Georgia’s Southern Charm: Exploring Savannah

May 21, 2023 0 Comments

   Although I grew up in Georgia, this trip was my first time exploring Savannah and all that its picturesque squares and cobblestone streets had to offer. With oak trees draped in Spanish moss throughout the scenery, this coastal town is a highly sought after destination for bachelorette parties, weddings, solo travels, family getaways, and so much more.

    Thanks to booking.com, I discovered Kimpton Brice Hotel, which is an IHG property. The Brice Hotel served as a great base for my four day stay in Savannah. From its beautiful secret garden to the warm customer service, Kimpton truly embodies the phrase Southern Hospitality. This was my first time staying at a Kimpton property and I’m now inspired to check for a Kimpton property at all of my future travel destinations.

   Just a short walking distance from the Kimpton Brice Hotel is River Street. Historic River Street is bustling with bars, pubs, local shops, and restaurants with a beautiful open view of the Savannah River. While on River Street, my sister and I stopped in the popular Savannah Candy Kitchen where there was candy and sweets as far as the eye could see. I love sweets and desserts, so this quickly became one of the best parts of my trip so far! I purchased a caramel peanut candy apple and Rugrats inspired sour candy, and I also sampled their famous pralines.

   Our next stop while in Savannah was Forsyth Park to visit the famous water fountain. While we were there, there were kids playing in the park, people setting up picnics in the lush green meadows, vendors setting up tents for the seasonal, weekly open farmer’s market, and others simply enjoying a leisure walk throughout the park. While walking through the park, I would hear kids laughing at one turn, someone playing music from their personal stereo in another direction, and birds chirping at another turn. And it wasn’t chaotic; it all flowed in harmony. The lively Forsyth Park is definitely a must visit while you’re in Savannah for all the sights and sounds you’ll experience.

   Savannah also has a rich history and deep roots to antebellum South. While on our trip, we visited Wormsloe Historic Site, informally known as Wormsloe Plantation. Modernly, Wormsloe Historic Site is famous for its breathtaking avenue of oak trees adorned in Spanish Moss. However, in the past, Wormsloe was a prominent plantation of enslaved Black people from the Caribbean and Africa who labored in the cotton field and farm buildings. It was truly a humbling experience visiting Wormsloe where I honored those before me and reflected on how the past echoes in the present state of our world today.

   While planning this weekend getaway, I also learned Savannah has a vibrant culinary scene. Unfortunately, this time around I was unable to fully indulge in Savannah’s popular cuisines, but that just means I have a worthy reason to visit again sooner rather than later ;)

   My trip to Savannah was a wonderful blend of history, culture, architecture, and nature, which is everything I look forward to when exploring a new city. In Savannah, you’ll quickly find yourself immersed in the southern hospitality of this charming town on Georgia’s Coast.

---

Also in Around the World with F&J