Thursday, December 3, 2009

Charleston, Day 1

Nothing to really report, I forgot my camera again, so no pictures. We arrived about 1 PM and immediately checked into our room. Took a quick glance at the room and went to find Charleston!

We found downtown just where they left it and we started to walk. Reading plaques, signs and whatever we could to learn about the area, we were just wondering around dodging vendors. Trying not to get sucked into a scam.

Finally, around 3 PM, Amy says, "We haven't eaten lunch, and we should eat something". We were conveniently passing Southend Brewery (a brewpub, the only one in Charleston) on East Bay Street, which we later find out is the coolest street in town. I had the O'Ryan's Oatmeal Stout and Amy had the special seasonal beer, which was the Coconut Porter, it was not bad!

After that, we wandered around towards the Battery and the bay. We took some great advise and observed the historic houses during sunset to get the real feel for the era that the houses were built.The Architecture and landscapes were awesome. We plan on getting farther into the history of some of those houses tomorrow.

We eventually found our way back to the tourist part of Charleston and a store called the Charleston Beer Exchange. This store is very small and specializes in vintage beers. I found several interesting beers. I found an Imperial Stout by Brew Dog that is not a Vintage beer, but just supposed to be great. Also I found an English Old Ale named JW Lees Harvest Ale Vintage 2000. I have read that JW's peak after 10 years, we will see what a nine and a half tastes like tomorrow, maybe.

We were in searching mode leaving the store and walked in and out of several small wine bars and pubs, grabbing appetizers and beverage samples. None of which had Coast Brewing, which is a local well known brewery. I wonder Why? Back to the subject, one place in particular, named Hymans Seafood, claimed to have Apalachicola oysters and they were probably the worst I have ever had. The shucker guy gave us a couple more because they were so small, but they did not taste good either. They were not spoiled, just not good tasting.

I have to use the computer in the business center because there is a daily fee for wireless internet in this hotel. So, tomorrow might just be a lot of pictures.

And that is Day one in Charleston.

By the way, the hotel is fancy!

1 comment:

  1. Hyman's sucks. Tomorrow, don't forget to go drinking at the Blind Tiger on Broad Street. And you and Amy will both like the Griffin. It used to be pretty damn smokey, but could be smoke free now, and is also mostly locals. And go by Paolo's Gelato (John's Street) for Gelato, or sandwiches, or good espresso. Check out the college while you're up that way. Also, check out Fast and French for lunch on Broad Street, and walk down Legare to the battery afterward to see some cool houses. Take a left on South Battery and hit up Battery park, but don't hang out.

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