Savannah

Whenever someone asks me for a recommendation of where to visit in the South, my answer is always the same: Savannah, Georgia.

One word comes to mind when attempting to describe Savannah: bewitching. It’s as if time passed and Savannah made no effort to acknowledge it; as other cities allowed steel and glass to take over their skyline, Savannah remained true to itself, allowing nature to take its course. Every oak tree encasing a story as deep as its roots, of the people who planted their seeds, knowing they would never get to sit beneath their shade.

Recommendation: Take a stroll around Madison Square during the late afternoon and get to know Savannah’s historic district. If you’d prefer, these tours are also offered by carriage ride, which are incredibly romantic, especially during sunset.

The city's squares, with their ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss, provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Walking through the quiet streets, one is transported to another time, surrounded by stately homes and historic landmarks that seem to whisper secrets of the past.

At the heart of Savannah lies Forsyth Park, a lush green oasis that contrasts starkly with the city's brick and stone. Here, one can bask in the beauty of the fountains and greenery. The park consists of 30 acres nestled in the middle of the Historic District, inside you’ll find everything you need to spend an enjoyable afternoon, including a visitor’s center and a cafe.

Recommendation: Make sure to check out River Street, where iconic 200-year-old cobblestone streets will give you a magnificent view of the Savannah river, while street performers entertain you and local eateries entice your senses with their aromatic scents. From restaurants to galleries, River Street is a one-stop destination and a must-see while in Savannah!

Wormsloe historic site

Lastly, you could visit the Wormsloe Historic Site, which has a picturesque mile-long entryway lined by 400 towering trees overflowing with Spanish moss. Personally when I visited, I chose to not tour the site, but I had to see the entrance for myself, as the nature that surrounds it is a sight to behold.

Embodying the perfect combination of magical and eerie, Savannah’s enchantment is inescapable. It’s carried in the sound of the breeze as it hits the mossy covered oaks; it’s in the rays of sun struggling to make their way through the vines, in the warmth of its people and the beguiling unruliness of its landscapes.