You will be in the best of hands in the city during this introduction to Charleston. With a long history in the city, your guide is a member of every possible organization that represents Charleston, including the Arts and History Commission of the City of Charleston, Charleston Tourism Council, Charleston Chamber of Commerce, and more. She loves her city and is blessed to be able to show it off. Begin with a 15-minute introduction to Charleston's 300-year-old history before embarking on your sightseeing tour.

Your suggested itinerary will showcase both the city and the Lowcountry. The history and architecture that dates from early colonial times still exists in Charleston. The Rainbow Row of townhouses; St. Michael's Church (1761), where George Washington worshipped; and City Hall still stand. The town prospered and grew and that is reflected in the homes from the 1800s that become larger with that prosperity.

Magnificent mansions line the seawall that faces the harbor. And your guide will impart the stories of the historical significance of it all. A tour of the Nathaniel Russell House (c.1808) will show you how Charlestonians lived in this great north port city. You will see Fort Sumter, an island in the harbor, from the city at the entrance to Charleston Harbor. And though we won't include this, you will be able to return on your own to visit.

Catfish Row, which inspired the love story of Porgy and Bess, is in the heart of this 18th century town. You will travel through the large Victorian district as well.

A visit to one of the plantations is a nice complement to the city tour. The plantations are approximately 20-30 minutes from the city, but will bring you out in the Carolina Lowcountry to see the Spanish Moss, live oaks, and salt marshes.

If you wish to to see the Military College of South Carolina, where you would see the "Citadel," often referred to as the West Point of the South, your guide will take you.