Savannah

There is a bit of a back story behind our trip to Savannah as well. For some reason, I've had a soft spot for the south since I was young. Mainly the aesthetics really - antebellum porches and architectural details, the live oaks dripping with spanish moss, Southern belle types sipping sweet tea. But of course there is also so much history, which I also find fascinating. As a graduation present, my mom had planned a trip to Savannah for us, which seemed the pinnacle of southern charm. But, as luck would have it, my passport was still with the Danish authorities awaiting it's visa, and we had to cancel our trip at the last minute (like, the night before). We were bummed, since we were unsure whether there would be another time for us to go. I was so into Savannah that I even applied to SCAD for my master's, before I had decided on staying in Denmark. So, it was a very happy coincidence to discover that my aunt lived close by, and it was so special to go on the trip we had planned years earlier as a threesome instead. 

Savannah definitely lived up to my high hopes, what a beautiful place. Here are my recommendations of things to do if you happen to be travelling there, with a lot of rambling as per usual. 

River Street-  The first night we arrived at dusk and took a walk along the river side. It was a good time of day to go, it's pretty touristy but the early evening light made it seem a bit magical. I got the feeling it could be a bit sketchy later at night, so it's probably best to stick to the daytime. The strange thing about Savannah is that it seems like right outside of the historic city centre can be really sketchy, but I guess that is the case for a lot of North American cities. So I guess just be safe/aware/etc. Anyway, there was an old fashioned candy shop down there selling amazing looking pralines, and also a few antique markets towards the end that were closed but looked intriguing. And that paddle boat, sigh. 

Southern food - We'd heard so much about The Lady & Sons that we decided to go there for dinner. Although it was fun to try all the classic Southern foods (or see them, in my case, since it isn't exactly vegetarian, gluten and dairy free friendly) it was pretty disappointing in terms of quality. Ah well, sometimes you can't avoid a tourist trap while on vacation. If you are wanting a more authentic experience, I've heard great things about Mrs. Wilkes' or The Olde Pink House where we went for an after dinner drink and to hear some amazing live blues. 

Trolley tour - The next day we decided to take a hop on hop off trolley tour, after much deliberation. I usually like to avoid touristy things as much as possible while travelling, and to just walk around all day taking pictures and stopping in little cafes. But, I love knowing about the history of a place, we only had one day, and it was hot. I know, it was January but I'm used to Denmark and/or am a huge baby. It ended up being a really great decision, and I'd totally recommend doing it if you are in Savannah. You get to see pretty much the entire town and you can stop and walk around as much as you'd like. Plus the open air trolleys are nice in the "heat". 

Shopping - The Paris Market, shopSCAD and Savannah Bee Company were my favourites but the Design*Sponge guide has a great list of places if you are more of a shopper, as well as lots more great recommendations in general. 

Next up, Charleston!