Month: February 2020

Sometimes called the “Holy City” due to the large number of churches, Charleston is one of the oldest cities in the United States. People flock to Charleston for many reasons: its historic homes, stunning beaches, southern charm, tasty restaurants, its numerous art galleries and so many more!

There is so much happening in Charleston, so we made a list for you to see and do in case you decided to drop by the Holy City!

The Battery

Stretching along the southern tip of the city overlooking Charleston Harbor are the Southern-style mansions. These gorgeous and must-see structures were once the center of the maritime activity of the city. In addition, you’ll get to see stunning sights of the harbor. Adjacent to the area is White Point Garden, a city park that features a gazebo and a large collection of old military cannons! Tourists and locals visit here for picnics or walking their pets. So, if you happen to stroll along the Battery, don’t forget the White Point Garden nearby.

Restaurants

There is some great food to be had in Charleston’s restaurants. From deli’s and diners to fine cuisine. Magnolia’s is a suggestion for a treat. They specialize in upscale Southern cuisine. Or you could try Raw which has seafood including raw succulent oysters and also tacos. The Tattooed Moose is a local joint and the decor is not the fanciest but it has great traditional American cooking. Fig on the other hand is fancier and has new upscale American cooking. But the favorite of Jock and Carol McClees of Enchanted Marketing is Poogan’s Porch. It is in an old house with lots of character and has great Southern cuisine, often with in interesting twist.

Art Galleries in Charleston

When it comes to art, there is no shortage of it in Charleston! The city is home to numerous artists who exhibit their artwork in more than 40 galleries all over Downtown Charleston. Tourists can browse the larger art museums like the Halsey Institute for Contemporary Art or the Gibbes Museum of Art. On the other hand, they can also peruse the many smaller and independent art galleries with artworks that can be purchased.

From modern and contemporary pieces to European art, you will definitely have a hard time selecting an art piece to bring home!

The South Carolina Aquarium

This must-visit aquarium is perfect for families especially the kids! Home to over 5,000 animals, this aquarium features lovely exhibits, a sea turtle recovery center, and touch tanks. It also hosts a 220-pound loggerhead turtle in its two-story ocean tank! So cool!

The best time to visit the aquarium is in the warmer months. It a great place to spend the time away from all that humidity!

The Gorgeous Beaches of Charleston

Charleston’s beautiful, sandy beaches are the city’s main attractions. They’re a short drive away from the city so make sure to pack sunscreen! A few beaches you can visit are Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island, and Isle of Palms.

Folly Beach is locally branded as “The Edge of America”. Visit this huge stretch of shoreline for surfing and nature, or head to Folly Beach Pier to catch fish or sit idly by. At the end of the island, you’ll get a closer view of the Morris Lighthouse. Meanwhile, Sullivan’s Island prides itself for its dazzling beaches, one-of-a-kind shops, and delightful restaurants. Furthermore, Isle of Palms boasts its beaches that are perfect for windsurfing, swimming, sunbathing and sailing.

Angel Oak Tree

Standing at 65 feet with a 25.5-foot circumference, Angel Oak tree is one of most photographed sights on John Island. It is over 400 years old and is probably one of the largest oak trees you’ll ever see.

Keep in mind though that there are a number of rules you must follow when visiting this magnificent tree but many say that it’s worthwhile to take a visit.

Charleston Tea Plantation

If you like tea better than coffee, it only takes 30 minutes from downtown Charleston to drive to the plantation. Here, you can find a gift shop that samples tea varieties of different kinds! You can take a tour of the plantation for free or pay 12 dollars for a trolley tour which lets you witness firsthand the process from tea planting to packaging. This tourist spot is simply for tea addicts!

Old Slave Mart Museum

Charleston was a center for the slave trade before the Civil War and this museum gives details of this grizzly business. At one point, Charleston was bringing in the range of 35-40% of all the slaves coming to the United States.

Restaurant Tip

While there are lots of great restaurants in Charleston, Clark Weeks and we recommend Poogan’s Porch if you visit the city.

Don’t be fooled by its size and population. The Nordic island country of Iceland offers plenty of new and unique experiences for tourists and travelers. Some of the most popular are listed here. As an extra tip, we have found you can get some good deals at http://bit.ly/VivTravelDeals. Check it out.

Northern Lights

Iceland’s position in the world’s axis places it in a unique position that brings with it many natural wonders like the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. Occurring in the winter months and only at some of the more northerly points on the earth’s surface, the phenomenon of northern lights is breathtaking, to say the least. Even though the northern lights can be explained scientifically, it is nearly impossible to find something more magical in this world.

Whale Watching

Seeing the majestic blue whale in the wild is an experience in itself. In addition, humpback whales, fin whales, killer whales, and even minke whales can be spotted if you get on board one of the whale-watching tours.

Icelandic Horseback Riding

The Icelandic horse is smaller, muscular, and comes from an isolated breed that is resistant to the harsh climate of this region. In fact, in order to preserve its genetics, outside breeding is entirely forbidden.

WestFjords

The mystic region of Westfjords is rich in history and blanketed in mysticism and magic. As a region less frequented by tourists it still retains its natural beauty and cultural richness. The picturesque glaciers, scenic bays, and domineering mountains are a sight to behold.

Dettifoss Waterfall

If you are traveling towards the Northeastern part of Iceland, then the Dettifoss waterfall is a must-visit tourist spot. Considered as Europe’s strongest waterfall, Dettifoss is set in the Vatnajokull National Park and is a part of the Diamond circle.

Blue Lagoon Spa

Blue Lagoon is certainly, Iceland’s most famous spa. The warm and soothing water combines with healing silica mud helping you relax and unwind from stress. Located near the airport, the Blue Lagoon spa can be a perfect start or end to your holiday.

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

The Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and the Diamond beach are located within close proximity. Considered as one of the most popular tourist spots, the lagoon is filled with icebergs that break off of the glacier. They flow through a short waterway and sometimes end up on the beach and ultimately into the Atlantic ocean. 

The Golden Circle

The golden circle is best explored on a snowmobile. The route covers some of the most popular tourist destinations including, Haukadalur Geothermal Valley, Gullfoss waterfall, and Pingvellir Nationals park. The sites are historically and aesthetically appealing to such an extent that tourists can’t get enough of them in one visit.

Nightlife in Reykjavik

Icelanders love to party and the nightlife in Reykjavik is a live testimony to this favorite national pastime. The downtown area in this bustling city is scattered with bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Don’t let the cold be a setback. Even in winters, the temperatures can be surprisingly warmer than even New York. Most of its scenic spots and naturally occurring phenomena have an out-of-this-world appeal that is refreshing and endearing at the same time.