After visiting the Carolina Cider Company the journey to Charleston continued with a variety of trees and water ways adorning the road.

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A beautiful drive, how scenic, and what a delightful surprise.

The entrance to Charleston is welcoming, passing over the graceful Ravenel Bridge with views of a posh marina. I wonder if Stephen Colbert has a boat here????

The city is relatively small with the main attraction the Slave Market.

Many vendors sell their wares here and woven straw baskets are sold on every street corner as well as in the market. Lovely, but not lovely enough for the price asked.

Around the marketplace are many restaurants. Anson’s is a place of history and a 5 Star restaurant. Captain Anson was a Brit and naval officer who came to the Carolina’s in the 1700’s. A known card shark this property still bears his name.

Since I had little time to visit and needing direction I stopped at one of the many Visitor Centers. Here I was guided to a horse drawn carriage ride of one hour which fit my needs. The staff at these centers are friendly, personable, and know their city. Did I also say they have coupons??? Stop in and they’ll put you on course for your visit.

The tour was perfect with a guide who was interesting, funny, and well informed. He is an author of historical fiction writing the Rice King Series, a collection based on Charleston townsfolk. He knew his stuff. Check him out on Amazon..

David Henry Lucas

Charleston began as a walled city, similar to St. Augustine, Florida. 65% of the City is reclaimed from the sea and it lies on the largest earthquake fault of the east coast. The last quake was in 1886 and the destruction catastrophic. Historical preservation began in this City and its strong influence remains. Enough fun facts, here are some beautiful homes viewed on the tour.

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And here’s one for sale. What a great bed and breakfast this would make..

Behind these walls is a home to a celebrity whose name remains a secret.. Truth be told I asked three times but didn’t understand what was said. Have to take lessons to pick up the Southern drawl and then those masks, so needed but frustrating at times!

There also was an interesting section of the tour known as Goldsmith’s Row on Anson Street. These wood framed single homes were owned by predominantly Jewish families involved in business and the gold trade.

Many of Jewish descent lived in Charleston. One of our nation’s first synagogues is here. It is open for tours but was closed on the day of my visit.

After seeing the synagogue my eye caught a cemetery of interest. Always interested in these places as the stonework and history is fascinating.

Then I tried the church door and it opened..

to a lovely small church where I lit candles, made wishes, and said prayers. Been awhile since I’ve been inside of a church. Think that’s why God made internet masses. Every time you visit a new church make 3 wishes, it has always worked for me.. Give it a try and let me know.

And if St. Mary comes through a church donation is in her future. They currently have a building campaign so St. Mary think hard of my requests.

This concludes my short visit to Charleston. There is much more to see in this lovely City. Here are some ideas:

• Boone Plantation
• Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
• Edmonston-Alston House

NORTH CAROLINA HERE I COME!!!!!!