Visiting Charleston, SC with Guest Blogger – The Darling Traveler

Prepping for adventure is the heart and soul of Ebby Rane. Always eager to meet others with a similar passion for traveling, we were thrilled to meet Francesca Simms from The Darling Traveler. With her recent trip to Charleston, we were eager to hear about her experience in the historical city. Whether you’re planning your own trip to the ‘Holy City’ or looking for inspiration, read on for a travel blogger’s first-hand experience as she navigates through Charleston. For more, visit her instagram for spectacular architecture, fabulous hotel escapes, scenic shots and of course Francesca’s helpful city guide commentary.

Brief Introduction

I love to travel; strolling down cobblestone streets, discovering local gems and marveling at architecture that takes your breath away. Despite having wandered around most of Europe during my early twenties, my lust for travel really began after my first trip to Morocco. Shortly after this, I made the decision to leave my job and travel full time.

Charleston Travel Diary

Charleston is rich in culture, history and culinary delights. It’s hard not to fall in love with a city that has some of the most beautiful architecture I’ve seen. Though much has changed over the course of its lifetime, their Southern charm and hospitality have not.

Where to stay:

In the historic district of Charleston, there are incredible hotels around every corner. One of the cities newer hotels The Spectator, located in the heart of the French Quarter is one of my personal favorites. It is the definition of elegance. Decorated in the style of the Roaring Twenties you are truly transported in time from the moment you walk through the front doors. It also happens to be in walking distance from some of the city’s best restaurants.

Where to eat:

If you decided to stay at The Spectator, start the day off with their delicious breakfast. You can’t go to the South without eating fried chicken! Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oyster Shop has the most delicious fried chicken sandwiches. Charleston is known for its seafood and with so many options it’s hard to try them all. Hank’s Seafood Restaurant is a lovely seafood spot. Their menu is extensive and sure to please all foodies. End the night with something sweet at The Peninsula. They’re famous for their coconut cake. So famous in fact that while enjoying a drink at the bar numerous people came in just to get a piece to go. They were recently featured on The Today Show, where Kathie Lee and Hoda seemed to have enjoyed it just as much as I did.

What to do:

There is so much to do in Charleston. I personally was very excited to explore the plantations that lie on the outskirts of the city. Middleton Place is home to the oldest manicured gardens in the United States. Even though nearly melting in the Southern summer sun, it was definitely worth it. Just keep an eye out for those alligators! I would absolutely recommend taking one of the historic city tours, you’re able to discover all the hidden parts of the city that you wouldn’t normally stumble upon. I was lucky enough to be able to see some of the most delightful residential houses that Charleston is known for. If you are brave enough, they have ghost tours that take place at night. (I was not)

Visit Charleston