Charleston is one of the most beautiful places in the world, well, I may be biased. I hear a lot of people say that there isn’t anything to do in Charleston, but I can refute that! I have traveled to many different cities throughout the country and I can definitely say that Charleston is by far the prettiest and most attractive cities I have ever been in. However, if you don’t believe me here are a few reasons as to why you should stay in Charleston:

1. THE FOOD!

I mean honestly, what is better than fried anything?! OK, well that may not be so healthy, but there are plenty of places in Charleston to get a healthy or not-so-healthy meal! One of my favorite Charleston restaurants would have to be Hominy Grill (shrimp + grits = HEAVEN). But if you’re into something more fancy you could swing by Magnolia’s or even S.N.O.B (Slightly North of Broad).

Any food in Charleston is great so go anywhere, but if you have a craving for something sweet stop by Kaminsky’s, anything you get I promise will be the most amazing thing you ever put in your mouth.

2. Shopping

You cannot go wrong with shopping Charleston. From Downtown to Mt. Pleasant to Tanger Outlets you can find everything you could ever want in life. But if you ever want anything that has anything to do with Southern culture you couldn’t have picked a better city to get your fill of Southern apparel.

The best places to go would be King Street and Mount Pleasant Towne Centre to fill your shopping bags.

3. Schools (yay education).

Ok, I’m super biased on this one, but the schools in Charleston are phenomenal! The Citadel, College of Charleston and, of course, Charleston Southern University. If you are thinking about going to school in the south there is no place better than Charleston. The education is truly special here, where better to learn about slavery or the Civil War?

Plus, each campus has its own unique beauty from the Spanish-moss trees Downtown to the Reflection Pond in the middle of the Charleston Southern Campus. Wherever you decide to go to school definitely put Charleston at the top of the list because there will never be an ugly day here in the Holy City.

4. Beaches

Being able to say that I live next to some of the best beaches on the East Coast is pretty dang cool. Folly, Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palms etc. are all fantastic beaches with fantastic views and people. Tanning (actually burning) is my favorite past time during the summer. Not only are the beaches on point during the day, but bless those sunsets on the beach!

5. History

Settling Charles Town, the Civil War, and all that good stuff is pretty significant here in Charleston. The history that has happened here has shaped this city into what it is today. There is not a block Downtown that doesn’t have at least one significant landmark. My personal favorite would have to be Charles Town Landing, with all of its nature and scenery. There is no shortage of things to visit here in Charleston!

6. Scenery

I could go on for days about the scenery here in Charleston. Beaches, the harbor, bridges and more! Taking pictures throughout the city has never been more fun or beautiful! Strolling down Brittle Bank Park and taking pictures of the sun setting behind the Connector. If you ever need an inspiration for a good painting or wallpaper think of Charleston.

7. Southern Comfort

Southern hospitality is highly prevalent here in Charleston. Many may know of the Mother Emanuel shooting that happened here last June. During this time not only did the citizens of Charleston mourn they banded together to show what love truly means and that nothing can break one city, but build it up.

I think this is the meaning of Southern Comfort, being able to hug a stranger and say, “it’ll be ok” and comfort someone warms your heart. Besides this tourists should never feel like a stranger here, we love tourists (on the inside) and we love sharing our culture and our home with you.