The Latest from the FlipKey Blog

Posted: 28 Feb 2012 05:59 AM PST

Nate and Heather Wells began married life by spending a year honeymooning throughout Europe and the States. They feared opening the chapter on kids meant closing the one on travel. Now with three sons, they have found this doesn't have to be so. They write about their ongoing adventures at TheFamilySuitcase.com.

It is tempting to get distracted by Savannah's distinct references in popular culture. Bonaventure Cemetery in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, Paula Deen’s cooking, and Forrest Gump's park bench may all be perfectly worth your while; however, our family's recent visit revealed an even richer experience than we anticipated. As my brother-in-law-cum-Savannah local puts it: "Savannah still represents the elegance and sophistication that the old south was all about. It is pure southern charm." A walking tour is a great way to experience the truth behind this description.

Savannah is a great city for walking. The historic district has an inviting coziness to it that just begs to be explored. Our family started one day at Forsyth Park and slowly zigzagged through many of the gorgeous squares that grid this part of the city. The public squares each have their own fascinating histories with the first dating back to the 1700s. Many of the charming original cobblestone streets remain intact below ubiquitous Spanish moss-covered trees. It is easy to see why General Sherman preserved Savannah and presented its safekeeping as a Christmas gift to President Lincoln upon ending his scorched-earth march from Atlanta.

Savannah is fraught with inspiring and difficult moments in US history. A beautiful remnant of this history is found at the still-in-use First African Baptist Church, which was organized by its black Baptist congregants in 1788. As one of the main stops on the Underground Railroad, it has a vibrant history that can be experienced by taking one of the heartfelt tours offered by members of the church. The moving legacy can be appreciated by kids and adults alike.

From the First African Baptist Church and historic squares, we eventually arrived at the waterfront pedestrian walkway along River Street. This is an especially rewarding spot for the kids to enjoy as they watch boats in the harbor beneath the landmark Talmadge Memorial Bridge.

This city has a fantastic tradition for food. We like to do a little extra homework beforehand to plan for the more noteworthy dining spots. This time, we were able to tap into invaluable local advice on where to eat. River Street puts you in close walking distance to some longtime favorites, particularly southern bistro B. Matthews and the comfortable, yet elegant Olde Pink House in an 18^th century mansion. A few blocks away is Leopold's, where, for good reason, everyone raves about their legendary homemade ice cream.

One distinction Savannah claims is that of the most haunted city in the US. All in good fun, there are several tour companies that offer their own unique ghost stories and excursions into the haunted sites of the historic district. We regret never finding the right moment to take part (small children with erratic napping habits will do that to you), but many recommend that this is an entertaining way to learn some of the folklore and stories of the old town.

Savannah is also at the heart of a wonderful region for many fantastic day trips. A few of our much-loved destinations are into the Out Islands off the coasts of Georgia and South Carolina. Tybee Island is one of the more popular, boasting a lighthouse-bejeweled northern tip with white sand beaches stretching wide across the coastline.

The Lowcountry of South Carolina sits just across the Savannah River, and Beaufort, another definitive southern city that has its own lovely waterfront, is only a short drive away. Continue oceanward past Gullah country and you reach Hunting Island State Park, with its captivating nature park and seashell covered beaches. Another remarkable lighthouse with endless views is open to the public. Sadly, because of its location, it is only a matter of time before the beach here is eroded completely by the Atlantic confluence.

Our family has unexpectedly fallen in love with Savannah and the nearby region. We discovered a nuanced warmth and hospitality to the city that was instantly endearing and left us wanting more of what makes it special. Savannah is one of those places that rewards nearly any traveler seeking a new experience – an experience that is much more than just park benches and celebrity chefs.

Deals of the Week: Georgia on My Mind

Posted: 27 Feb 2012 07:44 AM PST

Why, why Georgia, why? Peaches, history, sunshine…what else do you need?! Georgia’s warmth with lull you into a state of relaxation you have never known. These deals will take you to the most southeast point in the state for a historical trip to Savannah or simply a nice beach vacation on Tybee Island. Pack up your bags and get ready for a trip down south.