The coastal city of Savannah is in many ways like the perfect anthology. Each story is different with its own important message, yet all are blended together by the common spirit that lives in the oak trees, bubbles up in the fountains, flavors the dishes and surfaces in the smiles that greet you. This is Savannah.

A Southern Stroll When you visit the historic district of Savannah you immediately understand that this is an area that thrived before automobiles took center stage. This is an area for walking. Feel the brick pavers underneath your feet. Climb the stairs up to the street above and think about the many who have walked here before you. Take your time - there are more than 1600 historic structures in the district.

Garden Party Hospitality needs a meeting place and Savannah has 21 of the best public gathering spots. The city’s public squares are stunning gardens that issue a silent invitation to sit and linger awhile. Fountains and statues create a unique personality for each of the squares. Visit them all and find your favorite.

Protection from Evil While touring Savannah, you might notice a bluish green color painted on the doorframes, porches and windowsills of many of city’s grand homes. This color, known as Haint Blue, has an important purpose, to ward off evil spirits. Haint Blue paint was first used by African Slaves to guard their houses from spirits. The Geechee/Gulla culture of the Lowcountry say the bluish green color of Haint Blue represents water, which they believe spirits can not pass over.

Come On In Many of Savannah’s grand homes serve as museums and welcome visitors to enjoy a glimpse into the lives of some of the city’s most colorful characters. The Andrew Low Home on Lafayette Square was constructed in 1849 for the richest man in town. Over on State Street, the Isaiah Davenport House, built in 1820, is an excellent example of the Federal style.

Island Adventure Tybee Island is located a quick 20 minutes from Savannah’s historic district. You can spend the day with a dolphin tour, a kayak tour or a deep-sea fishing voyage. Work up your appetite with a climb to the top of Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse and a tour of Tybee’s two forts. Then reward your appetite with a great meal at one of the island’s unique seaside eateries or one of its upscale restaurants.