Forsyth Park. The Fountain was created in 1858.
Although my maternal roots are in Georgia, I had never visited the state's First City, Savannah, until a few weeks ago. The Savannah in my mind was a mystical town of ghosts and modern-day eccentrics roaming bucolic plazas and streets lined with Spanish moss. And, of course, for many of us John Berendt's brilliant book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil first sparked our interest in the "Hostess City."
Founded in 1733, Savannah has had many years to create her colorful past. However, Savannah today is not only heartbreakingly beautiful but a vibrant town where history and modern times meld like peaches and pastry in a most delectable cobbler. And, I do like cobbler! Artsy without being pretentious, down-to-earth without being common, Savannah is so easy-to-love. Here is my list of six things to love about Savannah. The list has no particular order, rhyme or reason and is by no means a definitive list of what to do in this town that offers so much. Savannah is a great destination for the solo traveler, couples, families, and groups of friends.
1. The new Avia Hotel: The Avia Hotel may be the new kid in town but it fits beautifully into Savannah's historic district. If the sign of a good hotel is never wanting to leave, then the sign of a great hotel is secretly hoping that you miss your flight so that you can plead with the Front Desk to let you back in your room. The Avia is a great hotel. This luxury boutique property just opened in Savannah's historic district and is one of the best situated hotels in town. The Avia is just steps away from Paula Deen's Lady & Son's Restaurant, the City Market, the Riverfront, and the shops at Broughton Street.
More than a great location, the Avia offers lushly appointed rooms, a friendly staff, and a fantastic restaurant and wine bar. They even have their own blend of organic coffee. Thoughout the hotel a scrolling motif, inspired by Savannah's cast ironwork, appears in the carpets and upholstery. The view from the Avia will only get better once renovations are completed on the plaza directly across the street. The 42 inch plasma television and Dean & Deluca snacks might tempt you lounge in your room but then you would miss out on having a delicious Savannah Sparkler (imagine a mojito made with prosecco instead of rum) at the wine bar.
My room at the Avia
2. The People: When traveling alone you really depend on the kindness of strangers, not just to point you in the right direction but to engage in conversation and give you the insiders view of their town. Savannahians love their city. They know they live in a great place and enjoy talking about it. Friendly shopkeepers, funny cabdrivers and attentive waitstaff made my trip a real pleasure. Even the local shady characters were interesting for a really short conversation.
3. The Parks and Plazas: Savannah has the distinction of being America's first planned city and the brilliance of that plan included gorgeous squares. No matter what direction you walk in the historic district, one of Savannah's 21 squares (there used to be 24) provides an oasis of green and blooming flowers where you can stroll or just sit. Each square has its own unique charm. Savannah is very much a walking city and the open container law makes it possible to enjoy a cocktail while you stroll.
Thank you to the British tourist who snapped this photo of me. He was in Savannah for the first time too and we spent 10 minutes chatting about how much were both enjoying our visit.
4. The Honey House (Savannah Bee Company): Wine tastings are a dime a dozen but a honey tasting? Quicker than I could say "orange blossom", Beekeeper Clay Culver guided me through a tasting of 7 different honeys. From sweet Tupelo to buttery winter white, each honey had a distinct flavor profile. Founded by Savannah native and beekeeper Ted Dennard, the Savannah Bee Company also sells natural body care products. You can even buy a completely edible honeycomb - it pairs perfectly with cheese and fruit. Clay and Ted are so passionate about beekeeping that I came this close to buying the beekeeping starter kit. Bees not included.
A flight of Savannah Bee Honeys
Beekeepers Clay Culver and Ted Dennard
5. The Paris Market & Brocante: This two level emporium exudes warmth and sophistication. Spacious but cozy, the Paris Market actually feels like several specialty boutiques under one roof. The impressive selection includes high end candles, furniture, vintage books, jewelry, bedding, and even candy. The wide range of price points makes the Paris Market very accessible. Although I only purchased a box of cookies and a tin of French mints, they patiently wrapped my items in tissue paper and placed them in a lovely shopping bag. You have to love a store that makes a budget shopper feel like a million books.
The Paris Market
6. Dinner at Garibaldi's- More than one Savannahian told me that Garibaldi was one of their favorite restaurants and now I know why. The menu is a delicious fusion of low country seafood with continental and even Asian influences. One of the most popular dishes at Garibaldi's is the Crispy Flounder with Apricot Shallot Sauce, Pasta and Vegetables. I tried the Shrimp Risotto Cake (shrimp sauteed with country ham and cream) and yes, it is as decadent as it sounds. I opted to enjoy my dinner at the bar and the waiters kept me smiling! Chef Gerald Green even came out to say hello and insisted that I eat dessert. When in Savannah....
Dessert at Garibaldi's
Of course, there are more than six wonderful things I could share with you about Savannah. This low-country treasure was the birthplace of legendary songwriter Johnny Mercer and on more than one occasion I caught myself humming Moon River as I walked along the riverfront. There are some places that you visit once and you check them off a list but Savannah not only inspires songs but a fervent desire to return again and again.
For more information about Savannah, please visit www.Savannahvisit.com.
