Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston has been rated by Condé Nast Traveler as the number 1 city in the US in their Readers Choice Awards 3 years in a row and also made 2016's 12 Best Places to Retire in the US. Visit the city once and you’ll discover that it pulls at your heartstrings like no other place in the country.

Is it the enjoyable year-round climate? The history that lingers in the air? The almost-European feel of its downtown city streets? Charleston is truly one of the most cosmopolitan places around, offering sophisticated dining rivaling that of much larger cities and shopping experiences for even the most jaded consumers.

To say that Charleston is steeped in history is much like saying the sun is yellow. Other places have long histories as well, but none is a living museum that grows and changes with the times. If you’re a history buff, you will never grow tired of Charleston and the surrounding countryside, and if you also enjoy golf you're in for a treat.

While the city itself has no beaches, it is surrounded by water on three sides–if you’re lost, just continue on and you’ll surely run into a familiar river and get your bearings. The most picturesque spot in Charleston might be The Battery, with its panoramic views of the Ashley and the Cooper, the two rivers that form the peninsula, and the Atlantic Ocean. If you love the sights and sounds of gentle waves lapping against the shore, you can reach some of the best beaches along the Atlantic coast in a matter of minutes in places like Folly Beach, the Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island. If you enjoy walking, Charleston is full of interesting little parks and side streets filled with art galleries and boutiques.

In spite of all that Charleston offers, it maintains a small-town charm you’ll cherish for years to come. You’ll love morning strolls around Colonial Lake and sunset cocktails at restaurants overlooking the water. You’ll come to appreciate the intricate artwork in the wrought-iron gates and the lovely Charleston single style of architecture, designed to catch the breeze on sultry afternoons.

Most of all, you’ll cherish the many new friends and acquaintances you’ll make when you choose Charleston as your new home.

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