Charleston NYE Vacation and Jason Isbell

After a few weeks of nada, I'll talk a bit about a great city and a great place to visit, Charleston, SC. Taking a 5 day vacation to get away from it all, Charleston was the choice. Staying at a small 18 room inn, The Anchorage Inn, nights were comfortable and just a few steps away from everything.

To the layman, saying you were going for a visit to "rainbow row," one may think you were in San Francisco, but that's not so in Charleston, SC. The nickname, or just name, for a strip of century old houses, each colored brightly, is just a few blocks away from the Anchorage Inn. However, this isn't exactly what I would call fun for the whole family. I learned quickly via carriage ride/tour, that this little row used to be the hustle and bustle of the town, and where one might find a few prostitutes.

Enough about that though. If you are looking for a fun town to grab a few drinks, get a little culture and eat great meals, this is the town for you. Never having visited the true south, i was struck by the great charm and famed sourthern hospitality. If you are looking for some great restaurants (not exactly the cheapest, but great for foodies like me). FIG will provide a bold delicious meal, Cru Cafe will give you a delicious lunch or dinner inside a small Charleston house. You'll feel like you are at grandmas. For a spectacular (pricey) meal, check out Tristan. You will be blown away by the 26 year old chef that roames the kitchen. If you a drink or a glass of wine is what you are after, Pearlz happy hour is fantastic. Oyesters, wines, beers, all for great prices in a great atmosphere; the blind Tiger Pub is great for a brew in a nice outside patio, and for a great dinner and a delicious glass of wine, check out Muse. A beautful house, delicious wines and a fantastic meal, I recommend the scallops.

Finally, a quick review of Jason Isbell's new years eve set at the Music Farm. Coming on the stage (after some pathetic opening acts) around 11:40, Jason did what he always does....Rock. Pulling out some great Drive-By Truckers songs and others from his most recent solo effort, Isbell did not dissapoint. I would have liked a longer set, but I can't complain as he rocked hard for every minute he was on stage. Knocking back some jack from the bottle, he pulled out some Tom Petty and ripped into a new song for the final encore. A great show all around.

If you have a couple days for a fun relaxed southern town, Charleston is the place for you.