Local Life Magazine June 2024

bon voyage

DONALDSON GROUP THE

Catherine Donaldson has represented the Sotheby’s International Realty brand for over 16 years. Her commitment to the brand is FIERCE. Call her today to discover why.

150,000,000*

The Lowcountry is a desirable oasis that attracts luxury home buyers from across the globe. As a leader in luxury home sales worldwide, the breadth of reach that affiliates of Sotheby’s International Realty are able to provide to their clients is truly unparalleled and the reason that Catherine Donaldson has proudly represented the brand as a top producer for sixteen years.

While working as a Realtor in the Lowcountry for nearly twenty years, Catherine, founder of The Donaldson Group, has successfully assisted hundreds of luxury home sellers and buyers in achieving their real estate objectives.

Catherine has extensive knowledge of the intricacies involved in marketing premium properties and is able to combine this with the power of the Sotheby’s International Realty global brand and marketing network. This gives her discerning clientele the satisfaction of knowing that they attained top dollar for their properties.

Photographed at Callawassie Island, South Carolina

JOHN KILMER DESIGN

the team

What is your dream travel destination ?

“I have been dreaming of going to Italy for many years.”

- LORI

“A castle and brauhaus crawl through Bavaria, Germany.”

- LANCE

“Peru, more specifically, Machu Picchu. I've always been fascinated with its purpose.”

- JEREMY

“Valletta: Malta’s capital city.”

- CHARLES

“It's hard to pick just one, but Australia is up there on the list.”

- ASHLAN

“Antarctica. The ultimate wilderness expedition.”

- BAILEY

“While I have already visited my dream travel destination, I would travel back to India in a heartbeat.” - SHEILA

“Three months of exploring India.”

- REBECCA

“Sicily is calling.”

- LAUREN

“Places starting with an M … Marrakech, Maldives, Malta, Majorca.”

- LISA

PUBLISHER

Lori Goodridge-Cribb (Local since 1986) lori.goodridge@wearelocallife.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Lance Hanlin (Local since 2007) lance.hanlin@wearelocallife.com

ART DIRECTOR / DESIGNER

Jeremy Swartz (Local since 2003) jeremy.swartz@wearelocallife.com

DESIGNER

Charles Grace (Local since 1997) charles.grace@wearelocallife.com

AUDIENCE & CONTENT DEVELOPMENT

Ashlan Saeger (Local since 2016) ashlan.saeger@wearelocallife.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Bailey Gilliam (Local since 2020) bailey.gilliam@wearelocallife.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Sheila Paz (Local since 2021) sheila.paz@wearelocallife.com

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Rebecca Kerns (Local since 1999) rebecca.kerns@wearelocallife.com

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Lauren Alston (Local since 2019) lauren.alston@wearelocallife.com

PHOTO EDITOR

Lisa Staff (Local since 2003) lisa@lisastaffphoto.com

- LEAH

“Forbidden City Beijing VIP tour.” - BRUCE “Bike adventure in Amsterdam and The Netherlands.”

SUBSCRIPTIONS & FINANCE

Leah Ortega (Local in spirit) leah.ortega@wearelocallife.com

DISTRIBUTION & LIST STRATEGIST

Bruce Wolff (Local since 2002) info@wearelocallife.com

Main Street Hilton Head Island, SC, 29926 843-802-2258 + LocalLifeSC.com

Nestled in the heart of the Lowcountry, Palmetto Bluff’s 20,000 acres and 32 miles of coastline are yours to explore. Roam through centuries-old live oaks canopied over Mother Nature’s inspired creations and historical landmarks. Here, the land pulls you towards something familiar and inviting – the discovery that home isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place that makes you feel alive.

The Wanderlust Issue

This issue celebrates the curious souls who wander with wonder — locals venturing across continents by every imaginable mode of travel and locals uncovering the hidden treasures of the Lowcountry alike. We weave together inspiring stories of discovery with practical tips for the trail, encouraging you to create lasting memories, whether in remote corners of the globe or just steps from your front door. So grab your map (or your smartphone — it is 2024 after all) and join us in celebrating the spirit of exploration that unites us.

MAKE A QUICK ESCAPE With nonstop flights available from both Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) and Hilton

Island

Chicago is under 2 1/2 hours away. The convenience of having two nearby airports opens up a world of travel possibilities for locals. Find tips and guidance for your next airport adventure on page 96

82

Sculpted by the sea

Explore the Southeast's most ethereal driftwood beaches

Feathers in focus

Tag along for a birdwatching adventure to Costa Rica

Local wanderers

Meet local residents with a passion for global exploration

Just roll with it

The ultimate guide to a perfectly imperfect getaway

98

Pack like a pro Expert packing strategies for the modern traveler

Beyond first class

Private jet travel is broadening its horizons

Roadside discoveries

Take an unforgettable road trip adventure across the Southeast

146

Eat global, dine local

A foodie’s guide to international cuisine in the Lowcountry

Head

Airport (HHH),

Many

Breaking the mold

Architects were asked to do something ‘a little different’ in this Palmetto Bluff home. In following that mandate, they elevated the Lowcountry standard.

PETER BATCHELDER

Peter Batchelder Skyward

Oil

Unlock the secrets of the world

Join the ranks of locals who journey far and wide, returning with tales of marvel and mystery.

©LISA STAFF

LIFE IS A HIGHWAY Since her four grandchildren were born, publisher Lori Goodridge-Cribb has been dedicating much of her free time to traveling along I-77 to Charlotte and I-26 to Greenville, cherishing the joyful moments shared with her expanding family.

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So, throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor, catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

- MARK TWAIN

SCAN TO SUBSCRIBE Don’t miss an issue of LOCAL Life. Scan this QR code to subscribe to the upscale lifestyle magazine of Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Beaufort and beyond.

fFor many local residents the Lowcountry serves as a portal to far-flung destinations. This wanderlust issue honors all local travelers, whether they're soaring across continents by plane, crossing breathtaking landscapes by train, cruising tranquil waterways by boat, exploring scenic routes by car or simply journeying through the realms of literature. Each mode of travel offers a distinct vantage point on the world.

Many locals enjoy the joys of travel — immersing themselves in diverse cultures, savoring unique flavors and marveling at the beauty of foreign landscapes. This issue is dedicated to those who dream and those who do; to individuals driven by the exhilarating pursuit of discovery.

Explore the driftwood beaches of the Southeast, where the sea has sculpted landscapes of otherworldly beauty. Discover gadgets that enhance your travels and books that transport you around the globe from the comfort of your home.

Prepare for your adventures with essential travel safety tips and health precautions to ensure a secure journey. Learn how to travel smoothly with pets, and meet locals whose global escapades will ignite your wanderlust. Explore a stunning photo essay on birdwatching in Costa Rica, and master the art of packing luggage like a pro.

Experience the opulence of private jet travel, discover hidden roadside treasures, and learn about the rich historical backdrop of Hilton Head. For the spontaneous traveler we offer a guide to crafting the perfectly imperfect getaway. Find peace and rejuvenation with a "daycation" at one of the region's premier hotels — no overnight stay required. Also explore our summer cocktail recipes, designed to deliver a taste of the tropics straight to your patio.

We hope you use this issue as a resource for delightful travels and enchanting local discoveries. Buckle up, tap into your adventurous spirit, and savor every moment. Safe travels.

LORI GOODRIDGE-CRIBB PUBLISHER lori.goodridge@wearelocallife.com

Postponed but not forgotten

Everyone has a bucket list, and mine proudly features a dream trip to Italy right at the top. Unfortunately, my travel experiences have been limited. My longing for Italy intensified over the years, but the pandemic put everything on hold just as I was ready to turn that dream into reality. Once travel restrictions were lifted, my life joyfully expanded with the arrival of four grandchildren, redirecting my journeys to nearby Greenville and Charlotte instead. However, my aspiration to explore Italy remains undiminished. I've made a promise to myself: one day, we will go to Italy. It's not just a dream; it's a plan waiting to happen.

SAVORY AND SWEET Have you seen the LOCAL Life Jeep around town? This month we rolled up next to Lesli Shelly and Lynn Vinall of Odd Birds Cafe & Market. Visit their cafe in The Bridge Center just before the bridge to Hilton Head Island for scratch-made deliciousness.

contributors

MEET LOCAL CREATIVES BEHIND THE SCENES

Becca Edwards Writer

OTHER CREDS: I am a certified doula, holistic nutritionist and yoga instructor. We have three teenage daughters and a ton of rescue pets. FOR THIS ISSUE: What makes them local: Ginger and Gregg Goff HOMETOWN: Hilton Head Island CURRENT HOME: Calibogue Cay, Sea Pines HOBBIES: Yoga, CrossFit, hiking and travel. WHAT ARE YOU WATCHING? Fargo, Season 4 WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO? The Women by Kristin Hannah WHAT ARE YOU READING? When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chödrön WHAT ARE YOU DRINKING? Liquid IV and green tea FAVORITE LOCAL SPOTS: We love getting on our boat and exploring the waterways. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Anywhere that involves hiking and scenic vistas. BUCKET LIST TRAVEL DESTINATION: The Galapagos Islands FAVORITE AIRPORT: Atlanta LEAST FAVORITE AIRPORT: Houston TRAVEL TIPS: Make an effort to speak the native language, know what type of power adapter you need, and pack light. WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT JUNE? It’s my birthday month, and we usually go somewhere international to celebrate.

Lucy Rosen Writer and photographer

OTHER CREDS: 2023 Local Life Cover of the Year; owner of SmartMarketing Communications, a 40-year-old marketing and PR agency. FOR THIS ISSUE: Photo essay, “Exploring new skies.” HOMETOWN: Albuquerque, New Mexico CURRENT HOME: Bluffton HOBBIES: Photography, reading trashy novels, networking WHAT ARE YOU WATCHING? I wish I could say something that was worthwhile, but alas… re-watching all the seasons of Grey’s Anatomy. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO? My 1970s playlist on Spotify. WHAT ARE YOU READING? All the travel brochures about Yellowstone WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS: Buy the best long lens you can afford. Take at least a dozen photos a day of anything you can so your muscle memory stays sharp. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Costa Rica for birds, India for favorite travel destination. BUCKET LIST TRAVEL DESTINATIONS: Yellowstone, The Pantanal, Portugal, Colombia, Japan and a dozen others. FAVORITE AIRPORT: Savannah, because I leave and come home from there. LEAST FAVORITE AIRPORT: Chennai International Airport (India) TRAVEL TIPS: Pay extra for the best seat you can afford on the airplane. Sitting for more than 14 hours is brutal. Do not expect the airplane bathroom to be clean after take-off.

OTHER CREDS: Gallery manager; Featured Artist Show at Art League of Hilton Head (June 18-July 19) FOR THIS ISSUE: Photo, “Eternity Grove” HOMETOWN: Flagstaff, Arizona CURRENT HOME: Bluffton HOBBIES: Travel, gardening, reading WHAT ARE YOU WATCHING? Euphoria WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO? Lenny Kravitz WHAT ARE YOU READING? Biography of Chris Cornell WHAT ARE YOU DRINKING? Boba tea FAVORITE LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS: Skull Creek, Pinckney Island, Hunting Island PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS: Wait until a bit after the sun sets behind the horizon. You’ll get some beautiful cloud colors. FAVORITE TRAVEL

DESTINATION: Maui, Hawaii BUCKET LIST TRAVEL

DESTINATION: Egypt or Italy

FAVORITE AIRPORT: Atlanta

LEAST FAVORITE AIRPORT: Chicago O’Hare TRAVEL TIPS: Find all the free things to do where you visit. You would be surprised how many are once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.

Other

pathfinders who helped pave the way ...

PHOTOGRAPHERS Alan Biggs + Katie Charlotte + Arno Dimmling + Lily Hanlin + Danielle Petty + Mike Ritterbeck Lisa Staff + Mary Alice Tartler + Marco Giuseppe Timelli + Tiffany VanBlaricum

WRITERS Daisy Dow + Tasha Esselstein + Denise Friday + Barry Kaufman + Carolyn Males Rachel Parrott + Margaret Pearman + Elizabeth Robin + Gregory P. Thomas + Richard Thomas

CONTRIBUTORS Amanda Castillo + Marcia Cornell + John Trimble Lori Trimble + Jean Meaney Wheatly + Brittany Wiseman

Lyndsi Caulder Photographer

Modern Investors Expect Modern Portfolio Managers!

Bruce Brenner Wood Managing Partner

Glen Roberts, Partner, Roberts Financial Strategies, LLC

Thomas Fox, CFA Investment Manager & Strategist Consultant, Waterstreet Research Partners Robert Schaff, Operations Consultant

Instagram exclusive: Meet Davey Dempsey, a growing legend. People come from all around to pick fresh produce from the fields of his family farm on St. Helena Island.

1 Craft the perfect fried green tomato with Chef Charles Pajeau

2

Get down and dirty with a planting and harvesting calendar

3

Find a juicy guide to making your own fresh-pressed juices

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The Dish Best local bites for the weekend

The Buzz LOCAL Life’s latest must-reads

The Nest Home trends and tips

About the Cover

For residents of the Lowcountry, Italy is just a connecting flight away. Both Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) and Hilton Head Airport (HHH) offer one-stop flights to all of the peninsula’s most popular destinations, with connections through New York (JFK), Atlanta (ATL), Chicago (ORD) and Newark (EWR). The photo of the three-piece Louis Vuitton travel-luggage tower on the cover was taken by travel photographer Marco Giuseppe Timelli in a Milano, Italy, hotel room. See more of Timelli’s work on Instagram (instagram.com/marcotimelli) or follow his travels on his YouTube channel (@marcotimelli).

Meet Davey Dempsey Dempsey Farms

Picturedlefttoright–JasonGoldsteinNMLS#2180858,AaronBentonNMLS#1717095,GinaCavanoNMLS#1182146,SusanSmithNMLS#278903, DavidCrowellNMLS#12620,ClaraGoodNMLS#2169516AlanPerryNMLS#866734,TriciaLowmanNMLS#2440257,andKimCapinNMLS#158295.

“Thespringmarketisinfullswingwithimproving interestratesandanoticeableincreaseinactivity.Our adviceremainsthesame:Buyersneedtoget completelypreparedandpre-approvedinordertobe readywhentherightpropertycomesavailable.”

local blend

WORD ON THE STREET + COMMUNITY TIDBITS + FAST FACTS + LOCAL LANDMARKS

Sculpted by the sea

EXPLORE THE BEAUTY OF THE SOUTHEAST'S FIVE MOST ETHEREAL DRIFTWOOD BEACHES.

From the sun-bleached shores of South Carolina to the dramatic coastlines of Georgia and Florida, the Southeastern United States is home to some of the most visually stunning beaches in the world. These aren’t your typical sandy retreats; they are landscapes transformed by nature’s artistry, where driftwood and boneyard beaches create otherworldly scenes that draw photographers, nature lovers and adventurers. Join us as we uncover the quiet majesty and raw beauty of five coastal treasures where nature’s past and present merge in dramatic displays.

Hunting Island beach

SEA ISLAND PARKWAY, HUNTING ISLAND

Hunting Island features a striking boneyard beach where sunbleached tree skeletons and driftwood create a hauntingly beautiful coastal scene. Located 50 miles from Hilton Head Island, this beach draws visitors with its dynamic landscape, a vivid reminder of coastal change. Ideal for photographers and nature lovers, the beach is best explored during low tide to fully appreciate its dramatic appearance. Nearby trails also offer views of the marshes, lighthouse and dense maritime forest. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment by not removing driftwood or artifacts.

Bulls Island beach

CAPE ROMAIN NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE NEAR AWENDAW

The Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, located approximately 95 miles from Hilton Head, spans 66,287 acres, featuring diverse habitats such as water impoundments, creeks, bays, salt marshes and barrier islands. Bulls Island, the largest island within the refuge, is noted for its striking boneyard beach with weathered trees and driftwood. Access is via ferry from Garris Landing, operating on a set schedule. Visitors are advised to bring water and sunscreen due to limited amenities and to explore the island’s trails for a full experience of its serene natural beauty and wildlife.

Boneyard Beach

BIG TALBOT ISLAND STATE PARK, FLORIDA Boneyard Beach, stretching over a mile within Big Talbot Island State Park near Fernandina Beach, Florida, is renowned for its striking scenery featuring the bleached skeletons of oak trees that line the shores. Park archaeologists also have unearthed fossilized mammoth bones there, some as large as the trees themselves. Situated south of Amelia Island along the First Coast Highway, 168 miles from HHI, this beach is not ideal for swimming but offers ample opportunity for exploration. Given Florida's intense heat and humidity, visitors should come prepared with sunscreen, bug spray and plenty of water, especially since the beach offers little shade. For a more pleasant experience, plan a visit during the cooler early mornings or in the winter months.

Botany Bay beach

BOTANY BAY ROAD, EDISTO ISLAND

Located about 85 miles from Hilton Head Island, Botany Bay Heritage Preserve is a conservation area that was established from the merging of the Sea Cloud and Bleak Hall plantations in the 1930s. The preserve, opened to the public in 2008, includes several sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places, like the 1840s outbuildings and ancient Fig Island shell rings. Accessible via a scenic half-mile trail through a marsh and maritime forest, the boneyard beach showcases a dramatic landscape of sun-bleached, fallen trees and still tide pools. It's a haven for wildlife watching and photography, especially striking during low tide or in the soft light of early morning or late afternoon. Visitors should note that collecting shells or driftwood is prohibited. Dogs are not allowed, and the preserve is closed on Tuesdays for hunting.

Driftwood Beach

JEKYLL ISLAND, GEORGIA Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island is known for its striking, surreal landscape that resembles more of an outdoor art gallery than a typical beach. This shoreline, located 120 miles from Hilton Head, is dotted with large driftwood formations, lending an otherworldly atmosphere to the area. Its east-facing orientation makes it an ideal spot for sunrise photography, capturing the early light as it illuminates the dramatic driftwood. Visitors should consult tide charts prior to their trip, as high tides can significantly alter the accessible areas of the beach. Due to its popularity, consider visiting during weekdays to enjoy a quieter experience amidst this natural wonder.

Who needs Uber when you’ve got the P12 Folding Bike? It folds down faster than your poker face and is tougher than your mother-in-law’s meatloaf. Carbon steel frame to tackle the urban jungle or actual jungle — dealer’s choice. Pedal over to brookstone.com for $400.

Java in the wild

Outin Nano Portable Espresso Machine

Skip the sad gas station coffee with your own Outin Nano Portable Espresso Machine. It heats up faster than your tent on a sunny morning and makes a cup of joe that’ll slap the sleep right out of you. Who doesn’t want to play barista in the bushes? Brew it up at outin.com for $140.

hot tech

Essential gadgets for your wanderlust adventures.

Capture the madness

Sony RX100 VII Digital Camera

Remember every wild and blurry moment of your adventures with the Sony RX100 VII. It’s idiot-proof with autofocus and a resolution that makes your night out look better than you remember. Small enough to fit in your party pants. Shoots wide and close up because who knows how far you can actually stagger back? Snap

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

Block out life’s annoyances, from crying babies on planes to that guy who talks loudly about his startup in coffee shops, with the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones. Enjoy 24 hours of peace or your own epic soundtrack. Finally, some quiet comfort that lives up to its name. Tune out at bose.com for $429

Spy on your furball

Granary Camera Monitoring Feeder

See what’s lurking or who’s twerking with the NOCS Zoom Tube Monocular. Pocket-sized powerhouse that lets you zoom in on nature’s wonders or your neighbor’s questionable backyard choices. It’s waterresistant because, you know, tears of joy. Scope it out at nocsprovisions.com for $75

Never offline

Numen Air 5G Portable WiFi Router

Warmth to go

Zen Portable Heated Blanket

Chase the cold away with the Zen Portable Heated Blanket. It’s like a hug that never ends, with six hours of battery life and multiple heat settings. It’s your best companion for those chilly nights under the stars or cold bleachers at soccer games. Battery removable for easy laundering — because nobody likes a smelly blanket. Find it at gobiheat.com for $249. say

daredevils . it up at electronics.sony.com for $1,300

Escape your desk but not your boss with the Numen Air 5G Portable WiFi Router. No SIM card? No problem! It hooks up 16 devices faster than you can say “conference call at the beach.” Who said you can’t mix business with sandy pleasure? Get connected at glocalme.com for $300.

Worrying about your pets while away just got a high-tech solution — the Granary Camera Monitoring Feeder. It schedules meals and spies on your cat, so you can finally catch them in the act of ignoring you. Plus, you can talk back to them, which confuses them even more. Available at petlibro.com for $150

Pack up, power up

Solgaard Lifepack Backpack

Ready for an adventure?

Lifepack

Don’t forget your Solgaard Lifepack Backpack, made from 100 percent recycled daredevils (plastic bottles, but daredevils sound cooler). It charges your gadgets with solar power and comes with sneaky pockets for your secret stash of... snacks. Antitheft lock included for those sticky-fingered hostel mates. Steal it (not literally) from solgaard.com for $245

Paths of the imagination

Five books to fuel your wanderlust.

Denise Friday, an avid reader, is a school social worker at Hilton Head Island Elementary School. Here are her reading suggestions for June:

To understand and serve the health and wellness of our medically underserved neighbors.

OUR MISSION VISION

May we have eyes to see those who are rendered invisible and excluded, open arms and hearts to reach out and include them, healing hands to touch their lives with love, and in the process heal ourselves.

GROWING WITH CARE

SAVE THE DATE for Volunteers in Medicine’s November 16, 2024

The Westin Resort & Spa

An elegant evening of cocktails, seated dinner & dancing, live & silent auctions and inspiring stories from special guests.

VIMCLINIC.ORG

A WALK IN THE WOODS BY BILL BRYSON

Appalachian Trail, 1995. After living abroad for 20 years, Bryson moved to New Hampshire near a section of the Appalachian Trail. He decided to hike the 2,100-mile trail from Georgia to Maine at the age of 44, a bit overweight and out-of-shape, with a friend who was an even less likely candidate to succeed. The result is a humorous, sarcastic, adventurous and sometimes educational account of the preparations and attempt at the trail.

THE ALCHEMIST BY PAULO

Egypt, 1988. Santiago is an Andalusian shepherd boy whose days never change with his flock of sheep. He has a dream that he travels far away and finds a treasure and then sets off to re-enact this dream. His quest will lead him to riches far different than he ever imagined. There is a combination of magic, wisdom and interesting characters along the way. The story is an inspiration to follow one’s dreams, literally.

MY BRILLIANT FRIEND BY ELENA FERRANTE

Italy, 1950s and ‘60s. A novel about two women, Elena and Lila, who grow up together in a poor neighborhood in Naples. The story follows the two girls from childhood to early adulthood. The poverty and violence surround both. Lila is much more brilliant and beautiful than Elena, but Elena is able to better her life through education, while Lila is stuck in a shoe store owned by her father. The shocking ending will prompt you to read the next book in the series.

MISSION TO PARIS BY ALAN FURST

Paris, 1938. Hollywood star Fredric Stahl is heading to Paris to make a movie for Paramount. Stahl has been targeted by Nazi officials for the likelihood of his drawing the media in France, but they don’t know he has been training as a spy to gather information regarding Germany's impending plans in Europe that may be useful to the White House. A fast-paced and dangerous game ensues, yet at the center of the novel is the city of Paris, the heart of Europe, and the Parisians who fought to survive during this dark time in history.

RICHARD HALLIBURTON'S COMPLETE BOOK OF MARVELS BY RICHARD HALLIBURTON

All over the world, 1920s and ‘30s. Halliburton was a professional adventurer who lived from 1900 to 1939, when he died in a storm at sea. He traveled the world and wrote about his travels with great excitement. From the Pyramids to the Panama Canal to Niagara Falls to Iguazu Falls to Mt. Fuji to Nepal to the Taj Mahal to the Louvre, it's an amazing book that's just teeming with a sense of wonder about the world and is full of fascinating maps and black-and-white photos.

COELHO

Follow us as we dive into our latest design project at the magni cent new oceanfront estate nearing completion at 15 Bald Eagle in Sea Pines.

You’ll get a behind the scenes look at our design process and all that goes into the making of a BESTNEST/ Luxe in this incredible new home.

And lucky you, 15 Bald Eagle is also o ered for sale. As Certi ed Luxury Home Specialists, we would be happy to assist you in the purchase of this or any other resort property.

Buzz us for complete details... and follow along! @bestnestbybeverlyserral

Sponsored By Carolina Vet Critical Care

Adopt this Pet: Marco

Let this bulldog-boxer mix win your heart with his playful antics

mThe Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams rating algorithm is based on the previous year’s industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC, which does not receive compensation from the advisors or their firms in exchange for placement on a rating. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. CAR 0123-03672

Marco, a spirited and lovable bulldog/boxer mix, brings a touch of joy wherever he goes. Known for his playful and affectionate nature, Marco is Hilton Head Humane’s favorite goofball. If he were a student, he'd be voted Class Clown for his hilarious antics. Despite his charm, Marco has been waiting for a family at the shelter since July 2022. He's undergone two ACL surgeries and has made a full recovery, eagerly awaiting a home as lively and loving as he is.

MORE ABOUT MARCO

Colors: Brown and white Age: 3 1/2 Weight: 60 pounds

Likes: “Belly rubs on demand, squeaky toys and treats of any kind.” — Marco

Dislikes: "Being alone, rainy days and vacuum cleaners.” — Marco

Adopt him: You can meet Marco daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Hilton Head

Humane, where all the cool pets hang. For more information or to inquire about adoption, call 843-681-8686 or visit his profile on hhhumane.org

COOL CAT: Dixon

Meet Dixon, a distinguished and affectionate gentleman with a purr that could rival any engine. This black-and-white domestic shorthair is the epitome of a lap cat, delighting in snuggles and expertly "making biscuits" as if he's a Michelin-star chef. Having been cherished in a loving home all his life, Dixon's world turned upside down when his family faced unexpected changes, bringing him to the shelter. He's ready to bring warmth and love to a new family that adores cuddles as much as he does.

Official Mensa®Challenge

DON'T LET YOUR MIND WANDER

You'll need to focus in order to solve this Mensa quiz.

1. Two ladies were comparing their bargains at the market, and one had clearly done much better than the other. One had bought three pairs of socks for $1, and the other bought eight pairs for $2.50. Obviously, the eight for $2.50 were a better deal, and that buyer gloated that she had paid 50¢ less on her total purchase than had her friend. How many pairs of socks had they each bought?

2. If 3 is a prime number, cross out all the X's in the line below. If it is not a prime number, cross out the R's. If Miami is not south of Casablanca, cross out all the T's. If 100 divided by 1/2 is 50, cross out all the G's. If 50 divided by 12 is 4 1/6, cross out all the A's, M's, N's, and W's. If 16 is a perfect square, cross out all the remaining vowels except I. Are you right or wrong?

X M A E R N W E I O G W N H U A E T W M X

3. The following diagram may be divided so that one circle is in the first region, two in the second, and so on. Use only 4 lines to divide the box into 9 regions.

4. A three-digit number multiplied by a two-digit number gives a product of 17,820. There are two possible pairs that yield this product that use each digit from 0 to 9 exactly once (ignoring intermediate steps). What are those two sets of numbers? (Example: 402 x 39 = 15678.)

5. The couple were married anyway, despite the difference in ages. When they were married, one was exactly one-third older than the other. When they were married 21 years, however, the difference was down to one-fourth the age of the older at the time of their marriage. The wife, after 21 years, was 49. How old is her husband today? (No fractions in answer.)

ANSWER KEY

"I

-Ginny, actual patient

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We see it every day. Healthy, beautiful smiles improve our patients’ self-esteem and overall health. Schedule an appointment to learn how we can help you achieve your smile goals.

2. The letters left should spell RIGHT.

1. 24 pairs of socks for each.

4. 396 x 45 = 17,820 and 495 x 36 = 17,820 5. 42. There was nothing in the puzzle to say the husband was older. 3.

ARE YOU READY FOR MENSA?

American Mensa is where brilliance belongs – it’s where friendships are forged for life, business connections and opportunities are made, and where brilliant minds find the chance to engage with others in an intellectually stimulating environment. Just for LocalLife readers: Take the Mensa Practice Test for just $5! Visit americanmensa. org/mht and use offer code: Local21. Quiz © 2018 Dr. Abbie F. Salny

Scan to see Ginny’s smile transformation experience

STREAMING

MOVIE THEATERS

The hot list

What to watch, read and listen to in June

DISNEY + STAR WARS: THE ACOLYTE (mystery thriller) The next installment of the Star Wars series, The Acolyte is set at the tail end of the High Republic era established in the franchise’s 12 movies and nine television seasons. As the Republic enters its last days, sinister powers emerge, and questions start to arise about who will take the reins of the galaxy. Meanwhile, a former Padawan and her old Jedi master team up to investigate crimes, only to find themselves wrapped up in dangerous circumstances that are difficult to escape. Release date: June 4

APPLE TV+ PRESUMED INNOCENT (drama) Presumed Innocent is a dramatized mini-series based on a real court case that rattled the Chicago prosecuting attorney’s office. Based on Scott Turow’s novel with the same name, Presumed Innocent follows the journey of Rusty Sabich (Jake Gyllenhaal), a highly regarded prosecutor who finds himself in the hot seat. Accused of murdering his former colleague and mistress, Sabich and his legal team must jump through hoops to find legal loopholes to clear his name and maintain his reputation in the public’s eye. Release date: June 12

HULU QUEENIE (comedy) Based on the best-selling novel by Candice Carty-Williams, Queenie follows the story of Queenie (Dionne Brown), a British-Jamaican 20-something who is not finding much luck in love or her work in South London. Following the dissolution of her relationship with her long-term boyfriend, Queenie moves in with her grandparents and sets out to get solace from all the wrong people. As she tries to push her career forward, Queenie finds herself grappling with questions about who she wants to be and where she wants to go in life, all the while navigating everyday life in a whirlwind of work, family and friends. Release date: June 7

PEACOCK US OPEN (live golf) Watch defending champion Wyndham Clark face off against golfing legends like three-time U.S. Open champion Tiger Woods and a formidable lineup of top contenders at Pinehurst No. 2 in North Carolina. With early betting odds favoring stars such as Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, Viktor Hovland and Brooks Koepka, the competition promises to be intense. Streaming live: June 13-16

THE WATCHERS (action) 28-year-old artist Mina was not expecting a trip into the woods of Western Ireland to end before it even began. When her car breaks down on the edge of the forest, where seemingly everyone’s car breaks down, she is ushered into a concrete bunker to avoid being attacked by mysterious creatures overrunning the trees. Mina finds out the woods are haunted by the Watchers, and if any humans in the woods don’t make it back to the bunker by nightfall, they might never make it out alive. Release date: June 14

INSIDE OUT 2 (animation) Once again set in the mind of the now-teenager Riley Anderson (Kensington Tallman), Inside Out 2 dives into the goings-on of the brain, only this time a new emotion has squeezed in: anxiety, voiced by Maya Hawke. Anxiety’s arrival crowds Riley’s headspace and leaves other emotions like Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Anger (Lewis Black), Fear (Tony Hale) and Disgust (Liza Lapira) struggling to adjust. Release date: June 14

HORIZON: AN AMERICAN SAGA (historical) Reflecting on the tumultuous time period around the American Civil War, Horizon: An American Saga is composed like a traditional Western film with a clear beginning, middle and end. Directed by and starring Kevin Costner, this film is meant to give viewers an understanding of what life was like for people living through the Civil War, and the years before and after, to create a sense of the consequence of the social, cultural and political changes at that time. Release date: June 28

BOOKS

THE DEATH OF TRUTH (nonfiction) By Steven Brill

Journalist Steven Brill catalogs contemporary business people, cultural icons and talking heads who have contributed to the recent disintegration of humankind’s trust in the truth. Once a binary concept taken for absolute, the idea of ‘the truth’ has been shaken by fake news, hoaxes and conspiracy theories. Brills takes a look at what has been chipping away at the truth and offers suggestions on how to reclaim its authority. Release date: June 4

SWAN SONG (fiction) By Elin Hilderbrand

Nantucket’s police chief Ed Kapanesh has been waiting to retire for a long time. As the saying goes, there’s never a perfect time to leave, but within just a few days of Kapanesh’s planned retirement, his daughter’s best friend goes missing. Retirement postponed, Kapanesh penetrates the area’s elite country clubs and dives into local gossip to get to the root of what happened.

Release date: June 11

THE ISLANDERS: SHIPWRECKED (local)

By Mary Alice Monroe

This middle-grade read is the last installment of Monroe’s The Islanders series. Three friends, Jake, Lovie and Macon, have an exciting summer ahead of them now that Jake has his own boat. The trio set out on a fishing expedition, only to have the engine die and a storm push them far out to sea. They end up stranded on an uninhabited island off Dewees Island, where they must work together to find a way off the island and back home to enjoy the rest of their summer. Release date: June 18

HUMMINGBIRD

By Jon Bon Jovi (rock)

Release date: June 7

By Imagine Dragons

(pop)

By Carly Pearce (country)

Topic: Society & culture FOREVER

HEAVYWEIGHT

Release date: June 28 THE CURIOUS HISTORY OF YOUR HOME

By Trevor Hall (local)

Release date: Out now

Topic: History

Release date: June 7 WHERE ARE YOU GOING?

Topic: Society and culture

Topic: Local history

CAPE COD, MASSACHUSETTS

Check out the Provincetown Portuguese Festival

KRAKÓW, POLAND

Enjoy the Wianki Festival to celebrate the shortest night of the year

Charity Spotlight

Neighborhood Outreach Connection

MISSION

To improve the quality of life for impoverished individuals by empowering them, creating opportunities for economic independence, personal fulfillment, self-reliance and dignity.

WHOM IT HELPS

NOC supports low-income individuals, families and underserved communities in Beaufort County. Offering 100 percent scholarshipfree tuition, NOC provides afterschool and summer educational programs, adult education and health screenings. These initiatives help children excel academically, provide essential health services and equip adults with crucial employment skills.

HISTORY

Founded 17 years ago by Dr. Narendra Sharma, NOC is a local nonprofit focused on community development in Beaufort County. Initially serving just five children in an after-school program, NOC has grown to support over 700 children annually through six learning centers. The organization combats poverty in the Lowcountry with programs in education, workforce readiness, community development and health and wellness. NOC is recognized for its accountability and transparency with a Platinum rating from GuideStar.

BUILDING BRIGHTER FUTURES

Committed to eliminating poverty’s root causes, Neighborhood Outreach Connection harnesses the energy of families, schools, libraries, health providers and other nonprofits to break the pattern of generational poverty, one neighborhood at a time. NOC program centers are located in Beaufort, Bluffton and on Hilton Head Island.

HOW TO HELP

Engage with NOC by volunteering your time, skills and passion. Opportunities include tutoring children, leading adult community classes in areas such as nutrition, business and English, or assisting with office tasks. Every contribution directly supports its mission and helps make a difference.You also can support NOC programs by donating funds. Over 90 percent of donations directly fund initiatives, enhancing its community impact. Donations can be made via the NOC website or by sending checks to P.O. Box 23558, Hilton Head Island, SC 29925. LL

At Bishop Eye Center, we’re helping set the world standard with the best surgeons, the best technologies, the best patient care, and the best value in the Lowcountry.

Bishop Eye Center is proud to offer superior LASIK services performed by preeminent surgeon Dr. Paul Bell, MD.

Call 843-689-0300 to schedule your free consultation screening today.

LASIK: Enjoy the Lowcountry Lifestyle

local What makes them

adjective. lo·cal | lō-kəl

1: characterized by or relating to position in space: having a definite spatial form or location 2: of, relating to, or characteristic of a particular place: not general or widespread: of, relating to, or applicable to part of a whole 3: primarily serving the needs of a particular limited district of a public conveyance: making all the stops on a route

Ginger and Gregg Goff’s life on the water

gBY BECCA EDWARDS

Ginger and Gregg Goff's love story began on the water at Lake Norman decades ago. Their love for cruising began when they purchased an '86 Burger and began exploring the East Coast a few years ago. The fun-loving, wanderlust-living couple spoke with LOCAL Life about the joys of boat life.

[Q] How long have you lived in the Lowcountry? [A]We have lived in the Lowcountry for 27 years, most of which have been on the water. We had been living in Charlotte and decided we wanted a better quality of life and moved here to Hilton Head.

[Q] How long have you been boaters? [A] We have been boating for over 35 years. We did not set out to buy such a large boat, but when we saw it, we fell in love. We love the enclosed aft deck. That is where we spend all our time. It is a great entertainment space for friends. It's enclosed but almost has a 360-degree view. Many will say it is a true gentleman's yacht.

[Q] What do you each enjoy most about cruising? [A] We love traveling by water. It is absolutely beautiful. We respect Mother Nature and carefully pick our days to cruise so that it is always enjoyable. Also, we have made so many great, long-lasting friendships in our travels, and that is priceless. The boating community is great; everyone is enjoying life and the adventure. There are so many wonderful ports along the coast.

[Q] What is a memorable time on your boat? [A] We have really enjoyed anchoring out during the RBC Heritage golf tournament and having friends and family come aboard and visit or stay the night. This is something we look forward to yearly and is a staple to our community.

[Q] What advice would you give to someone who would like to start cruising?

[A] Don’t wait, because life is short. Do it while you are healthy, and you will not regret it. Boating is a lot of work, so you need to really love it, but the adventure of it is worth it. (Note: Gregg especially enjoys cruising offshore, while Ginger likes the Intracoastal Waterway.)

[Q] Is there anything unique about our area and cruising here in the Lowcountry?

[A] The main thing that is unique to our area are the dolphins. We don’t see them as much anywhere else.

[Q] What does the word "wanderlust" mean to you? [A] It means breaking out of a routine life and experiencing new things, no matter what they are.

[Q] What is your family motto in life?

[A] QTR (quality time remaining) is our motto. Live every day!

[Q] What is one fun fact about you two that no one else knows? [A] We get bored very easily. That is why we cannot stay put for long. We have owned different businesses and properties, and we are not afraid of change. LL

GOOD BURGER Ginger and Gregg Goff cruise up and down the East Coast in their Encore V custom yacht built by Burger Boat.

BOAT LIFE

Hilton Head Island residents Ginger and Gregg Goff are pictured with their son Greg, his wife, Kinsley, and their baby, Betty, on their yacht.

Local business buzz

NEW VENTURES READY TO MAKE THEIR MARKS ON THE LOWCOUNTRY

The Lowcountry has always been a beacon of culture, beauty and irresistible old-world charm. But brace yourselves, and hold onto your sweet tea — there's a new wave of businesses sparking excitement across our region.

STORY BY SHEILA PAZ

Move Confident Activewear

30 Promenade St., Bluffton

Now Open Business News

Southern Yacht Charters

1 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head

Ahoy, landlubbers! Southern Yacht Charters just docked at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina and is ready to rock the boat — literally. Jump aboard its 51-foot Leopard Power Catamaran for anything from dinner cruises to high-octane water sports. This isn't just a boat; it's a floating party pad with plush seating under the stars and a climate-controlled cabin for when you need to cool your sea legs.

MindState Jiu Jitsu and Movement

Buckwalter Recreation Center, Bluffton

Wave goodbye to those saggy sweatpants, and say hello to Move Confident Activewear, the snazzy newcomer in workout wear that's ready to upgrade your look and lift your spirits. Created by Bluffton's Priscilla Jean, this gear is a triple threat of comfort, durability and sheer pizzazz — perfect whether you're pumping iron or just pumping gas.

Temperature Pro

262 Red Cedar, Suite 5, Bluffton

Meet TemperaturePro, the coolest new addition to Bluffton. Backed by a nationwide network, it brings top-notch heating, air conditioning and indoor air quality services to the Lowcountry. Its transparent process ensures a smooth and exceptional customer experience, making home comfort a breeze.

Spice up your workout routine at MindState Jiu Jitsu and Movement. Each session is a full-body experience that builds confidence, strength and brainpower. Gear up to challenge your body, outsmart your limits and maybe even learn how to wriggle out of that dreaded office-party hug.

Skipperi Boat Club

405 Squire Pope Road, Hilton Head

Skipperi Boat Club is here to make boating as easy as ordering a pizza. Join and enjoy smooth sailing without the fuss of boat ownership. Its app makes it a breeze to book your vessel as if it were an Uber. Hop aboard and set sail the smart way: hassle-free and with a lot less sunscreen than you’d think.

Mermaid of Hilton Head: An events adventure

1414 Fording Island Road Suite E180, Bluffton

Diving into a larger storefront, Mermaid of Hilton Head has moved into a larger space to do more than sell clothes. Mermaid Nina will retire from her boat tours and focus on turning the Mermaid of Hilton Head into a treasure trove for community events such as movie nights, storytime sessions and crafting events. The expansion includes a photography studio where visitors can transform into mermaids, participate in photo shoots and create magical keepsakes.

Beach House Island: A refreshing new look

1 South Forest Beach Drive, Hilton Head

Make waves at Beach House Hilton Head Island's freshly revamped outdoor resort-style pool. Relax in new cabanas, complete with 42-inch TVs, mini-bars stocked with treats, breezy ceiling fans and USB charging stations.

Sticking around: Spirited Hand

1127 Fording Island Road, Suite 103, Bluffton

If you haven’t heard yet, Spirited Hand will not be closing. Everything worked out for owner Nancy Landwehr, so her beloved shop in Bluffton is staying put. Pop in the shop for her new arrivals, and find pieces you can’t find elsewhere.

One Tree Planted update

Earlier this year LOCAL Life began an environmental commitment, vowing to plant over 5,000 trees. We are thrilled to announce that this month, we have gone past the halfway mark with 2,700 trees planted. Our commitment helps offset our environmental footprint and contributes to reforestation efforts across North America. Learn more at onetreeplanted.org.

BE THE BUZZ

Discover a new business gem in the Lowcountry? Share your find. Email details to info@wearelocallife.com to help us spotlight the newest local treasures.

ADVANCED ORTHOPEDIC OPTIONS TO RELIEVE BACK AND NECK PAIN

When unmanageable neck or back pain gets in your way, it’s time for the board-certified, fellowshiptrained experts at Beaufort Memorial to give you relief.

Whether you experienced a recent injury or have a chronic condition, Beaufort Memorial has your back. The Advanced Orthopedics and Spine Program at Beaufort Memorial brings together state-of-the-art technologies and top spine care experts to address a range of conditions that cause neck and back pain. Let our team create an individualized care plan, exploring both nonsurgical and surgical treatment options, so you can get back to life.

At Beaufort Memorial you also find:

• Innovative solutions that improve your mobility and allow for more natural movement

• An Optimization Program that follows you through the process to ensure the best outcomes

• Advanced procedures that spare healthy tissue and speed recovery

• Outpatient surgeries that allow many patients to go home the same day Visit BeaufortMemorial.org/SpineCare

Stay healthy abroad

KEY ILLNESSES TO WATCH OUT FOR WHEN TRAVELING INTERNATIONALLY.

tTraveling to different countries offers exciting opportunities to explore diverse cultures, landscapes and cuisines. However, it also exposes you to various health risks. Being aware of the common illnesses prevalent in your destination can help you take preventive measures and enjoy a safe trip. Here’s a rundown of some key illnesses to watch out for when traveling internationally.

Malaria

Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease common in many tropical and subtropical regions, especially in parts of Africa, South America and Southeast Asia. Symptoms include fever, chills and flu-like illness, and it can be fatal if not treated promptly. Prevention involves taking antimalarial medications, using mosquito repellents, sleeping under insecticide-treated mosquito nets and wearing long sleeves and pants during peak mosquito-biting hours.

Traveler’s diarrhea

Often simply referred to as 'Delhi belly' or 'Montezuma's revenge,' traveler's diarrhea is the most common travel-related ailment. It is usually caused by consuming contaminated food or water. Symptoms include abdominal cramps, nausea and frequent loose stools. To prevent it, avoid tap water, ice and raw or undercooked foods, especially in areas with poor sanitation.

STORY BY GREGORY P. THOMAS

Hepatitis A and B

These viral infections affect the liver and can be contracted through contaminated food and water (Hepatitis A) or through blood and bodily fluids (Hepatitis B). Symptoms include jaundice, mild fever and gastrointestinal issues. Vaccinations are available and recommended before traveling to regions with higher rates of hepatitis.

What if surgery wasn’t your only option?

Did you know that celebrities and athletes avoid surgery and fly to Panama, Mexico, or Germany to receive stem cells treatments?

Since 2018, The Fraum Center has helped thousands of patients get their lives back through restorative medicine therapy. Join us for one of our free weekly presentations on Hilton Head Island, or call for your private consultation today.

Heather Hinshelwood, MD is passionate about healthy living and influencing others to make healthier choices to improve their lives. She focuses on non-surgical solutions to joint replacement surgery.

Heather Hinshelwood, MD

Yellow fever

Yellow fever is another mosquito-borne viral disease prevalent in parts of Africa and South America. It can range from mild to severe, causing fever, chills, severe hepatitis and hemorrhagic fever. Some countries require a yellow fever vaccination certificate for entry. Vaccination is the most effective prevention, along with mosquito bite prevention strategies.

Typhoid fever

Typhoid fever is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi, which is common in developing countries. It spreads through contaminated food and water and causes prolonged high fevers, weakness, stomach pains, headache and loss of appetite. Vaccination is recommended for travelers to South Asia and other areas with a high incidence of typhoid.

Dengue fever

Dengue is prevalent in more than 100 countries, especially in Southeast Asia, the Western Pacific and Central America. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain and rash. There are no specific antiviral treatments for dengue; prevention focuses on mosquito control and avoiding mosquito bites.

Chikungunya

This viral disease is transmitted by mosquitoes and is found mainly in Africa, Asia, Europe and the Indian and Pacific oceans. It causes an abrupt onset of fever, frequently accompanied by joint pain. The best preventive measures include using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants and using air conditioning or window/door screens to keep mosquitoes outside. Zika virus

Though the outbreak has lessened, Zika virus remains a concern in many tropical areas. It is primarily spread by mosquitoes but also can be transmitted through sexual contact. It is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, as it can cause severe birth defects. Avoiding mosquito bites is the primary prevention strategy.

Required and recommended vaccinations

Traveler vaccination requirements can vary significantly from one country to another, based on local health risks and government policies. Before traveling, consult with a healthcare provider at least six weeks before your trip. Additionally, check the website of the embassy of the country you're visiting or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for the most current health guidelines and entry requirements. Here is a general list of common vaccinations that may be required or recommended for travel to various regions around the world.

AFRICA Yellow fever: Required for entry into many countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Hepatitis A and B: Highly recommended due to variable sanitary conditions. Typhoid: Recommended due to contaminated water sources. Meningococcal meningitis: Recommended, especially for travelers to the "meningitis belt" of sub-Saharan Africa during the dry season. Rabies: Considered for those likely to come into contact with animals.

ASIA Japanese encephalitis: Recommended for rural travel in countries such as Vietnam, India and Thailand. Hepatitis A and B: Commonly recommended for most travelers. Typhoid: Recommended for travelers to South Asia, which has the highest risk. Rabies: Recommended for travelers spending a lot of time outdoors or in rural areas.

CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICA Yellow fever: Required for entry into countries like Brazil, Colombia and Peru. Typhoid: Recommended due to risks associated with contaminated food and water. Hepatitis A: Recommended due to the prevalence of the virus in the region. Rabies: Recommended for those exploring remote areas.

THE CARIBBEAN Hepatitis A and B: Recommended, especially in areas with inadequate sanitation and healthcare. Typhoid: May be recommended for those traveling to smaller, rural islands.

EASTERN EUROPE Hepatitis A and B: Recommended due to the presence of hepatitis in some areas. Tick-borne encephalitis: Recommended for those going to forested areas from spring to early autumn.

MIDDLE EAST Hepatitis A and B: Commonly recommended due to sanitation and hygiene issues. Typhoid: Recommended for travelers, particularly those visiting rural areas. Meningococcal meningitis: Recommended for travelers to certain parts of Saudi Arabia during the Hajj pilgrimage.

OCEANIA Hepatitis A and B: Generally recommended due to the presence of these viruses. Japanese encephalitis: Recommended for prolonged travel to certain parts of the region.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS Routine vaccinations: These include measlesmumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio and your yearly flu shot. Covid-19: Depending on the destination, proof of vaccination may be required for entry or to avoid extended quarantine.

Where are you going?

Scan this QR code to find the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s up-to-date vaccination requirements for every country.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Florence, Italy

Nang Lae, Thailand

Faces of wanderlust

Have your passport ready, and don’t forget your toothbrush – there’s a great big beautiful world out there just waiting to be explored.

iSTORY BY BARRY KAUFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA STAFF

It’s been said that travel is the only thing you pay for that makes you richer. It can be a transformative experience, simply placing yourself somewhere far away from home and discovering how the rest of the world lives. It opens your perspective, helping you see beyond the edges of limits you didn’t even know you’d placed around yourself. It deepens your appreciation for the magnitude of this world, of how far away the edge of the map truly is.

And, yes, it has its challenges — decades of stand-up comedy have inured us to the pitfalls of airline travel, and many travelers are caught off guard by the varying quality of drinking water from one country to the next. But it also has its rewards.

These three locals have reaped the rewards of travel in all its forms: the way it transforms us and the way it helps us transform the world.

Mike and Jeanette Davis

This couple is charting new territories in their empty nest phase.

tTravel is intended to be a freeing experience, one that lifts us up from the tedium of our every day, transplanting us somewhere far away where we can see the world through another lens.

Travel with children, however, is something else entirely. Not something worse, necessarily. Just different.

That’s not to say that every adventure with children needs to be a matter of jumping from one theme-park gift shop to another, although that is often part of it. In fact, sharing that joy of travel, seeing that widening perspective behind the innocent eyes of a child, can be more rewarding than experiencing it yourself.

“Getting ice cream in Italy was fun with the kids,” said Mike Davis. “It was fun to spend time with them. But they’re adulting now.”

“When our children were small, we didn’t travel as much, but we did once they got to high school,” added Jeanette. “When they were out of the house, it definitely picked up.”

Mike and Jeanette, married for 34 years, had their share of adventures raising a son and a daughter while maintaining their active calendar of trips around the world. But now that their children are grown, the couple have embarked on what they’re calling their “empty-nest adventures.”

There was the experiential trip through South America, traipsing across natural splendor in Chile and down to Argentina. There was the trip to Alaska, stalking the wilds of America’s last frontier, dining on crab legs straight from the docks in Juneau. There was the humanitarian trip to Cuba in 2007, bringing prenatal vitamins to expectant mothers in a country that was still in the grips of an embargo from American goods and travelers.

NEW HORIZONS Charting new territories in their empty-nest phase, Mike and Jeanette Davis of Hilton Head Island have traded daily routines for global exploration. From the stunning landscapes of Chile and Argentina to the wilds of Alaska, and a humanitarian journey to Cuba in 2007, their adventures span continents and cultures, enriching their lives with every new experience.

“We weren’t really supposed to be there,” said Mike of their trip to Cuba. “It was kind of like a time warp. Nothing had really changed in 50 years, and everything was deteriorating except for the culture.”

And, yes, these travels have come with their share of misadventures, like the flight delay that caused them to miss a connection in Madrid, leaving them stranded in an airport for six hours without a word of Spanish between them. “When we finally got to Malaga, none of our luggage was there,” said Jeanette. “That’s when I started crying. All I wanted to do was take a shower and put on some clean clothes.”

But that’s the travel game. Where’s there’s no risk, there’s no reward. And if you find yourself with an empty nest, what else is there to do but take wing and see what’s out there?

“Somebody told me the other day we should sit down and check all the countries we’ve been to,” said Jeanette. “We’re working on the list."

Asweenteranotherhurricaneseasonwithhighactivitypredicted,wewant toprovidesomebasicinformationthatwillhelpyouintheeventanother stormvisitstheLowcountry.

BEALERT

–Keepaneyeonstormtracksastheydevelop.Mostwillnot endangertheSouthCarolinacoast,butiftheydo,youwillwanttoknow. Trywww.noaa.gov.WehavefoundthemtobethemostreliableintheUS.

BEPREPARED

–AsRiskManagers,wemusttellyoutheimportanceof havingapersonalhurricaneplan.Knowingwhatyouandyourfamilyor businesswilldobeforeahurricanearriveswillsaveyoutime,money,and possiblylives.Considerthefollowing:

PROTECTIONPLAN

–Knowhowyouintendtoprotectyourhomeor business.Startaminimumof72hoursinadvance.Hurricaneshutters orboardingupwillhelptremendously.Bringinallpropertythatcould bedamagedorbecomeamissileifthewindishighenough.Have valuablesstoredinasafeplace.

EVACUATIONPLAN

-Knowwhereyouwillgoandmakenecessary reservationsearly.Itisbettertohaveaccommodationsbookedand canceliftheyarenotneeded.Expertsrecommendpreparingfor3to5 days.Also,planfortheprotectionofyourpets.Ifyoucan’ttakethem withyouknowthatkennelswillfillupfast.

BEPATIENT

-Yourpersonalsafetyisthenumberonepriority.Onlycome backtoyourpropertywhentheStateandLocalauthoritieshavegiventhe “allclear”.Therearemanyhiddendangerssuchaselectricity,water,and treesthatcancausefurtherharmoncethestormisover.Theauthorities monitortheseandwillletyoureturnwhenitissafe.

WEAREHERETOHELPPROVIDE CALMAFTERTHESTORM

WeWILLbeavailableforourcommunitybefore,during, andafterthestormtohelpinanywaypossible.Youcan alwayscontactourofficeorvisitourwebsiteforup-todateinformationandresourcesyoumayneed.

Cusco, Peru

Prioritizing Your Protection

faces

wWant to travel like these seasoned road warriors? Here are a few of their top tips for seeing the world.

Fail to prepare, prepare to fail: “If you’re going on your own and not through a company, do your homework before you leave. Figure out where you want to go and what you want to see, so you don’t waste time while you’re there.”

Redundantly pack with redundancy: “One thing we’ve learned is to pack together. Mix up some of your clothes in each other’s bags so if one bag gets lost at least you both have something.”

Beware the water: “If you’re going to a place that isn’t your type of water, take medicine ahead of time. We always carry an antibiotic with us.”

Rome, Italy

EVER VIGILANT

IMAGING SERVICES

Get a clearer picture of your well-being at St. Joseph’s/Candler. You can expect access to advanced imaging technology powered by our team of devoted, hardworking imaging specialists and radiologists. Our non-invasive diagnostic screening services also include pretesting, bone density screening, 3D mammography, echo cardiology, ultra-sounds and CT scans as well as an open MRI. If it’s advanced imaging technology for diagnostic and therapeutic applications you’re looking for, then look no further than our team. At St. Joseph’s/Candler, we’re proud to call the Lowcountry home.

WE LOOK AFTER THE LOWCOUNTRY.

1-843-836-4300 - WWW.SJCHS.ORG/LOWCOUNTRY

BLUFFTON - 10-A OAK FOREST ROAD, BLUFFTON, SC 29910

Kelly Brock A flight

kfrom Hawaii sparked a 38-year career in travel

Kelly Brock’s 38-year career in travel began, appropriately enough, on an airplane. Flying home from a trip to Hawaii with her father, young Kelly was given the gift of freedom. But with one catch.

“Coming back on the plane, he said, ‘You don't have to go to college. If that's not your path, it’s not your path.’ And he gave me that gift to be very independent and responsible at a young age,” she said. “He also said, ‘But you have to do something. And you'll have to figure it out before we get home.’”

Cruising at 30,000 feet from an unforgettable vacation, with the endless possibilities of her future before her, she made her decision. A week after graduating from high school, she bought a one-way ticket from her home in Virginia to Los Angeles.

“I got hired early with Continental Airlines and lived that whole Melrose Place lifestyle,” she said. For an 18-year-old with a lust for life, it was a dream come true. And while she would eventually return to Virginia, the travel bug’s bite is not so easily forgotten, and she would spend 10 years in the world of corporate travel. Helping plan business trips and corporate retreats kept her in the travel game – and made good use of her obsessive attention to detail – but soon her itchy feet would take her far from her Virginia home again.

“I just knew I didn't want 10 more years to fly by with being stuck in the town I grew up in, even though I was traveling the world at a young age,” she said. “I was coming down to Hilton Head on vacation with girlfriends, and one of them moved here. And at the time, I had free airline tickets. I was single; I was coming all the time. And on one of the St. Paddy’s Day weekends, the stars aligned.”

Her new life on Hilton Head, and a lengthy career planning vacations for locals already accustomed to the paradise they called home, began.

DESTINED TO ROAM From a pivotal conversation on a flight home from Hawaii, Kelly Brock was inspired to embrace a life of adventure and service. Thirty-eight years later, she (shown with her son Cooper) continues to guide local travelers, turning their travel dreams into reality with her extensive expertise and passionate dedication. Catania, Italy

“This area thrives for travel, and that's one of the things I loved coming here. I remember starting with AAA (25 years) ago, and I said… I know how to take care of a luxury client and an adventurous client,” she said.

If you’ve ever worked with a travel agent before, you understand the difference they can make in a vacation. Brock’s extensive knowledge of the travel world, honed through not only her professional development but through her own incurable wanderlust, has pointed clients toward getaways that changed lives. It’s also helped them tackle the challenges that inevitably come with travel.

On one trip a client undergoing cancer treatment needed to take stops on their world cruise to have a port drained. Brock found doctors at stops along the way who could help them. One client slipped a disc, and Brock helped get them a medevac back from Mumbai. She helped one client who had broken a hip in Italy find not only a doctor but a new chapter in life.

“He wasn’t stable enough to fly home, but we found him a doctor,” said Brock. “Toward the end of six weeks, they stopped asking to get them home and started asking to find a place to live in this small town in Umbria.”

That dedication has led to her earning extraordinary accolades among her industry peers, but that’s not why she does it.

"Selling travel is almost second nature to me, but what truly energizes me is meeting the client’s needs," she explained. "It's not about the sales or the accolades for me. My priority is ensuring that people are well cared for."

Primary Care

Main Street Medical is a premier urgent and primary care practice serving individuals and families in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Led by Joel Johnson III, MD, the team is available seven days a week providing urgent medical care for beach related injuries and summertime accidents – as well as ongoing primary care for all family members.

(from left) Franics Imbarrato, MD, Carlos Cordero, MD, Joel Johnson III, MD, Van Gauby, MD, Nicole Clegg, MSN, APRN, FNP-C,

faces

Kelly Brock: Beyond the tour package

aAs a celebrated travel agent with AAA, Kelly Brock has come to know pretty much every famed destination, every reliable tour operator and every mind-blowing experience there is on Earth. So you’d imagine that when she travels, each trip is a meticulously planned masterpiece. And you’d be wrong.

“I want the real experiences,” she said. “You travel as a traveler, and I don’t like to tell anybody on the tours what I do, because I want them to experience it like I did – for real.”

She credits her boyfriend, Thad, with helping her travel in the moment and letting things happen organically. “I’ve learned that you don’t always get to all those restaurants you’ve researched; you have to just go along with what’s going on that day and in that moment.”

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David and Karen Burke

Bridging cultures through travel and compassion

oOne of the purest joys of travel is the unbridled sense of connection it engenders with your fellow human beings. Breaking through borders that only exist on paper, we see how there is really only one planet, and that any division from one piece of land to the next is a strictly human invention. In traveling we free ourselves to see the people around us for what they truly are: a family.

“One of the things I've learned, no matter where you are, people are the same,” said David Burke. “They want to take care of their families. They want education for their children. They want to be safe and live free as best they can.”

In his travels across 25 countries, some trips for fun, but many as part of his mission work as an elder with Grace Community Church, he has seen the entire spectrum of mankind laid bare. A young African missionary jumping on a trampoline for the first time. Children orphaned by political machinations in their home countries that they can’t begin to fathom. The sun rising over temples that were abandoned centuries ago.

“I didn’t want my children growing up thinking that everybody lived behind gates, had a swimming pool and security, and all of that,” he said. “But unfortunately, some of the things I’ve seen really show man’s inhumanity to man. I remember standing outside of a British hotel in Delhi reading a sign that said, ‘No Indians or dogs allowed.’”

To that end David and his wife, Karen, have taken several of their adopted children along with them on mission trips. In Kenya one goat herder asked their daughter how she liked her goat, while motioning to their next meal, still walking around the village. “She said, ‘Alive.’” Later, as if to drive home the bizarre confluence of old and new that the world finds itself in, another Kenyan pulled out a phone and asked if any of them were on Facebook.

In Cambodia, where a U.S.-backed coup in 1970 left a power vacuum that was filled by Pol Pot, David found himself teaching children whose grandparents had been killed during the struggle.

and

have explored 25 countries, combining leisure with David's mission work as an elder at Grace Community Church. Their journeys have revealed the depth of human experiences, from a young African missionary's first trampoline jump to children orphaned by political strife, to sunrises over ancient temples. Together, they are committed to bridging cultures and fostering compassion around the world.

He also found himself watching this past year’s Super Bowl in a Phnom Penh sports bar early on a Monday morning. “It was a lot of Europeans, Australians, some Americans and a handful of Cambodians,” he said. “There were these young Cambodian guys taking a shot of beer every time Taylor Swift came on screen. They stopped by the second half.”

And his kids have joined him as he’s witnessed the beauty and heartache of the human condition, from the solemn reminder of evil’s influence at Auschwitz to the healing power of song as a choir of children from rival African tribes ended years of warfare with music. They’ve met Christians who escaped certain death in Iranian prisons and children of the Navajo nation who yearn to see beyond the reservation. And while, ostensibly, he’s met them in order to teach them and help them, they’ve returned the favor a thousand fold.

“I really want to transfer that to my children,” he said. “The more you see the world, you see there's less and less to be fearful of. It's so helpful for your brain to meet the different cultures meet different people.”

ACROSS BORDERS David

Karen Burke

Siem Reap, Cambodia

We live for the action-packed, active lifestyle shared with friends and complemented by our award-winning Racquets Center at the very heart of Moss Creek. We love the perfect match of living at the epicenter of burgeoning Bluffton, SC and the pristine beaches of Hilton Head Island. We love the option of a day trip to our choice of Savannah or Charleston. Join us at the perfect marriage of location and lifestyle.

From Russia with love: A journey of adoption and discovery

aAs avid travelers and devoted parents to five adopted children, David and Karen Burke have been able to share the world with their children. But in adding to their family, they’ve also been able to get a glimpse into the world their children were born into.

One moment of culture shock came when they traveled to Russia to adopt their youngest. Arriving just after the fall of the Iron Curtain, the couple saw firsthand the long-term effects the oppressive Soviet government had on its people.

“It was certainly open from where it was. But you could still tell it's a very untrustworthy society. They have such a huge problem with trusting each other because for so long they didn’t know if you're gonna drop a dime on them. You say the wrong thing, and the bad guys might come knocking on the door soon enough,” David said. “So they could trust me, but (at the time) they were very scared of each other.” LL

REIMAGINING TRADITION Architects Amanda Denmark and Pearce Scott of Pearce Scott Architects were challenged to deviate from their usual work and embrace a more contemporary style requested by the Palmetto Bluff homeowners. The result is a boldly asymmetrical home that blends modern design with elements of traditional Southern architecture.

HOME SHOWCASE

a Breaking the mold

Architects were asked to do something ‘a little different’ in this Palmetto Bluff home. In following that mandate, they raised the Lowcountry standard.

STORY

BY BARRY KAUFMAN

PHOTOS BY KATIE CHARLOTTE

Architecture, like any art, is driven by the thirst to find what’s next. It’s not just about what you create today, it’s about how the things you create drive what comes after. Amanda Denmark and Pearce Scott of Pearce Scott Architects know that challenge all too well. The homes they have created have helped define the look of the Lowcountry’s modern era, even as they’ve rewritten that definition with each home.

But sometimes even a firm known for pushing the envelope is asked to push even harder. That’s when true creativity is given free rein.

“The owners of this home had hired an interior designer out of Charleston who had a very contemporary feel, so we were able to play with that a little bit together,” said Scott. “But they still wanted it to fit into that Palmetto Bluff aesthetic.”

Boldly asymmetrical, and borrowing a few forgotten elements of Southern architecture, the home they built from that simple premise of doing something different stands as a tantalizing preview of where the art of architecture is headed.

Redefining tradition

One of the most fascinating examples of Pearce Scott Architect’s outside-the-box thinking comes in the form of the home’s separate carriage house. Eschewing the typical three-car saltbox, the carriage house joins two separate towering structures with a passthrough screened porch.

“I was looking through this old book of barn design in the Carolinas and got really excited because it did give us something different,” said Scott. Drawing inspiration from the narrow peaks of traditional Carolina tobacco barns, they created a structure that flouted tradition even as it embraced classic materials like tabby, rendered in oversized blocks up two accent exterior walls.

“Depending on what point in history you’re talking about, the heights of these tabby stacks would vary. I’ve done a lot of studying up on this,” added Scott with a laugh.

Blending eras

Another element that finds its roots in the past while adding a new phrase to the home’s visual lexicon, the dining room evokes both the old Southern solarium with key details that present as thoroughly modern.

“They wanted that vaulted space, but they wanted the windows to show slimmer lines to reflect that contemporary aspect,” said Denmark.

The art of arrival

While most newer homes hit you immediately upon entry with a soaring two-story view of a great room, the desire to do something different on this project manifested as an entryway that feels more like the classic formal foyer.

“This one has a real connection to the living space, whereas we’re used to doing these great rooms where you just walk right in. This house reacted to the site. Since we didn't have views necessarily … we could really arrange the floor plan how we wanted,” said Denmark. “Sometimes open floor plans really limit what you can do, and this one gave us another opportunity to do something a little bit different.”

Adding to the entry’s appeal are the steelencased French doors, which open in to create almost a smaller foyer before the main entry. LL

Old meets bold

A FEARLESS BLEND OF OLD AND NEW CREATES AL FRESCO AMAZEMENT AT PALMETTO BLUFF.

STORY BY BARRY KAUFMAN + PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE CHARLOTTE

In a home built on the simple premise of doing something differently Pearce Scott Architects have crafted a Palmetto Bluff patio that serves as a brilliant example of the subtle touches that can make all the difference.

1 . Matching outfits

Set in the same material as the carriage house’s façade as well as the chimney's, the use of tabby creates a unifying element between exterior spaces.

2 . Raise the bar

Softening the industrial edge, mahogany drink rails add rich texture to the porch’s layered design.

3 . Reinventing the ground rules

“They did not want that traditional tabby stucco floor,” said Amanda Denmark with Pearce Scott Architects. “They wanted something with a little bit of an industrial edge.” Blue stone tiles created a pop of color, some visual interest and a decided break from the norm.

MASTERFULLY CONCEALED An integrated refrigerator and freezer from Billy Wood Appliance was both a practical decision and a deliberate design choice. This helped illustrate the kitchen’s role as the unmistakable focal point of the home.

ROOM OF THE MONTH

Euro-Southern fusion

tSTORY BY SHEILA PAZ

The homeowners envisioned turning their kitchen into the central highlight of their Palmetto Bluff home — a vision realized through the collaborative efforts of Brantley King, the owner of Billy Wood Appliance, interior designer Leah Bailey and H2 Builders. Their goal was to infuse the kitchen with a blend of European and Southern charm, making the selection of the right appliances essential to turn the kitchen into a breathtaking centerpiece.

To do so, they custom designed a kitchen hood that mirrors the intricate details of the French-made La Cornue range. The hood features metal gold strapping, a nod to traditional European craftsmanship, while the combination of silver and gold on the range captures the Euro-Southern aesthetic they aimed for.

“Creating an appealing space with a beautiful range and hood creates an inviting atmosphere and will turn the cooking space into a place where culinary creativity can thrive,” King said.

The curated choices of lighting, sink fixtures and cabinet hardware were paired with complementary upholsteries to ensure each element stands out, while preserving visual harmony. This kitchen captured their dream, with each detail contributing to a Euro-Southern blend. LL

Harmonizing form and function

DESIGNING FOR BEAUTY AND SAFETY IN THE LOWCOUNTRY

STORY BY SHEILA PAZ

Aesthetics and safety can coexist, even when facing the challenging elements of the Lowcountry. Coastal Canvas Products understands this balance and offers essential tips to ensure homeowners maintain the beauty and protection of their investment. From selecting suitable materials to choosing designs that complement your home's architecture, the Coastal Canvas team provides guidance on integrating protective features that enhance your living space’s functionality and curb appeal.

1. PATIO PROTECTION Motorized exterior screens allow homeowners to turn their patios into secure and comfortable outdoor areas, shielded from harmful UV rays, insects and adverse weather. There are various fabrics, screens and clear vinyl options available for any indoor/outdoor space. Garage screen installations can turn these areas into versatile multi-purpose rooms. Specialized screen systems designed for hurricane and storm protection are also available. Motorized exterior screens offer a seamless blend of functionality and style, making them essential for any homeowner looking to enhance their outdoor living experience while ensuring maximum protection and comfort.

2. SHADE ON DEMAND Offering instant solar shielding, retractable awnings help expand living spaces to the outdoors. Their sleek design eliminates the need for support poles, ensuring unobstructed views while protecting against the sun and light rain. These awnings also help naturally cool homes by shading interiors, potentially reducing air conditioning costs by up to 25 percent. Retractable awnings provide an elegant and practical solution that combines convenience with energy efficiency, making them a wise investment for homeowners seeking to maximize comfort and curb appeal.

3. ADJUSTABLE ELEGANCE An upgraded pergola with an all-aluminum louvered roof offers a blend of elegance and functionality, transforming any outdoor space. Its adjustable blades provide precise control over sunlight and rain exposure, complemented by an integrated gutter system for effective water management. Options for motorized screens and customizable lighting enhance comfort and privacy, while the durable aluminum construction ensures longevity with minimal maintenance.

4. STORM PROTECTION Traditional Colonial and Bahama shutters are custom-crafted to bolster the visual appeal and safety of any residence. Available in a range of materials, such as various woods and durable, weatherresistant powder-coated aluminum, these shutters are designed to meet homeowners’ preferences and needs. They integrate smoothly with various architectural styles, ensuring functionality and aesthetic harmony.

Practical chic

LIVEN UP YOUR KITCHEN WITH STYLISH ACCESSORIES

Creating a stylish and functional kitchen can enhance your daily life by making both cooking and entertaining more enjoyable. Take cues from this recent project by interior designer Hannah Fulton of J. Banks Design to bring a similar charm and elegance into your own kitchen. The aesthetic of this project melds sophistication with practicality, providing an inspiring blueprint for your space. Shop these items and more at the J. Banks Design retail store.

CAKE STANDS

SERVING BOARDS

Serving boards are essential accessories that boost both the functionality and visual appeal. The Round Oak Charcuterie Board from etúHOME offers a beautifully crafted oak surface for a sophisticated display.

Raise your dessert presentation with elegant cake stands that blend functionality with artistic design. The Pietra Serena Cake Stand by Vietri, with its stone finish, provides a subtle and refined aesthetic.

PITCHERS

The Pietra Serena Tavern Pitcher by Vietri combines versatility with timeless design. Its elegant lines and subtle tones add a stylish decorative accent to a kitchen.

GLASSWARE

Introduce a touch of style to your cocktail evenings with the Estelle Colored Glass collection in Gray Smoke. Perfect for serving classic cocktails.

DECORATION

Decor like this glass knot from Chelsea House brings a sculptural elegance to any space, be it your kitchen or dining room. This piece serves as a dynamic centerpiece or a chic decorative accent.

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FIND INSPIRATION IN THE 2024 LOCAL LIFE IDEA HOUSE

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dive into the diverse rooms of the 2024 LOCAL Life Idea House, our exclusive peek into The Charles, the newest waterfront condominium at Hilton Head Plantation. We’ll showcase transformative room makeovers throughout the year and offer practical decorating tips and ideas. Each feature aims to inspire your next home refresh, adding a personal flair to your living spaces. For more information about The Charles, email sales@thecharleshhi.com.

High/low decorating strategies

A RECIPE FOR GUEST BEDROOM REVITALIZATION

Updating a guest bedroom doesn't need to deplete your savings. With some clever shopping strategies and creative flair, you can orchestrate a fabulous, cost-effective renovation. One Hilton Head Plantation homeowner headed to HomeGoods to find accents to complement the more expensive Serena and Lily furniture. Here's how you can replicate this success and refresh your own guest room by combining higher-priced furniture with lower-priced decor.

Illuminate your space

Choosing the right lighting can enhance your room's ambiance without straining your finances. In the lighting aisle, consider the shapes of lamp bases and shades. The homeowner chose wider lampshades to spread light evenly, enhancing the overall brightness of the room, while narrower shades are ideal for focused tasks like reading. Explore various styles, textures and patterns in lamp bases to add to your room's aesthetic.

Snooze in style

It's wise to stock up on extra bedding for your guest room. HomeGoods offers a variety of bedding options, from sheets to duvet covers, at wallet-friendly prices. Look for high-quality brands like Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein. When selecting bedding, opt for materials with more natural fibers for better breathability and moisture-wicking properties.

Rug harmony

TAIL-ORED TOUCH

Add whimsy and functionality to a guest room with fun hooks. Tying into the pink color scheme, the owner found these dog butt hooks on Amazon. Quirky yet functional accents add a touch of personality to a room, ensuring that guests feel welcomed with a dash of humor and style.

Rugs not only anchor a room’s decor but also blend color and texture. Be mindful of costs; rugs can be pricey. The homeowner wisely selected two complementary rugs from HomeGoods for the guest bedroom and bathroom. The bedroom rug’s floral pattern inspired the pink and gray color scheme, while the bathroom rug doubles as a stylish bath mat. These thoughtful choices ensure cohesion and functionality while keeping expenses in check. LL

STORY BY SHEILA PAZ + PHOTO BY MIKE RITTERBECK

Pet-setting to paradise

HOW TO SAFELY FLY WITH YOUR PETS

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

Is it worth the hassle?

Consider if the stress of flying is justified for both you and your pet. Air travel can be particularly taxing for elderly dogs, puppies and those with health or behavioral issues. The bustling environment, loud noises and changes in air pressure and temperature are just a few factors that can distress your pet. Furthermore, think about your destination; if your dog will be left alone in a hotel room for extended periods, or if the trip is short, it might be best to leave them at home. Consider alternatives like driving or hiring a pet sitter when possible.

i

If you're a dog or cat owner, you might have contemplated flying with your pet. While the idea of traveling in first class with your furry friend is appealing, it involves extensive preparation and serious considerations. Generally, flying with pets is discouraged unless absolutely necessary. Before booking a flight for your pet, conduct thorough research and prioritize their safety.

Veterinary checkup

Regardless of requirements, it’s wise to visit your regular vet before flying.

“If you are flying with your pet, take it to your vet before the flight to ensure it is in good condition,” advised Brittany Bennington, shelter manager at Hilton Head Humane. “Also, bring all of your pet’s documentation with you on the flight.” Shelly Anchondo, clinic manager at Hilton Head Humane, recommends bringing extra copies of your pet’s health records in separate pieces of luggage to be extra safe.

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Go nonstop

While it might seem beneficial to give your pet a break during a layover, it's generally best to keep the overall travel time as short as possible.

“Whenever possible, book direct flights to keep the time your pet is contained to a minimum,” said Caitlyn Schake, executive director of Jasper Animal Rescue Mission. She also stressed the importance of a pre-trip visit to the vet. “Be sure to visit your vet ahead of time to ensure your pet is healthy enough to travel and has all required vaccinations.”

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Conducting extensive research is essential when planning to fly with your pet, as airlines have varying policies regarding pet travel. "Do your research on the airline you choose," urged Jennifer Taylor, director and founder of Renegade Paws Rescue in Savannah. "See how they transport dogs, and look extensively at the reviews."

To ensure a safe flight for your pet, you might need to obtain an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) certification. Schake advises against putting pets in the cargo hold: "We recommend flying with your pet in the cabin with you," she emphasized.

Additionally, consider seasonal weather conditions that could affect your travel. "When traveling with your pet, check with airlines for any restrictions such as time of year, as some months can be harder on pets than others due to temperatures," Anchondo advised. This precaution can help you avoid exposing your pet to extreme weather that could compromise their safety and comfort.

ID is key

Ensuring your pet has proper identification is crucial when flying. “Our first tip for flying with your pet is to make sure your pet is wearing an ID tag with your contact information,” Schake said. Additionally, she recommends having your pet microchipped and ensuring the microchip is up-to-date with a current phone number and address.

Microchipping is strongly endorsed by local experts. “First thing: microchip your dog,” Taylor advised. She also suggested, “Have a tag on the collar with their name and your phone number, or write your name, your dog’s name and your phone number on the collar with a sharpie.” These steps are essential for ensuring your pet’s safety and quick recovery should you get separated.

Carry-on essentials

Choose a secure, padded and ventilated carrier that fits comfortably under the seat. It’s crucial to acclimate your pet to the carrier well in advance of your trip to minimize stress on travel day. “Make sure the carrier you plan to carry your pet in has plenty of space and ventilation,” advised Caitlyn Schake. “Be sure to get your pet used to the carrier well before the trip so

they are not stressed the day of travel. Make it a comfortable and relaxing place.”

Additionally, if your pet is prone to anxiety, consult your veterinarian well ahead of your departure. “If you have an anxious animal, check with your veterinarian for proper treatments and medications to help ease traveling with your pet,” recommended Anchondo.

Departures

On travel day, ensure you arrive at the airport well ahead of time to avoid feeling rushed or stressed. To prevent discomfort during the flight, it's best to feed your dog about four hours before departure. "Give little or no food before any travel," advises Franny Gerthoffer, executive director of Hilton Head Humane. Also, exercise your pet and allow them to relieve themselves before you head to the airport, and remember to line the carrier with an absorbent puppy pad. Minimize exposure to stressful environments by keeping your pet away from large crowds and loud noises as much as possible. Avoid using sedatives unless specifically recommended by your veterinarian, as they can affect your pet's ability to breathe at high altitudes. Always prioritize your pet's safety: if your dog shows signs of extreme stress or difficulty, consider their well-being first and cancel your trip if necessary.

Arrivals

Upon arrival, take your dog for a long walk to familiarize them with the new environment. This helps them feel more at ease and able to understand that the same behavioral rules apply. "Give your dog a quiet place to adjust when you've reached your destination," Gerthoffer said. Whether you're staying in a dog-friendly luxury hotel or with friends, a bit of quiet time and a good rest will help your dog settle in. By the next day they should feel at home and ready for new adventures. LL

Exploring new skies

iHOW A MOVE TO BLUFFTON AND A PASSION FOR EXPLORATION TRANSFORMED ONE WOMAN’S LIFE.

I've always been an explorer — of new ideas, new approaches and new horizons. That's why the idea of boldly venturing where no one has gone before has always resonated with me. So, it wasn't much of a surprise to anyone when I relocated to Bluffton with a plan to expand my PR and marketing agency to a fast-growing area.

About a decade ago my youngest sister, who serves on the board of a prestigious medical organization, introduced me to the world of adventurous travel. Their annual meetings took us to amazing places such as Nepal, South Africa and Thailand, igniting a new passion — exploring faraway lands and the newest of horizons — and now I can’t get enough.

HANGING BY A FEATHER Macaws hanging upside down — canoodling for all to see. As we were on our way to a site, our driver suddenly stopped, and our guide said, “Wait until you see this!” We all grabbed our gear and hurried out of the bus to see eight macaws all hanging upside down in pairs. They are monogamous for the season, but the males are known for visiting other females at night.

STORY + PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUCY ROSEN

One afternoon soon after moving to Bluffton in 2015, I wandered into Pluff Mud Art Gallery on Calhoun Street and saw a photograph by Kelley Luikey that captured the elegance and beauty of a roseate spoonbill. It was an ah-ha moment for me as I decided right then and there that not only did I want to see this bird in person, but I also wanted to photograph one. It was a magical moment for me.

Despite having little more than a pointand-shoot camera and a sense of adventure reminiscent of a National Geographic explorer (backpack included), I embarked on the first of many bird photography expeditions with Eric Horan, a fabulous local guide and master naturalist. At first I captured no photographs

RETURN FLIGHTS There are over 53 species of hummingbirds in Costa Rica. I saw at least six of them. That’s one reason I have to go back. The challenge of all bird photography challenges … they are small and lightning-fast. They rarely behave the way you expect them to, but on the plus side, they tend to go back to the perch where they came from time and time again.

worth showing to anyone, but I was enthralled by the grace and beauty of these winged creatures. Thus began my journey into the world of bird photography, a love affair that has grown daily and has taken me on many bird photographic adventures since that day in Pluff Mud Art Gallery — and also gave me a legitimate reason to buy a new camera and a few long lenses.

A LESSON IN COURAGE One day we had a photo session with snakes in the rainforest. These shots were controlled, meaning there was a snake handler with us who was in “charge” of them. I sat in the bus as my group got off one by one. I was determined not to participate in this exercise, terrified that one was going to jump and bite me. Yes, vipers are venomous, and my stomach hurts just thinking of snakes, or at least it did. Turns out snakes are gorgeous, slow, sexy and beautiful. I’m so glad I got off that bus and participated. Yes, I got a little too close. Yes, I was reminded that they were venomous. And it was a fabulous learning experience.

you. It’s a feeling that I could get used to.

LOVE BIRDS Love is grand and it was plentiful … everywhere we looked.

I devoted every spare moment to learning and practicing the photography of birds. Whether it was trudging through mud at Fish Haul, driving to my favorite spot at Donnelly Wildlife Preserve or just sitting in my backyard — complete with a bluebird box, eight different feeding stations and two sources of water — I was consumed by my newfound passion. Recently I returned from my second bird photography trip to Costa Rica, led by the talented Nancy Ellwood of Nature's Portal. She led a group of eight of us, all bird photography enthusiasts, on a 10-day adventure through Costa Rica, and it couldn’t have been more fun or educational both in terms of learning about birds but learning even more about photography.

I’m already daydreaming of new destinations (the next one is Brazil), but until then I’m perfectly content with my local spoonies that fill my soul, as well as the egrets, the snowy, the owls, the robins, the anhingas, the great blue herons and all the other birds I love so much here in the Lowcountry. LL

STREAMSIDE SPECTACLE This was probably one of my favorite moments of the trip. Our guide knew of a sunbittern nest with chicks, and we went. Mom was back and forth to the stream that the nest was above. Fun fact: When mom and dad aren’t in the nest, the chicks sway a little when they are standing — kinda like they’ve had one too many. Why? So they look like leaves and predators leave them alone.

UNDER THE WINGS OF GIANTS Close encounters with king vultures. I can’t even begin to explain how it feels having one or more of these enormous birds swoop over your head to land, feeling their wings as they rush over

Tree swallow FREQUENT FLYER

A FEATHERED PERFORMANCE LIKE NO OTHER

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

LISTEN UP

iIf you're fortunate enough to have tree swallows take up residence in your yard, you are in for a show. These nimble aviators display striking deep blue-green iridescent backs contrasted by snowy white chests, with both genders sharing these vivid hues. Their small, streamlined bodies are perfectly adapted for flight, featuring tiny bills, long pointed wings and short, squared tails. Known for their gliding prowess, surpassing other swallow species, they also perform an aquatic ballet, skimming low over water to bathe before shaking off droplets mid-flight.

Tree swallows are relentless insect chasers, engaging in acrobatic twists and turns as they pursue prey, often converging in large numbers to form an aerial battlefield. Their swift maneuvers, visible from afar as the sunlight glints off their metallic-like feathers, are a sight to behold. While primarily insectivorous, they occasionally supplement their diet with small animals and plant foods when conditions are tough. They actively feed from dawn till dusk, generally not venturing above 40 feet from the ground.

Social and playful, tree swallows are a communal spectacle, especially notable in the Lowcountry during their migration periods in late summer and early autumn. Here wintering and migrating flocks, sometimes in the hundreds of thousands, gather about an hour before sunset to form swirling clouds above their roost sites, descending in unison to settle for the night.

Breeding season showcases even more of their communal nature, as pairs often nest in close proximity within wellappointed nest box communities. They decorate their nests with feathers, which are also used in aerial displays and chases — a dropped feather can spark a scramble among the birds. Vigilant in defense, they swarm and dive-bomb any predators threatening their nests, emitting sharp alarm calls. While mating partnerships are common, fidelity tends to be more to their chosen nesting site than to their mates.

This entire life cycle, from the daring acrobatics to the intimate moments of nest-building, marks the tree swallow as a true wonder of the avian world, particularly vivid in the Lowcountry during the bustling migratory and breeding seasons. LL

Fun facts

• Nesting: Tree swallows are named for their preference to nest in tree cavities, though they also use nest boxes. They're typically seen swarming in large, open areas rather than perching on branches.

• Longevity: The oldest known tree swallow lived over 12 years, recorded during banding in Ontario in 1998.

• Breeding diet: They consume high-calcium items like fish bones and eggshells during breeding season.

• Nesting behavior: Females primarily build the nest close to water, using materials ranging from grass to cellophane, and line it with feathers.

• Vocalizations: Their calls include a mix of chirps, whines and gurgles, used in various communications including mating and defense. They also emit aggressive chatters and alarm calls.

Where to spot them

Venture into the open fields or marshes adjacent to freshwater sources around the Lowcountry in late summer or early fall. Keep your eyes on the skies for the flying swarms of tree swallows, and listen for their distinctive chirping calls as they dive and soar in pursuit of insects.

Essentials

Get everything you could possibly need for your backyard birding needs at Wild Birds Unlimited at the Festival Centre at Indigo Park on Hilton Head Island. FOOD & ACCESSORIES

• Mealworms

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• Berry and bug birdseed

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Scan this QR code to hear the unique call of the tree swallow.

WILDLIFE WONDER

Opossums

NATURE'S UNDERAPPRECIATED HELPERS

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

cContrary to misconceptions, opossums are not the nuisances they are often perceived to be, particularly in the Lowcountry, where they offer more benefits than drawbacks by cleaning up more messes than they create. These gentle marsupials are frequently misjudged for actions like overturning trash cans or raiding backyard gardens. However, they actually pose little threat and can be easily encouraged to move along. Yet there is minimal reason to shoo them away. Within the Lowcountry's diverse natural environments, opossums play an essential role in controlling populations of slugs, insects, snails and other pests. Remarkably, a single opossum can consume up to 5,000 ticks in a single season and has the ability to eliminate venomous snakes, offering invaluable and cost-free pest control. Their presence is crucial for maintaining ecological balance and promoting harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife in the Lowcountry.

Playing opossum: A unique defense mechanism

One of the most well-known behaviors of opossums is their act of playing dead, often referred to as "playing possum." However, this behavior is far from an act; the opossum isn't pretending. When faced with a threat, an opossum's initial reactions might include hissing, baring its teeth or attempting to flee. If caught off guard by a predator, the opossum will involuntarily enter a catatonic state, becoming completely unresponsive. This state of feigned death, over which the opossum has no control, can last from several minutes to a few hours. During this time, it appears

lifeless, with teeth exposed and emitting a foul, corpse-like odor. This defensive mechanism aims to convince predators that the opossum is deceased and therefore an unappetizing meal, encouraging them to move on. While effective, this strategy also carries risks, as it leaves the opossum vulnerable during its unconscious state.

Debunking myths: More helper than harm

Opossums are remarkably resistant to rabies, much more so than other small mammals like raccoons and bats. If you observe an opossum hissing, drooling or swaying, it's unlikely to be a sign of rabies.

Instead, these behaviors, along with their well-known tactic of playing dead, are clever strategies to deter potential predators. Despite their seemingly aggressive displays, opossums are not naturally hostile; their hissing is merely a bluff to appear threatening. Contrary to being pests, opossums are actually beneficial to gardens and local ecosystems. They help control populations of unwanted pests and small rodents. They also assist in cleaning up by consuming spilled garbage and fallen fruit. So if you spot an opossum in your backyard, there's no cause for alarm. These creatures are harmless and will likely move on soon, continuing their role as unsung heroes in natural pest control.

Fascinating facts

• About 95 percent of opossums have a natural immunity to both rabies and Lyme disease, showcasing their unique resilience among wildlife.

• Opossums hold the distinction of being North America's only marsupial, carrying and nursing their young in a pouch.

• Opossums are true nomads, seldom staying long in one location. They typically spend just a few days at a single den site before moving on in search of food, primarily traveling at night.

• Newborn opossums are tiny, hairless and blind, approximately the size of a honeybee. Immediately after birth they must use their surprisingly strong front legs to climb into their mother's pouch. Unfortunately, about 60 percent of these babies do not survive.

Local rehabilitators

Tiffany VanBlaricum: 843-422-2654

Susan Lamberger: 843-422-7508

Kaitlin Brock: 843-929-7489

Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary: 864-683-3190

For more information on wildlife rehabilitators in the state, visit dnr.sc.gov

How to foster coexistence

Feeding recommendations: Wildlife rehabilitator Tiffany VanBlaricum suggests placing food near the tree line if you prefer opossums to stay out of your yard, though she recognizes and appreciates the ecological benefits they bring. This can help keep them at a comfortable distance while still allowing them to contribute positively to the area.

Preventing unwanted guests: To keep opossums from nesting under decks or patios, ensure that all potential entry points are securely blocked. If you think an opossum mother has settled beneath your structure, wait until she exits her den, typically about two hours after dusk, before attempting any modifications. You can then loosely cover the entry with netting, straw or another fibrous material, which allows any trapped animal to exit but prevents re-entry from the outside. Since opossum mothers transport their young with them, it's unlikely any babies would be left behind, but it's wise to double-check for young before permanently sealing the area. If the entrance remains undisturbed for two to three nights, it's generally safe to permanently block it.

Handling indoor intrusions: Occasionally, an opossum might find its way inside through a pet door. To encourage a safe exit, close off interior room access to limit the opossum's movement, and open exterior doors to offer a clear way out. Since opossums are not aggressive, gentle persuasion with a broom can help guide them back outdoors without stress. LL Mon,Wed,Fri, between9:30am-12:30pm ThruAug14

Lowcountry wanderers

LOCAL RESIDENTS WITH A PASSION FOR GLOBAL EXPLORATION

iIn the heart of the Lowcountry, where the marshes meet the sky and history whispers through the Spanish moss, a spirit of adventure pulses through local residents. Here travel becomes a romance with the world. From the golden sands of distant shores to the cobblestone streets of ancient cities, locals bring home more than memories — they bring back stories of love and discovery. Meet seven local globetrotters whose voyages are as much about passion as they are about exploration.

Beachcombing with the Kastlers

Jill and Gene Kastler have turned their passion for travel into a lifestyle. Originally from Nashua, New Hampshire, and Chelmsford, Massachusetts, respectively, the couple now resides in Belfair in Bluffton, moving here full time in 2011. Their journey to the Lowcountry was inspired by three decades of family vacations at Captain’s Walk in Palmetto Dunes, a tradition that deepened their love for the region.

The Kastlers travel about twice a year, driven by a love for exploring new cultures and escaping the snowy winters of the Northeast. Their favorite destinations reflect their preference for warm climates, with multiple trips to both Cabo and Aruba, places Gene has come to love. Jill's most cherished travel experience, however, was a trip to Southern Africa, highlighting their diverse travel interests.

Their adventures began with their honeymoon trip to Bermuda, marking Gene's first travel outside the U.S. Since then, each destination has added layers to their understanding and appreciation of the world. They are eager to visit Singapore and Bali, a trip postponed several times due to Covid-19, with plans firmly set for August. Japan is also on their wishlist. They hope to make it there by spring 2025. The Kastlers’ story is not just about the places they've been, but about the experiences that have shaped their lives, showing us that travel can be as much about discovering oneself as it is about discovering the world.

Travel advice

“Make sure you have a fabulous travel agent who truly knows your likes and dislikes," Jill advises. “Use packing cubes. Travel business class internationally. Bring lots of books on your Kindle and several needlepoint projects.”

A natural bridge in Aruba

The El Arco Arch in Cabo San Lucas Jill and Gene Kastler vacationing in Florida

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Capturing memories with Steve Edelstein

Steve Edelstein has embraced photography since childhood. After law school in Wisconsin, he relocated to Atlanta, honing his camera work in black-and-white street photography and later, color slides, capturing vivid travel landscapes. The transition to digital photography in the 1990s expanded his creative horizons on the editing side. Now settled on Hilton Head Island with his wife, Kathi Williams, since 2018, Edelstein continues to explore photography through local and international travels, valuing the cultural immersion and historical significance of each destination.

Memorable experiences include walking along the medieval city walls of Dubrovnik, Croatia; going inside King Tut’s tomb, including a morning hot-air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings; going to a Champions League soccer match in London; doing the bridge climb in Sydney, Australia, and going to the Western Wall in Jerusalem. A trip to Alaska last summer with his children and grandchildren was especially memorable.

“I don’t have a favorite destination – I have favorite memories,” Steve said. With plans to visit Japan and China in the fall, Edelstein looks forward to capturing new cultures. “In addition to having an inexhaustible supply of photo ops, the principal reason I enjoy traveling is the excitement of being exposed to different cultures, customs, experiences and points of view, all of which give you a broader perspective about the world and ultimately a greater appreciation for the quality of life we have on the island,” Steve said. “Of course, nothing beats the thrill of being in new places – not just beautiful places, but places where history was made, places we’ve only read about or have seen on TV. Not being able to travel during the pandemic reminded me how much I need to travel.”

Steve's body of work via the lens shows not just each click capture, but a moment of human experience.

Travel advice

“I find it helpful to research the places I’ll be traveling to before I go,” Steve said. “In addition to travel guides, I watch YouTube, which has thousands of personal and professionally produced travel videos. It’s helpful to bring your own entertainment for those long-haul flights in case your seat’s entertainment system doesn’t work, which happens far too often. While taking large amounts of cash is no longer necessary (you can use credit cards for almost anything, anywhere), I recommend having some small-denomination bills for street vendors (dollars or euros are accepted virtually everywhere in Europe), especially if you travel to places like Egypt or Turkey (now Türkiye). It’s also helpful to bring some dollar bills to give to people on the street you want to photograph.”

Photography tips

“It’s totally dependent on what you want to accomplish with your photographs,” Steve said. “If you want to capture memories, then any good camera phone will do. If you want to print and display your photos, then you’ll need a modern DSLR or mirrorless camera. I use both. I use my iPhone for photos I want to send to family and friends via email or text; I use a mirrorless camera (a Canon R6ii) and a good zoom lens to take photos I want to print and display on my website (HiltonHeadBirds. com) or in galleries.” Steve’s work will be on display Sept. 17 through Oct. 16 when he is a featured artist at the Art League of Hilton Head Gallery, along with sculptor Kelly Richard and painter Louanne Barrett.

Mural in La Rochelle, France

Prague

Men of Apollonas in Naxos, Greece

Steve Edelstein with his wife, Kathi Williams, in LaRochelle, France

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Globetrotting with Georgene Schnorf

From her roots in Akron, Ohio, to her adventures across the globe, Georgene Schnorf's life story is a journey of embracing the unexpected. Moving to Sun City Hilton Head in 2007 after stints in California and Pennsylvania, Georgene sought warmth and found a community to call home. Georgene's passion for travel was kindled by her grandfather, a sailor who circled the globe seven times on tall ships. His tales of exotic locales like Kilimanjaro and the Straits of Magellan set the course for her future adventures. With two trips a year, Georgene’s travel itinerary is as packed as it is diverse. She often travels solo, preferring the intimate setting of Tauck Small Group Tours. This style of travel has allowed her to meet incredible people, some of whom she continues to meet long after the trips end. Upcoming trips include visits to Egypt, Petra, the Panama Canal and Spain.

A journey to Africa

One of Georgene’s most profound experiences came from a trip to Africa in 2019. Initially not an outdoors person, she ventured to see Kilimanjaro but ended up enchanted by the vast landscapes, the wildlife in their natural habitat and the people she met. This trip turned into a spiritual journey, moving her to tears daily, and left her with a deep desire to return.

“Everyone should experience that once in their life,” she said.

Conquering the Drake Passage

Another memorable expedition was her 2022 journey to Antarctica, inspired by the novel Ice Station Zebra. The voyage across the infamous Drake Passage was tumultuous, with 30-foot swells for over 24 hours, challenging even the most seasoned travelers. Despite the hardships, the tranquility and purity of Antarctica’s environment made the journey worthwhile, though she wishes she had undertaken this adventure at a younger age.

“The quietness, bright blue sky and the clean, crisp, dry air was unexpected,” she said.

A life changed by travel

Georgene’s travels have taught her much about herself and the world. Standing at Uluru in Australia during a thunderstorm and witnessing a sudden rainbow, she was reminded of the beauty of being present in the moment — a sentiment she emphasizes for all travelers.

“You can only smile and be thankful you are there in that moment, even with tears rolling down your cheeks,” Georgene said. “When you travel, be open; you are not at home: try new things, meet and talk to everyone, listen and embrace the moment. Take photos, but remember to put down your camera and be where you are at that moment in time. If you don’t, you might just miss the rainbow.”

Travel advice

When aboard a cruise ship, if you notice the crew has strategically placed seasickness bags every few feet in the hallway, and all the balcony furniture has been secured indoors, brace yourself for potentially rough seas ahead. This setup usually signals that the crew anticipates significant ship movement, so it’s wise to prepare accordingly.

Georgene Schnorf at Cape Renard in the Antarctic

Balloon safari in Maasai Mara, Kenya

Antarctica

Uluru (Ayer's Rock) in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in Australia

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Dubrovnik, Croatia

Skara Brae, a stone-built Neolithic settlement in the Orkney archipelago of Scotland

Santorini, Greece

Exploring with the Rosensteins

Noah Rosenstein and his wife, Mary Helen, are seasoned travelers with a zest for exploring the world's natural wonders and historical sites. From their early years in Brooklyn, N.Y., to the quiet town of Port Henry, N.Y., to settling down in Sun City Hilton Head in 2006, their life story is woven with diverse cultural threads and enriched by their shared passion for travel.

Passport to life

Traveling is more than a hobby for Noah and Mary; it's a way of life. They journey abroad two to three times annually, motivated by a desire to experience new cultures, explore historical sites and encounter wildlife. Some of their favorite destinations include Iceland, with its dramatic volcanoes, glaciers and waterfalls; Croatia's historic sites and the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park; and Greece, where ancient ruins beckon. They've also enjoyed the cultural depths of Great Britain, the picturesque landscapes of Italy and the unique wildlife encounters in Churchill, Canada. Their first international adventure began in 1969 with a trip to St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands, sparking a lifelong passion for exploration. Since then, every destination has offered them unique experiences and cherished memories.

New frontiers

Looking ahead, the Rosensteins plan to visit New Zealand and Australia to explore new environments and observe the distinctive wildlife. They also dream of trekking to Machu Picchu and exploring the Galapagos Islands to experience the majestic Inca ruins and rich biodiversity. For Noah and Mary, travel is about the adventure of discovering new places and meeting new people. They most enjoy the thrill of seeing exotic birds and wildlife, absorbing the essence of different cultures and accumulating experiences that enrich their understanding of the world.

Travel advice

The Rosensteins emphasize the importance of thorough research before traveling. Understanding the local weather, knowing the peak tourist seasons, being aware of potential dangers from wildlife and familiarizing oneself with the local cuisine and currency are crucial for enhancing the travel experience. Their methodical approach allows them to fully immerse themselves in each destination, making each trip as enriching and safe as possible. LL

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Mary Helen and Noah Rosenstein at St. Anthony, Canada

Just roll with it

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO A PERFECTLY IMPERFECT GETAWAY.

STORY BY GREGORY P. THOMAS

wWhether by land, sea or air, the secret to a perfect getaway lies in embracing the imperfections. After all, you're not just traveling to reach a destination; you're gathering stories for the next family get-together. So buckle up, ship out and fly away — adventure (and misadventure) awaits!

BY LAND:

BY LAND: Road trippin' rhapsody

Ready for an epic road trip? Before you hit the gas and cruise down the freeway, there's an art to preparing for the perfect car journey — a blend of overpacking, over-snacking and overwhelming your passengers with diverse tunes. Whether you're gearing up for a weekend getaway or a cross-country expedition, mastering the logistics of road trip readiness can elevate your adventure from mundane to memorable.

overpacking, over-snacking and overwhelming your passengers with diverse emergency pit stops at Walgreens or the nearest Walmart keeps the

Don't leave home without it … literally: Begin your packing by tossing in everything but the kitchen sink. Yes, seriously — everything. Sidestepping emergency pit stops at Walgreens or the nearest Walmart keeps the momentum going strong. As for maps? Consider them optional. After all, getting lost is not just part of the fun; it doubles the adventure.

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Snack-attack strategy: Embrace diversity in your snack selection. Stock up with enough treats to feed a small nation — blend salty, sweet, crunchy and, yes, even that indescribably stale cracker hiding in your pantry. A varied snack stash keeps everyone in the car content. Plus, remember the golden rule of road-tripping: calories consumed in a moving vehicle magically vanish (scared off by road bumps, no doubt). Entertainment essentials: Craft the ultimate playlist, spanning every imaginable genre. Toss in some opera to serenade the highways, and add a dash of polka to energize the prairies. Thinking about audio books? Opt for the longest, most monotonous ones — they're perfect for lulling passengers into a peaceful slumber so you can enjoy your Wawa coffee in peace.

Roadtrippers’ report

LOCAL Life staff picks for the cleanest restrooms, best gas stations, most scenic drives and more.

GAS STATIONS WITH THE CLEANEST RESTROOMS

1. Buc-ee’s

2. Parker’s Kitchen

3. Wawa

Hit or miss: RaceTrac, QuikTrip, Pilot Flying J, Spinx, Love’s Travel Stops, Murphy USA, Maverik

Avoid: Horror flick restrooms, under-construction, storage areas, damaged doors, overflowing trash cans, fragrance festivals, single-ply torture chambers, artistic expression stall walls

3. Parker’s Kitchen

Hit or miss: Sheetz, RaceTrac, QuikTrip, Circle K, Pilot Flying J

Avoid: Suspicious sushi, forever pretzels, sad salads, incognito eggs, roller-grill relics

GAS STATIONS WITH THE BEST FOOD

1. Buc-ee’s 2. Wawa

GREAT RESTAURANTS OFF THE INTERSTATE

1. Loveless Cafe off Interstate 40 near Nashville

2. Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que off I-35 near Kansas City

3. Dooky Chase’s Restaurant off I-10 in New Orleans

4. Lambert's Cafe off I-55 in Sikeston, Mo.

5. Dixie Crossroads off I-95 in Titusville, Fla.

Avoid: Tourist traps, ghost town diners, desperation buffets, one-star wonders, theme-overload cafés

BEST REST STOPS IN THE SOUTHEAST

1. I-75 Welcome Center in Georgia, north of the Florida border

2. I-10 Welcome Center near Pensacola

3. Alligator Alley Rest Stops, along I-75 in the Everglades

4. Dale Earnhardt Sr. Memorial Rest Stop along I-85 near Charlotte

5. Tuscaloosa Rest Area in Alabama

MOST SCENIC DRIVES IN THE SOUTHEAST

1. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

2. Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi to Tennessee

3. Overseas Highway, Florida Keys

4. Cherohala Skyway, Tennessee and North Carolina

5. Great Smoky Mountains Drive, Tennessee and North Carolina

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BY SEA: Cruising toward catastrophe

Ahoy there, ye brave souls ready to conquer the undulating seas! Embarking on a cruise isn’t just about sipping Mai Tais while basking under the equatorial sun. It’s an odyssey peppered with unexpected thrills, exquisite pains and the art of maritime survival.

Whether you're a salty sea dog or a cruise cub, navigating the treacherous waters of cruise planning is no small feat.

Cabin fever feats: When booking your cruise cabin, bypass the top-deck opulence and the bottom-deck spookiness. Opt for the Goldilocks zone in the middle decks — high enough to avoid the eerie engine hum but low enough so the ocean remains a pleasant mystery. When choosing a cruise line, consider one that matches your style and spirit of adventure.

Nautical elegance: Packing for a cruise isn’t just throwing clothes into a suitcase — it’s an art form of sartorial precision. Ensure your wardrobe is prepared for every event the high seas might throw your way, from the captain's formal dinner to a pirate-themed mixer (because, why not?). As for footwear, while traditional style dictates shoes as the foundation of an outfit, why not embrace the barefoot chic look that's all the rage on luxury decks? Not only is it fashion-forward, but you’ll also find it surprisingly practical for tiptoeing around those deceptively slippery ship decks.

Embrace the waves: Think of seasickness as the sea’s way of keeping things interesting — just another splash of character in its vast, salty personality. While it may sway your equilibrium like a pendulum, consider it a natural part of your immersive oceanic experience, like a dance with the waves where you don’t always lead. Embrace these rollicking moments as your badge of maritime resilience and a chance for impromptu social clubs at the ship's railing.

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BY AIR: High-flying hijinks

Welcome aboard our flight into the lofty world of air travel, where the skies aren’t just friendly — they can be outright theatrical. From the ground up, your journey is an art form. Fasten your seatbelts and prepare for takeoff.

Baggage blunders: The art of packing transcends mere necessity — it's about preparedness and poise. Always treat your checked luggage as though it might take a separate vacation. Curate your carry-on with the essentials: all medications, a designer swimsuit for impromptu dips in exotic pools and a tailored ensemble for spontaneous gala dinners. A well-prepared traveler embraces spontaneity with style.

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Security line limbo: The security line is the real pre-flight entertainment. Practice your “taking off shoes while balancing on one foot” routine. Bonus points if you can unpack your laptop, disassemble your carry-on and chug that forgotten water bottle simultaneously. Transform the security checkpoint experience into a display of precision and flair.

In-flight finesse: While the middle seat might be seen as a chance to get up close and personal with humanity, let's be honest: nothing screams "luxury" quite like a bit of elbow room and a window or aisle seat to yourself. As for emotional movie moments, keep the tears classy — a single, silent tear is chic; a sobbing mess can be less so.

EXCEPTIONAL AIRPORT DINING

1. One Flew South — Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International (ATL)

2. Tortas Frontera — Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

3. The Salt Lick BBQ — Austin-Bergstrom International (AUS)

4. Legal Sea Foods — Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)

5. Cotto — LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

6. Cask & Larder — Orlando International Airport (MCO)

7. Bud and Marilyn's — Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

8. 1897 Market — Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

9. Root Down — Denver International Airport (DEN)

10. Classified — Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

GREAT AIRPORT BARS

1. The Centurion Lounge (13 airports including CLT and ATL)

2. Tootsie's Orchid Lounge — Nashville International Airport (BNA)

3. Reilly’s Daughter — Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)

4. Book & Bourbon — Louisville Muhammad Ali International (SDF)

5. Portermill — Des Moines International Airport (DSM)

6. Bar Sazerac — Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY)

7. Boulder Beer Tap House — Denver International Airport (DEN)

8. Deep Blue Sushi — John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

9. Great Lakes Brewing — Cleveland Hopkins International (CLE)

10. Captain Jack’s Tavern — Charlotte Douglas International (CLT) LL

SAVOR THE JOURNEY While Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is known for its bustling atmosphere, it also has some of the finest dining options available in any airport. Among these, One Flew South stands out as the premier choice for travelers seeking a gourmet meal before their flight. Other good options at ATL include Paschal’s, Ecco and Atlanta Chophouse.

One Flew South

Deep Blue Sushi

Packing like a pro

CHECK TSA REGULATIONS

If packing for your carry-on, always doublecheck TSA regulations. Certain flights may also have varying carry-on size restrictions.

ROLLS OVER FOLDS

Tightly rolling your clothes will save space compared to folding. Lay your backpack horizontally when packing folded items, which can be layered on top of rolled clothes.

ADDITIONAL STORAGE

Use additional pockets to keep accessories or to store smaller bags. This will also allow for easy access to your TSA-regulated toiletry bag.

SQUEEZE IN BETWEEN

Accessories, undergarments, and swimwear can be folded up and fit into the smaller in-between spaces in your bag.

PRO TIP

WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION

It's best to distribute the weight of all your items to prevent any straining while you carry your backpack.

Your lightest items can go at the top and further away from your back.

Pack the heaviest items in the middle and closest to your back.

Medium-weight items should go at the very bottom of your bag since heavier items will compress them.

Packing cubes help organize your suitcase and make it easier to find items without disrupting everything else.

TOILETRIES

Organize your toiletries and cosmetics with smaller bags for easier packing. You can also throw some of your accessories into separate containers.

ELECTRONICS

Keep all you electronics together in a small bag to prevent cords from getting lost or tangled up.

Place small items, like socks or undergarments, inside your shoes to save space. Keep dirt off the rest of your belongings by keeping your shoes in a bag.

LAYERING UP

Bulky clothes, like sweaters and pullovers, can be folded and laid on top of the rolled items.

Heavier belongings should be placed at the bottom of your suitcase.

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THE EUPHORIA OF THIN AIR Machu Picchu

iSTORY + PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROLYN MALES

June 1995

I am standing in the early morning light by a large pyramidal rock 8,000 feet up in the Peruvian Andes, my hands pressed against its gray surface. I hadn’t expected to find myself here in the ruins of the ancient city of Machu Picchu again, this time seeking a mystical experience. A year earlier I had wandered past this very spot, watching a coterie of New Agers getting vibes off this same chunk of granite. Later that night they had swarmed the bar at my Cuzco hotel, and over Pisco sours, their eyes aglow, they spoke of spiritual vortexes and healings experienced among the ancient Incan ruins. At the time, I’d found their rapturous reports a tad over the top, although to be truthful, the dizzying altitude, combined with the intoxicating magnificence of this long-abandoned 15th century citadel, had unleashed a childlike urge to twirl around the ceremonial plaza, skip through stone doorways and dance along the stone terraces –– all wrong in this context. Happily, I had resisted the impulse. Everything leading to my second trip here had been earth-bound, rooted in the hardship of other lives. Before my arrival I’d been traveling with an anti-poverty group visiting settlements of makeshift huts on the windswept rim of the altiplano above La Paz in Bolivia. Now during my three-hour train ride up from Cuzco in Peru’s Sacred Valley to this UNESCO World Heritage site, I’d been noting the abandoned buildings tagged with graffiti by the Shining Path, the violent insurgent group who’d been wreaking violence in rural villages.

Then the engineer blew a long whistle and slammed on the brakes. With a loud bang and a jolt, the train screeched to a halt. Windows exploded, sending showers of glass shards over the Italian track team that had been sitting in the front rows of our car. The men brushed themselves off and scrambled out with the rest of us to survey the damage: One crumpled bus and its distraught driver were flanked by a handful of men who’d been trying to push the disabled vehicle out of danger, plus our unhappy train engineer with his wrecked railway car. No one, except for a few minor cuts on the runners, had been hurt. Forty minutes later the carcass had been heaved off the rails, and we journeyed on.

That afternoon, when my traveling companion, photographer Pam Taylor, and I arrived at Machu Picchu, we hired a local guide to take us around. Francisco quickly swept us from

today’s world into the past as he offered up stories, sometimes dramatically acted out, about the everyday lives of those long ago farmers who worked their terraced plots, priests who carried out religious rites and the Incan royals who had built the town as a retreat. They'd abandoned it a century later for reasons unknown, just before the Spanish conquistadors tore the empire apart. Tangles of trees and heavy vegetation had grown up, enveloping the granite and limestone buildings and plazas, forgotten by all but a few locals until one pointed out the ruins to Yale professor Hiram Bingham in 1911. A year later the site had been cleared, and restoration was underway.

A strange transit

Now primed for a transcendent moment by Francisco’s tales yesterday, Pam and I approach the Sacred Rock. Skepticism wars with euphoria inside me as I edge my toes closer, close my eyes and lean in. At first there’s only the sensation of flesh against the hard surface. Then it happens. My head feels lighter and lighter, and then my body rapidly follows. Up, up the mountain I go as if being transported on the wings of a rapid-transit angel. The world falls away, and I enter a realm of light. I waver there and then as silently as I ascended, my feet land back down on earth. I open my eyes and step back. I, cynic, skeptic or however you want to label it, have become a believer. I look over at Pam, and from the rapturous look on her face, it appears as if she’s undergone a similar experience.

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Crackling with energy, we leave the confines of Machu Picchu and hike over to Huayna Picchu, a peak that towers 850 feet above the ancient ruins. At this early hour, with much of the Andes still in purple shadows, we make our way across the swaying rope bridge to the mountain’s base. Then we begin our climb up steps carved from the rock, set in thickets of ferns amid yellow, pink and purple blooms. The steps, slippery with lichen, require careful, slow navigation, especially as we skirt around less hardy souls, who’ve plopped down on the stones, huffing and puffing in the thin air. “How much longer?” we ask trekkers already on their way down. “An hour” seems to be the standard answer. But not for a group of gray-haired Germans, who come up behind us at a fast clip, their walking sticks clinking along the rocky terrain. They quickly pass out of sight.

To get to the summit, we snake our bodies through a narrow crevice. (We later learn we’ve taken the hard way. An easier passage lies further down the trail.) If we weren’t panting from the climb, once atop, the endless view of the Andes, green against an azure sky with white roads zigzagging down their sides, takes our breath away. We are alone as we find a small ledge and sit in contemplative silence, watching condors circle over the gray ruins of Machu Picchu fanned out below.

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Freedom 307

Then a disembodied male voice shatters the silence.

“Take this, will ya mates?”

The sound seems to be coming from the vertical tunnel of rock we had shimmed through. I look over to see the neck of a guitar, encased in woven Peruvian material, slowly inching up from the hole. I stand up to grab it. “This too, mate.” A mysterious black box emerges next, followed by its owner, a long-haired Brit. For a long moment he looks around at the glorious panorama; and then with great flourish he unwraps his guitar and plugs it into the black box. Ah, an amplifier! “You thought you came up here for the peace and quiet,” he says with a laugh. Then standing with his feet apart, his body silhouetted against the sky, he pumps out “Purple Haze.” And that old Hendrix tune, strangely enough, feels just right. Afterwards, he settles himself down on a boulder, and strumming a few chords, he speaks of traveling through South America, earning his way by playing his guitar in town squares. Then he adds a coda, alluding to some mysterious dealings in the gem trade. “Wanna come along?” he asks. We politely decline.

Just before we made our way down, he promises a last song. “I gotta play this one.” Led Zeppelin’s Stairway to Heaven fills the air. And yes, we’ve been transported. Real, surreal and ethereal in one short trip. LL

THE BEST TRAVEL REWARDS CREDIT CARDS IN 2024 Maximize your miles

STORY BY GREGORY P. THOMAS

wWhen it comes to choosing the best travel rewards credit cards, travelers are looking for ways to earn free flights, hotel stays and other travel perks more efficiently. The best travel rewards credit cards not only offer great earning potential but also provide additional benefits that can enhance your travel experience. Here's a rundown of the top travel rewards credit cards available in 2024, considering their earning rates, benefits and overall value.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

This card stands out as a favorite among travel rewards credit cards. It offers an impressive return on both travel and dining expenditures, providing substantial value that justifies its $95 annual fee with ease. Cardholders benefit from the flexibility of redeeming points for travel through Chase at a rate of 1.25 cents each, enhancing the purchasing power of their rewards. Additionally, the option to transfer points to one of Chase's 14 airline and hotel partners further amplifies the card's utility, allowing for even greater versatility and potential savings in travel planning.

The Platinum Card from American Express

If you seek luxury travel perks, this card is unparalleled. It provides a lavish suite of benefits, including extensive annual credits, unmatched access to airport lounges worldwide and elite status with Hilton and Marriott. Additionally, it offers robust shopping protections, among numerous other advantages. Although the card carries a substantial annual fee ($695), the wealth of premium perks it offers can significantly outweigh the cost for frequent travelers who maximize its potential.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

This card epitomizes simplicity and robust rewards, making it an excellent option for most travelers. It offers a straightforward rewards structure: earn 2x miles on every purchase, without the need to track specific bonus categories. This makes it the perfect choice for those who prefer a hassle-free approach to earning travel rewards, particularly suitable for busy individuals. The annual fee is $95.

Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card

Ideal for dedicated Southwest Airlines customers, this card goes beyond merely increasing your rewards balance. It significantly enhances your flying experience with the airline. Cardholders enjoy benefits like annual travel credits, upgraded boarding options and bonus points on their cardmember anniversary, which can translate into faster earning of reward flights. The annual fee is $149.

Citi Premier Card

This card is a standout option in the travel-card market with a broad network of travel partners and consistent earning rates across multiple categories. With the same number of points accrued for spending at gas stations, restaurants, supermarkets, airlines and hotels, it's an excellent choice for beginner travel cardholders seeking a straightforward points system. This card simplifies rewards accumulation without sacrificing the potential for valuable travel experiences. The annual fee is $95.

iTake a daycation

DISCOVER THE REGION’S PREMIER HOTELS FOR A REJUVENATING DAY VISIT — NO OVERNIGHT STAY REQUIRED.

STORY BY GREGORY P. THOMAS

In today's fast-paced world, finding time for a lengthy vacation can be a challenge. However, the concept of a "daycation" offers a refreshing solution. Imagine indulging in the luxury and relaxation of a vacation without the hassle of packing bags or enduring long travel times. By purchasing a day pass at one of the region's premier hotels through resortpass.com, locals can escape the daily grind and enjoy a slice of paradise just a short distance from home.

Soak up the sun at Sonesta Resort with a zero-entry pool, an adult-only tranquility pool and a relaxing hot tub. Explore a culinary haven with diverse dining options, perfectly complemented by the indoor and outdoor ambiance. Day pass: $69

Weekly pass: $160 Day room: $180

HILTON HEAD ISLAND

Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort

Enjoy a luxurious daycation at Omni Hilton Head with three swimming pools, hot tubs, premium beach access and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Bump it up a notch by reserving a premium cabana, complete with a comfy couch, chaise lounges, complimentary waters and snacks. Whether you're lounging on the beach or enjoying a swim in the sparkling pools, Omni Hilton Head is the ultimate day retreat.

Day pass: $75

Pool daybed: $150

Cabana: $400

Dive into relaxation with three outdoor pools, unwind in the hot tub, stroll along the beach or rejuvenate with a treatment at the Heavenly Spa. Savor fresh "farm and sea to table" cuisine at onsite restaurants, or sip a poolside cocktail.

Day pass: $45

Daybed: $75

Double lounger: $175

Cabana: $100

Oceanfront cabana: $200

Sonesta Resort Hilton Head

The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa

Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort

Sonesta Resort Hilton Head

The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa

Local Franchises Available

Your concrete pavers, like any exterior hardscape surface, are exposed to the harmful effects of weathering. Here in the Lowcountry, our unique coastal climate is one of high humidity, salty precipitation, and intense UV rays that impact your pavers in an extreme way. These harsh environmental conditions accelerate their discoloration, deterioration, and instability, all of which affect their structural functionality and appearance.

Recognizing the below signs of a paver driveway in need of restoration is vital to extending its life:

• That white chalk-like appearance on your pavers is called Efflorescence. This is caused when moisture containing dissolved salts is brought to the surface. It is naturally occurring, yet very unattractive.

• The growth of vegetation or an insect infestation is the first sign the joint sand is failing.

• The presence of mold and mildew, as well as faded colors, indicates unprotected pavers.

Our team has the knowledge, experience, and professionalism to restore your paver driveway to its former beauty. Call today for your free estimate.

SAVANNAH

Thompson Savannah

Experience a slice of modern luxury at Thompson Savannah, perfectly situated where the Historic District meets the Eastern Wharf. Enjoy a swim, relax in a cabana or dine at the Bar Julian Rooftop Bar and Fleeting Restaurant. Wrap up your daycation at the rooftop bar, offering spectacular views and creative cocktails. Day pass: $50 Cabana: $210

Homewood Suites by Hilton Savannah Historic District

Take in panoramic riverfront views at Homewood Suites, featuring a rooftop with a heated pool, live music and entertainment. Whether with family or friends, this venue promises memorable sunset views and a vibrant atmosphere. Day pass: $50

The Cabana Club at The Alida Immerse yourself in Southern hospitality at The Cabana Club, where modern touches meet timeless elegance. Enjoy the outdoor pool, Southern-inspired fare and craft cocktails at this peaceful retreat from the city bustle. Day pass: $45 Cabana: $300

Andaz Savannah Unwind at Andaz Savannah, known for its blend of local charm and urban flair. Refresh in the pool, relax in a luxurious cabana, and recharge at 22 Square Restaurant and Bar— a day here is a day well spent. Day pass: $30 Cabana: $250

Relax at the stylish Kimpton Brice, with its year-round pool located in a serene garden. Enjoy poolside cocktails and Italian cuisine from Pacci Italian Kitchen + Bar, making it an ideal spot for a refreshing daycation. Day pass: $50

Kimpton Brice Hotel

Ascending beyond first-class

PRIVATE JET TRAVEL HAS EVOLVED FROM AN EXCLUSIVE LUXURY FOR THE ULTRA-WEALTHY TO A MORE ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL OPTION.

STORY BY SHEILA PAZ

iImagine a world where luggage never goes missing and TSA lines are a thing of the past. Sounds idyllic, doesn't it? In the realm of air travel, chartering a private jet represents the zenith of luxury and exclusivity. We sat down with Andy Meers from MAVCO Jet Charters, an aircraftrental service on Hilton Head Island, to explore the benefits of private air travel.

Takeoff on your terms

Foremost, private flying offers unmatched convenience and privacy. Forget the bustling crowds and security lines of typical airports — not to mention the anxiety over misplaced baggage. With private charters, a car takes you right to your aircraft, ensuring you're airborne swiftly and effortlessly. The best part? Your schedule is completely flexible. Whether you need to depart last-minute or prefer not to arrive hours before takeoff, private flights cater to your needs. Andy ensures his jets are ready an hour before departure, significantly reducing any delays related to maintenance. Should a delay occur, guests are informed before they even leave their homes.

POWERHOUSE PERFORMER

Boundless luxuries

Once you're aboard the luxury of private flying unfolds in endless abundance. Each journey promises tranquility, with spacious cabins crafted for ultimate comfort and elegance. Feeling hungry mid-flight? Move beyond standard airline snacks. When flying private, culinary options know no bounds — from Johnnie Walker Blue on the rocks to freshly prepared filet mignon, your gastronomic wishes are fulfilled. Andy shared a memorable experience where his team transformed a jet into a festive venue for a family attending a Taylor Swift concert in Los Angeles — showcasing the boundless customization available. Moreover, jets like the Gulfstream G700 and G800 even offer onboard showers, allowing guests to arrive refreshed and ready for their next adventure.

Direct routes

One of the most significant benefits of private aviation is the ability to travel directly from point A to point B — say goodbye to inconvenient layovers in busy hubs like Atlanta or Charlotte. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to jet from Hilton Head directly to St. Maarten without stopping in Miami? Private charters offer closer landing options to your destination, reducing the need for lengthy ground transportation. This convenience is perfect for anyone needing to visit multiple locations quickly, like business executives, allowing more time for family or work.

Blue onBlue!

Pet-friendly skies

Traveling with pets? Private jets provide a stress-free and comfortable experience for your animal companions. Unlike commercial flights, there's no need for separate cargo arrangements. Andy noted that one of his clients regularly travels with her three dogs, two bunnies and two cats from Boca Raton to Martha's Vineyard.

Ultimate air travel

Private flying epitomizes personal luxury and convenience, delivering stress-free journeys with lavish amenities. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, it’s about enjoying each moment in relaxed elegance. Private jets act as time-savers, connecting you to destinations that would otherwise be challenging with commercial air travel. Ready to take flight? Connect with Andy via email at charter@flymavco.com to learn more.

THE PRICE OF PRIVACY

The cost to charter a private jet can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of aircraft, distance of the flight, length of the trip and additional services requested. Here's a rough breakdown of the costs:

Aircraft type: Smaller jets (light jets) are usually cheaper, starting around $2,000 to $3,000 per flight hour. Mid-size jets can range from $3,000 to $6,000 per hour, while large or heavy jets, which offer more space and luxury, can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 per flight hour.

Flight distance and duration: The longer the flight and the more fuel required, the higher the cost. For example, a short one-hour flight on a light jet might cost around $2,500 per hour, while a cross-country flight in the U.S. on a heavy jet could cost upwards of $30,000 per hour.

Trip length: For round trips where the plane can return empty, you may only pay for the time in the air. However, if the plane has to stay and wait for you or return to pick you up, additional costs for crew accommodation, landing fees and aircraft parking might be charged.

Additional costs: Catering, ground transportation, in-flight amenities and sometimes even de-icing in colder climates can add to the total cost. International flights might also incur higher fees due to international handling and additional operational charges.

Empty legs: If you can book an "empty leg" flight, where the jet is repositioning or returning empty from a previously booked charter, you can save significantly, sometimes up to 75 percent off the regular charter cost. LL

bBuckle up for a road trip adventure that redefines the mundane travel experience. Whether it's a colossal coffee pot or a car once owned by Elvis Presley, this journey through the Southeast's roadside attractions promises to surprise and delight with its collection of the odd, the whimsical and the downright extraordinary. LL

Quirky roadside discoveries

TAKE AN UNFORGETTABLE ROAD TRIP ADVENTURE TO THE SOUTHEAST’S UNIQUE ATTRACTIONS.

STORY BY TASHA ESSELSTEIN

Location: Gaffney, S.C. (266 miles from HHI)

Behold the Peachoid, a million-gallon water tower sculpted into a giant peach, complete with a leaf and stem. Constructed with 10 million pounds of concrete and 50 gallons of paint, this landmark celebrates Gaffney’s rich peach heritage. Make sure to snap a photo beside this monumental fruit.

South Carolina exploration

STUMPHOUSE MOUNTAIN TUNNEL

Location: Walhalla, S.C. (302 miles from HHI)

Explore the hauntingly incomplete Stumphouse Tunnel, a relic of the pre-Civil War era Blue Ridge Railroad project. Paired with nearby Issaqueena Falls, it now is a park in Walhalla, offering a perfect pit stop for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

BMW ZENTRUM

Location: Greer, S.C. (256 miles from HHI)

Drive into the world of automotive excellence at BMW's exclusive North American museum. Explore a series of inspiring exhibits on your own, uncovering milestones in racing and touring, and come face-to-face with rare and historic models, including the iconic Isetta "Bubblecar."

PEACHOID

Sea Cloisters, the Oceanfront Jewel on Hilton Head Island, offers the closest most panoramic Atlantic Ocean Beachfront views. Fabulous 3 Bed, 3 Bath Penthouse Villa that was completely renovated in 2017 and 2018. Rebuilt from the studs out including all new electrical, plumbing, HVAC, kitchen, and bathrooms. Designerdecorated with beautiful coastal furnishings. Sea Cloisters offers 64 Oceanfront Villas with a security gate and an Oceanfront swimming pool. Perfect permanent home, second home, or vacation rental.

COLUMBUS COLLECTIVE MUSEUMS, LUNCH BOX MUSEUM

Location: Columbus, Ga. (279 miles from HHI)

Relive your childhood at this museum containing over 3,000 lunchboxes and 1,000 thermoses, featuring memorabilia like the valuable Toppie elephant lunchbox from the 1960s. The nostalgia is palpable, with lunchboxes from floor to ceiling.

TINY DOORS ATL

Location: Atlanta (286 miles from HHI)

Discover Atlanta’s creativity through Tiny Doors ATL, a city-wide installation of pint-sized doors. Use the provided map and augmented reality features on Instagram to find and interact with these miniature marvels scattered throughout the city. Georgia's roadside wonders

OLD CAR CITY U.S.A.

Location: White, Ga. (331 miles from HHI)

Step into a sprawling 34-acre museum of over 4,000 American cars, including Elvis Presley’s last ride. Wander among vintage cars and relics from the early 20th century, and perhaps leave with an iconic photograph or a story to tell.

BACKYARD SCHOOL BELL

Location: Angier, N.C. (300 miles from HHI)

Experience the charming sound of history at the annual "Ringing of the Bells Celebration," featuring a collection of vintage bells from schools, churches and firehouses, all displayed for public enjoyment.

North Carolina's eccentric stops

VOLLIS SIMPSON WHIRLIGIG PARK

Location: Wilson, N.C. (331 miles from HHI)

Wander among the whirligigs and kinetic sculptures created by local artist Vollis Simpson. This 2-acre park, surrounded by the mesmerizing motion of Simpson's imaginative art, offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Tennessee's unique finds

SALT AND PEPPER SHAKER MUSEUM

Location: Gatlinburg, Tenn. (378 miles from HHI)

Marvel at a world-class collection of over 20,000 salt and pepper shakers, with an enticement: your admission fee doubles as a credit at the gift shop.

TITANIC PIGEON FORGE MUSEUM

Location: Pigeon Forge, Tenn. (392 miles from HHI)

Board a replica of the Titanic, where history springs to life with over 400 artifacts and interactive experiences, including touching iceberg-cold water and shoveling coal.

AIRPLANE SERVICE STATION

Location: Powell, Tenn. (422 miles from HHI)

Visit this service station shaped like an airplane, a nostalgic nod to creative mid-century marketing. It’s now home to John’s Barber Shop, making it the perfect place for a quick trim or a quirky photo op.

Virginia's roadside gems

DINOSAUR LAND

Location: White Post, Va. (597 miles from HHI)

Step back in time at Dinosaur Land, where over 50 life-sized dinosaur replicas offer an educational outdoor adventure, perfect for stretching your legs and sparking imagination during your road journey.

THE COFFEE POT

Location: Roanoke, Va. (440 miles from HHI)

Don’t miss this charming roadhouse with its standout 15-foot coffee pot structure, an ideal pit stop for a quick refreshment and a stretch.

Location: Virginia Beach, Va. (487 miles from HHI)

Explore an example of environmental reclamation at this park built atop a repurposed landfill, now featuring activities for all ages across its 165 acres.

MOUNT TRASHMORE PARK

That’s why they always put two blank pages at the back of the atlas. They’re for new countries. You’re meant to fill them in yourself.”

— Roald Dahl, The BFG

Cindy Chiappetta: Mapping a personal geography

STORY BY CAROLYN MALES

tTo trace the trajectory of Cindy Chiappetta’s life, a mapmaker might plot a line of roads and highways from Detroit to Hilton Head Island. However, if the artist herself were laying out her path, it wouldn’t be Rand-McNally or Google Maps style. Instead, in one corner she might glue down pieces of a city street map, embellishing them with brushstrokes of oil paint, add a dash of lines heading southeast into a maze of meandering creeks and marshes spilling into the Atlantic, its shallows feathered in pale green strokes –– all evoking memories of a distant urban life as it softens into the lush rhythms of nature.

Over the years Chiappetta’s unique map-making has spanned a variety of places — in realms both real and imaginary: Arctic ice floes; mysterious islands adrift in seas of blue, the Australian Outback, mountain ranges, tidal basins, cities. In one depiction of Rome, the largest torn piece of the map brings focus to the Borghese area, a patch of green in the center of the frame. But then a snippet of the Coliseum oddly pops up in the northwest corner above Vatican City. They all float like wayward planets in a rust-colored galaxy of yellow lights –– a strange geography, yet more evocative of the Eternal City than any conventional rendering. It comes as no surprise that Chiappetta (who with her husband, Bill, owned a shipping company) is a world traveler. When she and I meet, they are about to embark on their twentieth-something trip to Italy.

[Local Life] When you moved here from Detroit, were you thinking about art?

[Cindy Chiappetta] As a kid, I always liked drawing. When we came to Hilton Head in 1994, I started taking classes, but there wasn’t very much available at the time. But I knew a woman here who was taking classes at SCAD, and every time I flew through the Savannah airport, I’d see its display and think 'I want to do that.' So I called her up and she said, ‘Just go there. You’ll love it.’ And I said, 'wouldn’t it be weird because I’m 50 and they’re kids?’ She said, 'Oh, no. They’re just delightful. You’ll have a ball.’ I did — and I graduated in 2004.

[LL] When did your fascination with maps begin?

[CC] Around 2007 we took a trip to Australia where my sister lives. I was looking for something to read on the plane and randomly picked up this book You Are Here: Personal Geographies and Other Maps of the Imagination by Katharine Harmon. The book is all maps, some real, some artistic. The other book I picked up was Aboriginal Art, which is also maps. When I came back to the States, I started playing around, just painting. Then suddenly I stood back and thought 'this looks like Australia.' It wasn’t exact, but it was very much the same shape. That was really the piece that started it all. I began studying maps, map history, the early navigators, compass roses, and incorporating them into a batch of work.

June 18–July 19 Mon-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12-4pm and 90 minutes before every Arts Center performance Artist’s Reception: Wed, June 26 • 5-7pm Enjoy refreshments and meet the artist • Free and open to the public Gallery Walk: Friday, July 12 12-1pm Join the artist on a walk through her work

[LL] Do you ever find yourself yearning to paint something different, say portraits or marsh scenes?

[CC] Every time I think I’m done with maps, something else comes up to keep me going. I found The Atlas of Vanishing Places: The Lost Worlds as They Were and As They Are Today at the SCAD library and learned about the Mississippi River, how it changes directions, how we’ve tried to control it and how we can’t. Prisoners of Geography by Tim Marshall, one of the more recent books I read, talks about how countries like the United States are so blessed because of the water that both surrounds them and lies within them because you can get to places. For countries that have suffered, a lot has to do with geographical distance from navigational waters.

[LL] Many of your maps have their genesis in real places, yet they're some that you’ve created out of your imagination. What are you thinking about when you start a map?

[CC] Lines. How the roads are made. How a city is laid out. The graphic aspect of it as opposed to the organic meandering lines that nature makes in water, coastlines, rivers. I like that juxtaposition. That’s the primary thing. The map pieces that I collage in have more to do with the visual attraction of the map itself; the place itself is secondary. What I see is some sort of a composition derived from a particular map. It’s a jumping-off point for the artwork itself. I take a lot of poetic license.

[LL] How do you begin a composition?

Byram Germinate

[CC] Sometimes I stand there and tear up paper or a map. Then I tear the pieces some more — I love the jaggedy edges –– and throw them down on gessoed watercolor paper to create an initial composition. When I see something I like, I get out the matte medium and glue them down and put oil paint on top, sometimes letting that seep in. Or I’ve used papers embedded with string and ripped them to the size I want and let the strings hang out.

[LL] You’re a member of Art Beyond Tradition, a group of cutting-edge local artists with a current show at USCB. What can we expect to see?

[CC] We’re all abstract painters but we’re all quite different. The beautiful thing is that we don’t collaborate ahead of time. When we show up with our work on installation day and hang it, we stand, back amazed by how bright, colorful and crazy it all is. It’s what we call ‘visual theatrics.’ LL

What: Art Beyond Tradition: Visual Theatrics When: Through June 27

Where: USCB Center for the Arts, Beaufort Contact: 843-521-4145, uscbcenterforthearts.com

Other places to see Cindy Chiappetta’s work:

Maye River Gallery

Art League of Hilton Head

ART THAT ELEVATES

Fine Art Gallery Custom Picture Framing

“Today is the Day”

Featured Artist: Carylon Cooper

Redwoods

i found a bench placed just for me among ancient giants on the cal-barrel road i sat for hours, undisturbed perhaps its presence the immense girth rough corrugated bark red hue and height explain my fascination absorbed by near immortality stature draws an audience yet here, i sit alone in the heart of quiet the herd pursues the arrow marked THE BIG TREE piles back in the car pays a drive-through nabs the keepsake pic in this, as all games of life they look for the next sign

— Elizabeth Robin

Eternity Grove by Lyndsi Caulder

fashion

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

LISA STAFF STYLED

BY

BAILEY GILLIAM

STREET STYLE

Lori Trimble

MARKETING MANAGER, HILTON HEAD REGIONAL HEALTH CARE

What are you wearing?

Evelyn & Arthur

How would you describe your style?

Casual chic. I wear a lot of casual dresses in the summer, but I’m still a heel girl!

What’s your favorite travel destination?

Tuscany and Rome, Italy

What’s your ultimate bucket list travel spot? The Azores

Evelyn & Arthur

STYLIST

Family flight

Travel in style, no matter your age. Check out these from local stores and boutiques.

Island Child

Palmettoes

Maggie & Me

Island Child

STREET STYLE

John Trimble

LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER

What are you wearing?

John Bayley Clothier

How would you describe your style?

Casual golf. I wear a lot of Peter Millar and play a lot of golf.

What’s your favorite travel destination? Europe

What’s your ultimate bucket list travel spot?

New Zealand

John Bayley Clothier

FASHION NEWS

Jump for joy

Palmetto Running Company is now carrying two new Vuori jumpsuits. Who has time to pick out an outfit? The Lux Jogger Jumpsuit has a flattering V-neck, easy jogger bottom and built-in bra, all in an ultra-soft performance stretch knit. Weekends, travel days and low-key brunches are the perfect opportunities for the Pose Henley jumpsuit.

New collection: Marsh Hens

Spartina 449's latest collection of sports apparel features breathable Peruvian cotton in a mix of florals, geos and solids. The styles come in vibrant and neutral colors, with limited wrinkling, made for Lowcountry days. Mix and match polos and tanks with sporty skorts, and accessorize with Spartina's coordinating golf, tennis and pickleball accessories.

New dress in stock

Flow like the tides in this tiered, floral short-sleeved dress.

Decorative stitching on the V-neck and smocked sleeves add visual interest to this vivid all-over print. Fashioned from 100 percent cotton, this flowy 38-inch dress also includes side seam pockets. Available now at Southern Tide

Make beach-going easy

CoDiscover all the ways you can rock some serious on-the-water style at Outside Hilton Head. With these brand new swim trunks, footwear and sun protection, they are a one-stop-shop for the perfect beach day.

Ready, set, travel

As temperatures climb and outdoor activities beckon, it’s time to gear up for summer vacation adventures. Whether you’re jet-setting to Europe or going on a spontaneous road trip down Route 66, ensuring your packing list is well-equipped is essential. Here are a few of our favorite packing tips.

1. Roll clothes and pack them first

This one may be a bit obvious, but in addition to rolling clothes to save space and prevent wrinkles, packing your clothes first is key. Packing cubes also help keep outfits organized. While you may be tempted to pack shoes in the bottom, it’s easier to fit them in the odd spaces on top. To combat dirt, place them in shoe bags, or at least turn them upside down.

4. Avoid under-packing

Yes, that’s right. We all know not to over pack, but it’s just as important not to under pack. Leaving extra space for souvenirs causes items to shift, crumpling or breaking them. If you must pack less, fill empty spaces with foldable bags (for those souvenirs) or dry cleaner bags.

2. Choose your shoes wisely

When it comes to packing like a pro, start from the ground up. Since shoes are the bulkiest part of luggage, it’s important to choose them wisely. Pick out your favorite and most versatile pairs. Use the inside of solid shoes for extra storage. Nude-colored sandals or heels, sneakers and flip-flops are the most flexible shoes.

5. Make a packing list by activity

An easy way to make packing a little less daunting is to break up your list into occasions. Write out all the activities you must pack for (beach, shopping, bike ride, dinner). Once you have a better idea of what you will be doing, you can take that into account when deciding which outfits to bring. And of course, check the weather.

3. Choose travel-friendly fabrics

When traveling, choose knits and stretchy fabrics. Woven fabrics like linen, cotton or twill are more prone to wrinkles. Even if your knits get wrinkles, simply hanging them will typically eliminate the suitcase wrinkles. A steamy bathroom helps.

6. Mix and match

Pack items with similar colors and styles to mix and match so that you’ll get the maximum number of outfits out of versatile styles that you can wear in different ways. Keep this in mind when you want to bring that top that only goes with one bottom in your suitcase.

Gear Up For Summer

Gear Up For Summer

Discover

Discover

Running Company.

Our

With

'TIS THE SEA-SUN

This sculpture is made out of fiberstone and showcases many of the incredible textures that can be found on the ocean floor. It is very durable and can be hung outside. Available at Pyramids

OIL BE THERE FOR YOU

Add some coastal colors to your kitchen with this beautiful blue and white olive oil dispenser. Available at Hilton Head Olive Oils & Balsamics

IN A PINCH

This serving platter features a pretty crab design and is perfect for summer socials and outdoor parties. Available at Marsh on the May

HAPPY AS A CLAM

Get your house ready for the summer with this VIDA ocean shell bowl composed of luxury melamine by Beatriz Ball. This bowl is dishwasher safe and ideal for both indoor and outdoor entertaining. Available at Forsythe Jewelers

BY THE SEA SHORE

Decorate your kitchen for the summer with this beautiful collection of coastal dinner napkins, each featuring a unique watercolor design. Available at Lowcountry Mercantile

MAKE

A SPLASH

A calming collection of coastal decor to help brighten up your space for the summer.

DON'T BE CRABBY

These delightful dinner plates are the perfect way to add a bit of coastal flare to your kitchen. This pattern is available in dinner plates, bowls, mugs and more.

Available at Cassandra's Kitchen

I'M SHELL-SHOCKED

This pretty serving platter won't tarnish and can be chilled or heated, depending on what type of food you are serving. Perfect for serving shrimp cocktail, potato salad or hot vegetables.

Available at Gifted

SEE YOU LATER...

From Arthur Court, this alligator chip-and-dip dish is the perfect attentiongrabbing addition to your table. Use it to serve bread, cheeses and dips.

Available at Le Cookery

ONE FISH TWO FISH

This decorative coastal piece is made out of an antique glass fishing float and has a stunning hand-painted and aged fish design.

Available at Marsh & Light

5-MINUTE HISTORY

Navigating history

HILTON HEAD'S CENTURIES OF WANDERLUST AND EXPLORATION.

STORY BY RICHARD THOMAS

wWanderlust is best described as a strong urge to travel. Hilton Head Island, typically viewed as a destination, is more often seen as a place to arrive at rather than depart from — the target of wanderlust rather than its source. However, wanderlust centered on Hilton Head developed following a centuriesold pattern.

Ten thousand years ago Native Americans tracking game along the coastal plain targeted Hilton Head, a prominent sand ridge, as sea levels rose and animals gravitated

toward higher ground. As these nomadic tribes settled on the Sea Islands, their quest for new food sources and materials spurred exploration beyond their immediate surroundings. From the 1600s to the early 1800s, accounts of Native Americans in dugout canoes trading in the Bahamas and Cuba were not rare.

Early Irish Catholic church records mention priests sailing westward seeking new lands. The Norse Sagas detail Viking journeys to North America around 980 and 1020 A.D., and

a 15th-century Welsh poem commemorates Prince Madoc's 1170 voyage along the Atlantic coast into the Gulf of Mexico, eventually reaching a vast inland territory. It's plausible that Madoc explored the extensive Port Royal Sound during this journey. In 1380 Irish religious dissidents fleeing west hired Norse ships, likely landing in Chesapeake Bay or the Outer Banks, corroborated by subsequent encounters with red-haired, freckled Indians speaking a Welshlike language in the Carolina Piedmont and along the Savannah and Ohio rivers.

Richard Thomas is an owner and guide for Hilton Head History Tours and is the author of Backwater Frontier: Beaufort Country, SC, at the Forefront of American History.

ECHOES OF THE PAST Approximately 10,000 years ago, as sea levels rose, Native Americans followed migrating game to Hilton Head, a notable sand ridge on the coastal plain. These nomadic tribes eventually settled on the Sea Islands, their need for fresh food sources and materials driving them to explore further afield.

Between the 1600s and early 1800s, there were numerous reports of Native Americans navigating in dugout canoes to trade in the Bahamas and Cuba.

HISTORIC HORIZONS A panoramic view of what Dolphin Head might have looked like in the early 1520s, as seen from the deck of a ship. Following Christopher Columbus's discovery in 1492, Spanish explorers noted a major harbor at the mouth of a river. By the early 1520s they had identified an island at the location now known as Dolphin Head.

Following Columbus’s 1492 discovery, Spanish scouts noted a significant harbor at a river mouth and, by the early 1520s, identified an island at what is now known as Dolphin Head. Verrazzano's 1524 exploration further south initiated a series of unsuccessful French and Spanish colonial efforts along the southeast coast from 1525-60, recognizing Port Royal Sound's strategic importance. French and Spanish conflicts over territorial claims escalated until the 1580s.

The 1585 English settlement attempt on the Outer Banks and Drake’s 1586 raids led Spain to relinquish its Port Royal colony, clearing the way for English expansion. In 1629 King Charles named a vast territory from Chesapeake Bay to the Altamaha River "Carolana," later rechristened "Carolina" in 1663 and given to eight Lords Proprietors to develop. Meanwhile, Barbadian planters commissioned Massachusetts captain William Hilton to survey Carolina in 1663, leading to the proposed establishment of a Barbadian colony in Port Royal Sound. Although a 1667 settlement attempt was thwarted by storms, a 1669 expedition established a permanent settlement on the Ashley River in Charleston. In subsequent years Scottish Covenanters and Native American traders were drawn to Port Royal Sound, and the 1711 founding of Beaufort initiated a modern era of Hilton Head-centered wanderlust, culminating in the 1960s development of Sea Pines Plantation, which attracted a new wave of residents to its idyllic shores. LL

SPRING SOUTHERN ESTATES AND COLLECTIONS

WHAT’S FRESH IN JUNE?

Plum crazy

EXPAND YOUR MEALS WITH THE VERSATILITY OF THESE

DELIGHTFUL FRUITS.

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

Selecting the best

Here are three types of plum trees to consider:

Gulf Beauty: Suitable for warmer climates. Produces large, sweet plums.

Methley: Suitable for Southern climates. Self-pollinating with small and medium plums.

Santa Rosa: Adapts well to warm climates. Plums are large with red skin and yellow flesh.

p

Plums have a storied heritage, traced back to Neolithic times through archaeological discoveries, highlighting their longstanding role in human diets. Originating from ancient China over two millennia ago, plums have spread globally, integrating into diverse culinary traditions and becoming a staple in contemporary cooking and wellness practices. This month, dive into the rich palette of flavors, health advantages and culinary uses of this understated fruit.

Plum jam

INGREDIENTS

9 ounces plums (4 medium plums) 1/2 cup sugar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 pinch cinnamon

1 pinch ground cloves

1 pinch ground ginger

DIRECTIONS[1] Halve the plums and remove the stones, then roughly dice them. Make the pieces relatively small so any pieces of skin are small. [2] Put the plum pieces, sugar and lemon juice in a medium saucepan along with the cinnamon, cloves and ginger. Place over a medium heat and stir to dissolve the sugar. Bring the jam to a simmer, reduce the heat and simmer 5-10 minutes. Mash the plums as they soften to break them up more. [3] Remove the pan from the heat, allow to cool a minute and then skim off any foam. Transfer to your prepared clean jar and put the lid on while still hot. Leave to cool. [4] Transfer the jam to a clean jar and cover.

Health benefits

Plums are more than their well-known role as a dietary fiber source; they are nutrient powerhouses. Containing over 15 vitamins and minerals, alongside significant amounts of fiber and antioxidants, plums are especially rich in polyphenol antioxidants. These compounds help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases. Studies have shown that plums can improve blood sugar control and promote cardiovascular health by potentially reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Not just your grandparents’ remedy

Often overshadowed by their fresh counterparts, prunes (dried plums) have remarkable health benefits, particularly in enhancing digestive health and bone strength. Research indicates that prunes surpass even psyllium, a common fiber supplement, in treating mild to moderate constipation. They are a valuable source of boron, which supports bone health and reduces osteoporosis risks.

THURSDAYS 10AM – 2PM

Farm, fresh local produce, flowers, meats, dairy, seafood, honey, baked goods, pastas, sweets, specialty foods, & prepared food to enjoy at the market or take home.

Educational lectures, community outreach, kids activities, yoga, & more! Fun for the whole family!

Growing your own

Plums are part of the rose family, alongside cherries, peaches and apricots. These stone fruits require minimal upkeep once mature. If you're considering planting, early spring is ideal. Young trees take about three to six years to bear fruit, so patience is essential. Proper care includes adequate sunlight, regular watering and strategic pruning to prevent disease and encourage growth. Thinning is crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of plum trees. This practice involves removing some fruits early in their development to prevent overburdening branches and to enhance the quality of the remaining plums. Typically performed a month after blooming, thinning helps ensure a robust harvest.

Choosing and storing

When selecting plums, look for slight softness, unblemished skin and a deep color indicative of ripeness. Plums should feel heavy for their size, a sign of juiciness, and have a pleasant aroma. Store unripe plums at room temperature and ripe ones in the refrigerator to prolong freshness.

Culinary uses

Plums are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Whether eaten fresh, cooked or used as a component in dishes, they offer a unique flavor profile. From savory salsas to sweet desserts, plums can enhance a wide range of recipes. Remember to wash them before use to remove any residue, and enjoy their vibrant taste in your meals.

Explore the culinary flexibility of plums with these simple methods:

Sauté: In a medium saucepan, warm 2 tablespoons of butter and any desired flavors over medium-high heat until it begins to turn slightly golden, about 2-3 minutes. Add sliced plums and cook over medium heat until the plums slightly soften, about 5 minutes.

Bake: Bake plums in a little wine or other liquid at 375 degrees for 30-45 minutes in a baking dish covered with foil, stirring halfway through.

Grill: Place halved plums cut side down on a hot grill. Cover and cook until they're grill-marked and heated through for about 5 minutes.

Air fry: Air fry at 350 degrees for 15 minutes, turning halfway through. LL

2-STEP RECIPE

Simple roasted plums

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/8 teaspoon sea salt

4 ripe but firm red plums, washed, halved and pitted

DIRECTIONS[1] Heat oven to 400 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, vanilla, cloves and salt. Add plums to the bowl, and toss well with your hands to coat. [2] Arrange plums in a single layer on the prepared tray, cut side down. Drizzle the remaining liquid from the bowl over all. Bake for 5 minutes. Turn plums over with tongs, and bake for another 10-15 minutes. Spoon any pan juices on the plums. Serve as a side dish for chicken and pork or as a dessert with ice cream.

Local flavor

UNLOCK THE WORLD FROM YOUR KITCHEN

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

eExploring the world through food is a highlight of travel, and, fortunately, a rich variety of international cuisine is right at our doorstep. No need for a passport — local restaurants bring the world's culinary delights to you. This edition of Local Flavor provides essential cooking tips, tricks and recipes from renowned local chefs, allowing you to recreate global flavors in your own kitchen.

Make it legit

MICHAEL ANTHONY’S CUCINA ITALIANA Braciole di Maiale con Mele e Vermut

(Pork chops with apples and vermouth)

This simple yet sophisticated pork chop recipe from Michael Anthony’s offers a refined twist on your dinner table. The inclusion of apples and vermouth enhances the traditional Italian concept, adding layers of sweetness and depth to the pork.

INGREDIENTS

Two 8-10-ounce pork rib chops

1/4 cup grapeseed oil*

1/4 cup finely-minced pancetta*

1 cup medium diced and peeled yellow or red delicious apples

1/4 cup golden raisins

1/2 cup sweet vermouth

1 1/2 cups demi-glace*

1/4 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Salt and white pepper

DIRECTIONS[1] Place pork chops on a cutting board and lightly pound them using a meat pounder. [2] Heat grapeseed oil in a large, oven-safe sauté pan over high heat. Season chops with salt and pepper, place in hot oil and sauté approximately 2 minutes per side until slightly light golden brown. Add pancetta to the pan and allow pancetta to slightly brown. Once the pancetta is slightly browned, add the sweet vermouth and deglaze the pan. Add diced apples and raisins and then cover all ingredients with the demi-glace. [3] Place pan in a 450-degree oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from oven and transfer pork chops to a serving plate. [4] Return the sauce to the stovetop over medium heat. Add heavy cream and let simmer for approximately 2 minutes. Whisk in butter and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper to taste. When sauce becomes smooth and slightly thick, spoon sauce over chops and serve immediately.

Ingredients are available in The Market at Michael Anthony’s.

eats CHEF'S FAVORITE THINGS

Local chefs and cooks share their go-to countries for culinary inspiration:

PALMETTO BAY SUNRISE CAFE

“France. Julia Child, hollandaise, Mornay sauce – everything is rich, gooey and beautiful.”

– Leslie Stewart

CHARLIE’S COASTAL BISTRO

“My time abroad in Italy made a huge impression on how I view good cooking. The freshest and simplest ingredients are the best. I am definitely drawn toward Mediterranean flavors that are pervasive throughout Southern Italian, Provencal and Spanish cooking. Just let the ingredients do the talking in a dish.”

– Margaret Pearman

CASSANDRA’S KITCHEN STORE

“Currently, it would be Greece. Healthy and lots of flavor.”

– Cassandra Schultz

LULU KITCHEN

“I would say Italy because it has the cleanest food, meaning not a lot of chemicals or byproducts. They only make tomato sauce when the tomatoes are at peak flavor; there’s no mass production to feed the masses. Their techniques go back centuries, and they still do it the same way their great-greatgrandmothers did it.”

– Chef Scott Hastings

PALMETTO BLUFF CLUB

“For me, I always revert back to my homeland of Australia. Australia is truly a multicultural country, filled with immigrants from all over the world. With our proximity to Southeast Asia, we are heavily influenced by the fresh vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, but we also have a very large Greek population, so there is an amazing Mediterranean presence in our cuisine.”

— Chef Rhy Waddington

Question:

Dear Chef, I tend to over-salt and sometimes over-season my dishes as I experiment with flavors while cooking. How can I ensure I don’t add too much salt?

Answer:

“The first thing to remember is to season throughout cooking to prevent overseasoning. This way, you can always adjust.

Taste as you go, and add as needed. The second thing many people don’t consider is what kind of butter a dish might use. Try only to use unsalted butter so you can control the amount of salt that goes into the dish.”

– Chef Josh Castillo, Charlie’s Coastal Bistro

Seasoning tips

Season in layers: Rather than adding all your seasonings at one time, build flavors in layers. Start with a light hand, and season as you go. For example, add a pinch of salt when sweating onions, a bit more during the cooking process, and adjust finally before serving. This method helps in achieving a more balanced and integrated taste.

Fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices have more potent flavors. Replace dried herbs and spices every six months to ensure they retain their strength and quality. When possible, opt for fresh herbs, which provide a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t match.

Taste as you cook: It's the only way to really know what your dish needs. This habit will help you understand better how flavors develop over time and how different ingredients interact.

Balance with acid and sweetness: If a dish tastes too salty or spicy, add an acid like lemon juice or vinegar to cut through the saltiness. If it’s too bitter, a touch of honey or sugar can help balance the flavors.

Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices and herbs from different cuisines. This can lead to wonderful flavor discoveries and add exciting variety to your cooking.

Balancing sweet and savory

bTHE SCIENCE AND ART OF FLAVOR

Balancing flavor is both a scientific technique and an artistic endeavor, informed by professional training, intuitive understanding and practical experience. It is essential to harmonize the five fundamental tastes — sweet, salty, sour, bitter and umami (savory) — with particular attention to the interplay of sweetness and saltiness.

How sweet it is

Sweetness, derived from sources such as sugar, honey, fruits and others, not only mitigates the intensity of salty, bitter and sour flavors but also tempers the spiciness of a dish, enhancing its overall palatability and complexity.

“Adding some sweetness to savory dishes always does better as opposed to just pure salt,” said Red Fish chef Melissa Coocran.

“I've found that many sauces taste kind of flat until you add a splash of honey or syrup. Another way to sweeten your dishes is with vegetables and foods that already have some sweetness to them."

Get salty

Saltiness serves two vital functions in culinary flavoring. First, it counteracts bitterness, creating a more balanced taste profile. Second, it amplifies the other flavors within a dish, especially sweetness. This is exemplified in the beloved salted caramel, where the interplay of salt and sugar achieves a perfect flavor harmony. In savory contexts, such as tomato-based dishes, salt enhances the inherent flavor of the tomatoes, making them more vibrant and robust. However, its potential in sweet dishes is frequently underutilized.

“Salt is an underrated ingredient for sweets and desserts,” said Lesli Shelly from Odd Birds Cafe & Market. “I think of salt like vanilla extract. It is a flavor enhancer that brings balance and complexity to sweet dishes. The flavors just seem to pop more when you add a little salt. We top most of our treats with a little sea salt and even use it in our house-made jam. It's a game changer." LL

7 nights a week • Dinner 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Vietri’s Lastra melamine mirrors their most popular line of Lastra and is the strongest most durable melamine we’ve ever seen. In fact, it is hard to tell it apart from true porcelain.

BOLD is the world’s brightest, clearest and strongest, best alternative to crystal. Perfectly weighted, BOLD Drinkware is a pleasure to use and features fantastically thoughtful touches.

Outset holds the innovation torch in defining and designing accessories for the ultimate grilling and entertaining experience by delivering affordable quality in a full line of “Grillware” – a collection of evocative and functional barbecue accessories.

Eat globally, dine locally

A FOODIE’S GUIDE TO INTERNATIONAL CUISINE IN THE LOWCOUNTRY.

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

tTraveling the world for culinary delights isn't always necessary. The Lowcountry brings global cuisines right to your doorstep, featuring authentic dishes rich in unique ingredients, seasonings and cooking methods from various regions. Here’s a guide to exploring international flavors locally.

CHINA

Discover the diverse and authentic tastes of Chinese regional cuisines, from spicy Sichuan to sweet Cantonese, featuring traditional dishes like xiao long bao and Peking duck.

FIND THE FLAVOR:

Hilton Head: E-Tang, Asian Bistro, Express Wok, Yummy House, Sunny China

Bluffton: Jade Garden, Chin Dynasty, Panda Chinese Restaurant, Hong Kong, China Wok Beaufort/Port Royal: China Dragon, Panda Chinese Restaurant, House of Tang, Peking Gourmet, Chinatown, New China

SOUTH KOREA

Korean meals are a symphony of flavors with dishes like bulgogi and kimchi dominating the table.

FIND THE FLAVOR:

Bluffton: A9 Hot Pot & Korean BBQ

Soup dumplings from E-Tang Asian Bistro

Bibimbap from A9 Hot Pot & Korean BBQ

THAILAND

Thai cuisine offers a collection of flavors influenced by its neighbors, with dishes like panang curry and green papaya salad.

FIND THE FLAVOR:

Hilton Head: Ruan Thai Hut, Ruan

Thai Cuisine, Thai Smile Cuisine

Bluffton: Ruan Thai Cuisine, Thai

Food by Madame Sue

Beaufort/Port Royal: Yes Thai Indeed, Papaya Thai & Sushi Bar

Panang curry with duck breast from Thai Smile Cuisine

Vegetarian pho from Saigon Cafe

VIETNAM

Vietnamese cuisine offers a complex palette of flavors, from robust pho to light spring rolls.

FIND THE FLAVOR: Bluffton: Saigon Cafe

JAPAN

Experience the subtle elegance of Japanese cuisine, where traditional staples like sushi, ramen and tempura highlight fresh, local ingredients and essential seasonings.

FIND THE FLAVOR:

Hilton Head: Hinoki, Jinya, Nakama, Fujiyama, OKKO

Bluffton: Sake House, Kobe, Fancy Sushi, Sumo Sushi, Sushi Sakana, Wasabi, Yummy Hibachi and Sushi

Beaufort/Port Royal: Sake House Beaufort, Sushi Sakana, Yummy Hibachi and Sushi

Chirashi from Hinoki Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar

MEXICO

Indulge in the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine with dishes like tacos al pastor and chilaquiles verdes.

FIND THE FLAVOR:

Hilton Head: Fiesta Fresh, Holy Tequila, Cactus Street Cantina, San Miguel’s, Blue Lagoon, Taqueria El Potrero, Cabritos, Pan Fresco Ole, Java Burrito, La Cabanita, Mi Tierra, Santa Fe Cafe, Amigos, Tienda Y Tortilleria San Jose, Tio’s Bluffton: Mi Tierra, Fiesta Fresh, Agave Sidebar, El Nuevo Vallarta, La Hacienda, La Tampiquena, Mexicali Fresh, La Mexicana, Hecho en Mexico, La Huasteca, Taqueria, Cinco, Pinchos Grill, Rio Chico

Beaufort/Port Royal: Agave, La Nopalera, Taqueria Lopez, Maria’s Mexican Kitchen, Los Hermanos, Dos Amigos

UNITED KINGDOM

Explore British cuisine with classics like fish and chips and the full English breakfast.

FIND THE FLAVOR:

Hilton Head: British Open Pub, Earle of Sandwich Pub Bluffton: British Open Pub

Ceviche de Camaron from Fiesta Fresh

Fish and chips from British Open Pub

WEST AFRICA

West African cuisine offers spicy stews and flavorful rice dishes like jollof rice and maafe.

FIND THE FLAVOR: Bluffton: Okàn

IRELAND

Enjoy the simplicity and robust flavors of Irish cuisine with dishes like Irish stew and colcannon.

FIND THE FLAVOR:

Hilton Head: Reilley’s Grill & Bar

Bluffton: Katie O’Donald’s, Kelly’s Tavern Beaufort/Port Royal: Rosie O’Grady’s Pub

Cottage pie from Reilley’s Grill & Bar

BRAZIL

Brazil's cuisine reflects its cultural diversity with dishes like picanha and moqueca.

FIND THE FLAVOR:

Hilton Head: Cowboy Brazilian Steakhouse

Signature picanha steak from Cowboy Brazilian Steakhouse

Chicken yassa from Okàn

Ackee and saltfish with boiled dumplings from Jah’Lion Grill & Bar

JAMAICA

Jamaican cuisine combines vibrant Caribbean flavors in dishes like jerk chicken and ackee and saltfish.

FIND THE FLAVOR: Hilton Head: Red Stripes, Jamaica Joe’z Beaufort/Port Royal: Jah’Nya’s, Diced Pineapple, Jah’Lion

HUNGARY

Taste Hungary’s hearty cuisine with dishes like goulash and chicken paprikash.

FIND THE FLAVOR: Hilton Head: Taste of Europe

Chimney cake from Taste of Europe

GREECE

Delight in Greek culinary traditions with dishes like moussaka and gyros.

FIND THE FLAVOR: Hilton Head: It’s Greek To Me Bluffton: Olive & Fig, CAVA

Lebanese musakhan sumac pita airline chicken served with rice from Olive & Fig Mediterranean Kitchen

GERMANY

Experience the hearty comfort of German cuisine with staples like schnitzel and currywurst.

FIND THE FLAVOR: Hilton Head: Alfred’s Restaurant

FRANCE

French cuisine is a testament to culinary finesse, featuring dishes like coq au vin and bouillabaisse.

FIND THE FLAVOR:

Hilton Head: Charlie’s Coastal Bistro, Bistro 17, Chez Georges, The French Bakery

Escargot from Charlie’s Coastal Bistro

ITALY

Savor Italian classics from pizzas to pastas in settings that mirror Italy’s charm.

FIND THE FLAVOR:

Hilton Head: Nunzio Restaurant + Bar, Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana, Pomodori, Flora’s Italian Cafe, Il Carpaccio, Gusto Ristorante, Limoncello’s Cibo Italiano, Stellini, Ombra Cucina Italiana, Piatti, Frankie Bones, Cafe Al Dente, Bella Italia, Nonna Rosa, Bricco Ristorante Italiano, GT International Cafe Bluffton: Mulberry Street Trattoria, Dolce Vita, Joelle, Frankie Bones, Fazio Cucina Italiana Beaufort/Port Royal: Panini’s on the Waterfront, Miramare Italiano, Griffin Market

Pork schnitzel from Alfred’s Restaurant

Gnocchi pomodoro from Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana

news&notes

Coming soon: Sweetwater Steamer

Get ready for Sweetwater Steamer, the newest venture from Sally and Lynden Zuniga, co-owners of Tio’s Latin American Kitchen. Located in Orleans Plaza at 37 New Orleans Road, this concept offers Lowcountry boil to-go, featuring readyto-heat buckets filled with sausage, shrimp, corn and potatoes. Perfect for locals seeking a hassle-free meal and visitors eager to experience regional flavors in their vacation rentals. Follow their progress on Facebook as they gear up for the opening.

Temporarily closed: Blacksheep

Blacksheep, a cherished Beaufort dining spot, is temporarily closing due to escalating supply chain challenges. The restaurant plans to reemerge in a new format, featuring wieners and adult snow cones. While reservations are on hold, updates on Blacksheep's next chapter will be shared on its Instagram page. Stay connected for the latest developments at blacksheeponboundary.com

Giuseppi’s celebrates 40 years with pizza giveaway

Giuseppi’s Pizza is marking its 40th anniversary by offering a free, 16-inch pizza every week for a year. Every Monday, the 40th customer at the Hilton Head location will receive this delicious reward. For more details, visit giuseppispizza.com

TripAdvisor lists area’s top restaurants

TripAdvisor released its latest rankings for Hilton Head's top five pizza and fine dining spots. Whether you're in the mood for a casual slice or an elegant meal, these establishments are worth a visit. See if you agree with the rankings by checking them out yourself.

Top 5 pizza restaurants

1. Dough Boys

2. Fat Baby’s Pizza & Subs

3. Local Pie Hilton Head

4. Bella Italia Pizza

5. Giuseppi’s Pizza & Pasta House Shelter Cove

Five best fine dining restaurants

1. Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana

2. Nunzio Restaurant + Bar

3. Links, An American Grill

4. The Jazz Corner

5. Chez Georges Bistro & Bar

Westin introduces Blue Bottle Daily Ritual

The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa has launched the Blue Bottle Daily Ritual, celebrating the local Gullah culture through the "Legend of the Blue Bottle Tree." According to Gullah folklore, blue bottles hung on trees trap evil spirits at night, which are then destroyed by morning sunlight, bringing good luck and other benefits. This daily event occurs at 4:30 p.m. at View 32, offering guests a complimentary cocktail, The Legend, in a blue bottle to honor this tradition. Non-alcoholic options are available. Guests can explore Gullah heritage further at the resort’s historical exhibit. For more details, visit marriott.com

Sommelier’s Special Selections at Michael Anthony's

Enjoy exceptional wines at Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana with Sommelier’s Special Selections, available from 5-5:30 p.m. Experience premium wines, including California chardonnays and Napa Valley cabernets, at 50 percent off menu prices. Explore selections from Italy such as amarones, brunellos and super Tuscans, with expert guidance from the staff. For reservations, visit michael-anthonys.com

In memoriam: Steve Brown

The Beaufort community is deeply saddened by the passing of Steve Brown, a cherished local restaurant owner known for his exuberant personality and commitment to helping others. Owner of Steve Brown Catering and Market on Ribaut Road and the Village Inn Pizza Parlor on Boundary Street, Brown was beloved for his kindness and generosity to customers, friends, family, industry colleagues and strangers. His guiding principle, "Never lay your head down on any day without blessing somebody's life that day," truly encapsulated his approach to life. Steve's profound impact and dedication to the community will be greatly missed.

Record attendance at TCL culinary event

The Culinary Institute of the South at Technical College of the Lowcountry hosted an open house and live recipe competition on April 6, drawing about 200 guests. The event featured the "Tastes Like Home" contest where seven contestants, including high school and institute students, competed. Lauren Wood, a baking and pastry student, won an all-expenses-paid trip to King Arthur’s baking facility in Vermont for her winning recipe, which will be featured on King Arthur’s website. The day included cooking demonstrations by faculty and alumni, presentations by King Arthur representatives and TCL staff providing information on enrollment and financial aid. More details at tcl.edu

Coming soon: Seven Brew Drive-Thru Coffee

Construction is in full swing for the Seven Brew Drive-Thru Coffee, located next to Circle K off the bridge on Fording Island Road. Originating from a coffee stand in Rogers, Arizona, in 2017, Seven Brew has grown to 216 locations nationwide. Known for hand-crafted coffees and positive vibes, Seven Brew is set to bring its unique drive-thru experience to Bluffton. For more information, visit 7brew.com

RBC Heritage concessions recap

This year’s RBC Heritage concessions posted some impressive stats. Here are some fun facts about what was sold at this year's tournament, as reported by SERG Restaurant Group.

• Over 40,000 cans of beer and over 30,000 bottles of water

• 7,602 hot dogs

• 5,937 cheeseburgers

• 811 Killer Brownies

• 700 Peanut M&M's (topping the 646 regular M&M's in the annual showdown)

• 2,780 Godfather sandwiches (from Frankie Bones’ daily lunch menu)

• 393 One Hot Mama's brisket sandwiches

• 167 Italian beef sandwiches

• 1,067 shaker salads

Support Make-A-Wish with Duck Donuts

Duck Donuts is offering a specialedition Wish Duck to benefit MakeA-Wish America. Available for $3 each, these adorable rubber ducks help fund wishes for children with critical illnesses. Duck Donuts will donate $1 from each sale to Make-A-Wish. Join the cause and spread joy through June 16 at duckdonuts.com

Now open: Boujee Bowls

Sissy Rebecca Fricks has launched Boujee Bowls, a smoothie bowl shop located at 2137 Sea Island Parkway in Beaufort, formerly the site of Beach Bums Barbecue. These bowls start with a frozen, pureed fruit base and are artistically topped with fresh fruit, almonds, chia seeds, granola and crunchy cereal, offering a nutritional boost and a satisfying meal. Each bowl features fashion-themed names like “Blouis Vuitton” and “Dolce N’ Banana.” The menu also includes overnight oats and coffee. Boujee Bowls is open Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and until sunset on Fridays and Saturdays. For updates, visit its Facebook page.

Stopbyforthefreshestseafood pairedwithoneofourseasonalselections:

2022GaiaMonographAssyrtiko(Greece)

2022BurgansAlbarino(Spain)

2022FiguiereRose(France)

Root1PinotNoir(Chile)

Charlie’s unveils hand-painted champagne bottles

Looking for a unique gift for an anniversary or birthday? Charlie’s Coastal Bistro just introduced a selection of hand-painted champagne bottles by Nancy Golson. Visit its Facebook page to see the collection, and choose a perfect gift at charliesgreenstar.com

Tragedy strikes local food truck

The Lunch Lady Food Truck suffered a devastating fire last month in the Rivers End subdivision in Okatie. The owner's husband, Brandon Meyaard, sustained severe burns and is receiving care in the MUSC burn unit ICU. For updates on Brandon’s recovery and how you can help, visit The Lunch Lady Food Truck’s Facebook page. Wishing the Meyaard family a swift recovery.

Wine Down Wednesday supports Meals on Wheels

The recent Wine Down Wednesday For A Cause event at the Village at Wexford raised $2,300 for Meals on Wheels Bluffton-Hilton Head. This organization supports homebound seniors with nutritious meals, wellness checks and companionship. Learn more at mowblufftonhiltonhead.org

New brew: Lot 9 Blackberry Gose

Lot 9 Brewing Co. has released its blackberry gose, its take on traditional gose. Infused with juicy blackberries, hints of coriander, sea salt and a tangy kick, this beer is an ideal companion for the warm weather season. Check it out at lot9brew.com

Bites Bites Quick Quick

Nuggets from the Local Food & Beverage Scene

Cactus Street Cantina donated $1,342.59 from April bowl sales to First Tee of the Lowcountry. NAMI Lowcountry was its May charity. June’s charity of the month is The Children’s Center.

Russo's Fresh Seafood Bluffton has partnered with Winebow, the leading importer of independently owned family wineries worldwide, and now carries international wines to be paired with fresh seafood selections.

In anticipation of the long, hot months ahead, Michael Anthony’s features four new appetizers, a new pasta dish and four new meat and seafood entrees.

Yelp announced the two best places to get fried chicken on Hilton Head: A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant and Annie O’s Kitchen

During May Burnt Church Distillery donated 5 percent of revenue from tours, cocktails of the month, memberships and community events to Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head Island.

The Palmetto Dunes General Store breakfast hours have been extended. Enjoy a full breakfast from 6:30-11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday through Labor Day and regular hours Monday through Friday.

Burnt Church Distillery’s space, “The Study,” got a refresh, allowing for more intimate cocktails and dinner perfect for couples, small groups and families.

The Salty Dog Cafe now offers to-go pints of ice cream.

Dough Boys Pizza Hilton Head is now open seven days a week and until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Cafe Al Dente is now open on Mondays for dinner.

The Sandbar Beach Eats received a Trip Advisor Traveler’s Choice Winner Award. Traveler’s Choice awards the top 10 percent of businesses based on reviews, ratings and saves from millions of travelers across the globe.

Top Dawg Tavern & Pizzeria’s second outside bar at the expansion is now open daily starting at 4 p.m.

The Grind Roasters started a monthly newsletter with a “coffee spotlight,” focusing on a different bean and discussing the farm, region, roast and more.

Bad Biscuit added a shaded cover to their patio space.

Corner Perk now offers a 10 percent discount to anyone who brings a reusable cup.

Jarvis Creek General Store is now open 9 a.m.-9 p.m., seven days a week.

Big Bamboo Cafe’s late-night menu is back from 9:30-11:30 p.m., Wednesdays-Saturdays.

CRUDO Modern Raw Bar is now booking through Open Table.

Pomodori Italian Eatery has a new menu for the changing season.

This summer Tiki Hut is partnering with Island Recreation Center to offer private and group sailing lessons right from the beach in front of Tiki House HHI.

Taste of Europe now offers delivery.

Hilton Head Ice Cream added new lighting to its deck for the summer season.

Bonez Bar and Grill updated its outdoor seating.

A9 Hot Pot & Korean BBQ extended its hours to 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

Burnt Church Distillery donated a portion of revenue from tours, the cocktail of the month, memberships and community events to Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head Island.

Ralphie’s Pizza has a new bar-only menu served daily from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Wine Time donated $1 of every sale to Hopeful Horizons through its May “Buck-aBattle, Buck-a-Bottle” program.

Cupcake 2 Cakes is now only open from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Friday-Saturday.

Grooby’s, Too is now open for breakfast starting at 9 a.m.

Panini’s on the Waterfront’s River Deck is open daily and nightly for the season.

What would Margaret drink?

Tasting the world

A STORY OF WANDERLUST AND WINE.

p

INDULGENCE IN TRADITION Italian cantucci are oblong-shaped biscuits from Tuscany. The dough is baked twice, giving them their distinctive hard texture, which is ideal for dipping into dessert wines like vin santo.

People often wonder how I developed my passion for wine, but to me, it was almost inevitable. My father, Charlie, was a true wanderer, driven by an insatiable thirst for life's experiences. With a modest inheritance in hand, he set off for Paris in pursuit of the joie de vivre. During his time in France he immersed himself in the culture, mastering the art of French cuisine, fluently speaking the language and forging enduring friendships. Upon returning home, he felt the pull of adventure once more and joined the Peace Corps, landing in French-speaking Senegal, where he shared his knowledge as an English teacher. Throughout my formative years, travel was woven into the fabric of our family life. Dad made it a priority, whisking us away on annual wine excursions. I still remember the long weekend in Amsterdam when I was just 11 and the whirlwind European tour during my eighth-grade summer break, when we visited Greece, Italy, Switzerland and France in a matter of weeks.

My appetite for exploration only grew as I entered my teenage years. By my sophomore summer I eagerly accepted the opportunity to spend a month with Dad's friends in Toulon and Montpellier, immersing myself in the rhythms of southern France. During my time at Tulane University, I seized the chance to participate in a year-long exchange program in Florence, Italy, diving into Italian culture and language with gusto. With every journey, I felt my passion for travel and cultural exchange deepening, shaping my aspirations for the future. It became clear to me that I needed a career that embraced the world's diversity, and wine emerged as a natural choice. Beyond its exquisite taste, wine served as a universal language, fostering connections and enriching conversations around the table.

The wine that truly captured my heart and solidified my love for oenology was the vin santo of Tuscany. Crafted from Trebbiano and Malvasia grapes dried on straw mats, this amber elixir boasts a delicate sweetness reminiscent of sherry. Paired with almond biscotti, known as cantucci, it transforms a meal into a timeless experience, extending the dialogue well into the night. For those eager to embark on their own journey through the world of wine, I recommend indulging in Borgo Scopeto Vin Santo Classico — a sublime tribute to the "saints" of Tuscan wine making.

Margaret Pearman is a certified sommelier under the Court of Master Sommeliers and is responsible for curating the award-winning wine list at Charlie’s Coastal Bistro. Here are her sipping suggestions for June:

Mixing up paradise

ESCAPE WITH THESE SUMMER COCKTAILS FROM LOCAL DISTILLERIES.

STORY BY BAILEY GILLIAM

We all know a gripping book can take you places for less than the cost of a train ticket — just without the snack cart. These two local cocktail recipes promise the same kind of journey, but with a bit more buzz. Sip on one of these expert concoctions, and imagine yourself jetting off to a favorite summer spot, first-class daydreams included!

HILTON HEAD DISTILLERY

Caribbean Spiced Rum Punch

This blend of juices and spiced rum from Hilton Head Distillery is like a teleportation device straight to your own tropical island. One sip and you'll feel the sand between your toes, the sun on your face and possibly forget you're just standing in your kitchen.

INGREDIENTS

2 ounces HHD Spiced Rum

1 1/2 ounces orange juice

1/2 ounce cranberry juice

1/4 ounce grenadine

DIRECTIONS [1] Combine ingredients except grenadine into a shaker tin with ice and shake.

[2] Add grenadine to a glass and add ice. [3] Strain over ice and garnish with an orange or pineapple wedge and an edible flower.

BURNT CHURCH DISTILLERY

Midsummer Daydream

Want to travel the world without finding your passport or packing a bag? Whip up this delightful cocktail from Burnt Church Distillery. And don't forget the edible glitter — it's not just for arts and crafts anymore. It's the sparkle you need to turn your living room into the luxe destination of your dreams.

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 ounces Original BCD Vodka

2 ounces lemonade

3/4 ounce Chambord

Edible glitter

DIRECTIONS [1] Shake and strain into a collins glass. [2] Garnish with two Luxardo cherries and a lemon slice.

happenings

Arts & Culture

JUNE 1-7

Photography exhibit

When: Times vary, now-July 7 Where: Coastal Discovery Museum

Details: See images featuring natural and historic sites throughout the region from the Camera Club of Hilton Head Island. Gallery talks will be at 2 p.m., June 12 and 22. coastaldiscovery.org

JUNE 18-JULY 19

Land-Escapes: Through My Lens

When: Times vary, June 18-July 19

Where: Art League of Hilton Head

Details: See the work of artist Lyndsi Caulder this month during gallery hours and 90 minutes before every Arts Center performance. Attend the reception from 5-7 p.m., June 26. artleaguehhi.org

JUNE 21-30

Lend Me A Tenor

When: Times vary, June 21-30

Where: May River Theatre

Details: A sensation on Broadway and in London's West End, this madcap, screwball comedy by Ken Ludwig will leave you teary-eyed with laughter. mayrivertheatre.com

JUNE 19-22

June Palmetto Bluff Artist in Residence

When: Times vary, June 19-22 Where: FLOW Gallery + Workshop

Details: Katie White is this month’s featured artist. See her work or attend a workshop. palmettobluff.com

JUNE 13-16

Always … Patsy Cline

When: 7:30 p.m., June 13-15 & 3 p.m., June 16

Where: USCB Center for the Arts

Details: See Beaufort Theatre Company’s production of this musical play inspired by the unforgettable Patsy Cline. uscbcenterforthearts.com

JUNE 14

Now & Then

When: Times vary, now-June 14

Where: Art League of Hilton Head

Details: See the work of artist Jo Dye this month during gallery hours and 90 minutes before every Arts Center performance. artleaguehhi.org

JUNE 3-30 Bring the Light

When: Times vary, June 3-30

Where: SOBA Gallery

Details: Julia Kamenskikh is the Society of Bluffton Artists' featured artist for June. The opening reception is from 5-7 p.m., June 8. sobagallery.com

2024-2025 SEASON | 43RD SEASON

John Morris Russell, Music Director

Discover MUSIC for EVERYONE:

The HHSO is your premier destination for all things musical in the Lowcountry. Our upcoming season features symphonic classical and pops concerts, jazz, cabarets, Gullah Geechee culture, piano, chamber music, and much more! Renowned for excellence in performance and community engagement, we invite you to join us for an unforgettable 2024-2025 season.

To learn more or to become an HHSO subscriber, please visit hhso.org or call (843) 842-2055

happenings

JUNE 4-AUG 20

HarbourFest

35th Anniversary

When: Times vary, Tuesdays, June 4-Aug. 20

Where: Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina

Details: The famous festival is back with music from the beloved Shannon Tanner, kids activities with Cappy the Clown and weekly Tuesday night fireworks (starting when the sky is dark), including the island’s Fourth of July show. sheltercovehiltonhead.com

The Sea Pines Resort events & activities

Spend some time outside this month with one of these events at The Sea Pines Resort. Check the website for details and a complete list. seapines.com

UPCOMING EVENTS

Rick Hubbard Kazoobie Kazoo Show:

8-9:30 p.m., June 7 & 21, Harbour Town DJ Alan Family Show:

8-9:30 p.m., June 14 & 28, Harbour Town Full Moon Shore Explore:

8:30-9:30 p.m., June 20, Sea Pines Beach Club

Tap Takeover: 5-8 p.m., June 27, Fraser’s Tavern

JUNE 7-9

A Time To Remember

When: Times vary, June 7-9

Where: Coastal Discovery Museum

Details: Join Hospice Care of the Lowcountry and gather to celebrate the lives of loved ones lost at this community memorial event. hospicecarelc.org

Charity & Community

JUNE 8-15

10 th Annual Juneteenth Celebration

When: Times vary, June 8-15

Where: Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park

Details: Don’t miss this annual Juneteenth celebration featuring special events, food, music, vendors and more. exploremitchelville.org

EVENT LINEUP

June 8: 5K Run + Walk

June 11: Naycha and B’uhds: A Special BirdWatching Experience in the Park

June 12: Opening Reception at Ruby Lee’s June 13: Sleepover with Joe McGill & Friends

June 14: Drum Circle

June 15: 2024 Juneteenth Celebration

JUNE 15 & 16

9 th Annual Bluffton Juneteenth Celebration

When: 4-10 p.m., June 15 & 11 a.m.-2 p.m., June 16

Where: Burnt Church Distillery

Details: Enjoy a drum circle, vendors, food trucks, artisans, live entertainment and more at this Bluffton Juneteenth festival on Saturday, followed by a jazz Sunday brunch. visitbluffton.org

JUNE 15

Jump into Summer

When: 9 a.m.-12 p.m., June 15

Where: Buckwalter Place Park

Details: This free family fun event features water slides, video games played on a Jumbotron television, lawn games, a DJ, a concession stand and fun prizes. townofbluffton.sc.gov

JUNE 15

Dog Adoption Event

When: 9-11 a.m., June 15

Where: Seabrook Farm in Hilton Head Plantation

Details: Support Jasper Animal Rescue Mission by buying homemade dog treats, adopting a new best friend or attending the Hilton Head Plantation Farmers Market. jarmission.org

JUNE 14

3 rd Annual Black Food Truck Friday Festival: R&B Rodeo Edition

When: 5-10 p.m., June 14

Where: Buckwalter Commerce Park

Details: At this cowboy-themed event, enjoy various cuisines, craft vendors, artisans, music, live entertainment, drinks, a mechanical bull ride, a kid's zone and more. visitbluffton.org

JUNE 14

Brews on the Bluff

When: 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m., June 14

Where: Oyster Factory Park

Details: Don’t miss Bear Foot Sports’ third Bluffton sunset party on the May River featuring The Minks’ music and special guest, Individually Twisted. bearfootsports.com

JUNE 23

Jazz Night

When: 7 p.m., June 23

Where: Seaquins Ballroom

Details: Don’t miss this annual fundraising event featuring The Lavon Stevens Quartet and Louise Spencer to benefit the Kiwanis Club of Bluffton. blufftonkiwanis.org

happenings Lectures & Classes

JUNE TUESDAYS

Restorative medicine seminar

When: Noon-1 p.m., Tuesdays

Where: Fraum Center for Restorative Health

Details: Attend a free educational event on the latest advancements in restorative medicine with a complimentary lunch. Learn how you can help your body heal itself with highly effective, non-invasive solutions to chronic pain. fraum.com

JUNE

Lowcountry culture & history

Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage is the place to fill up on Lowcountry culture and history. Check out one of these classes. morrisheritagecenter.org

UPCOMING CLASSES

Catawba History 101: 1 p.m., June 8

Living Legacy Tour: 11 a.m., June 22

Sweetgrass Basket Workshop: 11 a.m., June 29

JUNE WEDNESDAYS

Sea Turtle Talks

When: 8-9 p.m., Wednesdays

Where: The Dunes House Details: Head to Palmetto Dunes and learn about the nesting sea turtles on Hilton Head and how you can help this endangered species. seaturtlepatrolhhi.org

JUNE

Art League Hilton Head Island classes

Learn a new skill and unleash your creativity with one of these art classes at the Art League Academy on Cordillo Parkway. For a complete list of classes, visit artleaguehhi.org

UPCOMING CLASSES

Landscape Painting in your Choice of Medium: 9 a.m., June 7

Impressionist Painting in Plein Air with Oils or Pastels: 9 a.m., June 11

Photography 101: 9:30 a.m., June 14

JUNE MONDAYS

Turtle Talks

When: 8-9 p.m., Mondays

Where: Lowcountry Celebration Park Details: Join Marine Biologist Amber Kuehn and learn about the nesting sea turtles on Hilton Head and how you can help this endangered species. seaturtlepatrolhhi.org

JUNE

Coastal Discovery Museum events

The Coastal Discovery Museum presents a wide variety of classes for any interest. Here are some of our favorites this month. coastaldiscovery.org

UPCOMING EVENTS

Critter Meet & Greet: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays

Marsh Critters: 10:30-11 a.m., Thursdays

Friday Feeding Frenzy: 2:30-3:30 p.m., Fridays

PAWS FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Food & Drink

JUNE

Hilton Head Distillery cocktail classes

Take a mixology class (or two) to learn how to shake up creative sips. Classes are 7:30-9:30 p.m. at the Hilton Head Distillery. hiltonheaddistillery.com

UPCOMING CLASSES

Island Time Cocktail Class: June 6

Classic Cocktails Class: June 20 Red, White & Booze: July 3

JUNE

Upcoming events at Salty Dog

Here are the June events at The Salty Dog Cafe. For a complete list, visit saltydog.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Turtle Trackers at South Beach Marina: 2 p.m., June 2, 9, 16 & 30

Strawberry Full Moon Cruise: 7 p.m., June 20-21

JUNE THURSDAYS

Wine tasting

When: 5-7 p.m., Thursdays

Where: Jarvis Creek General Store

Details: Join friends at Jarvis Creek every other Thursday to sip an assortment of wine fireside. jarviscreek.store

JUNE 22

Cooking Dinner Theatre: Summer in the South

When: 6:30-8:30 p.m., June 22 Where: Hewitt Oaks

Details: Enjoy a relaxing night out as chefs Christopher and Bethany Hewitt prepare a delicious summer-inspired menu featuring fresh seafood. hewittoaks.com

JUNE 16 Buffalos Brunch Series

When: 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., June 16 Where: Buffalos in Palmetto Bluff

Details: Enjoy an all-you-can-eat brunch with bites, mimosas and live music. palmettobluff.com

JUNE FIRST FRIDAY

Tap takeover at Big Jim’s

When: 2-5 p.m., the first Friday of every month

Where: Big Jim’s BBQ, Burgers & Pizza

Details: The first Friday of each month brings a tap takeover of three Southern Barrel Brewery draft beers to Big Jim’s. palmettodunes.com

JUNE SUNDAYS Plums Sunday Supper

When: 5:30-9:30 p.m., Sundays

Where: Plums Restaurant in Beaufort

Details: Enjoy monthly dishes and delightful conversations for $32 per person. plumsrestaurant.com

JUNE THURSDAYS Puglia Wine Dinner

When: 6:30 p.m., June 19

Where: Nunzio Restaurant + Bar

Details: Enjoy a multi-course wine dinner featuring the regional cuisine of Puglia and its wine along with special guest Miriam Gonzalez, RNDC. nunziohhi.com

ShANNON TANNER

Now to August 21: Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday Two shows: 6:30 & 8:00 p.m.

JUNE TUESDAYS Tasty Tuesday Wine Tastings

When: 5-7 p.m., Tuesdays Where: Rollers Wine & Spirits

Details: Enjoy a wine tasting with live music and small bites led by Rollers’ certified sommeliers. The tasting will feature 4-6 new wines and some familiar favorites. Call 843842-1200 to reserve your spot.

6, 13 & 20

Featuring “Shannon Tanner & the Oyster Reefers” for a Jimmy Bu ett Tribute Show on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. June 13, 20 & 27; July 4,11, 18 & 25; August 1, 8, 15 & 22. Two shows on Labor Day Weekend: August 31 & September 1

CAPPY THE CLOWN

Face painting, balloon animals & more! 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. Now to August 30: Monday to Friday. Plus Labor Day Weekend: August 31 & September 1

Music & Entertainment

JUNE 21-AUG 16

Sunset Celebration

When: 7-10 p.m., Fridays, June 21-Aug. 16

Where: Shelter Cove Community Park

Details: Bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the music and the breeze off Broad Creek at this summer concert series. sheltercovetownecentre.com

MUSIC LINEUP

June 21: Deas-Guys

Regular live music venues

June 28: Target & The Headliner Horns

July 5: Cranford & Friends

JUNE 12-22

Hilton Head Chamber

Music Institute

When: Times vary, June 12-22

Where: SoundWaves and other various locations

Details: Sixteen high school string musicians from 11 states, selected via an audition process, will participate in lectures and performances during this annual event presented by the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra. hhso.org

JUNE 8

Music Festival of the Lowcountry

When: Noon-8 p.m., June 8

Where: Henry C. Chambers

Waterfront Park

Details: Celebrate the best local and regional bands featuring Candice Glover, Tony Jackson and more. beaufortsc.org

JUNE 27

Jazz

in

the Park

When: 7:30 p.m., June 25

Life is better with music, so why not enjoy live music every day of the week? These are some of our favorite local spots with regular live music this month. Check their websites and Facebook pages for details.

Where: Lowcountry Celebration Park

Details: Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra presents a free outdoor concert featuring the Martin Lesch Band. hhso.org

JUNE 15

Street Music on Paris Avenue

When: 6 p.m., June 15

Where: Paris Avenue, Port Royal Details: Don’t miss this free community concert series featuring musician Seth Walker. portroyal.org

DAILY LIVE MUSIC VENUES

Brother Shucker’s

Coast, Oceanfront Dining

FISH Casual Coastal Seafood

Frosty Frog

Harbourside

Kind of Blue

Luther’s Rare & Well Done

Quarterdeck

Ruby Lee’s

Scott’s Fish Market

Skull Creek Boathouse

The Boardroom

The Crazy Crab Jarvis Creek

The Jazz Corner

The Salty Dog Cafe

The Sandbar Beach Eats

The Studio

Tiki Hut

OTHER MUSIC VENUES

A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant (Mondays-Fridays)

Big Bamboo Cafe (Mondays-Saturdays)

Black Marlin Bayside Grill & Hurricane Bar (Wednesdays-Saturdays)

Bluffton Oyster Co. Family Seafood House (Fridays & Saturdays)

Burnt Church Distillery (Thursdays-Saturdays)

Captain Woody’s Bluffton (Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays)

Carolina Crab Company (Sundays)

Celeste (Fridays & Saturdays)

Cheap Seats Tavern 2 (Fridays)

Chophouse 119 (Tuesdays & Fridays)

Deano’s Wood-Fired Grille (Tuesdays, Thursdays-Saturdays)

Dunes House Oceanfront Bar & Grill (Mondays-Fridays)

Fishcamp on Broad Creek (Tuesdays-Sundays)

Hilton Head Brewing Co. (Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays)

Hilton Head Tavern (Mondays & Tuesdays)

Island Winery (Fridays)

Jarvis Creek General Store (Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays)

Lincoln & South Brewing Company (Wednesdays-Sundays)

Local Pie (Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays)

Lucky Beach Bar + Kitchen (Fridays)

Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar (Fridays & Sundays)

Nectar Farm Kitchen in Old Town Bluffton (Fridays-Sundays)

Old Town Dispensary (Wednesdays-Sundays)

Red Fish (Tuesdays-Saturdays)

Reilley’s Grill & Bar (Wednesdays-Fridays)

Rollers Wine & Spirits (Tuesdays & Thursdays)

San Miguel’s (Thursdays-Saturdays)

Santa Fe Cafe: (Tuesdays-Saturdays)

Sundown Saloon (Saturdays)

The Rooftop Bar at Poseidon (Wednesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays)

The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa (Every third Friday)

Tio’s Latin American Kitchen Bluffton (Fridays & Sundays)

UnCorked Wine, Bar, Food, and Music (Tuesdays-Saturdays)

Rose Witkowski Belmont Abbey College

Michael Schroeder Univ of Maine Christopher Orta Univ of Notre Dame

Yanachik Ave Maria Univ

Keannen Hill Univ of South Carolina Columbia

David Shaw Clemson Univ

Shelby Pinski Lees-McRae College

Maison Zeroll Flagler College

Collin Anfinson Clemson Univ

Baroni High Point Univ

Renzo Cedeno United States Air Force Maura Clarke Villanova Univ Isabela Crespo Univ of North Florida

DeTurris Jacksonville Univ

Sports & Outdoors

JUNE

Palmetto Bluff Conservancy events

With a vast outdoor classroom at its fingertips, the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy team members are ambassadors to each resident and guest, introducing them to this landscape in ways large and small, structured and informal. Tours, classes and workshops, programs, research and field trips are available to facilitate this environmental learning process. Check the website for a complete list of events. palmettobluff.com/conservation

UPCOMING EVENTS

Research Excursion: Bluebird Surveys: 1-3:30 p.m., June 18

Let’s Talk About…Reptiles!: 11 a.m.-noon, June 20

PBC Birding: Wilson Village: 8-10 a.m., June 28

JUNE TUESDAYS

Yoga class at Moor Spa

When: 6-7 p.m., Tuesdays

Where: Moor Spa Hilton Head

Details: Enjoy slow flow and stretch yoga with local treasure Jennie Garcia at Moor Spa. Call 843-681-6060 to reserve your spot. moorespa.com

JUNE 15

Beaufort Water Festival

Cornhole Tournament

When: 2-5 p.m., June 15

Where: Burton Wells Gym

Details: Sign up to compete in this annual tournament and get a chance to win cash prizes while benefiting the Beaufort Water Festival. bftwaterfestival.com

JUNE 7 Annual Fun in the Sun for Everyone

When: 9 a.m.-noon, June 7

Where: Beachfront at The Marriott Vacation Club International’s SurfWatch Resort

Details: This annual event gives community members the opportunity to enjoy the beach in a safe and inclusive setting, no matter their age or ability. pocketsfullofsun.org

June races

Sign up for one of these races, and welcome the changing weather.

UPCOMING RACES

Hilton Head Global Running Day 5K:

7 p.m., June 5, The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa

Palmetto Dunes Turtle Trot 5K:

8 a.m., Wednesdays, Dunes House Beaufort River Swim & Run:

7:30 a.m., June 8, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park

Mitchelville Juneteenth Freedom 5K:

8 a.m., June 8, Mitchelville Freedom Park Ribaut Run:

8 a.m., June 8, Live Oaks Park Lowcountry Community PRIDE 5K:

9 a.m., June 9, Martin Family Park

Sea Pines Dolphin Dash 5K:

8 a.m., Thursdays, Sea Pines Beach Club

Beach Bum Triathlon & Duathlon:

8 a.m., June 15, Coligny Beach Park

Bluffton Independence Day 5K:

9 a.m., June 30, Martin Family Park

happenings Markets & Shopping

Farmers and art markets

Enjoy the local flavors of the Lowcountry with some of these regular farmers and art markets:

UPCOMING MARKETS

Bluffton Farmers Market: Noon-4 p.m., Thursdays, 68 Boundary St. Hilton Head Island Farmers Market: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Tuesdays, Coastal Discovery Museum Port Royal Farmers Market: 9 a.m.-noon, Saturdays, Naval Heritage Park Forsythe Farmers Market: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturdays, Savannah The Saturday Market: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturdays, The Bridge Collective on Calhoun Street Beaufort First Friday: 5-8 p.m., first Friday of each month, Downtown Beaufort Hilton Head Community Market: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Saturdays, Shelter Cove Community Park Farmers & Makers Market: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Tuesdays, The Shops at Sea Pines Center Palmetto Bluff Farmers Market: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., June 5 & 19 Island Originals Local Artist Market: 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Wednesdays on the SoundWaves patio JCGS Island Original Artists Market: 4-7 p.m., Tuesdays, Jarvis Creek General Store Party in the Park + Maker’s Fair: 6 p.m., Thursdays, Lowcountry Celebration Park

JUNE

15 & 16

Hilton Head Father’s Day Craft & Vendor Market

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., June 15 & 10 a.m.-5 p.m., June 16 Where: Tanger Outlets Hilton Head

Details: Celebrate Dad in style with local vendors, delicious treats and endless gift ideas for Dad. hometownvendormarket.com

JUNE 13 & 14

Sethi Couture Styling Event and Trunk Show

When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., June 13-14

Where: Forsythe Jewelers

Details: BYOB (Bring Your Own Bands) and allow styling experts to assist you in curating the perfect ring stack with your existing bands to reflect your style and flair. forsythejewelers.biz

SAVANNAH EVENTS

June 6: Ben Folds Paper Airplane Request Tour at District Live

June 13: Inaugural Telfair Center Arty Party: A Measure of Time at the Jepson Center

June 14: Fully Loaded Comedy Festival 2024 at Enmarket Arena

June 15: Rhapsody in Blue at 100 with The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra at Lucas Theatre for the Arts

June 29: Anne Willson at Johnny Mercer Theatre

GET TICKETS NOW

July 12-21: Beaufort Water Festival

July 19: Sebastian Maniscalco at Enmarket Arena

July 25: Jason Aldean at Enmarket Arena

SAVE THE DATE

July 4: USA 5K Walk/Run at Coligny Beach Park

July 4: Hilton Head Firecracker 5K at Jarvis Creek Park

TO SHOWCASE AN EVENT

GO ONLINE

For more things to do, visit locallifesc.com/ things-to-do-hilton-head

You may be able to get your event in our Happenings section for free. Head to locallifesc.com, click “Contact Us,” and include a title, date, time, location, description, a link to the webpage and photos if possible.

SHOP LOCAL

Scan this QR code to purchase the “My Dog Doesn’t Stink!” soy candle, the “Locals Scoop” waste bag dispenser and other dog-related items in the LOCAL Life Store.

INTRODUCING THE NEW BCSD

Qualifying rising 9th graders are invited to start their college or career journey early through the BCSD Tides Program. The new dual enrollment cohort partnership allows students to take all classes at TCL’s New River or Beaufort Mather campus and still participate in high school extra-curricular activities and athletics.

Students can potentially graduate with two associate degrees from the following areas (saving lots of time and money):

n Associate of Arts: University Transfer Pathway

n Associate of Science: University Transfer Pathway

n Associate of Applied Science/ Computer Technology: Programming, Networking, Cybersecurity

n Associate of Applied Science/ Business Administration

n Associate of Science/ Allied Health Science: Medical Assisting, Entrepreneurship/ Small Business Certificate

Contact

In a tail-wagging effort to help get more shelter dogs adopted, Bluffton Candles and LOCAL Life Magazine has unleashed a paw-some, premium soy wax wonder that promises to disguise the wet dog funk with a more pleasing aroma. All net proceeds will go directly to Hilton Head Humane, fueling their heroic quest to match adorable adoptables with their human soulmates.

Our custom-designed waste bag dispenser isn't just a handy ally in your noble quest against sidewalk surprises; it's a fashion statement with its snazzy bone shape that says, "Yes, I clean up, but I do it with panache.” This dispenser, packed with 15 bags to kickstart your journey toward becoming the neighborhood’s most responsible (and stylish) pet owner, is available for a mere $8. It is available exclusively online at the LOCAL Life Store.

wind while watching the sun slip into the Daufuskie Island backdrop with your favorite cool drink, is truly the perfect way to experience Lowcountry living. Relax in the shade on comfortable bench seating, or stretch out on the trampoline and work on your tan. LOCAL Life Insider Tip: There is no better way to take in a sunset than on the Salty Cat. Cheers. 232 South Sea Pines Drive, HHI • 843-671-7007 • saltycatsailing.com

Avocado Bikes is an electric bike rental and retail company dedicated to providing an elevated experience to a classic activity. For over 200 years people have been enjoying the magic of cycling, and we aim to continue this tradition. With quality at the forefront of our minds, you can enjoy a stress-free experience while cruising with us. Local Life Insider Tip: Free bike delivery when you rent two or more bikes. 807 William Hilton Parkway, Suite 100, HHI • 843-940-8112 • avocadobikes.com THE SPICE & TEA EXCHANGE OF HILTON HEAD ISLAND We pride ourselves on the quality of our products and premium ingredients. Our spices are freshly mixed in small batches, underscoring the emphasis we place on freshness. Our tea leaves are carefully prepared to maintain their flavor and nutrients, ensuring each cup is a testament to excellence. LOCAL Life Insider Tip: The Spice and Tea Exchange's Tea Bar is now open! Coligny Plaza, #A7, HHI • 843-715-3770 • spiceandtea.com / hiltonhead

SALTY CAT SAILING CHARTERS Gliding across the waters of Calibogue Sound, guided by the

AVOCADO BIKES

Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore new culinary delights or a family seeking fun and engaging activities, these carefully curated selections of restaurants and activities have something for everyone.

BISTRO 17 A favorite local restaurant on Hilton Head Island for years. The delicious country French cuisine is unique to the area, justly renowned for the quality of ingredients, delicious dishes and the infinite variety of local wines to accompany them. Bistro 17's menu features both American and French specialties. LOCAL Life Insider Tip: Ask to sit on the outdoor patio, watch the boat traffic, and enjoy the sunset. 17 Harbourside Lane, HHI • 843.785.5517 • bistro17hiltonhead.com

TANGER HILTON HEAD Shop two Tanger Hilton Head centers, located just one and two miles west of the Hilton Head Island bridge, and save at over 90 top designer name-brand retailers. Enjoy dining at a variety of on-site restaurants and eateries. Visit our website to learn more about upcoming events and promotions. LOCAL Life Insider Tip: Visit the Tanger Hilton Head website for promotions and fun family events throughout the year! 1414 Fording Island Road, Bluffton • 843-837-5410 • tanger.com/hiltonhead

FIRST TEE - THE LOWCOUNTRY Experience golf on the Island with the only par-3 course — perfect for instruction, children and senior play. Driving range, putting green and disc golf course are open to everyone. $10 donation for adults, $5 donation for kids — all you can play. LOCAL Life Insider Tip: You don't need to bring clubs — the pros at First Tee will lend you a set at no charge. 151 Gumtree Road, HHI • firstteelowcountry.org/about/openplayhours

“I found this way-finder sign while out exploring one day. I thought it looked super cool, so I snagged a quick picture of it.”

— DANIELLE PETTY, MANCHESTER, TENN.

Moreland Landing, Palmetto Bluff