charleston! It's my favorite city! We are actually headed back for a visit in May. We try to get there once or twice a year. My husband and I were married there almost seven years ago, so it's a very special place. I would move there in an instant! Savannah is also very nice. And so is Hilton Head and the the coast of NC. Charlotte, NC is also a beautiful city (we live about forty-five minutes from there). Oh, and so is Asheville, NC! I would be happy to make some recommendations! Just let me know what you are interested in. October is a beautiful time of year to visit the south. I always say that's when we have our best weather of the year and Spring, too! Here is a post from our recent trip to Charleston - http://threecottage.blogspot.com/2012/10/charlestonwere-back.html
Thank you Julia for the suggestions!!
I've only been to Virginia, and not the "deep south." Oh, I guess I have also been to Louisiana too. I would also really love to go to Savannah and the Carolinas!! I wont be working in October, so maybe I will come along. :) I will bring my one month old screaming infant. Can't wait!!
ohh jealous! looks like a great trip!
Will you be going as far as Texas? If so, Austin has some good barbecue and cobbler. :)
Yes! Ben's grandparents live in Austin so the plan is to end there. Sorry we didn't make it down this month for Leon's graduation...
I have just discovered your blog, and I am in love. I also happen to be a southern girl. I was born and raised in Mississippi. The South is a lovely, lovely place but it sometimes can feel like every person is so narrow minded and sometimes racist. But then you remember the nicer things like how you wave to everyone passing by your house if you're outside and mac & cheese is listed under 'vegetables' on a lot of restaurant menus... My dad is from Charleston and it is definitely a favorite! Downtown is so perfect and oozes charm at every corner. You pretty much cannot stumble into a bad restaurant or boring shop! Definitely eat lots of hush puppies and seafood while you're there! And go on one of the famous ghost tours! And you HAVE to take a horse carriage tour! You learn so much and have ample opportunity to get a good look neighborhoods and take pictures! About 45 minutes from Charleston is Edisto Island, which is beautiful and has lots of interesting history (google the ghost of Julia on Edisto Island). It is also a great and fun place to go crabbing! Isle of Palms is about 15 minutes from downtown Charleston and has beautiful beaches. I've only heard great things about Savannah, but I've never been. (Even though it's only an hour-ish from Charleston!) I think those two cities are definitely the best for an introduction to the South. Hope this was helpful!
Cool blog. This was my first time reading it. Have fun on your vacation in the deep south. I'd give Nick S. a call since he recently moved over there for work and I am sure he could point you in the right direction for places to stay. If you need my help for contact info email me or let Amy know.
Hallelujah!!!!
I live in Western North Carolina, but I am originally from Savannah. If you want to see the best of the south, I would recommend Savannah and Charleston. Gorgeous architecture, lots of history, and amazing food! Tybee Island, 20 minutes from Savannah, remains a true small beach town. I could walk, look at flowers, and take pictures of houses in Charleston all day! Have a great trip!
love yor photos have been to charleston and Georgia two years ago and my dream is to live the rest of life in either one. Your photos brings back a lot of memories.
Anne
Aww, me too! I've totally dreamed of moving to Charleston ever since that trip. Glad you liked the photos!