TRAVEL
P h co of G sto
Charle ston Rediscovering
WORDS BY KRISTIN BOWEN
The Holy City's unique character and cobblestone streets draw over seven million visitors a year.
SHADED BY an ancient looking oak tinseled with Spanish moss, I gaze up at the remarkably restored 17th-century antebellum home painted the color of sea glass. I adjust my stance on the somewhat precarious original cobblestone street to get a better look in the sunlight. The King palms stand guard at the front of the home like old sentries, while the authentic wrought iron gate opens into a show-stopping perennial garden abutted by a pic16 SILVER CREEK REAL ESTATE GROUP
turesque wraparound porch staged with white rockers. With the nearby clip clop sound of horse hooves and carriage wheels, I have a sense that I have been transported to another time long ago. The well-preserved town of Charleston, known as the Holy City, is so unique in character with its beautifully restored architecture and original cobblestone streets, it is no wonder it draws over seven million visitors a year. “Charleston
is a visual feast and oozes charm,” says part-time resident Craig Kettles when asked why he loves it. Winning numerous awards including #1 city in the world by Travel+Leisure in 2016, the colorful layers of Charleston appeal to many, including history buffs, designers, writers, artists, foodies, jetsetters and musicians— and these are just the people who live there. Visitors find it infectious too, with its secret
