July 12, 2006
My Charleston
This post is the first in our new series, "My Hometown" These posts will feature the hometowns and local connections that our employees have with the ports that our small-ships visit. This week's post is submitted by Leigh Strinsky, former Captain & now Manager of Online Initiatives.
Q: What is your connection to Charleston, S.C.?
A: My brother & his family live in Charleston and many years ago, I lived there for a summer. I come from a family of boaters, so long before my brother moved to Charleston, we would spend long weekends on the waterways in and around Charleston..
Q: What is your favorite time of year in Charleston & why?
A: I love spring. The azaleas are in full bloom, the weather is just about perfect. Low humidity, sunny days, light breezes.
Q: Is there a particular food or song that reminds you of Charleston?
A: Boiled Peanuts! If you’ve never tried them, you have to find a roadside stand and buy a bag. Another food that comes to mind is Hoppin’ John (black-eyed peas & rice), which is a classic recipe for this area, although I must admit, I limit my consumption to New Year’s Day. (Southerner’s eat black-eyed peas and collard greens on New Year’s Day to bring luck.)
Q: What is on your “must see” list for visitors to Charleston?
A: The list is pretty long, but at the top of the list, is the Market, followed by a walk along The Battery. Other great experiences including taking a carriage tour or renting a bicycle carriage. Charleston is a city that with a buzz, night & day, so, take time to walk around downtown in the evening as well.
Q: Is there a favorite activity that you enjoy in Charleston?
A: I love to people watch. I especially love to watch the “basket ladies” at the market. They are very talented and entertaining. Many of them still speak Gullah, so it’s very interesting to watch and listen.
Q: Do you have a favorite area of the city?
A: I love downtown. It is very pedestrian friendly. Shopping is amazing and of course, the beautiful 
architecture, fantastic restaurants and people watching could keep anyone busy for days.
Q: Is there a particular restaurant that you’d recommend for visitors?
A: That’s a tough question, because there are so many amazing restaurants in Charleston. World class, really. But, my favorite place for “roll up your sleeves” seafood is Hyman’s Seafood. My picks include the Soft-shell Crab Sandwich, Oyster Po-Boy or She-Crab Soup. Plus, they serve up complimentary boiled peanuts! Pure Heaven!
Cruise West visits Charleston, SC on our Antebellum South and our Cradle of Colonial America cruises aboard the Nantucket Clipper. If you'd like to learn more about Charleston, SC- consider visiting the Charleston Convention and Visitor's Bureau website.
Posted by Leigh on July 12, 2006 3:57 PM
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