Charleston South Carolina tops Conde Nast Traveler Rating List

The Holy City can add another accolade to its growing reputation as a top tourist destination.  Conde Nast Traveler, a widely read travel publication announced that its readers voted Charleston, South Carolina as the Number One tourist
destination in America and number three in the world! 
Charleston knocks San Fransisco from the US top spot, a spot
solidly held for almost two decades.  Area officials are elated to learn of this recent recognition.  Charleston already enjoyed the moniker "friendliest city in America."The word is out that the Holy City offers visitors an unbelievable combination of attractions including top rated beaches, historic architecture, eco tourism, world class dining and the

most gracious professionals in the hospitality industry. 

Charleston boasts the last two James Beard award winners for the best chef in the southeast United States.  Culinary options abound with an abundance of fresh local ingredients; inspiration from the strong cultural influences of Europe, Africa and the Caribbean; and a plethora of skilled staff from Johnson and Wales culinary school and Trident Culinary Institute.  Rice and grits are staples in regional dishes.  Locals often rank their favorite dining spot by their shrimp and grits.  Perlou, also called Perlow or Pillau is a historic dish that owes its uniqueness to Carolina Gold rice.  This long grain rice absorbs the wonderful flavors imparted by the ingredients.   Regional variations include varying combinations of seafood, meats and seasoning. 

After a memorable meal, there is nothing better than strolling around the

peninsula  marveling at the historic homes and period architecture.  The

Charleston Single house represents a prevalent design of the 18th

century where the narrow layout takes advantage of the coastal breezes to offer cross ventilation before the days of air conditioning.  The design includes double verandas, called piazzas, where residents sought relief from the summer sun.  Charleston is often referred to as the Holy City due to the number of churches that dot the peninsula.  The spires outline the skyline as one travels across the Ashley River bridge.  Church Street is aptly named.  There are a number of houses of worship on this corridor.   

For the adventurous traveler, enjoy a kayak tour meandering through the tidal creeks throughout the low country.  Many boat companies offer fishing trips, sunset tours, and harbor cruises.  Porpoises are prevalent here and you seldom miss them out on the waterways!

With all these amazing options, don't forget including a stay at the beach!  Beachwalker Park at Kiawah Island is recognized as one of the top public beaches in the United States.  What better way to enjoy your Charleston experience than combining it with a stay through Pam Harrington Exclusives.  We offer the highest quality private accommodations on Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island. Enjoy 11.5 miles of private beach, luxury homes and villas, award winning golf, resort tennis and even equestrian activities.   Our gracious hospitality, attention to detail, and custom collection of properties make us the number one choice for accommodations on Kiawah and Seabrook Island.  Click here for our website