I have read lots of threads on the above two cities. We're planning a long weekend to the area (probably five nights) in October. Tentative is two nights in Charlestona and three in Savannah. Anyway, I would appreciate some suggestion for midrange B&B's. Something less than $200.00 per night. There is a mind boggling array of them. Small hotels would be ok too, I guess I don't know when a B&B becomes a small hotel. Anyone have any definitions?

Restaurant suggestions welcome as well. Thanks in advance. Jean

topping.

JeanH, I think you are being ignored.

I know I did the first time I read your post. There is a "mind boggling array" of threads by Fodorites that know, love and have visited both cities and have listed favorite restaurants, inns, B&Bs and "things to do".

I've topped three for you.

I'd at least reverse the time in the two places. There is MUCH more to do, see and enjoy in Charleston. And the other poster is correct--there are MANY thresds about this already.

JeanH--

I LOVE Charleston way better than Savannah- there are better BnB's , more shops to walk thru and lots more to see and do..

We have stayed many years at the Elliott House--the rooms are terrific.
There is a grape arbor over a huge in ground jacuzzi for the guests to use.
Wine and cheese in the afternoon- bkfst on a silver tea service served in your room and free bikes to borrow to ride thru the Battery.

Rooms have 4 poster beds and location is fabulous- right around the corner from the Market...and 1 block over from King Street ( which is full of neat little shops.).

It should be under $200 if you book early..

http://www.elliotthouseinn.com/

Hi JeanH,
I stayed at the Colonial Park Inn in Savannah a few years ago and absolutely loved it. They only have two rooms-- the Garden suite was the one I stayed in and it was just beautiful. Gracious host picked us up from the aiport too!

Thanks for topping those posts. I know that I'd read at least one of them at some point. Most of the B&B's mentioned in those threads are more than I want to spend though. At some you can get the very cheapest rooms for $200.00, but I'd prefer to stay at a cheaper property in one of their nicer rooms. Does that make any sense?

As for the Charleston/Savannah debate, I guess I'm a victim of 'The Book' and the line that in Charleston you're asked where you grandparents are from and in Savannah you're asked what you would like to drink. I also bought a copy of the Moon handbook for the two cities, and it just sounds like Savannah is more laid back. I don't like to shop, so that isn't an issue at all. Juts like to wander, eat some decent, but not gourmet food, find some decent live music and relax.

I suspect two and/or three days isn't going to be enough time in either place. This trip is really a 'scouting' trip to see which place we'd like to return and spend some more time.

Thanks again for any and all ideas. Anyone know anything about the Azalea Inn in Savannah or Jasmine Inn in Charleston?

Tripadvisor is a good source of reviews for the many inns and B&B's. I like the Eliza Thompson House in Savannah but it is several squares away from River Street (which is a plus for me).

Most people think they have "done" Savannah if they've walked on River Street and maybe stopped at City Market. Those are the tackiest parts of Savannah to me and I rarely go to River Street (maybe once every 4 years) and I go to Savannah at least 4 times a year. I don't try to argue because I know there are folks that think they've "done" the Grand Canyon in less than 24 hours. There are just different kinds of travelers.

To me Savannah is walking the squares, stopping into interesting shops (even if I don't buy anything), taking a new walking tour and going to a new museum house once a year. Three days would fly by for me.

The ET House is just a couple of short blocks from Clary's (mentioned in The Book) and around the corner from Monterrey Square and the Johnny Mercer House (where the Jim Wms murder occured). The house is now open for visits I understand. My secret getaway is close by but I NEVER disclose it. It's a great self-catering set-up but the owners of the mansion have had to stop renting out 2 of the 3 units because of tax reasons. The apartment I used to rent was 1200 square feet full of antiques and art. When I stay there I've suggested the ET house to friends that want to be nearby and they've loved it.

Be sure to have lunch at Mrs. Wilkes Boarding House on E. Jones - not far away from the ET house either.

Be sure to shop at the SCAD store. Things can be pricey but you are buying original (and functional) artwork.

If you want to stay closer to River Street then try the East Bay Inn. I often stay at the Hampton Inn historic district. Just love it and it's st steps away from my favorite restaurant, the Pink House. Another inn option is the Planter's Inn. I like it because room service comes from the Pink House. Pure decadence - eating my favorites including the she-crab soup in the middle of a 4 poster bed! The last time I stayed there (2 years ago) it was looking a bit worn. Don't know about now.

I will not go to Savannah without eating at the Pink House or Garibaldi's. Fabulous - and owned by the same folks - also Bistro Savannah.

Those are my favorites. Oh, back down toward Forsyth Park - the SoHo Cafe is a great option and a favorite of locals and frequent travelers to Savannah.

Thank you so much starrsville, I really appreciate all the great information.

I suspect we're going to fall in love with Savannah. I really can't afford to 'love' too many more places, I seem to think I need to visit them all every year. Gets expensive...

Thanks again. Jean