Charleston, South Carolina is also fondly known as "the Holy City' due its numerous churches and history of religious tolerance. The city started as a small outpost known as Charlestown in the banks of the Ashley River and was only given its present name in 1783. Today, Charleston is home to various religious denominations, from Quakers and Baptists to Lutherans. The city is also home to one of the oldest Jewish congregations in the US.

Charleston is home to one of the most famous architectural styles in America, seen in the Edmonston-Alston house, which is now a museum house that features the Regency style of architecture. The city boasts also of an interesting myriad of outdoor and indoor activities which capture the attention of thousands of visitors every year. The city plays host to championship golf and sailing competitions, which are traditionally held on the banks of the Cooper River and Charleston Harbor. It is also the location for many festivals, among them the Spoleto Festival USA

Charleston also boasts of a diverse and stunning collection of wildlife, which the visitors can enjoy when they go through a short canoe ride through the wetlands or walk through the azalea-lined footpaths of the Cypress Gardens. This historic area was once a rice plantation during the colonial era and was featured in the Mel Gibson movie 'The Patriot.'