nown as the “All America City”, Charleston offers travelers a unique historical experience with a touch of romance. Whether your motives are pleasure or business, these are the top 5 reasons why visiting Charleston is an experience worth your while.

A Living Museum (by Carriage)

The city of Charleston is known as a living museum of American history. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich past with a horse-drawn carriage tour of the vintage downtown district. Take in all the classic American architecture as you roll past famous homes on cobblestones and bricks. As you explore the city, be sure to visit Middleton Place. This large historic plantation offers a walking tour through the oldest landscape gardens in America. Take a few pictures near the reflecting pools surrounded by the bursting colors of exotic flowers. Once you are finished with your tour, be sure to grab a cup of the famous “she-crab soup” in the Middleton Place Restaurant.

Lodging, Great Deals and Variety

From quaint, historic hotels near the market district to more upscale hotels by the harbor, Charleston offers a wide variety of lodging options. With so many choices there are always great discount packages available to help ensure your vacation is both luxurious and affordable. For a traveler like me who appreciates a great deal, I always suggest looking into a Charleston Hotel with a mini-vacation offer (http://www.vacation-offer.com/special/new/24). For those of you looking for a more high-end experience I recommend checking out a place like the HarbourView Inn (http://www.harbourviewcharleston.com/) during the off-season on a midweek night. Either way, if you keep your eyes pealed you are sure to find the right deal for you.

The Colors and Characters (the battery and rainbow row)

During your visit be sure to take a walk along the Battery. On the way to this ocean side stretch of historic homes you will come across Rainbow Row. Part of a citizen inspired conservation project, this row of vintage homes representing all the colors of the rainbow offers a unique look into the past with a splash of color. As you walk along the battery, be sure to take in the sweeping ocean panorama with a clear view of Fort Sumter where the first shots of the civil war were fired. Along the way don’t miss a chance to visit Charleston’s Historic Market, home to a variety of boutiques and eclectic craftsmen.

King Street Shopping

For those of you with a shopping fetish, Charleston offers a great selection of stores in the many galleries and boutiques along King Street. From Gucci to Gap and even colorful antique store like Estate Antiques, King Street has something for every shopper. Be sure to arms yourself with a good pair of shoes, some free time and a Visa card. This is a shopping experience that will make you wish you were a resident.

Folly Beach

Whatever you do during you stay, make it a point to visit Folly Beach (http://www.follybeach.com/). Just a short drive from Charleston, this relaxed, rustic beach played a major role in the Civil War. Beyond its history, the Beach offers a splendid view into the void of the Atlantic Ocean from the pier. Bring your beach chairs, lay back and enjoy the sun. Folly Beach is a sure bet to wash away any stress left over from the real world.

With all the options and experiences that Charleston has to offer, the most difficult part is making a plan and sticking to it. To ensure a great experience I always suggest making a list. Whatever you do don’t forget to leave room for the unexpected.