The Crystal Symphony sailed into Charleston

Anxious to see the $65 million renovations  to the Crystal Symphony, I hopped on board and snapped a few corners showing some amazing subtle improvements  that bring this beauty into the top of her league. 

The atrium 

A new carpet

New art work

Flower delivery to the suites

A suite's bathroom with a view

The spa

Sailing into Charleston

New lighting

A vertical garden

Wonder how many ketchup and mustard jars are used in one voyage.

The main lounge.

Boone Hall Plantation, Mt Pleasant, SC

In 1743,  ninety live oak trees were planted  in two rows leading up to the plantation hall. It took 200 years for the trees to touch each other over the driveway and create today's imposing canopy.  During this time only two trees died and both as a result of lightening.   



 

The slave quarters as seen on the far side of the  live oak trees. 




A live oak beside the creek.



Shem Creek, Charleston, SC

Just 3 miles from the marine terminal in Charleston is a great little inn.  Shem Creek Inn  - http://www.shemcreekinn.com/

Somewhat akin to a glorified deluxe motel set on a sandy base along the creek, this inn has wonderful friendly staff, amazing views, a breakfast nook where you'll interact with fellow travelers, inside corridors, balconies overlooking the creek and free wifi  at a price that just can't be beat. Here you can feel the pulse of Charleston's night life and by day absorb the nature and life of this miniature sea port. 

Arthur Ravenel Jr bridge seen from the water taxi stop at  Shem Creek. 

We'll be happy to guide you to find the perfect place to stay while in Charleston 

Sandy's Impact led me to Paula Deen's store.



Paula Deen's store in Savannah



     

Sandy was indeed as bad a storm as predicted and then some. There are few  who's lives were not affected in any way  and our hearts go out to all those whose lives have been devasted in one way or another.  For us, power outtages, high winds, hours spent at airports and on the phone finding solutions for all who needed to get home with the threat of snow created a rash reaction to get out of dodge and head south.

Secure in our hamlet of an inn; Shem Creek, just outside Charleston we set up our work base, sorted out clients , helped fellow agents in the northeast, then headed for  Savannah, a city we had never been to.

In the center of the city, long lines wrapped around a block that were just not moving. Paula Deen was having a book signing from 2-4pm, we couldn't wait but did make time to stop and see the store and restaurant  - there were still other places to see and things to do.... but being there does add a national pride icon to my bucket list to think I've been there even if I didn't taste anything!