Charleston, Savannah & Coastal Islands Book: A Complete Guide, Fifth Edition (A Great Destinations Guide)

Veteran author and 25-year-resident Cecily McMillan explores the unique intrigue of the Carolina Lowcountry region, examining its history, culture, and people, and provides authoritative recommendations for accommodations, dining, sight-seeing, and recreational activities. Whether you're visiting for a long weekend or renting a cottage on the coast for a week, anyone visiting this magical region will be able to experience the pleasures and pastimes and all new amenities and comforts the region has to offer.

Whether your taste gravitates toward admiring historic architecture, savoring local gourmet cuisine in the finest restaurants, casting a net for shrimp, or bird-watching or kayaking, travelers of all persuasions will find the most up-to-date advice for where to go and what to do. 100 black & white photos, 5 maps.

The back cover of Cecily McMillan's " The Charleston, Savannah & Coastal Islands Book " states that the author has lived in the 'Coastal Empire' since 1980 and it truly shows. The book itself is penned from one who not only truly knows the region well but from one who seemingly loves it as much as I do. Laid out for easy accessibility I had no problem using the book last summer when visiting Charleston and Kiawah Island. It even gave me much needed updated information on Savannah ( I've been gone far too long! ) such as smaller shops where I could spend my hard earned dollar, tucked away restaurants featuring delicious local cuisine and especially a vast amount of info on the surrounding islands ( Hilton Head I'm coming back to stay next time! Definitely! ) as well. The book also gave a sense of history for the region which I always find very helpful when attempting to 'get the feel' of any city/town and it's local population. Plus, there was an agreeable amount on local beach's that I didn't even know existed. Shame on me! Overall, a very well put together edition that guided me effortlessly through my travels.

Obviously this is a 'two-thumbs up' review of " Charleston, Savannah & Coastal Islands " and why not? The Lowcountry is a marvelous region and one which possess's an abundance of beauty and a laid-back elegance which is undeniable. I found little wrong about this guide ( not much on local Golf courses but it did give badly needed info as to where I might find it! ) from the first-rate information that was easy to use and seemed fully up to date. And while I am no longer a 'local' ( for the moment! ) I am happy with my purchase and for Ms. McMillan in helping me enjoy my summer holiday. Perhaps you truly can go home again! Thank-You!!


a nice blend of history and service journalism.   August 25, 1998
5 out of 6 found this review helpful

Ms. Mcmillan knows this region well and the book reflects that. It is well organized, factual, and as up to date as is possible, given the vigorous growth spurt that has enveloped the area. The restaurant reviews are honest and accurate as to specifics. As a resident of the South Carolina coast, it has been helpful to me and to the friends to whom I have given a copy. This is a region rich in history and atmosphere. I think this book conveys a sense of those things in a very entertaining and refreshing way.


a nice blend of history and service journalism.   August 25, 1998
44 out of 45 found this review helpful

Ms. Mcmillan knows this region well and the book reflects that. It is well organized, factual, and as up to date as is possible, given the vigorous growth spurt that has enveloped the area. The restaurant reviews are honest and accurate as to specifics. As a resident of the South Carolina coast, it has been helpful to me and to the friends to whom I have given a copy. This is a region rich in history and atmosphere. I think this book conveys a sense of those things in a very entertaining and refreshing way.