Rolling Hills of South Carolina
Over the past week I have spent some time in Aiken, South Carolina. Going to Aiken is like stepping back into the era of the Vanderbilt's. Live Oak trees canopy cottage style home lined streets. It is not rare to see a horse drawn carriage. These carriages are not necessarily pulling a group of tourists... they are carriage racers who have taken up residence is this unique equestrian community. Polo Fields... Racing Tracks... Turn of the Century Estates with horses grazing in the fields... Fox Hunts... Competitive Events...
When you go into the heart of the city, which is also the historic downtown area, you will find Hotel Aiken. Built in the late 1800S you can feel the charm the moment you walk through the marbled entry. There is one of the oldest elevators in South Carolina and gossip of haunted rooms. Just steps from the Hotel Aiken is The Alley. This alley street is where you will find quaint restaurants where you can eat outside under the canopy of flowering vines.
My overall impression of this quaint South Carolina city is that this is America. American flags, cobble stoned sidewalks, flowering medians line one way streets. There is a pride in the people that is impossible to convey unless you see it for yourself.
If you are planning a visit to this beautiful city you should take some time to meet with a local who can show you the true feeling of Aiken. Contact me and I will be sure to put you in contact with the perfect Aiken tour guide!
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