#FlyWashington Magazine Summer 2018 | Page 44

Savannah offers a wide range of hotels and B & B ’ s to choose from , but if the history and its ghostly reputation are part of what draws you to this lovely city , then make your home base the Marshall House . Built in 1851 , it ’ s known to have spirits living in the nooks and crannies , but the guestrooms have all the amenities a modern traveler craves . Choose the venerable Mansion on Forsyth Park if old-world elegance is your style or go modern with the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort and Spa , a high-rise overlooking the river , complete with a Sam Snead designed golf course and an award-winning spa .
Get your Southern food cravings satisfied at Mrs . Wilkes Dining Room , where the fried chicken is legendary , or tuck in at the Olde Pink House , located in a haunted mansion where the chefs cook classic dishes with delicious flair . For top-notch dining in Savannah , don ’ t miss 45 Bistro and Elizabeth on 37th , both serve excellent fare in beautiful mansions .
Sand dollars in Hilton Head Island
Credit : Courtney Partlow
Hilton Head Island is all about planned resorts , luxurious home bases to while away the time playing golf and tennis , then heading out for a cycle around the island , swim or surf in the warm ocean waters or a paddle in a kayak or a journey on a fishing charter to catch a big one .
This “ Lowcountry ” area of South Carolina has more to offer than idyllic days filled with athletic events , however . One of the places where the Gullah Culture remains strong , Hilton Head locals celebrate that group of African-American descendants of slaves who settled in this region in the early 1800s and created a culture all their own . Here you can tour the Hilton Head Gullah Museum , for an interesting glimpse into a unique society . Or head to the Island Winery , where locally grown grapes ( and fruits ) are made into South Carolina wines like Zinfandel , Blueberry and “ Southern Passion .”
If golf is your reason for coming to Hilton Head , there are numerous resorts where both a beautiful place to stay and a challenging course go hand in hand . The Sea Pines Plantation has the iconic Harbour Town Golf Links , often a PGA tour stop and home of the 18th hole that approaches the island ’ s lighthouse ; it is a top choice . Or try the Hilton Head Marriott Resort and Spa , a massive beachfront place that features three golf courses and a signature spa . Other popular spots are the Beach House Resort and the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort , where the world-class Palmetto Dunes golf courses are right out your front door .
When it comes to food , Hilton Head ’ s best restaurants specialize in what makes sense to their locale — seafood . For an Asian twist , check out the Aqua Grille and Lounge where they have great tasting food and a fantastic ocean view ; or for a French take on seafood , try CQ ’ s at the Sea Pines . For a more casual setting with sunset views and delicious food , the Sunset Grille serves amazing Cajun fried oysters . They will make you happy you ’ ve decided to visit this convivial Southern isle , even if your golf scores left something to be desired .
FLYWASHINGTON . COM 42 SUMMER 2018