"Just Follow The Light And Don't Be Afraid Of The Dark"

Although I don't have pictures below, we actually started this journey in Hilton Head, SC.  HH is obviously known for some of its stunning beaches, fine dining and world-class golf courses, but we wanted to our experience to include activities with some local residents to better-understand all of the region's beautiful history.

Hilton Head falls under a region of South Carolina called, "Lowcountry" which represents the southern part of the state that extends from the seacoast inland to the fall line.  We received a wonderful background of the entire area doing a 2-hour kayak tour one day with a local guide. In addition the the serene landscapes and aquatic life we were able to see on our tour (including a Manatee) we got to really pick our tour guide's brain about all things, Hilton Head. For example,  there is not one, single neon sign on the entire island.  When being developed, Hilton Head was intended to remain as harmonious with the natural world as possible, so ALL signs are neutral colors and have no blinking neon.

Being that we don't have exquisite taste or trust-fund pockets, we weren't able to do quite as many extravagant attractions as Hilton Head offers, but we preferred the itinerary we made and really enjoyed our time on the island.

We departed HH and headed south to Savannah, Georgia to finish out the trip.  Arriving in the early afternoon, we headed straight to Forsyth Park.  Part of Savannah's Historic District, the park features one of the most astonishing fountains I've ever seen.  Being over 150 years old (and STLL functioning) goes to show the quality craftmanship we're not used to nowadays.  The fountain (and park in general) are accented with lush greenery and beautiful flower gardens.  That day particular was additionally fun as a local market was taking place, giving us the opportunity to visit with local vendors and familiarize ourselves within the community trade.

Immediately surrounding Forsyth Park were some incredible historical buildings/homes. Sprawled out among red vitrified brick roads, some these structures dated back to the mid-1800's.  Each home seemed to feature more-beautiful, vibrant colors that the previous.  I was especially fond of the Thomas Holcombe House and William F. Brantley House.

We continued on from the Historic District to the charming waterfront on River Street.  Lined with cobblestone from around the world, the waterfront is home to more-incredible historic buildings, shops, and restaurants.  Being a popular area for Bachelor/Bachelorette parties, you might occasionally run into a few pedestrians a little over their 'limit' but there didn't seem to be anyone upset or bothered. Everyone there really was there to enjoy the history/beauty/charm in their own way.  And with that...our time vanished into the ether. We'll likely be back, but until then...I'm comin' home, baby.

 TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Hilton Head Island
• Savannah Georgia
• Forsyth Park
• Historic District/Waterfront

RECOMMENDATIONS

• Allegiant air had very cheap flights from Chicago to Savannah (if you reside in the area and need a flight)
• You can definitely make time to enjoy both Savannah and Hilton Head in a week with a car rental