damedonna

Originally we were planning on visiting Charleston at the end of June/beginning of May but our plans have changed and looks like it will now be beginning of May. What's it like then? Has the humidity kicked in and how are the bugs at that time of year?

DD

GoTravel

It is hot but the stifling humidity has not kicked in yet.

Hotels are expensive as it is peak season.

Avoid college graduation weekend (Citidel, MUSC, and College of Charleston) because you'll never find a room.

damedonna

GoTravel

you are always so knowledgeable, do you know when that is, we are planning on arriving on May 2 departing on Sunday the 6th?

I've just come across The Governor's House Inn and now I can't make my mind up choosing between that or The French Quarter Inn

DD

GoTravel

I would go with the French Quarter Inn over the Governor's House because it is a little nicer however, the Governers House is in a little quieter location. It is in a residential area of the historic district and the FQI is right smack in the middle of Market Street. I prefer the location of the FQI.

The Citadel graduates on May 6th so you may be okay. I'd make my reservations now and not wait. Not sure about MUSC and College of Charleston's graduation is the weekend after.

damedonna

thankfully did manage to reserve a junior suite for the dates we wanted in May. Now all I need to do is to book our flights from London, via Newark with Continental

DD

barnumbailey

I think Charleston is beautiful in May. The humidity doesn't get severe until June/July, so the weather will more than likely be gorgeous! Bugs are bad in some areas...if you visit Fort Sumter, you may have to deal with lots of bugs that locally we call "no see ums"...you can't see these bugs but you can feel them if they are biting you! They seem to be near the water a bit more than on land...my husband was eaten up by them in early May one year when we did the Ft. Sumter boat tour. I think you are wise to go in May...enjoy the beautiful city and all the southern traditions!

damedonna

my husband gets badly bitten, can you recommend a good local spray that we can buy as soon as we arrive

DD

GoTravel

Off or anything that contains Deet.

barnumbailey

I get badly bitten also. I love the lotion that OFF makes, but it is more difficult to find. It doesn't leave me feeling quite as sticky as the sprays.