Escape to The Sanctuary

When I first heard about Kiawah Island (which is in South Carolina, near Charleston), I thought the name sounded Hawaiian almost.  I was intrigued and wanted to learn more about the island. Turns out the name comes from the Kiawah Indians and dates back to the 1600's.  One of my favorite things about being on the East Coast has been being able to explore and check out places with so much rich history.  Things don't quite date back as far as they do in Europe, but history seems to go several more hundred years back on the East Coast as opposed to the West, which makes sense. But living on the West Coast and in Hawaii for so long, you kind of forget about these things. 

On another note, you probably know that Jake is really into golf.  So, when I discovered The Sanctuary Hotel which is a golf resort on Kiawah Island, I knew we had to plan a weekend getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get some relaxation time in.  So that is just what we did.

A few snaps from Charleston on the way there... 

We arrived at the beginning of a long, somewhat rainy and stormy weekend which isn't the best for golfing.  But, after several rain delays, Jake was able to golf just a few hours later than originally planned. I went to the spa and got a southern classic massage -- my first time ever going to a hotel spa! -- it was heavenly and amazing and I was super relaxed. We decided that I would ride along on the back 9 holes so I could see the Ocean Course which is right on the coast, surrounded by huge homes and lush scenery.  It worked out perfectly, as it began to thunder right at the end of the 18th hole. We then had dinner and watched the Sunset at one of the hotel restaurants, overlooking the 18th hole. My first 'golfing experience', if you can call it that was pretty fun. I got to drive the cart and I saw an alligator! So, all in all, it was a great trip.  We also stopped in Charleston on the way there and back, because... I am completely obsessed with that little town. I think if we weren't moving to California, I would want to move to Charleston.   Honestly, the history, architecture and food are enough to just blow your mind.  I am hoping to make at least one more visit before we head out West. and yes, people on the East coast really do say 'out West'. 

xoxo,

Second Time is a Charm

Jake and I took a quick trip to Charleston earlier this month. This was our second time visiting the Holy City and we fell even more in love with it.  I think if I were to rank a city on it's Instagramability, this city would be #1. New York City is a close #2. I just read that Charleston was ranked the Best City in the US again for the 4th time in a row by Travel and Leisure Magazine. It's also ranked #2 in the world. I can't say I'm surprised. Below are a few of my favorite pics from our most recent weekend visit:

The Battery. Love that Carolina blue sky. 

First stop: Breakfast at Callie's Hot Little Biscuit. Delicious. Highly recommend. We also ate at: Cru Cafe, Husk, Sightly North of Broad {my favorite!!!}, and Lowcountry Bistro. Our trip revolved around restaurants, as usual. 

 Second Stop: Walk around the College of Charleston. Gorgeous, as always.

Third Stop: The Battery. Love this boardwalk right by the water.

I'm pretty sure I could live here, I love everything about this city. Except for maybe the humidity's affect on my hair. But I'll just wear it in a ponytail. 

Signing off, 

Kim 

Charleston's Southern Charm

Jake and I spent Memorial Day weekend in the charming city of Charleston, SC. Can you believe it was our first time visiting and it's only a 3 hour drive from Charlotte! We planned it kind of last minute so hotels and B&B's were limited but we ended up finding a room at The Elliott House Inn which dates back to the 1800's.  

It's so incredible to see such history in a city - especially since we live in Charlotte now, which is a relatively new city.  We ate amazing food at Husk, The Macintosh and Poogan's Porch, walked around King Street until our feet were sore and finally, just relaxed a bit.  This was our first trip but I don't think it will be our last to the Holy City.  We definitely fell in love with it! 

Here are some snaps from our 3 day weekend: 

Jake and I are heading to NYC on Tuesday and I can barely contain my excitement. It will also be our first time to the Big Apple. It's been so great living on the East coast and getting to explore the other side of the country.  

Happy Travels,

Kim