Capt. Bo Gator�s Boat Tours, Inc.
Come take a ride on the wild side with Capt. Bo Gator�s Boat Tours. Experience a unique glimpse into the wildlife and history of the Historic Cooper River. Venture deep into the wilds of Lowcountry swamps where participants can witness alligators, egrets, bald eagles, turtles, and more in their natural habitats. Guests will learn about various plantations, rice fields and about the Swamp Fox (General Francis Marion) � all while enjoying a scenic boat tour along this historical waterway. Call 843-797-5553 or visit www.captbogators.com.

Carolina FoodPros Dresses-Up Culinary Tours for the Holidays
This holiday season, visitors will enjoy a �taste� of holiday food and traditions as they experience Christmas in Charleston on holiday culinary tours. Carolina FoodPros, a Charleston based company that promotes regional foods, is �dressing up� its culinary tours in celebration of the holidays. Visitors will go behind the scenes to learn about local foods and traditions, sample Southern holiday treats and shop for specialty items to bring home. Call 843-723-3366 or visit www.carolinafoodpros.com.

�Heartsteps� � Historic Wedding Tours
A marriage in Charleston�s churches or synagogues is a special part of history. Today�s couples stand at the very altars where founders of our nation were united. The spirit of this history touches ceremonies. Feel this spirit up-close in the stories of history�s brides and grooms. Hear descriptions of historic wedding days, the ongoing legacies of their families, the courage to conquer their trials. These special tours are lead by the city�s griot (an oral historian and guide). Call 571-0049 or visit www.charleston-tours.com.

Stella Nova Spa and Salon
Stella Nova Spa and Salon, 78 Society Street, is getting a makeover. Soon it will be renovated and split so that the spa will remain at 78 Society and the salon will transform to a Salon and Advanced Education Center at 84 1/2 Society. The spa will be redecorated to enhance the customers experience from the moment they arrive to the time the leave, relaxed, refreshed, renewed and revived. This will enable the new facility at 78 Society to be more serene and make use of the beautiful gardens and landscaping. Call 843-723-0909 or visit www.stella-nova.com.

Skating on the Square
As the holidays draw near, Charleston will receive a temporary outdoor 5,400 square-foot ice skating rink in the heart of downtown Charleston. The rink will be placed in Marion Square where it will complement park activities and draw holiday shoppers downtown. The rink is slated to open Dec. 3 and remain until January 2nd. Call 843-724-7305 for additional details.

Cottage on the Creek
Mount Pleasant�s newest special events facility is an enchanting homelike setting on Historic Shem Creek with classic shrimp boats and beautiful sunsets to add that Lowcountry flavor. From the quaint front lawn and arbor that is perfect for pre-ceremony pictures to the sprawling deck on the docks, there are numerous opportunities for pretty pictures and southern hospitality. Call 843-881-7384.

Charleston Cooks!
Discover the Lowcountry�s unique culinary traditions. Visit the retail store, 194 East Bay Street, for regional foods, kitchen tools, and advice about them. Expand culinary horizons in a variety of demonstration and participation classes available to individuals and groups. Their talented kitchen professionals will help guests enjoy Lowcountry cuisine at home. Call 843-724-3808 or visit www.mavericksouthernkitchens.com.

Encore Catering
Encore Catering and Events is a full service catering and event management company. Their vast catering expertise and passion for excellence will ensure that clients receive the highest quality of food and service. Let the expert staff and extraordinary cuisine make a wedding or special occasion an event to remember. Call 843-532-7029.

Red�s Ice House
What once was a working ice house for the shrimping industry is now the coolest gathering spot on Shem Creek. Rustic and casual, Red�s Ice House boasts a delicious menu of fresh seafood and shrimp, indoor and outdoor dining on the docks and a Tree House bar with knockout sunset views. A trip to the Lowcountry is not complete without a visit to Red�s Ice House. Call 843-388-0003 or visit www.redsicehouse.com.

First Annual Food and Wine Festival
Culinary connoisseurs, cooking critics, and epicureans, hold on to your spatula! The first ever Food and Wine Festival in Charleston is slated for March 3-5, 2006. The event is being organized by a group of local area residents looking to bring the Charleston culinary delights to a new high. They also hope to attract attention to the rich and award winning array of dining opportunities in the area. For more information, contact Angel Postell at 843-225-8333.

Savannah�s Restaurant on the Creek
Located at 2600 Savannah Hwy, Savannah�s Restaurant on the Creek is the destination for �Lowcountry cooking with an elegant casual style.� In addition to the restaurant, they offer meeting space for special occasions or just a gathering of friends for dinner. Call 843-556-5506 or visit www.savannahrestaurant.com.

Residence Inn by Marriott � Charleston Airport
This colorful new hotel is convenient to the Charleston Airport, historic downtown, and many area attractions. The all-suite property includes full kitchens in every guest room. Complimentary deluxe breakfast served daily, free high speed internet, and complimentary evening social Mon-Thurs. Extended stay rates available. Call 843-266-3434 or visit www.northcharlestonresidenceinn.com.

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island
Built at a cost of $125 million, The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island represents the crowning jewel of a resort island already known for its championship golf and pristine beach. Just 35 minutes from downtown Charleston, The Sanctuary reflects the style and charm of a 19th century grand seaside mansion. The hotel features 255 spacious guestrooms, spectacular oceanfront dining and a nature-oriented spa. Call 843-768-2912 or visit www.thesanctuary.com.

Independence Air Introduces New Low-Fare Service to Charleston
Independence Air announced Charleston International Airport (CHS) as one of its 35 summer launch destinations with new low-fare service that began July 17th. The schedule began with six daily non-stop flights to Washington Dulles International Airport, and quickly grew to seven flights soon after. Connections to 25 cities are also available now. All flights are available for sale on the Independence Air web site at www.FLYi.com.

Delta Launches New Nonstop Services To Charleston
Delta Air Lines launched its new nonstop service between New York and Charleston. Delta now offers customers one daily, round-trip, nonstop flight each between New York�s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Charleston International Airport (CHS). On Nov. 1, Delta will begin offering customers two daily, nonstop flights each between Tampa, FL, and Charleston. Delta will also begin offering customers one daily flight between Orlando and Charleston, starting Nov. 1. For more information, visit www.delta.com.

At The Controls Exhibit at Patriots Point
At the Controls exhibit comes to Patriots Point from the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in Washington D.C., from October 16 through December 12, 2004. This series of twenty breathtaking, large format color photos vividly duplicates the sensation of actually being at the controls of some of the world�s most famous air and spacecraft. To further enhance the experience, guests are able to sit in the actual cockpit of an F9F Cougar fighter jet on display in the hangar bay of the world-famous aircraft carrier Yorktown, the flagship of Patriots Point�s four vessel fleet. Call 843-884-2727 or visit www.patriotspoint.org.

The Bountiful Coast: Foodways of the South Carolina Lowcountry Exhibit
From November 12, 2004 through September 12, 2005, The Charleston Museum presents The Bountiful Coast: Foodways of the South Carolina Lowcountry, an exhibition exploring the foodways and dining customs of the 18th and 19th century Lowcountry. The Bountiful Coast will encompass many facets of the Museum�s collection, including archaeology, decorative arts, natural history, and textiles. Dietary habits to be examined include the procurement of food, food preparation, and serving. Call 843-722-2996 or visit www.charlestonmuseum.org.

Book Signing at Charles Pinckney National Historic Site
A �forgotten founder� is remembered with a presentation and new book signing at Charles Pinckney National Historic Site. On Nov. 13, Dr. Marty D. Matthews will present his new book, Forgotten Founder: The Life and Times of Charles Pinckney. The program begins at 2 pm and will include a book signing. Copies of Forgotten Founder will be available for purchase on site at the park bookstore. The National Park Service invites anyone with an interest in the history of the U.S. Constitution or South Carolina to enjoy this free program. Call 843-881-5516.

The Polar Express: An IMAX 3D Experience
The Polar Express: An IMAX 3D Experience is the first full-length feature ever converted into IMAX 3D DMR� (digitally re-mastered). It will make motion picture history at the Charleston IMAX when it arrives on Nov. 10. Audiences will become totally immersed in the IMAX 3D presentation grasping at falling snowflakes, ducking as the train screeches into their lap and feeling the howl of the steam whistle via 12,000 watts of digital surround sound on a screen towering 5 stories tall. For tickets, schedules and more information call 843-725-IMAX or visit www.charlestonimax.com.

The Chamber Music Society of Charleston
The Chamber Music Society of Charleston brings chamber music of high artistic quality to audiences of the greater Charleston area. The CMSC concerts are in historic venues that celebrate the rich tradition of classical chamber music. For schedule of concerts or additional information, call 843-763-5775 or visit www.chambermusiccharleston.org.

Indigo
Local artwork, unique jewelry, fashionable accessories, and distinctive home decor are all housed inside this coastal inspired wonderland. Located at 4 Vendue Range, in the heart of Charleston�s historic district and in view of Waterfront Park, Indigo offers a shopping experience like no other. Call 843-723-2983 for more information.

Spoleto Festival USA Announces Complete 2005 Season
Spoleto Festival USA will announce the 29th annual festival season on November 21 just in time for the holidays. Single tickets, chamber music subscriptions, and ticket packages to all events will be available online at www.spoletousa.org that day and by calling the Spoleto Box Office at 843-579-3100 starting November 22. 

French Quarter Art Walk
The December French Quarter Art Walk will be held December 3rd from 5-8 pm. All of the 30 galleries of the French Quarter will be open with artists on hand and refreshments. Stroll the cobbled streets and gas lit alleyways of the original walled city to discover the works of hundreds of artist representing a diverse variety of styles and mediums from traditional to contemporary. Start at any participating gallery and pick up a French Quarter Map. Call 843-577-7100 or visit www.frenchquartergalleries.com.

Culinary Tour Package Takes a Bite Out of History
In conjunction with the special exhibit at The Charleston Museum, The Bountiful Coast: Foodways of the South Carolina Lowcountry, Carolina FoodPros and the museum have teamed up to offer a special tour package open to the public. Guests join Amanda Dew Manning, local food expert, for a guided tour of The Bountiful Coast exhibit and a culinary walking excursion through historic downtown Charleston. Call 843-723-3366 or visit www.carolinafoodpros.com.

Woodlands Resort & Inn invites guests to �Slumber in Paradise�
Woodlands Resort & Inn is inviting guests to enjoy the dwindling days of summer and the crisp cool nights of fall with the �Slumber in Paradise� package. The package includes one night�s accommodations for two in an elegant guest room, half-bottle of Pinot Noir or Chardonnay with Woodlands� signature yellow roses - upon arrival, afternoon tea, evening turndown service with house-made cookies, a full American breakfast for two, and all taxes and gratuities. This package is offered through December 21, 2004. Call 1-800-774-9999 or visit www.woodlandsinn.com.

Charleston Ranked a Top American Destination for 12th Consecutive Year
Readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine honored Charleston as a TOP 10 travel destination in North America. Charleston earns honors with a high ranking of No. 4 surpassing other popular U.S. destinations. Kiawah Island garnered additional recognition for the Charleston area, ranking No. 4 on the list of �Top Ten North American Islands�. The John Rutledge House Inn captured the attention and approval of magazine readers and came in at No. 54 for favorite hotel in the �TOP 75 U.S. Hotels� category for the 2004 awards. In the same category, honors once again went to Charleston Place Hotel which placed No. 17 and Planter�s Inn at No. 21. Charleston Place Hotel and Planter�s Inn also made �The Best of the Best 04� list, with Charleston Place ranking No. 84 and Planter�s Inn ranking No. 98. Visit www.cntraveler.com.

Charleston Named One of America�s Hottest Historic Destinations
Charleston was named one of �America�s Hottest Historic Destinations� by Family Tree Magazine. In the December 2004 issue, the magazine selected 28 towns that best represent the country�s diverse historical, cultural, and geographic backgrounds. The magazine states that �Charleston, known for its Southern charm, stands out as a place where yesterday is as vibrant as today.� With a circulation of 75,000, Family Tree Magazine is America�s largest-circulation genealogy magazine. For more information, visit www.familytreemagazine.com.

Kiawah Island Ranked #1 U.S. Tennis Resort by Tennis Magazine
It�s the first time Kiawah Island has held the top spot in the rankings, which are published once every two years. The magazine bases its decision on the overall tennis program including instruction, teaching staff, facilities, as well as other resort features. Kiawah placed sixth in the 2002 rankings, but since then has made significant capital improvements to its tennis facilities and its storied golf courses. Call 843-768-2121 or visit www.kiawahresort.com.

Wine Spectator Magazine Raises a Glass to Poogan�s Porch
Cheers to one of Charleston�s oldest and most reputable culinary establishments, Poogan�s Porch Restaurant. The long-time downtown Charleston favorite received the �2004 Award of Excellence� from Wine Spectator Magazine in the August 31st issue. The restaurant now boosts an extended 1100 bottle wine cellar, tripling the current selection adding 140 bottles and 22 wines by the glass. Call 843-577-2337 or visit www.poogansporch.com.

Kiawah Island, SC Named Member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts
Preferred Hotels and Resorts, which covers 127 independently owned and managed luxury properties, now includes The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island. The Sanctuary opened in August on a barrier island with 255 guest rooms and suites, 18,000 square feet of meeting and function space, including the 6,200 square-foot Grand Ballroom and a 1,728-square-foot executive boardroom. Sporting facilities include five championship golf courses designed by the likes of Pete Dye, Tom Fazio and Jack Nicklaus; and two tennis clubs. For further info, visit www.preferredhotels.com.
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To learn more about the Charleston area, please contact the Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at 843�853�8000 or 800�868�8118. Also, be sure to visit our website at www.charlestoncvb.com.
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�The mission of the Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau is to unify and lead the local travel industry in marketing the Charleston area as an individual, meeting, incentive and group destination to both the domestic and international markets.�

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www.charlestoncvb.com
Visitor | Media | Meeting Professionals | Tour Professionals | Travel Council
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Phone/Contacts: 843�853�8000
Chris Nobles, Media Relations Director
Amy Ballenger-Guest, Media Relations Associate Director
Katie Chapman, Media Relations Manager
|Liz Scarborough, Media Relations Assistant|