Hey charleston experts (GoTravel and all), i've done my homework here and will continue to search, but am wondering about a couple things specifically.

I've read that the weather is lovely the end of march, but what about mid-march? We're looking at Palm Sunday weekend specifically, march 18-21. I realize the flowers may not be in full bloom, but i take it the weather will be much nicer than here in the northeast?!

Also and more importantly, are there any annual, traditional events taking place that weekend that may make a visit more difficult. i.e. busier, pricier etc?

TIA - any and all feedback appreciated!

The weather will be a crapshoot in mid March. It could be 85 degrees or it could be 60 degrees but it will be much warmer than the northeast. Chances are you will have very nice weather during that time.

The azaleas could very well be in full bloom then depending upon our weather. They bloom anytime from February through the begining of April.

Off the top of my head, I can't think of anything in particular going on but I'll get back to you on that. Spring is very busy in Charleston.

Make sure your hotel is downtown the closer to Market Street the better. I know the Embassy gets good reviews but it is a little out of the way. So is the Renaissance.

Where are you staying?

Hi GoTravel, thanks for the reply! Even temps in the 60s will be a welcome relief by then, i'm sure!

We don't have ressies yet and will be traveling with teenagers. Would love to stay in the historical area if it's not too pricey, which is another reason why i wondered if / what might be going on that weekend. So many communities have flower type shows etc, in addition to a zillion other things, that we'll find another weekend if it will be super busy. Any ideas for lodging in or near the historic area that is safe for teens to come and go?
Also near the Symphony?

Thanks again!

Ellen, I think the Doubletree has one of the best locations in the city.

Get one of the two floor rooms. They are all suites and have a little kitchette area in the living room. You don't need a car.

Downtown Charleston is very safe. You will love the location.

Thanks, GoTravel! I'll check it out.

Also, do you (or anyone)know if it's within walking distance of the symphony? Otherwise, is public transportaion good? Cabs?

Yes, you can walk there but not in heels. Some of Charleston's sidewalks are cobblestone.

Charleston Symphony Orchestra performs at Gaillard which is on Calhoun. You can walk down Market to East Bay and take a left. Go about five blocks and take a left on Calhoun Street. It is right there.

It would be a lovely walk if it isn't raining.

Transportation is very good. Pedicabs are fun, cheap, and everywhere.

The Doubletree is excellent for King Steet shopping. You MUST go to Bob Ellis for shoes.

www.BobEllis.com

Hi GoTravel! Thx so much for all the info. What exactly are pedicabs? Its been years and years since i've been in charleston so i don't recall...?

Also, do you have a preference between the "Freedom Walk" and the "Charleston Walk"? Should we do both? So far we're planning on Magnolia Plantation, Ft. Sumpter (w/out the aquariam i think) and the ghost tour. Oh, and LOTS of shopping LOL!

Also, we might take the Spirit of Charleston boat tour - how is that? We love city views from the water.

Thanks for any and all ideas!

topping -- GoTravel? Anyone?

Pedicabs are College of Charleston kids peddling bicycles that have buggies attached to them. Fun and scenic way to get around town.

As far as tours, you cannot beat Sarah Ragsdale at [email protected].

Thanks GoTravel! Looking forward to visiting in the early spring - we've only been in the summer.

Also, does anyone have thoughts on the harbour crusises? With or without dinner -- we just like seeing ciites from the water and don't have necessarily have dinner.
Any favorites? Is one better than the other?

Oops - sorry for the typos - i need more coffee!

I meant -- we don't necessarily need to have dinner on the harbour cruises (food is usually sub par) but love seeing cityscapes from the water. Any reccos for good cruises?