62 | April 2015
Southern Hospitality,
South Carolina-Style
Charleston charms its way to
the top of the list for Southern
springtime destinations
BY MELISSA GOSLIN
T
here's a reason Charleston was named
the number one city in the world by the
2013 Condé Nast Traveler Reader's Choice
Awards for the third consecutive year.
Okay, scratch that—there are a lot of
reasons. With its iconic architecture, rich history and
phenomenal cuisine, it's actually harder to find a reason
not to visit Charleston.
e settlement of "Charles Town," as it was
originally named, was officially formed in 1670, making
Charleston one of the oldest communities in the United
States. As a port town, it was a destination for settlers
from places like Barbados and England, but the town was
also the subject of several military attacks from Spain
and France. e city's ethnic and cultural diversity dates
back to its early settlers and lingers in the unique blend of
varying architectural styles. Walking through the cob-
bled downtown streets of the French Quarter section,
it's hard not to be lulled by the Spanish moss and gas-lit
alleyways.
Of course, there are a slew of must-sees for the first-
timer. It may actually be illegal in some circles to leave
Charleston without making it to e Battery, a stretch
of defensive seawall lined with antebellum homes along
Charleston Harbor. A stroll through Charleston City
Market is also compulsory and be sure to check out—
feature
