Historic District lodging-convenient with character

We are in the early stages of planning an outing to Charleston and would like suggestions on lodging. We have been to the area many times, but normally stay in Wild Dunes (IOP).

This trip would a ladies trip-ages 72, 60, 36, and 32. We really like a place with character and are willing to spend around $200-300 a night. We like the idea of Charleston Place, but were shocked at the $500 a night price! One of the most important things though is convenience and ease of parking. My 72 year old aunt is handicapped so we would like short walks to dinner and sights.

Thanks for any suggestions.

Historic District lodging-convenient with character

Mills House- reasonable, great character, good location, easy parking attached. Also recommend Fulton Lane Inn.

Historic District lodging-convenient with character

I agree... the Mills House Hotel would be a wonderful choice! Remember that the Visitors Center offers same day discount rates for all hotels~ You can get a really good deal!

Agree. Mills House is perfect for your group.

Thanks! I checked out Mills House. It seems to be running around $350 a night. After reading some of the reviews on TA I%26#39;m wondering if this is too much.

Explain further please about the Visitors Center offering hotel discounts. Is that if you don%26#39;t make reservations ahead of time? I%26#39;m a little confused.

O%26#39;Meila (the expert) will have to let you know whether you could reserve in advance and then show up with a Visitor Center coupon.

The coupons are intended for same-day drop-ins (like the half price ticket booths for Broadway shows in NYC). Hotels list coupons for rooms that are not already reserved or rented. I suppose that, depending on your hotel%26#39;s cancellation policy, you could cancel out of your reservation before check-in if you found a coupon that you liked.

The Mills House is an extremely nice, elegant, full-service hotel, in theheart of the historic district. $350 per night would not be unusual there. There was someone on TripAdvisor who lucked into an internet deal (Expedia? hotels.com?) on The Mills House; but you should not count on finding a deal like that. I would suggest that you phone the hotel directly to find our the best price they can offer your group.

We offer same day walk in reservations! For example if you were to come in today then the Mills House is giving us a rate of $119. You really can save yourself a lot of time and money by just waiting till you arrive in Charleston.

Just make sure however that there is not some kind of special event going on when you are planning on coming~ I know that the fall candlelight tour of homes is coming up and the hotels do book up and if they are available then the prices are a little higher than normal.

Whew! 350.00! I never paid more than 129.00 to stay at Mills House...of course, I never go down during things like Spoleto or other high demand times.

Vendue would be another choice. It is near the pier and convenient to the market, battery and restaurants as well. Price includes breakfast, afternoon reception (drinks, wine, cheese %26amp; crackers and hot appetizers), cookies at night. Also, there are bicycles if you wish to ride them. Each room is different with antiques. Small, but charming. The hotel has the Charleston charm as does Mills House. Either one - you will be happy!

sorry to jump in here but I am looking for somewhre in the historic part of town for 2 nights 2nd week in October.

We have our 18 mth son travelling with us so I%26#39;m worried we%26#39;ll be very unwelcome in these beautiful places. Would we be better off in non historic hotel do you think?

Your son will be very welcome in the historical area hotels.

You may take him into consideration when planning the sites you visit. Little ones tend to get bored easily in some of the sites. One solution is to take turns going into some of the house museums and quite guided tours. There are so many places here that the children LOVE to tour such as the Aquarium, Patriots Point, Children%26#39;s Museum, Waterfront Park, White Point Gardens etc.

Plantation Visit

What plantation should we visit in November? Other must see attractions in Charleston? We will be there from Nov. 9- 12. Fort Sumnter?

Plantation Visit

Middleton Place Plantation is gorgeous.

http://www.middletonplace.org/

Boone Hall plantation in Mt. Pleasant is also good. Looks like they%26#39;re having the Battle of Seccessionville while you are there.

http://www.boonehallplantation.com/

Plantation Visit

For the grounds, gardens, and fascinating historic displays/tours featuring life and ecomonics of a massive rice plantation, go to Middleton Place. have lunch in the restaurant, which is lovely.

For tour of an original, unfurnished and unrestored plantation home, visit Drayton Hall, which is just down the road from Middleton. Drayton Hal is the only completely original Ashley River plantation home, as it was never destroyed by war, fire, or natural disaster. The grounds are park-like - wonderful for strolling along the river - but not as intricately designed as Middleton%26#39;s.

I just got back from Boone Hall Plantation, it is very nice, but not as nice as I expected (I wish I had gone to Middleton Place instead). So if you are only doing one plantation, I would do Middleton Place.

While your in Charleston you must take a carriage ride/tour. They are very nice. You might also want to take in an evening ghost tour.

Definately tour the historical homes/mansions in historic downtown. They are absolutely amazing. The old churches are wonderful also.

Another pretty neat place is the Provost/Old Exchange. Make sure you do down in the dungeon.

Historic downtown Charleston is such a wonderful place with such character. You will want to come back.

Ive been to just about all of them and I love Magnolia the best, because of the alligator tours. Middleton was nice (wear ur walkin shoes) but it is also pricey when u buy all the extras, and Boone was fun as well, to me the Oak Alley was just stunning and a definate must for pictures.

You are right Wendy. We were in awe of the live oaks when we pulled into Boone Hall. Absolutely amazing, we got some great shots.

Magnolia Plantation is close to Middleton. It would be a shame to miss it since you would be in the area. If you were pressed for time, you might want to skip the houses and just concentrate on the grounds.

http://www.magnoliaplantation.com/

http://www.middletonplace.org/

If you want to visit only one, go to Middleton Place. Be sure to go to the house museum! Plantations Days will be going on throughout the month of November at Middleton. They will have special exhibits about life on the planations and craftsmen will show different things done on the plantation in addition to the regular exhibits and crafts. If time permits, go to Drayton as well. It is very different.

Fort Sumter is open all year. It may be cool on the water going over so take an extra wrap.

On Friday afternoon, the Dress Parade at The Citadel (free) will be at 3:45. You may call mid-day to confirm the time because it can change due to unforeseen circumstances. It is cancelled if it rains. You will hear bagpipes and they march in their uniforms and shakos. They may even fire off a cannon!

wrinkles

bay view resort

any thoughts on bay view resort? early october trip -

how is indoor pool area?

Thanks

bay view resort

I have heard it is too small for the resort.

I would stick with Compass Cove for best indoor kids area.

bay view resort

thanks ohiomommy - any thoughts on monterey bay suites?

THANKS

I know they have a small indoor kiddie pool with buckets, lazy river and pool. That%26#39;a about it.

Bayview is at few blocks from old Pavillion, beautiful rooms but the resort itself is a bit cramped in my opinion, the parking garage is a block away, not across the street, but one block over. There is a small parking area to pick up and drop luggage.

Beach Colony has nice amentiies, Ocean Blue is top notch resort, beautiful rooms, Camelot, Blue Water are pretty decent. Dunes Village, Carribean couple more.

Fergy, have yu checked out the Captains Quarters? I know some people that always stay there when they go. I am not familiar with it but they seem to like it.

Hart1,

does ocean blue have another name? i couldn%26#39;t find it?

thanks!

Did you try Carribean resort? They also have a nice kiddie indoor pool. They are running a special stay 5 nights get 6%26amp;7th night free.

weather in early October

What is the weather in early October. I never was in South Carolina before and I want to go to the beach.

weather in early October

Upper 70%26#39;s to low 80%26#39;s.

Water temps could be iffy depending on where you%26#39;re from. A Canadian might think it%26#39;s a warm while somebody from Virginia would stay out of the water. Might look for place heated pool just to be on safe side.

Still hurricane season. That%26#39;s just a gamble. Odds in your favor. We%26#39;re going first week of Oct. Won%26#39;t check weather til week before leaving. Even then if they predict rain it%26#39;s seldom ever bad enough to lose sleep over.

weather in early October

We love October. I thought the ocean temp was still REALLY warm. I%26#39;m not an ocean swimmer, but would have gladly taken a full plunge because it was really warm. You may have more cloudy days/rainy days, but it%26#39;s fall. I wore shorts the entire time. I recall the breeze after getting out of the pools was what made me feel a chill, other than that it is great weather.

Mario,

Pop was dead on. We are generally about 75-80 for the high during October. The ocean is still rather warm (usually still above 70) so swimming is still an option.

October is a great time to visit the beach as the summer humidity is gone but we still have the nice warm weather. Keep in mind that a few of the attractions and restaurants have limited operating hours during the ';shoulder'; season. However, October/November is prime golf season so we%26#39;re still getting visitors.

Also, you may want to note that there is a fall bike rally the first week of October, it%26#39;s not as busy as the spring rally, but still can get a bit loud and rowdy. If that%26#39;s not your thing you may want to push it back a week.

Hope this helps!

we%26#39;ve been going down the 2nd week in october for the last 3 years and love it! going again this year

Embassy Suites or Residence Inn???

Looking for a hotel close to the zoo. Which of these 2 is nicer? I%26#39;ll be traveling with 3 children aged 12 and under. I stayed at Residence Inn last year, but thought it needed some updating. Haven%26#39;t stayed at Embassy Suites since the 90%26#39;s! Which is better for a long weekend stay?

Embassy Suites or Residence Inn???

I would pick the Embassy Suites or look into the Homewood Suites (also on Greystone, very close to both hotels you mentioned and the zoo). Homewood Suites opened about 2 years ago, so it%26#39;s fairly new.

Embassy Suites or Residence Inn???

Are the rooms truly suites? (I need to be able to put the toddler to bed early.)

what do you think of this plan

i was wondering is someone can commet on this plan-

does it sound doable and fun

what would you make as the priorities?

what is the best itenerary for the least amount of time

march 15 -29 8- 14 nights

3 nights savanah

2 nights tybee island

2 night /3 day okefenokie swamp tour

2 night st marys ( day at commberland)

1 night on road to charleston

2-3 nights charleston

1 night back in savannnah

14 nights

or

3 nights savanah

1 nights tybee island

2 night /3 day okefenokie swamp tour

1 night st marys ( day at commberland)

1 night on road to charleston

2 nights charleston

1 night back in savannnah

11 nights

3 nights savanah

1nights tybee island

1 day tour okefenokie swamp tour

1 night st marys ( day at commberland)

1 night on road to charleston

2 nights charleston

1 night back in savannnah

10 nights

3 nights savanah

1 day tour swamp

1 night st marys ( day at commberland)

1 night on road to charleston

2- nights charleston

1 night back in savannnah

9 nights

3 nights savanah with tour of o swamp

1 night st marys ( day at commberland)

1 night on road to charleston

2 nights charleston

1 night back in savannnah

8 nights

rent a car

thank you so much

what do you think of this plan

Just a few notes....

In March, you will definately not be swimming in the ocean, so I don%26#39;t know if you want to do more than one night on Tybee Island. Or since Tybee is so close to Savannah, spend two in Savannah and two on Tybee Island.

Historic downtown Charleston is a definate must do (there is plenty to do), and is a wonderful walking city. I would spend three days here alone (four, if you wanted to do one of the plantations). The definate must dos would be....

- carriage ride/tour

- tour the mansions (exceptional)

- relax/picnic in Battery Park

- participate in an evening ghost tour

- tour a plantation on the outskirts of Charleston (especially if you are not planning a return trip to do this). depending on which one you do, this could be an entire day in itself.

When you arrive in historic Charleston, go straight to the visitors center and obtain a map of the historical area and start your walking and touring from there!

Sounds like you are going to have a wonderful vacation.

what do you think of this plan

I think you%26#39;ll be shortchanging yourself by only spending 2 nights in Charleston. Maybe 2 nights in Savannah on the front end of your trip instead of 3 since you%26#39;ll have your final night in Savannah too. Cumberland Island is wonderful! So nice to see a barrier island pretty untouched. You%26#39;ll have a great visit!

Groceries

Hi everyone,

As our trip gets closer and closer we%26#39;re having more questions! Today%26#39;s is, I know there is a Harris Teeter in Mt. Pleasant, which is on the way to Sullivan%26#39;s (where we%26#39;re staying).

Should we purchase our groceries from there or just some stuff there and is there a better place for shrimp (making coconut shrimp one of the nights) since we%26#39;re right on the water and the shrimp boats are right there?

Also, is there a small store on Sullivan%26#39;s for snack/deli items that one of you could recommend?

Groceries

There is actually a new Publix on Ben Sawyer Blvd. that just recently opened and is much closer to Sullivan%26#39;s Island than the Harris Teeter.

For fresh shrimp, check out Magwood Seafood in Mt. Pleasant.

As far as on SI, I think the only place for snack items would probably be the BP... You%26#39;d most likely be better off just to go to the Publix in Mt. P just across the bridge. If you are going to have bicycles there, you can easily bike from SI to the Publix. There%26#39;s a nice bike path connecting SI %26amp; Mt. P, just have to be careful crossing the old Ben Sawyer bridge...

Hope you have a good trip!!

Cab from Sav to HHI... how much?

We used to rent a car, but we let our car at our place at HHI...so we%26#39;ve never had to take a cab or shuttle back to the island... how much are we looking at for a cab ride? Do the shuttle bus services take you right to your front door in say PD, how do they work?

Thanks so much!!

Oh and one more thing ;-) will it stop rainig by Oct. 1st. Heehhee.

Cab from Sav to HHI... how much?

Take the Gray Line shuttle. It is very convenient and cost about $40. It will drop you off at your place.

Cab from Sav to HHI... how much?

and that is per person?

If so, anyone know what a cab runs from SAV aiport to palmetto dunes?

Click on ';View Taxi Cab Rate'; button

www.savannahairport.com/groundtransport.php

Thank you!! So it%26#39;d be 75.00...rather than 40pp...plus tip on cab I suppose... hmmm...probably more comfy in a cab. I think it%26#39;s all been decided. Thanks for both of your help, a lot!!

wrinkles

low country food

We are going to be in MB next week (YEA! finally!) Anyway, a question for you locals...where is the best place for real low country food???? We always like to taste the regional food when we travel. In all the years of going to MB, we have never found a good LC rest. Any suggestions???? We don%26#39;t mind traveling a little, after all we are on vacation!

low country food

Low country is south of Georgetown. Charleston has the low country food. I%26#39;m sure someplace in MB sells it - but MB is not really ';low country'; culture. Low country is Geechee and Gullah - that%26#39;s further south. Best wishes.

Looking for a Beach house with an Elevator

My family is looking for a beach house with an elevator. It only needs to sleep 9 (3 couples, two young adults and one 9 year old).

It must also be oceanfront. I found a few online but some of them are just too expensive, $7000 to $8000 a week. We%26#39;re looking for something in the $2000 to $4000 a week in the mid to late August dates. Any help would be great.

Thanks

Ron

Looking for a Beach house with an Elevator

I know you%26#39;re more familiar with south Grand Strand but here are some NMB realtors.

northmyrtlebeachtravel.com/book/query.html

www.century21thomas.com/book/query.html

www.century21thomas.com/book/query.html

Just did a quick look at Elliott site and found two with elevators. Like you%26#39;ve already found out they%26#39;re large houses. One sleeps 16 and the other 26.

Might look at duplexes. Something with an upper and lower unit. Some of those have long boardwalks out and over the dunes. Some of those have a wide deck like area built out on the dune.

Negative there would be not unusual for the lower units not having view of beach.

I%26#39;d give the realtors a call and see what they can come up with. I know Elliott goes to great lengths to help.

Looking for a Beach house with an Elevator

www.hatterasrealty.com/book/results.html鈥?/a>

www.hatterasrealty.com/book/house.html鈥?/a>

www.hatterasrealty.com/book/results.html鈥?/a>

vrbo.com/vacation-rentals/鈥uter-banks

Ever thought about Cape Hatteras (OBX)? They have hundreds that fit what you%26#39;re looking for except the location. Lots of different realty companies too. I%26#39;ve stayed in many of them.

contact hobbsrealty.com in holden beach nc. their site lists a number of units with elevators. good luck!

Ron, how about a large condo. I%26#39;ve seen some on vrbo...4-5 bedrooms, plenty of space. Everything on one floor, some are handicap accesible if that is what you need. Oceanfront too. And of course most will have a pool. Not many houses have that.

Large, oceanfront beach house under $4000 will be hard to find.

Where would you stay?

I am in the process of planning a spring trip to Myrtle Beach.

I have been combing through the pages, and pages, and pages of reviews written on MB hotels. Just when I think I have found THE hotel, somebody posts a review that makes me just a bit weary of staying there.

So, my questions is this; where would you experienced MB travelers recommend staying? I will be traveling with my wife, mother-in-law, and almost two year old daughter. We really aren%26#39;t hard-to-please people. Just want something clean and affordable. The biggest ';want'; is it has to be on the ocean.

Thanks for your expertise in advance!

Where would you stay?

Clean %26amp; affordable oceanfront hotels%26amp; condos are plentiful in the MB area. The best way to start narrowing down is to decide...do you want a condo or hotel? Then, which area? North, South, or Central? It is much easier to make recommendations from there.

Some decent (that I%26#39;ve stayed at) hotels in the more central area of Myrtle Beach are...The Caribbean (just did major remodeling), Dayton House (dated but clean %26amp; reasonable prices).

North of that is a nice area with Ocean Reef %26amp; Long Bay being two that I%26#39;ve stayed at.

You%26#39;ll get many opinions on this forum.

Good Luck!

Where would you stay?

vrbo.com/vacation-rentals/鈥yrtle-beach

';Clean %26amp; affordable oceanfront hotels%26amp; condos are plentiful in the MB area. The best way to start narrowing down is to decide...do you want a condo or hotel? Then, which area? North, South, or Central? It is much easier to make recommendations from there.';

First, I%26#39;d say I%26#39;m not sure which I%26#39;d rather have. What are the pros and cons of them? I%26#39;ve stayed in plenty of hotels. They work for me. As long as it%26#39;s on the ocean, I%26#39;d be happy.

As far as location, I%26#39;d rather be in Central Myrtle. North after that. Not really intererested in South MB.

Thanks for the advice.

';First, I%26#39;d say I%26#39;m not sure which I%26#39;d rather have. What are the pros and cons of them? I%26#39;ve stayed in plenty of hotels. They work for me. As long as it%26#39;s on the ocean, I%26#39;d be happy.

As far as location, I%26#39;d rather be in Central Myrtle. North after that. Not really intererested in South MB';

Well the hotels aren%26#39;t just hotels. They are resorts with tons of ammenities. And some of the condos are in these ';hotel resorts';.

-Paradise Towers at the Breakers (www.breakers.com)

-Island Vista (www.islandvista.com)

-Dunes Village (www.dunesvillage.com)

-Monterey Bay Suites (www.montereybaysuites.com)

-Camelot by the Sea (www.camelotresort.com)

There are tons more but these are just a few nice places that I have either stayed in or have toured.

They all have pools (indoor/outdoor), lazy rivers, some type of cafe or restaurant, oceanfront, they have multiple bedrooms available with suites/condos and regular hotel rooms.

When looking at the reviews, kind of don%26#39;t worry about the ones dealing with service issues. If you notice, it%26#39;s usually only one or two people complaining about that out of 20 or more. To each his own. Also notice the remarks about cleanliness. If everyone has the same complaint, don%26#39;t bother. Look at the Candid Traveler Photos. That will give you a sense of how the interior is set up and a recent picture of the rooms and cleanliness also. Don%26#39;t be deterred by the reviews mostly only if every comment is a negative then you should stay away basically.

MrsMaryland,

what%26#39;s your favorite for trip early October w/ 2%26amp;4 yr olds.

Definitely need indoor pools - Dunes is booked..

THANKS

sopranofreak,

how were ocean reef %26amp; long bay as far as indoor pools etc?

thanks

Fergy,

I honestly can%26#39;t say about the indoor pools because we didn%26#39;t use them! No kids with us %26amp; it was warm (September) so we were on the beach most every day.

Dayton House. Its a good hotel. If your looking for basics. Clean, kitchen, daily housekeeping, iron, cable, internet access, beachfront room, close to resturants, several pools, beach chairs and most of all affordable prices. I stayed there in late july early august and it was all that I mentioned. Its smoke free I dont know if that matters to you or not. You have to go out to smoke. And there is also a laundr area and game room and gift shop. The prices are probably even better now since its almost October. Go on there board 98 percent are good reviews that is why I picked it.

Try Paradise Towers at the Breakers, Monterey Bay Suites, Camelot Resort, Ocean Reef Resort, Long Bay Resort, Island Vista Resort,

I really liked the Long Bay Resort when we stayed there in May - clean, comfortable rooms ; nice pool area; great beach! We stayed in the Savoy Building because its closer to the ocean. Going back in 2 weeks and we%26#39;re spending 2 nights at the Long Bay and 2 more nights at the Monterey Bay (the Savoy was booked the last 2 nights and we didn%26#39;t want to move to the main building, so we%26#39;re trying a new hotel this trip, too!)

Bachlorette party- where to go?

Hello all,

I will be coming to Myrtle Beach in one week for a friend%26#39;s bachlorette party. We are 28 yrs old and looking for someplace fun, with people around our age. (25 and up). I%26#39;ve been to MB once before and remembering going to the that main strip near the beach, and remember feeling that it was really ';young';, like high schoolers, and kinda cheesy... so I was thinking that wasn%26#39;t the best place to go.

I%26#39;ve heard about ';broadway on the beach';... would this be a good place to go on a Sat night and have a fun dinner and then hop around to bars and clubs? suggestions on bars/clubs/restaurants?

Thanks!

Bachlorette party- where to go?

anyone, please?

Bachlorette party- where to go?

Sounds like you were at the Attic on Ocean Blvd. Yes it was a teen club.

http://www.broadwayatthebeach.com/

Broadway At The Beach would be your best bet. Claims ten night clubs. Couldn%26#39;t begin to name them.

Margaritaville would be fun place for your dinner but expect long wait to get in even during off season.

Broadway at the Beach is your best bet. BATB offers venues ranging from low-key Stool Pigeons-type bars to boisterous dueling piano shows to bass-pumping, cheesy Senor Frogs-type dance clubs, with age ranges from 18 to 88. Also many restaurants to choose from before going out. Enjoy.

Thank you!!! that definitely confirms what I was thinking. appreciate it!

Yep Yep - BBAB is the spot to be!!!

Make sure you check out Crocodile Rocks! What a hoot! Always come out of there with my side hurting - where I had laughed so hard. You can call and make ';reservations'; for the bachlorette party. It%26#39;s a little steep per person - but you are 100 % certain you will have seats on the floor.

Good luck!

Try the Chippendale hotel.

I second puppydog. Crocodile Rocks will definitely cater to your group. Hope you don%26#39;t mind being singled out in front of lots of rowdy people having a great time at your expense!! Seriously though, it is ALWAYS a really fun time!

I would try Broadway at the Beach........

Mike

Dead Dog Saloon

The Dead Dog is %26#39;dead%26#39; to us. Having a good first time visit, we and a group of friends decided to make a second visit. We asked for the smoking section and were told, in late June, that they weren%26#39;t opening the upstairs because they ';didn%26#39;t have enough servers'; to take care of it'; and smoking was limited to the bar area. Seeing several tables within the enclosed bar area, we agreed and asked for one of the tables. We were then told we ';couldn%26#39;t have a table; we could only sit at the BAR --- 30 INCHES away from the table. We measured!! Customers were sitting 30'; away from us on a bar stool and, because we were NOT on bar stools, our smoking friends were not allowed to smoke unless they stood up, took two steps to the left and stood at the bar. We left. We will not go back unless/until they either teach their help just exactly WHERE the bar area IS and treat their customers with more consideration. We were stunned that, at the height of the beach season, they did not have enough waiters to cover the entire restaurant ,were crowding everyone into the downstairs and making customers wait until a downstairs table was available.

Dead Dog Saloon

Okay, I%26#39;m impressed! THIRTY MINUTES after the above review was posted, I received an email from the owner of Dead Dog Saloon and am posting it below. Any business owner who shows this level of concern for customer satisfaction and is this prompt in addressing it is an owner that I WILL patronize again. Thank you, Mr. Campbell, for your prompt and unexpected apology and your personal attention to our problem.

----------------------------------------

I am the owner of the Dead Dog Saloon at the Mall and in Murrells Inlet and I am writing to you to sincerely apologize for your less than satisafactory experience at my restaurant. I personally respond to any negative comments from our customers as I take them very seriously. There is no excuse for the treatment which you and your guests received that night and I can only guess that a mistake was made by a new hostess that simply didn%26#39;t perform as trained. NO EXCUSE! Our upstairs is ALWAYS open for our smoking guests and she was mistaken in telling you otherwise, I am sorry for that.

There are many, many choices of establishments on the grand strand and we strive to be a fun, fulfilling, place to go. We let you down in that regard and I ask that you give us a second chance to win you back as a customer....Again my apology for your bad experience. Hopefully you will let us make it right.

Dead Dog Saloon

It is indeed impressive to know that the owners of the establishments we talk about here are listening...to both the good %26amp; bad remarks...just one more reason TA is such a helpful place.

MB Taxpayer, I suspect the days of smoking inside ANY establishment in the US are numbered, so the rules that seem silly to you will probably keep getting more %26amp; more restrictive. I%26#39;m just surprised that they still have the deck area enclosed at this time of year. Weather permitting there should be plenty of outdoor dining venues where you can puff to your heart%26#39;s content.

Enjoyed SO MUCH the Dead Dog in July %26#39;07. Was there with my teenage son and my husband. I%26#39;m glad that the proprietor sticks to the rules about smoking restrictions. Simple fact: people go to restaurants to eat. That%26#39;s why they%26#39;re called eateries, not smokeries. People like me and my family should have the right to breathe the salt air and essences of the wonderful cuisine at the Dead Dog and other fine establishments, without tasting someone else%26#39;s poor life choice. The Dead Dog puts out great appetizers, crab dip, oysters, and great meals, I had a dish with sausage, local shrimp, and grits that I wish I could have again right now. And the live music was fantastic.

No sympathy here. I wish all states would have no smokingin bars and restaurants like N.J. does. And you know what, business has not suffered at all.

I agree with the two above. I go to a restaurant to enjoy the food and atmosphere, not to have to smell the inside of an old ashtray while I eat.

Here in Indianapolis, we have had no smoking laws in retaurants for a couple of years now. It always seems weird to me now when we go to MB and eat at a restaurant and they ask us ';smoking or non.'; In the few counties in Indiana that still allow smoking, there is usually no one in the smoking section. A lot of my smoking friends always said they liked to eat in non-smoking sections because the smoke bothered THEM when the ate.

Centrally Located Family Friendly Resort

I am hoping you all can make some suggestions for our family. We are a family of 5, and would prefer a condo unit as opposed to a hotel room. We have 3 children (13, 9 and 3) and would like a pool, and a restaurant/bar onsite. We would like to be within walking distance of the major attractions and be right on the beach. A waterpark would also be nice. I have heard that Dunes Village has a waterpark, but that they are not within walking distance of anything. Any suggestions?

Centrally Located Family Friendly Resort

When you say a condo unit are you referring to renting through a private owner or just a room with apartment style ammenities (kitchen, LR, DR, etc.)? Most resorts in MB are hotels but they have ';condo-style'; accommodations. And some are actually condos that are privately owned. I guess that%26#39;s how I can explain it :-)

There is no place in MB that can be walking distance to the major attractions. MB is too spread out for that. However, if you stay near Broadway at the Beach, that could put you within less than 1 mile from most of the primary sites people tend to see when there. With kids also you are going to want to drive almost everywhere, except those things near the hotel.

Some Suggestions:

-Paradise Towers at the Breakers (www.breakers.com) specifically the Paradise Towers building. The other ones are a little dated and too small (except maybe the North Tower a few blocks up). With a family of 5 you could stay in there 2 BR OF, Superior Suite. This is the one we always stay in. It is excellent. OF Suite with balcony access from LR and MBR. 2 Full Baths. DR, Full Kitchen with updated appliances and fully stocked on cookware. Pools are nice with the indoor/outdoor lazy river, outdoor pool, indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, etc. They have a little restaurant with basic sandwiches, and sides, then a little place for drinks. And next door is Bummz on the Beach a nice place for entertainment, bar, and dining with kids. Across the street is a Starbucks, Papa%26#39;s restaurant, Breyers Ice Cream, Pizza, and the parking garage for the building.

-Camelot Resort (www.camelotresort.com) which is next door to the Paradise Towers. I haven%26#39;t stayed here but I could literally see the rooms from my floor to ceiling window when the curtains were opened. They are pretty nice as well. Their pools are a little smaller than the above-mentioned but still nice for kids.

-Caribbean Resort %26amp; Villas (www.caribbeanresort.com) Haven%26#39;t stayed there but it%26#39;s been upgraded recently. Nice pool area. And good location. And they usually have pretty decent rates.

Other suggestions;

-Island Vista (www.islandvista.com)

-Dunes Village (www.dunesvillage.com)

-Kingston Plantation Resort (www.kingstonplantation.com)

-Monterey Bay Suites (www.montereybaysuites.com)

-Compass Cove Resort (www.compasscove.com)

-Long Bay Resort (www.longbay.com)

Centrally Located Family Friendly Resort

Caribbean Resort is very nice %26amp; is within walking distance to restaurants. Myrtle Beach area is spread out %26amp; you will need to drive to major attractions.

I will admit up front that I am biased because I own two condos at The Myrtle Beach Resort. We stayed in a friends condo years ago while looking to buy and fell in love with it. We have almost everything you could want there except your ';walking distance'; request. That will be hard to find. We have 6 pools, 3 jacuzzis, a beach bar, a deli / restaurant, on site water park, tennis courts, the largest ocean front pool in Myrtle Beach, exercise room, saunas, walking trails around lagoons with turtles, ducks, swans, an on site convenience store and a Kroger right across the road, playgound, and much more. But, like I said, I am biased.

Bump - anyone have a condo for rent that meets my requests listed above?

It would help to know that we would like to go for a week in either June 2008 (the last week) or August 2008 (preferably one of the last 2 weeks of the month).

Try using www.vrbo.com

I see several resorts/condos that were already listed that have availability. If it%26#39;s in your budget or not I don%26#39;t know.

I own two units at the Myrtle Beach Resort as I said in the reply above. I do Rent them directly..You can view them at vacationrentals.com, click on South Carolina, click on Myrtle Beach, scroll approx. 3/4 down that page looking for the heading TWO GREAT MYRTLE BEACH RESORT CONDOS. Rates and contact info is shown there

listen to MrsMaryland and go with Breakers Paradise Towers , that%26#39;s your best bet for that particular area .

wrinkles

Beach Rental- rental company or a place you've stayed

I am looking to rent a house at the beach. I am going with a group of 6 to Charleston. What is the best beach location? Does anyone have a recommendation for a great house you%26#39;ve stayed in and just loved? Thanks, in advance, for all suggestions.

Beach Rental- rental company or a place you've stayed

You will have no problem finding accommodations for 6 people (three bedrooms?) near Charleston. First decide what kind of beach environment you want ... Are you into peace and quiet, or do you want restaurants, bars, and activities? Also, determine your budget.

If you want to rent a house or condo, look at www.vrbo.com and www.greatrentals.com. These are rent-from-owner sights. you can sometimes get a better deal directly from the owner than by going through a resort or a managing agent.

Let us know more of your requirements, and we will be able to give better advice.

Beach Rental- rental company or a place you've stayed

For the past five years we have rented beach houses/condos on Folly Beach. We absolutely love it there. We have used Avocet, Island Realty, Dunes Properties, and Fred Holland. I am sorry to say I would not rent a Fred Holland property again (needed to be cleaned thoroughly before we got there, and it wasn%26#39;t.) We rented properties from Dunes and Avocet at Pavilion Watch condos. Each condo had three bedrooms and three bathrooms and was just steps from the beach.

Try islandrealty.com. We used them for our Wild Dunes rental in July and were very satisfied. If you stay in Wild Dunes be sure to ask about beach erosion in the area. There was a long stretch on the northern part that was sandbagged and washed away. We stayed at Mariners Walk and the erosion started just north of us.

Thanks all, for the replies. I am into peace and quiet and a great oceanview. A short walk to the beach is fine. I%26#39;d like nearby restaurants and shops. A short drive is fine. I%26#39;d like to be able to tour historic and downtown areas of Charleston as well as enjoy the ocean.

The budget is moderate. A clean, bright, well-maintained property is what I am seeking. A screened porch and pool would be good, too, but not crucial. I had great success with a by owner rental in Kissemee, FL, so I am definitely open to that. I would appreciate a recommendation of a successful experience with a by owner rental in Charleston.

Dining plans include a meal at Jestine%26#39;s, of course. Any recommendations for a seafood restaurant and a great place for lunch?

What time of year are you going? Everything gets quieter off season.

For year-round peace and quiet, consider Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island, both of which are a picturesque 40 minute drive from the historic district. Kiawah%26#39;s 10 mile beach is amazing - unspoiled and uncrowded. Seabrook%26#39;s beach is smaller, but also quite nice.

Depending on what time of year you are going, and upon what you consider ';moderate';, accommodations will be more or less expensive. A sreened porch is guaranteed. Direct ocean view will be the most expensive. Other fabulous views on Kiawah and Seabrook are the marsh and river views.

Some private homes on Kiawah have pools. A few neighborhoods have community pools. The Kiawah Island Resort also has pools that are only available to people renting through the Resort. Be sure to express your interest in a pool when you inquire. I think that all renters on Seabrook have access to a club pool (I am not sure, so inquire).

All good Charleston restaurants serve wonderful local seafood. For a complete seafood menu In downtown Charleston, consider Hank%26#39;s Seafood on Hayne Street, just north of the market. Near Kiawah and Seabrook, try Cindy%26#39;s Seafood (off island on the Betsy Kerrison Parkway). Rosebank Cafe, at the Bohicket Marina (between Kiawah and Seabrook) does nice seafood. Also in Bohicket, %26#39;Up Da Creek%26#39; Cafe (which we have not tried, but plan to) has a complete seafood menu. The Mustard Seed, an unimposing place on Maybank Highway on the way to Charleston from KI and SI, has wonderful fresh seafood .

ywhite,

As usual kiawahvilla has given excellent advice. If budget is a concern, give serious thought to ';low-season';. Non-summer weeks rent for 1/4 to 1/2 of what summer weeks rent for.

Fall is an great time to visit the Lowcountry. The summer crowds are gone; the weather still good; and the water temperature bearable.

Some folks do close their pools from November through March. If a pool is important, make sure you ask if it is open year round and if its heated.

For lunch in historic Charleston, I recommend 82 Queen (eat in the garden if weather permits) or Joseph%26#39;s (very local, casual, cheap, and good).

Hi ywhite,

We have stayed at the Belvidere resort, www.belvidereclub.com, which is located just over the bridge from Charleston in Mt. Pleasant.

I mention this place specifically because they have beautiful, house-long screened porches that face (most of them) historic Charleston and Ft. Sumpter. There is a smidge of beach there but you are also close to Sullivan%26#39;s Island and Isle of Palms, as well.

The cottage we stayed in only had two bedrooms (king in one, two queens in the other) but it had a full kitchen and two full baths, a fireplace and sumptuous amenities. There is also a pool, hot tub and club house.

The rental is a bit pricey but the stay was wonderful.

Enjoy!

Thanks for the additional replies. I love this forum. My group is planning on next month for our journey to Charleston. I love the look of the Belvedere resort, but I think a 2 bedroom will be a little cramped. The screened porch wih the hammock looks heavenly. We love traveling together, and we also like a bit of space for solitude if the need should strike one of us. A three or more bedroom home will fit the bill.

How is the driving from the beach to Historic Charleston? 40 minutes is reasonable, but is that 40 minutes real time? I have heard good things about Kiawah Island for many years. It sounds like it has remained unspoiled.

We would like to take the Gullah Tour while we are there. Would it be better to try for a weekday or weekend? I am also hoping to have the best shrimp and grits in Charleston....any suggestions?

ywhite-

Yes, 40 minues is real time, door to door, from Kiawah%26#39;s main gate to the Visitor Center or to my favorite parking lot on Queen Street. I drive it all the time.

The Gullah Tour is excellent. All of the tours are conducted by owner/guide Alphonso Brown on small, comfortable bus. You can make a reservation on his website www.gullahtours.com. Mr Brown does not do the tours on Sunday, and Saturdays are frequently filled up. Make your reservation as soon as you can; you can cancel if need be.

Hopefully someone else will weigh in on the shrimp and grits. There are many hundreds of variations - Since I like all of them, I am not a good judge!

Anniversary Trip to Charleston

My husband and I are planning a trip to Charleston SC for our 5 year anniversay. A romantic getaway would be wonderful. Where should we stay, what should be see, and where should we eat? Lots of questions, I know, but it is our first time in Charleston.

Thanks.

Anniversary Trip to Charleston

Do you want to stay on the beach or in the historic district? Is price a consideration? Do you want a B %26amp; B, hotel, condo, etc.... Your query is too broad. Tell us what you like and dislike.

Anniversary Trip to Charleston

I think a B%26amp;B or Inn would be nice. Something different than the typical hotel stay. As for the location, I guess in the historic district. I would like to be able to walk to alot of the sights and restaurants.

Thanks.

Im planning on coming into town in December, and I ran across this place that seemed pretty neat. You can rent carriage houses and retain some privacy or stay in a home. Being anniversary..im gonna say this might be a better option! (wink) lol

http://historiccharlestonbedandbreakfast.com/

hope u have a great time, Charleston is great!

I enjoyed Fulton Lane Inn.

We were married at the Planters Inn and spent our wedding night there as well. We can%26#39;t wait to return for an anniversary trip.

Everything about the Planters Inn was FABULOUS and the have one of the best restaurants in town on-site - the Peninsula Grill.

www.plantersinn.com

Some other ';romantic'; suggestions - have drinks at the Rooftop Bar at the Market Pavillion Hotel. Take a carriage ride (you can do private or group rides)

You have chosen a wonderful city to celebrate in!

Thanks everyone. We have also been recommended to the Vendue Inn. I know it has gotten mixed reviews on this site but what have you heard?

You might consider the Elliott House Inn as well. 25 rooms and is on the national register of historic places. www.elliotthouseinn.com

December cabin hiking - scenic locations to stay

My kids and I are driving from Orlando to DC this Christmas. We would like to spend a night or two somewhere';pretty'; on the way up or way down.

Any suggestions for cabins or areas that will meet our needs?

Thanks for your help.

December cabin hiking - scenic locations to stay

Hunting Island State Park has cabins. Some of them even have a fireplace. Definitely a nice place to stop and it%26#39;s on your way...

You might also be interested in Edisto State Park. Here%26#39;s a link to the state parks...

southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder/鈥?298.aspx

I live in Florida, but spend Christmas in South Carolina every year.

December cabin hiking - scenic locations to stay

Thanks for the idea. Is there anything you do in the area besides enjoy the park?

landmark resort

any opinions on landmark resort?

thanks

landmark resort

Plenty of reviews if you click on the Landmark under hotels (to the bottom left), also just a similar post here a few days ago if you look on the next page.

The Landmark gets some pretty bad reviews but we have stayed there several times because you just can%26#39;t beat it for the price if an extensive indoor pool area is important to you (13 different pools %26amp; spas indoors %26amp; out). Yes, some of the complaints about cosmetic issues are valid %26amp; are longstanding conditions, but if you can overlook that sort of thing, you%26#39;ll get yor money%26#39;s worth. If not, maybe try Dunes Village or Grande Shores.

landmark resort

thanks Daddio,

it looks like it has so many amentities - honestly a little cosmetic

work won%26#39;t bother us - as long as it%26#39;s safe -

looks like the kids would stay busy there...

thanks,

Fergy

Shrimp and Blue Crab festival

Has anyone been to the shrimp and blue crab festival in October. I was wandering how was it? Also, how far is it from Breakers Resort in Myrtle?

Shrimp and Blue Crab festival

its in Little River, if you take Grissom Parkway to Hwy 31 to Hwy 9 that will be your quickest way and it will take you about 30 mins. The festival is only about 3 yrs old but its is the biggest festival draw we have, bigger then Blue Crab in May and thats a big one. Its a nice day along the Little River waterfront.

Shrimp and Blue Crab festival

hart1 (or anyone) - we%26#39;ll be in MB that weekend, too -- can you tell me a little more about the shrimp %26amp; jazz festival? I went to the website, but it really doesn%26#39;t have much info. Is it like a street fair - with art/crafts/food booths and jazz music? Haven%26#39;t read much about Little River. Thanks!

when is it?

wrinkles

nice and close to boardwalk

We are planning a trip to Myrtle Beach the first week in November with 2 teenagers and want to stay where the action is. Can you recommend a nice place close to the boardwalk, etc. Also what is the weather like there that time of year.

nice and close to boardwalk

You%26#39;re on the North Myrtle Beach board. North Myrtle Beach is a seperate city from Myrtle Beach. 10-20 miles north of MB. No boradwalk and few attractions along the oceanfront. Still a nice, quiet family location but a bit longer drive to MB attractions.

You might try posting on the Myrtle Beach Board.

tripadvisor.com/ShowForum-g54359-i25-Myrtle_鈥?/a>

If you%26#39;re loking for a boardwalk like along Va Beach, you won%26#39;t find it. MB is much, much more spread out. There is a short walkway in the 9th Ave north area but that%26#39;s it. There has been talk of a boardwalk being built but that%26#39;s as far as it%26#39;s gone.

A few shops and attractions along there. The main attraction called the Pavillion was demolished last year.

The main attraction(s) for teens are blocks off the beach. Broadway At The Beach and the NASCAR track . You will probably be driving the teens and dropping them off.

Accomodations are a bit different than Va Beach. What I have seen and heard about Va Beach is most of your rental units are more like motel rooms than condos.

Most of your units in MB will have seperate bedrooms, kitchen dining areas.

A dive with great seafood?

While visiting Charleston next month, my husband and I would like to have dinner one night at a great casual seafood place that%26#39;s not touristy. Off the beaten path is fine. Any suggestions?

A dive with great seafood?

The locals will have to tell you how to find it, but The Wreck close to Shem Creek is a great seafood dive.

A dive with great seafood?

The place mentioned in the previous post is:

Wreck of the Richard %26amp; Charlene 106 Haddrell St., Mount Pleasant, SC (843)854-0042

In downtown, we like Hank%26#39;s Seafood on Hayne Street - It is not a dive, but it has great seafood.

I%26#39;ve never been, but a lot of folks around here love to eat seafood at Bowen%26#39;s Island.

I went to Bowen%26#39;s Island one time. My car almost bottomed out in the HUGE holes in the dirt road going out there. When we got there it was closed. A friend who lives at Folly went one time and said the food was terrible and it was so filthy they were afraid to eat what they had ordered.

We used to go to a little dumpy place way out on Folly Road but it closed a few months ago and has been torn down.

You could also try Red%26#39;s on Shem Creek over in Mt. Pleasant - the food and atmospher there are great, and it%26#39;s definitely casual! People pull their boats right up to the restaurant and get off - complete with their pet dogs!! We really enjoyed it!

Definitely would%26#39;nt try Reds then. i would never eat at a place that allows flea infested creatures to roam around.

The Wreck is a dive with good food. Love the hammers used to crack the crab! I miss the Anchor Line too. Never been a fan of Bowen%26#39;s Island. I have family who love it, it%26#39;s a little to rustic for my taste. (Just can%26#39;t get past the surroundings to enjoy the food.)

on east bay st. just up the street from the customs house across the street on the corner is the steamroom. they used to have the best lunch inthe world, and still do well at supper time. it%26#39;s not much from the outside and kind of reminds me of the french quarter in new orleans but they have great food.

Definitely would%26#39;nt try Reds then. i would never eat at a place that allows flea infested creatures to roam around.

.

.

.

.

.

.

Grrrrr I don%26#39;t know about Indiana, but not all dogs in Charleston have fleas. I know mine doesn%26#39;t. Have you ever considered how many different kinds of bugs there are in a restaurant? I don%26#39;t think fleas are the biggest of your worries.

Harumph

was that for the governor?

Merrils inlet things to do

Can anyone tell me about Merrils Inlet , is it a big town , many restaurants or clubs , are there many things to do there or should I plan on going north to Myrtle Beach . WE are staying in Garden City , how close to M I or M B .

Merrils inlet things to do

Check out:

http://www.murrellsinletsc.com/

Lots of fun if you like eating/drinking/fishing !

Merrils inlet things to do

Here%26#39;s another site for researching dining options.

myrtlebeachscrestaurants.com/Murrells-Inlet.鈥?/a>

You can check section at upper right of screen and see other areas.

Murrels Inlet isn%26#39;t a large town. Just one of several beach sections. As you drive down Rt 17 you leave one and enter the next without even knowing it.

Attractions are scattered all over the Grand Strand. You%26#39;ll spend time north and south of Surfside. The drives aren%26#39;t as bad as it sounds.

Murrell%26#39;s Inlet is more marsh area than beach. Haven%26#39;t visited yet but there is a marsh walk and a jeep tour. Also two State Parks in the area. Pawley%26#39;s Island is more of a fishing village atmosphere. Known for their Pawley%26#39;s Island Hammocks. The Hammock Shops is a nice little shopping area. Might compare prices. Have heard the same hammocks are available at other MB locations at lower prices.

To the north in Myrtle Beach you%26#39;ll find Broadway At The Beach right along Rt 17 by-pass. Very large shopping and entertainment complex. Your largest concentration of clubs will be here.

45-60 minute drive north of Surfside is Calabash. Pretty much same atmosphere as Pawley%26#39;s and Murrell%26#39;s but if you get bored might give it a shot.

oooops....watchin race and not paying attention. On the restaurant web site. Upper left of screen shows other Grand Strand areas.

Early bird?

What are the best early bird places in the Grand Strand?

Early bird?

do a search in this forum for Early Bird specials and you%26#39;ll find everything that has been posted in this forum on your subject.

Ron

Scam Artists

Many people think time share places are a scam....when, really, the people who take tours for free tickets, free money and free food are the ones you have to watch out for.

Why are time share people so pushy? They have to try extra hard to make the money for their families because some mooch came in just for the free food, tickets or discounted hotel room without an open mind.

If you rely on presentations to pay for your vacation you do not need to be going. Anyone who signs up for one for aforementioned reasons and gets upset when the sales person is persistant deserves every mishap they get. It%26#39;s not fair for the kids you%26#39;re neglecting as you rack up on your free gifts and it%26#39;s certainly not fair for the rep who%26#39;s time your wasting.

If you want to vacation without the head ache of a time share presentation, stay at the Super 8 or Motel 6 like you deserve. Let the people with the money and open mind take the presentation so they can enjoy deeded real estate for the rest of their lives (Westgate is deeded, I%26#39;m unsure about the rest).

Scam Artists

Do you work for a timeshare corporation?

Scam Artists

I don%26#39;t think ';pushy'; is the word. They are vultures most of them.

THey are not the only people who live off of commission or sales. They call your house all times of the night 3-4 times per week. Then the kicker when they call is that they don%26#39;t even live in the US. And they are trying so desperately to sale me a timeshare in MB, or VA Beach. Then when you do accept one because you are really interested, you get there and the place is small as all get up, you can only stay there 4 times out of the year and if when you want to go someone has already reserved that time frame and if you%26#39;re lucky enough to get the ones where you can transfer locations, to somewhere that you have never seen before.

I wouldn%26#39;t necessarily call all of them a scam but they are rude none the less. You make me pay $65.00 deposit to sale me a timeshare and if I don%26#39;t buy it, I get that back and I have to play a game to get something extra. Stop GIVING THE FREAKING FREE STUFF AND YOU DON%26#39;T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT PEOPLE ';SCAMMING'; YOU!

I did go to one before that didn%26#39;t ask for a deposit, offered 2 nights stay if I DID OR DIDN';T PURCHASE and then they were the nicest people and they didn%26#39;t get irritated and pushy when we told them NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO. Only reason why we didn%26#39;t buy was because their prices were a little high. Had it been in our budget it would have been ok.

THEN you have the ones that sit there with their prices and say ';if you buy today, we can give it to you for $550 '; then they go down to ';$450'; ';can I get $350';, Can I get $250. I am not at an auction. YOu sound rediculous trying to sell me something I already know I don%26#39;t want. Then STOP ASKING ME WHY I DON%26#39;T WANT TO BUY. I SAID NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO.

1.) Just stop being so rude when they tell you NO.

2.) We know you are only trying to make a dollar but being rude will get you nowhere. What makes you think that because you are being a jerk to me, the one you want money from that I will give in.

3.) IT%26#39;S MY FREAKING MONEY AND I WILL DO WITH IT WHAT I PLEASE.

4.) STOP CALLING MY HOUSE AT 8:30PM and asking me WHY I DON%26#39;T WANT TO PURCHASE A TIMESHARE. I told you already NO and because you%26#39;re asking me again NO NO NO NO NO NO.

That%26#39;s why people don%26#39;t buy from you. Now Have a Nice Day.

Oh and one more thing. If you aren%26#39;t making enough money selling timeshares Wal-Mart is always hiring and they have an excellent benefits package and you get discounts on purchases at Wal-Mart and Sams stores. And they always need people, just put on a smiling face :-)

The hard sell is the hard sell - whether its timeshares, encyclopedias, or your kids%26#39; school photos. All of us should just learn that ';there is no free lunch';.

What gets me about timeshare promotions is the way they target folks who have expressed no interest, possibly don%26#39;t have the means to buy, and don%26#39;t have (or aren%26#39;t given) the time to read the fine print.

My parents recently were with another couple in a mall where a timeshare had set up a promotional booth. The locations offered, including Myrtle Beach, were desirable; and it appeared that there was plenty of flexibility for scheduling. The four senior citizens thought the trip sounded interesting and that it would be fun to go together. They discussed the possibilities with the sales person, who surely must have known what they were planning.

When the two couples tried to book the trip, they were informed that they were NOT allowed (and it was,indeed, in the fine print) to book the trip with friends. They had to attend separately, or not at all. In the end, they simply forfieted their deposit.

Not sure where you%26#39;re coming from, but nearly every TS salesperson I ever spoke with made it crystal clear they could care less if you have zero interest or not...maybe the ';closers'; don%26#39;t appreciate that but then fault the bookers, not those who agree to show up.

If the time share companies don%26#39;t like people taking their offers for ';FREE'; tickets, ';FREE'; money and ';FREE'; food then maybe they should use a different approach and be upfront with people about what they are offering! They shouldn%26#39;t lure in unsuspecting tourists with free offers and then be upset because people take them up on their offer. They know that they wouldn%26#39;t get much interest if they advertised what they were REALLY selling so they trick people by advertising FREE items just to get the opportunity to make them listen for 90 minutes.

I think everyone knows that in life nothing is free. I%26#39;ve never had a problem, because I know this and politely say ';no thank you'; and walk away.

So Beachy07 which timeshare do you or your husband work for?

I%26#39;m very interested in going to timeshare presentations. Not for the tickets or for the money. I love the feeling of having my head squeezed in a vice and having someone beat me about the face with a bat, and the timeshare presentations are the only place I can get that feeling and a free donut and coffee! :)

I have to agree with you on this one Beachy07 and I CERTAINLY don%26#39;t work for timeshare. If there wasn%26#39;t a need for these jobs then there wouldn%26#39;t be any. There are many, many great deals around here for timeshare and this is the way to get vacationers to find one. Do you honestly think that they will sit and scour over the thousands of real estate/vacation/timeshare brochures and listings that MBeach has to offer while they%26#39;re here on vacation? Heck no.

I know many, many locals who enjoy their timeshares and would not have had the opportunity to visit that particular one unless an OPC had stopped them. Timeshare was the last thing on their mind during vacation until they stumbled upon a deal that was right for them. They still have them to this day and wouldn%26#39;t dream of giving them up. We%26#39;ve looked at a few in our day (via OPC) but haven%26#39;t quite found what we%26#39;re looking for. YET. The freebies that they offer are a nice little extra that we wouldn%26#39;t have even thought of going to if it had not been offered.

It%26#39;s true that Myrtle Beach has QUITE a few tourists that only go to ';free'; places and don%26#39;t gift shop and eat in their hotels; but would Myrtle Beach be growing at such a rapid rate if people just looked at the classifieds?

But then . . . that%26#39;s just our opinion.

Wow!

Did anyone ever notice that the posters who defend the whole time share industry only have a random post or 2 for their entire history?

Why is that?

Live Music in MB That Isn't Sr. Citizen Bus Tour Shows?

Hey all,

Probably going to take a week%26#39;s vacation in MB next month or in November.

I%26#39;ve been there plenty of times and one of the unfortunate developments in MB seems to be the increasing dearth of live bands and clubs. I do wistfully recall places such as Danger Zone and the gone-but-not-forgotten Rockburger, etc...

As I%26#39;d detailed in a previous post, I was told by the former owner that Rockburger was basically run out of town as it didn%26#39;t fit with the Powers%26#39; That Be image of a family vacation spot, which does not include rock clubs (but apparently *does* include strip joints and escort services. Go figure). Fortunately for the very concerned and family-conscious PTB, upon my last cruise down the boulevard, Rockburger has been replaced with yet another Wings or Eagles T-shirt, snow globe, shot glass and useless junk tourist store. Just what MB needs more of...

Last time we were there was in the fall of %26#39;04, so perhaps things have changed a bit. But back then, I just couldn%26#39;t find much more than karaoke bars. Perhaps I was looking in the wrong spots?

The wife and I are pro musicians in the Nashville area and know from other musicians here that MB does offer decent opportunity for backing musicians such as at those Neil Diamond or Elton John tribute shows, Dixie Stampede and the like. Thing is, I gotta figure, knowing musicians, they must be going crazy playing ';Crocodile Rock'; or ';Love On The Rocks'; night after night after night...

There must be some place where *they* go to jam and play the music they like. And I%26#39;m not hard to please either. I like Heavy Metal, Country, Southern Rock, Blues, Jazz.

It just seems so hit or miss at times though. One visit several years ago, the wife and I were riding our bicycles in the the early afternoon when I%26#39;d heard a band playing with one of the finest seasoned and well-rounded guitarists I%26#39;d ever heard. If I recall correctly, they were playing at Ocean Annie%26#39;s. Shame that this guy was so good and playing to such a small group, just about all of which were paying no mind to the band. Has to be as frustrating for the musicians as it is for me to find this caliber of music.

Anyway, would be very interested in any and all recommendations.

Thanks in advance!

Live Music in MB That Isn't Sr. Citizen Bus Tour Shows?

House of the Blues in North Myrtle Beach

www.hob.com/venues/clubvenues/myrtlebeach/

Lot%26#39;s of places with Beach Music Bands every now and then.

www.deaddogsaloon.com/images/oct07mb.pdf

949thesurf.com/component/鈥?/a>

http://2001nightclub.com/jos/

www.celebrationsnitelife.com/froggy.htm

Ocean Annie%26#39;s is still at Sands Ocean Club

http://www.beachwagonnitelife.com/

www.fantasticclubs.com/crocs/index.html

patandmikesirishpub.com/entertainment.html

Alabama Theater is not always the generic show...they have live bands.... www.alabama-theatre.com/06/calendar/index.php

Live Music in MB That Isn't Sr. Citizen Bus Tour Shows?

Some live music spots in southeastern NC..

insiders.com/wilmington/main-nightlife2.htm

http://www.wilmingtonncmusic.com/

http://www.capefearblues.org/

http://www.wildwingcafe.com/barefoot.html

www.jambase.com/Shows/Shows.aspx?state=NC

www.jambase.com/Shows/Shows.aspx?state=SC

wrinkles

10 yr anniversary in MB

My husband and I are spending 4 nights in MB 2nd week in Oct. without the kids. It is our 10th anniversary. We do have reservations at Bayview resort. We had been to MB earlier in the year w/ the kids but stayed at Beach colony ( it was spring break time and we have young kids) . So, since we didn%26#39;t get to check out to many things earlier in the year, Just wondering what we could find nice to do for our anniversary. Any ideas?

Thanks,

10 yr anniversary in MB

A trip to Murrells Inlet at night with dinner and later some drinks and listen to some of the outdoor entertainment and stroll the marsh walk.

Dinner at the Mayors House in Pawleys Island.

A carriage ride in Charleston.

Sunday brunch at Chestnut Hill.

Myrtle Beach at the end of October.....Please Help!

I know that on average the temps at the end of October early November are around 65-70 in MB. And again I know this varies each year, but just curious from those that either live in MB or have been there many times during this time of year, is it really a pleasant time to visit as far as weather goes?

My best friend and I are going to just get away for a few days and will be staying at Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort. We don%26#39;t really want to plan activities as this is a vacation for relaxing, Im sure we will want to spend most of the time relaxing on or around the beach, shopping, going out to restaurants, maybe playing a round of putt putt and perhaps going to Medieval Times.

Just trying to figure out if the weather will be pleasant this time of year to do those things. Any opinions??

Myrtle Beach at the end of October.....Please Help!

Temperatures will be perfect for everything except swimming in the ocean (water temp). As hot as a year we have had, it wouldn%26#39;t surprise me if it were in the 80%26#39;s then. The last few days have been in the 90%26#39;s and the rest of the week should be in the 80%26#39;s.

Myrtle Beach at the end of October.....Please Help!

Depending on how tolerable you are, ocean may be swimmable the end of Oct. because of the extremely hot summer. Beaches are great even if water temps are on the cool side. Less crowded and pleasant air temps. October is our favorite time of the year in North Myrtle.

weather now in MB

How are the air/water temps - anyone been there this week?

2 weeks to go!!! Hope it stays warm.

weather now in MB

fergy, go to weather channel.com and you can get a 10 day forecast plus the current weather and view the atlantic ocean satellite. I have my fingers crossed it is going to be nice!

weather now in MB

fergy-Did you change your plans from PCB to MB? I was reading your post on the summit. We are going to PCB Oct 6-13 and staying at the summit and I have a teenage son. Thought maybe they could email one another and maybe throw the football around on the beach. He is upset bc none of his friends could go and thinks he will be bored. I hope ya%26#39;ll have a great vacation!!!

hey bstman,

we were originally looking at PCB (REALLY wanted to try there)

but we don%26#39;t have enough time because of my son%26#39;s fall baseball games and school. we%26#39;ve never been to MB and are very excited

and can do the trip quicker on our schedule. That would have

been fun to have the kids get together. Hope you guys have

a great trip %26amp; please post a review on the Summit %26amp; PCB when

you get back - we%26#39;ll get there someday....

Fergy

hopefully the weather will be great.we%26#39;re going in 3 wks.so please leave us some nice weather when you leave.lol......

beachbumz,

we%26#39;ll leave plenty of sunshine for ya - lol

where u guys staying? we%26#39;re still torn, so many

to choose.

Fergy

I understand-driving 20 hrs would not be fun anyway!! We only have about 10 hrs to drive. We have been to PCB many times but never stayed at the summit bc during the summer the place is a little wild for my taste! We have talked about MB several times but never done it. I will also look for your trip review when you return. Maybe someday we will get there also! Hope ya%26#39;ll have beautiful weather and a great trip! Last fall break in PCB my son fell on our first day there (been on the beach for about 15 mins) and broke his leg and ended up having surgery! Hopefully this year will be better.

We%26#39;re staying at HARBOUR LIGHTS,not on the beach,but we did all that this summer with the kids.This trip is adults only.We will visit the beach probably at HUNTINGTON BEACH STATE PARK.While the guys golf ,the gals relax.....can%26#39;t wait!!!

Unseasonably warm. Mid 80%26#39;s all week, water temps warm. Wife and kids just came back yesterday.

bstman,

that must have been awful for your family, your poor son.

how heartbroken he must have been and I%26#39;m sure you

couldn%26#39;t relax after that.

you will have a great trip this year and make up for it.

i am not looking forward to the 11 hour drive with a 2, 4, %26amp; 10 year olds but it is definitely better than 20 hours. lol .. I must be nuts

but we%26#39;ll do mostly night driving while their asleep if all goes well

and thank God for the minivan DVD player..lol

Have a safe, awesome trip in PCB - I%26#39;ll let you know how

MB is...

Fergy

beachbumz,

where do i sign up for the adults only trip?

got room for 2 more w/o 3 kids.? lol...

enjoy and relax - the weather should be beautiful!!

ncgator,

thanks for the weather update - feeling great about it now..

Fergy

What time of year is best to visit

Ok, my husband I spent our honeymoon there 10 years ago this Dec. and we%26#39;d like to come back after the first of the year sometime for our anniversary trip. I was just wondering what the weather would be like in Feb, March or April. Also, we%26#39;d like to be there when things are kinda quiet, not real crowded. We stayed in a very nice B%26amp;B last time and I was thinking about staying in the historic district this time. I appreciate any suggestions. Thanks!

What time of year is best to visit

To me, after the hellacious heat we%26#39;ve had this summer, right now and into late Oct/early Nov is the best time.

As for springtime, I%26#39;d go with March. It%26#39;s not yet so crowded, the weather is nice, and there is a nice warmy feeling in the air.

What time of year is best to visit

I agree, March and April are good times. The weather is perfect. February can still be quite cold sometimes. I know I went there a few years back during President%26#39;s week and froze my butt off!

October is my favorite month in Charleston. The spring can be iffy with the weather, so that%26#39;s always a hit or miss thing. But if you put it off until March and April you may hit the spring break crowds. Do you know where you want to stay, your budget, and what kind of things you like to do?

The spring is the best when everything is in bloom. But beware when they have the historical home and gardens tours the town is packed with tourists! We learned this last year on a spur of the moment trip and every hotel was just about sold out..lol Im gonna try it around christmas this year.

Of the months you mention, April is best if you want some beach weather. March is lovely, with the gardens in bloom; but, also, with a lot of tourists in historic Charleston. February is quiet; but, also, chilly. I agree with some previous posts that October is an excellent time to visit.

IOP here we come!

Finally our family get away vacation is here! We will be arriving in IOP on Saturday. We have rented a townhome in Mariner%26#39;s Walk. How is the beach erosion there now?

How about at high tide?

We are very excited to visit this beautiful place.

Any suggestions for our family?

There are 2 children one is 3 and one is 6 months.

Thanks.

IOP here we come!

Now that you%26#39;ve already gone there and returned home, how about answering your own questions, for others who may be considering visiting?

Seeking Transportation advice from Mt Pleasant.

Visited Charleston about 12 years ago, stayed near the Market and loved it--pretty sure we stayed at the Kings Courtyard Inn. We just parked the car and walked everywhere.

I%26#39;m planning a trip for October 19-22 and am bringing my 10 year old daughter and wife. I%26#39;d prefer to stay in the same area, but most places in that area are running over $200/night. Due to this, I was thinking of staying in Mt Pleasant (or some outlying area) to save about $100/night. But, how do we get into town for the day? Taxi? Are there any shuttles that run? How much would any of that cost? We enjoy adult beverages, so really do not want to drive anywhere. We enjoyed Tommy Condons. A sportsbar to watch some college football is also a must--I remember one that had a nice outdoor patio.

Any suggestions on hotels, sportsbars, transportation is appreciated. Thanks!

Seeking Transportation advice from Mt Pleasant.

In Mt. Pleasant I would recommend the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina. I have heard they have a shuttle service that runs until 8pm. The local bus, CARTA, runs from Mt. Pleasant to downtown, but service ends around 9:00 in the evening. There is also a water taxi (boat) that runs between Patriots Point in Mt. Pleasant, and the Aquarium downtown. I believe the water taxi runs until about 6 or 7 in the evening.

I don%26#39;t know of any sportsbars downtown. There are several bars/restaurants that have TVs showing sports. I have not tried it yet, but I have heard Mad River Bar and Grill on the Market downtown is a great place to watch sports.

Seeking Transportation advice from Mt Pleasant.

Before you give up on staying downtown, (this may seem like a silly question) did you check hotels only, or did you price out some of the B%26amp;B / Inns, such as Elliot House or Vendue Inn? Just asking, because sometimes you can get much better rates at the B%26amp;B%26#39;s or Inns - especially when you consider these Inns usually offer breakfast and afternoon cocktails/snacks.

Citadel is playing an away game, but your timing is during the Fall Candlelight Tour of Homes %26amp; Gardens. That could be what%26#39;s driving the price up on rooms. Plus, the temperatures are usally GREAT in October - excellent time to visit.

The above suggestion of the Charleston Harbor Resort is a good one, it%26#39;s in a gorgeous location on the harbor with beach and marina. I%26#39;ve heard great things about the Hampton Inn, Patriots Point (Mt. Pleasant) that%26#39;s just across the bridge (2 miles from downtown)

Thanks for the advice!

I decided to change the date to Aug 12 and got much better deals. We%26#39;re from FL, so heat%26#39;s not an issue. Had several good option downtown, went with the Meeting St Inn.

With no football to watch I%26#39;ll spend more time enjoying Charleston--instead of holed up in some sortsbar all day! Now I just need a place downtown on Sunday for a few hours to see the Watkins Glen NASCAR race.

I am taking an October trip for a conference at the Francis Marion. I probably will stay in Mt. Pleasant. How far of a walk would it be if I took public transportation? Are these areas relatively safe during the day?

Thanks.

wrinkles

40th Birthday

My sister is turning 40 and me, my sisters and a couple of friends (8 total) are looking for some things to do. This is mostly a relaxing vacation away from kids but will be lookign for some kind of nightlife. We are staying at the Hilton. Any suggestions

40th Birthday

The Regatta lounge at your hotel has good music and can get lively.

For more Raucous behavior try Monkey Business in Park Plaza.

Go out and have a good time at some of our livelier restaurants. Wild Wing Cafe, Reilleys Sports Bar, to name a few.

Go out and have a great dinner at some of our fine restaurants.

Stan (hhiguy)

40th Birthday

I have enjoyed Santa Fe cafe with it%26#39;s tex-mex food and outdoor firepit along with live music I think it%26#39;s great. Marley%26#39;s is fun also. We went to both for my Sister-in-law%26#39;s bachelorette party- along with a stop at Wild Wings.

The Studio has a great environment--eclectic and classy with great food.

jellyfish update

Does anybody know if the jellyfish are still a big problem or have they moved on?

Thanks

jellyfish update

Was in MB Aug 19-25 and didn%26#39;t see any.

jellyfish update

Family and friends were in NMB 9-20 to 9-23. Spent entire time at the beach and in the water. No sign of jellyfish.

Looking for 2 bedrooms

We are planning a trip for next June to Myrtle Beach. This will be our first time to the area. I am looking for a two bedroom hotel or condo that is oceanfront and in the middle of everything. We will have a car and I am aware that we will have to drive but I do not want to be at one extreme end or the other. We will be traveling with our 17 and 13 year old sons and probably by the time we are ready to go there will be buddies with our sons so that is why I would like to have a two bedroom. Any suggestions..........

Looking for 2 bedrooms

Would suggest the Caribbean at 30th Ave N.

http://caribbeanresort.com/

just remodeled and in excellent condition. Attentive staff, right next door to the Myrtle%26#39;s best seafood restaurant (Sea Captains House), 1 mile to Broadway at the Beach... We stayed in Aug and will be returning.

Believe they are having 30% off sale since they just re-opened, not sure that is valid for next June, but you can ask....

Have fun !

Looking for 2 bedrooms

1. Paradise Towers at the Breakers Resort Hotel: www.breakers.com

I specifically stated the Paradise towers building because it%26#39;s the nicest of the buildings they have and the pools are right there. Also their North building is ok, but it%26#39;s 6 blocks away and not the same ammenities. It%26#39;s near Broadway at the beach, several restaurants around the hotel walking distance to a lot.

2.Camelot Resort: www.camelotresort.com. It%26#39;s right next door to the Breakers. Pools aren%26#39;t as great but the hotel is nice and parking is good there.

3. Roxanne Towers: www.roxannetowers.com/ Smaller place but it%26#39;s a nice property. I like it and the beach area is nice. Convenient location.

4.Compass Cove/Mariner Building: www.compasscove.com

Wonderfull pools and they are clean. It%26#39;s in the southern section of MB but it%26#39;s still a nice place and the rooms are a nice size and clean.

Other suggestions:

-Dunes village www.dunesvillage.com

-Island Vista www.islandvista.com

Roadtrip stop in November??

My husband and I are planning a road trip through the southern US in November. I%26#39;ve always wanted to visit Folly Beach and Charleston, but I%26#39;m wondering if this is a bad time fo year for such a stop. Will the weather be bad? Will there be anything open and going on? Will we see any sealife?

Any advice is appreciated!

Roadtrip stop in November??

Daytime temp 50-70%26#39;s. No tourists around. I live on Folly Beach, and it will all be locals. Two restaurants have closed for the winter, and the Pier is closing for rennovations Oct. 1 for several months. Downtown would be perfect however. Do the carraige ride with the horses.

Things to do in MB with 1 year old

My husband and I will bring our one year old to MB in the first week of October. This will be our first time to MB. We will stay in Compass Cove. Could you give us some advise things we could do during the week and any good buget restaurants? Thanks.

Things to do in MB with 1 year old

Just enjoy the beach/pools and relax! 1 y.o. are happy with that!

He/she will love the submarine pool at CC!

Things to do in MB with 1 year old

There are literally hundreds of budget, family friendly restaurants in MB, so you will not have an issue eating. Being the off-season, you will also miss the joy of long waits.

What types of food do you prefer ?

Any suggestion for good buffet restaurant, especially good in seafood or chinese food?

Trip Report: Shows, Ships, Snoozefests, and Sticky Nights

Hubby and I arrived in Charleston Saturday morning at 5am. We did not book a hotel ahead of time because no one I called would accomodate an early arrival, and I didn%26#39;t want to have to pay for Friday night. So I decided to play my luck with a walk-in.

We wanted to stay in Mount Pleasant, within walking distance to the bridge. To our surprise, the first few hotels we checked on were booked solid. We ended up at Bridgeview Suites. It was decent, but we probably would not stay again. The biggest plus of this hotel is the location, but it needs a lot of updates, and a thorough cleaning. FYI, this hotel is pet friendly.

We slept in til 2pm (Saturday), then headed to Shem Creek Bar and Grill for lunch. This was our second visit there. The day was beautiful and HOT, and the views on the enclosed (air-conditioned) porch were beautiful: marsh, water, boats, kayaks, birds, etc. We had a few rounds of peach mimosas (yum!). Hubby had the shrimp %26amp; grits with a side of wasabi slaw (yum! yum!), and I had a pasta with artichokes, scallops, and shrimp in a fresh stewed tomato/olive oil base with a side of hushpuppies (yum! yum! yum!). Total bill came to around $50 with tip. Not bad for a couple of hours on the water, food, and drink.

Our plan was to hang around in downtown Charleston until our in-dash computer alarmed us of low coolant. We spent the next two hours replacing an upper radiator hose in the 90 degree heat. Fun! Thanks go out to the guys at Precision Auto Care on Highway 17 in Mt Pleasant... lifesavers when we had no tools!

We headed back to the hotel, showered, dressed, and headed west on 26 towards the Performing Arts Center for the Brian Regan show. If you enjoy comedy acts, don%26#39;t miss this one! Hubby saw him back in 1992, and has wanted to see him again ever since. I had never seen him live, and it was awesome! We left with sore tummies from laughing for two hours.

We headed into downtown Charleston, but parking was a nightmare, so we decided on Mount Pleasant for a late night beer and snack. After asking a few locals (when pumping gas), we decided on AC%26#39;s on Highway 17. The french fries were perfection! At around midnight, we headed back to the hotel. Still wired from our snoozefest that morning, we decided to walk the bridge. At 1am, it was still hot and sticky! We were able to burn off those french fries while enjoying fabulous views. Even at 1am, there were a few others with the same idea. Three miles later and a quick shower, our heads hit the pillow at 3am.

Sunday: another snoozefest. :) We woke at 1am, headed into downtown Charleston, and settled on Moe%26#39;s (in the mood for tacos, and quick). I had the veggie taco with chips %26amp; guac, and hubby had a ginormous(!) burrito with chips %26amp; guac. I think his was called the %26#39;Homewrecker.%26#39; With two teas, the total bill was around $15. And very yummy. Guac is very fresh.

We spent the next couple of hours in Millenium Music. It%26#39;s always very easy for us to %26#39;waste away%26#39; time in there. The used discs are plentiful. Lots of samplers to listen to. A decent vinyl collection. And the gal at the coffeeshop made a great iced capp. We shopped a bit on King Street, then headed down to the battery for a stroll and pics.

We walked the bridge again at around 8pm. The views were even better (more traffic on the water), and we got to see one of those giant cargo ships (carrying the tractor trailers) pass right under our feet. That was an experience. If you think the Yorktown makes you feel small, try hanging out over one of those! It dwarfed the Yorktown!

Back to the hotel for a nap (see a pattern emerging?), shower, and change, we again attempted a night in downtown C-town around 10pm. It was Sunday night, and it showed. We saw only one place open on East Bay, and another on Market that was a bit too %26#39;lively%26#39; for our mood. Remembering the french fries and chill atmosphere from the night before, we headed back into Mount Pleasant to AC%26#39;s. We had a round of Bass and split a cheeseburger and fries. Again, yum! We hit the sack around 2am.

Monday morning, we slept til 12pm, then headed to Folly Beach on our way home from Charleston. We stumbled upon a little restaurant/bar/pool hall across from the Holiday Inn. Sorry guys, don%26#39;t know the name, and we paid cash (no receipt)! Hubby ordered fish tacos (tilapia), and I ordered beef tacos. The plates came out and the portions were huge! Three soft tacos stuffed with fish/beef, cheese, fixins, and a huge helping of hot, crispy fries. Wow, this was SO good. We sat there for a while, playing Wordster and Trivia Whiz on the bar-top game (we call it the %26#39;crack machine%26#39;), trying to stretch out our last few minutes of vacation.

While driving out, on a whim, we decided to get a room for the day and camp out at the oceanfront bar at Holiday Inn. HI rates were way too steep for eight hours ($229), so we tried out the Holliday Inn (note the TWO L%26#39;s), and ended up with a decent rate of $99. The room was actually quite quaint (with a cabin feeling), VERY clean, and a stone%26#39;s throw from the beach. And the sweet lady that checked us in let us use her beach towels and chairs!

We camped out at the oceanfront area at Holiday Inn (no questions asked) for hours. We enjoyed vodka tonics, white russians, and fruity blended drinks the entire time, and left with a bargain $40 bill. We headed back to the Holliday Inn for a dip in the pool. It was SO nice, quiet, and we were the only ones there. We usually don%26#39;t do public pools, but this was way too nice to turn down...

After about an hour in the pool and a quick shower, we walked to 11 Center Street (a restaurant/wine shop) and sat on the second floor. This was an %26#39;open-air%26#39; restaurant. It was about 10am, there were two other groups there. The humidity had found another home for the night, and a nice cool breeze completed the mood. It was truly wonderful. Hubby had the seared ahi tuna. I had the mini fish tacos. We split the brie bites (with prunes - wonderful!). Total bill with two sodas was $45 with tip, and well worth it for the food and atmosphere.

Back to the room for a three hour siesta, and we headed out into a traffic-free night at 2am. We arrived home at 7am this morning, and I can still smell the salt on my skin from that beautiful Folly ocean!

It was a great trip. Awesome, really. We had planned on touring a plantation and a ghost walk, but it was too humid. We will save for our next trip!

Thanks everyone for the advice. We will be back at Thanksgiving!

Trip Report: Shows, Ships, Snoozefests, and Sticky Nights

Thanks so much! We are coming to Charleston on Sunday and will be staying in Mt. Pleasant also. Is there parking at the end of the bridge? I am looking forward to walking that route and will head to Shem%26#39;s as well.

Trip Report: Shows, Ships, Snoozefests, and Sticky Nights

Yes, a couple of spaces at the Shell gas station (designated by signs for walkers) and a gravel area across the street from the Shell station. Don%26#39;t forget your camera. We did both times. :(

highlight