It’s summer’s twilight, and a mini-vacation is in order. Throughout the season work has been abundant, as we ready Heath for the cooler months. So, what better way to wind down than by taking a three-day weekend to indulge in a bit of site seeing and food tasting?
When time is critical, short trips can be an absolute luxury. Several of us from the Stylish Heath team set ourselves the task of exploring Savannah and Charleston in 72 hours. Reviewing our notes from previous trips, we decided to focus on cultural picks and restaurants to save time. Listed are our top choices.
Tony, Sean and I have a lovely routine upon arriving in Savannah, when our flight lands in late afternoon; we head to the Pirates’ House for a delicious lunch and cocktails. This rustic Inn established in 1753 is said to be the oldest standing building in Georgia, which was a place for seafarers then became a rendezvous for bloodthirsty pirates and sailors.
Upon arriving in Charleston our schedule is packed. Starting with the Calhoun Mansion on Meeting Street we, as artist are most impressed with the contents of the home rather than with the sheer size of 24,000 square feet. We come for ideas and inspiration each time we are in the city. Our guide indicated when the current owners moved in they had 18 moving trucks loaded with antique’s to fill every nook of this stately home. The new gift shop is open and the owner is selling pieces of the collection to the public.
Next on the list was Middleton Place to purchase items from their exquisite gift shop. I bought crab plates that are perfect for summer meals; several Charleston candles and the most gorgeous “camellia” place mats for the breakfast room. I also came with sketchbook to draft ideas from the gardens for Heath.
Lunch on Monday was at Jestine’s Kitchen, which is another tradition of ours. The Low country meals are unbeatable along with the history of Jestine Matthews. When you arrive at the restaurant you are given a brief history of the family and their relationship to Ms. Jestine, and then your are invited to share a meal that could have come from her kitchen. And, what I love most is her recipes are shared with those who ask.
A few favorites:
- The Pirate’s House
20 E Broad St, Savannah, GA 31401
912-233-5757 - The Calhoun Mansion
16 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC
843-722-8205 - Middleton Place
4300 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC 29414 - Jestine’s Kitchen
251 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401
This is all for now and remember to travel stylishly,
K
Stylish Heath 