According to Travel + Leisure magazine, Charleston, S.C. is once again named the top travel destination in the U.S. and the world.

Wonder what all the hype is about? Don’t just take it from the professionals, take it from a 20-something college student and self-proclaimed Charlestonian why you should immediately plan your trip to the Holy City.

As one strolls the cobbled streets of Vendue Range down to the iconic pineapple fountain, it is easy to see why Charleston is rapidly growing in popularity as a travel destination. The city-sights are spectacular, the restaurant scene is top notch, and the residents are collectively a group of the most beautiful people in the country. Upon your first visit to the Holy City, I guarantee you will be captivated by everything Charleston has to offer and you will be begging to come back for more. While Charleston does have endless activities and options for those from all walks of life, I do have a few suggestions that must be at the top of your itinerary.     

1. Take a stroll down iconic King Street. Charleston’s main shopping district has everything to offer for both men and women. It has the hallmark brands we know and love, such as J. Crew and Anthropologie, to one of a kind boutiques with pieces that will have your friends asking you, “Where did you find that!” Even if shopping is not right up your alley, King Street still warrants a visit on the second Sunday of every month when the street is closed to traffic and local musicians line the sidewalks. The sights and sounds of Second Sunday are sure to delight those of all ages. 

2. Make a reservation at one of Charleston’s spectacular restaurants. Some of my personal favorites include brunch at Husk, lunch out on the water at Fleet Landing or down on East Bay Street at Magnolias, finished by a superb dinner at Hall’s Chophouse or Hank’s Seafood. Honestly, it’s pretty difficult to find a bad meal when almost all of the restaurants are ranked four out of five stars, or higher, by all of their patrons. Thanks to the abundance of establishments and the continual growth of the restaurant industry, your taste buds will never get bored and will be begging you for more of the Holy City’s unique cuisine. 

3. Finally, wander down to the picturesque Battery Park at sunset. As one passes by Rainbow Row down to the historic mansions that line the waterfront, surrounded by a 280 degree panoramic view of the Charleston harbor, you cannot help but accept that Charleston deserves it's top spot as a global travel destination.     

It is not just the sights, restaurants, and shopping that makes us all want to stay in Charleston for the rest of our lives. It's a little thing we all like to call southern charm. While this charming feeling is hard to put in words, once you embrace Charleston, you realize that it's the whole experience and southern lifestyle that will have you coming back for many years to come.