Cities, I think, are absolutely fascinating.
Especially the idea that the people, culture, architecture and industry of cities across the United States can vary so drastically.
A few weeks ago, I visited Charleston, S.C. during my spring break. It was my first time in Charleston, but also my first time in a true Southern city. I grew up right outside of New York City and attend school a few hours from Chicago, so my conception of a city has always been a place filled with sky-high buildings, honking cars and rushed, unfriendly people.
Charleston was definitely not that kind of place.
Charleston has a true Southern flavor, which I loved. Not only do people wave or smile at you on the street, but doormen pause to help tourists with directions and drug store owners actually let people use their bathrooms.
Southern charm is a real thing.
Crazy.
Of course, the city itself is gorgeous, with its beautiful, pastel-colored Antebellum homes situated right on the water. The historic architecture and city layout gave Charleston a European feel, more so than anywhere else I’ve been on the East Coast.
This vibrant metropolis holds close to its roots — so much of the city’s past remains present. Old stone blocks even sit on street corners, once used to help men mount their horses, now active reminders of a genteel past.
And if I wasn’t already in love with the place, some key scenes in The Notebook were shot in Charleston.
SKETCHING A STORY 