Charleston in South Carolina

                                                          Charleston Ravenel Bridge ©Solange Hando

On a long inlet of the Atlantic Ocean, Charleston leads to the meeting point of four waterways, including the rivers Ashley and Cooper (above) either side of the main peninsula.

Opened in 2005, then the longest bridge of its kind in the western world, the Ravenel links downtown Charleston to the large suburb of Mount Pleasant, best known for the Patriot's Point naval and maritime museum.

Elegant Houses along the Waterfront ©Solange Hando

The harbour front where the rivers meet is a stylish area lined with grand historic houses, some open to visitors during the annual Festival of Houses and Gardens. 

But come spring or summer, everyone can enjoy the lush oleander and Palmetto trees (the local emblem) along the waterfront promenade on the way to the old Battery and White Point, named after bleached oyster shells. 

                                                        Charleston  Old Town ©Solange Hando

Historic Charleston grew rich on the slave trade but only steps away from the glorious mansions, the old town has a charm all of its own with cobbled alleyways dozing under the trees.

 There are wrought iron gates and balconies, shutters and potted plants here and there.

Step back in time along Chalmers Street and around the old French Quarter.

                                                                   Marion Square ©Solange Hando

Once a parade ground, this is now a lovely open space, popular with students, and a lively spot for the Farmers Markets held every Saturday in summer. It's also a place for festivals, such as the Food and Wine showcasing the delicious fare of the surrounding Low Country.

Nearby are Regent Street, full of luxury goods, and the city historic market selling local craft, most sought after but not cheap, traditional sweetgrass baskets hand-woven by the Gullahs (descendants of the slaves).

                                                     Pretty Place and Cottage Garden ©Solange Hando

Stroll around downtown or if time is short, enjoy a scenic ride in a horse-drawn carriage and you will appreciate the different styles of architecture and gardens, large and small, with flowers and trees.

It's a lovely city with a few surprises and sometimes it almost feels like a village out in the country.

                                                             Colours Say it All ©Solange Hando

This is the popular Rainbow Row along the East Bay, loved for its pastel-coloured façades and trees offering a welcome shade in the heat of the day.

As you wander around, look out for poinsettia, kumquat, crepe myrtle, roses and palmetto. Listen to the bells chiming here and there for this is a 'holy city' bristling with lofty spires.

                                                   Pineapple Fountain in the Waterpark ©Solange Hando

This is another local icon as in days gone by, sailors would place a pineapple in their garden or hang it in the window to let everyone know they were back and friends were welcome to come and have a chat. It is still  a sign of hospitality.

See the pier just to the left where tall ships and others can take you down towards the ocean, past Fort Sumter where the Civil War started in 1861.  Beyond are the barrier islands (bridges) with sweeping sands, palms, dunes and the surfers' paradise on Folly Beach, the 'Edge of America.'

                                                   Sunset on the Ashley River ©Solange Hando