A few months ago I found myself at a crossroads. I just completed a year traveling around the US followed by a three month trek across Mexico. I couldn’t wait to come home for the holidays and then immediately hop on a plane overseas somewhere to continue my adventure abroad.
But the universe had other plans. The pandemic hadn’t showed signs of slowing and the world hadn’t begun opening its doors just yet. So, for a moment, I found myself stuck at a crossroads with all the paths before me blocked.
But then I realized the best path forward wasn’t actually in front of me, but behind me. The chance to explore two places I once visited and loved: Charleston and Asheville. And that’s where I’ve been living these last two months.
Charleston is a beautiful destination on the coast of South Carolina. Named the Best Small City in America by some random magazine for the last ten years, this historical port town is revered for its cobblestone streets, countless fine dining, and pastel antebellum architecture.
The city somehow manages to blend its warm southern charm and high-end hospitality with an endless supply of boozy bachelorette parties, drunk college students, and some of the best shrimp and grits east of the Mississippi.
Asheville, on the other hand, is one of the coolest, funkiest, and hippiest places in the US tucked into the mountains of North Carolina. The craft beer capital of the south houses close to a hundred craft breweries, dozens of funky art galleries alongside its River Arts District, and hippies peddling their wares around every corner of its quaint and charming downtown.
Surrounding the city is an endless array of breathtaking views, lush botanical gardens, unforgettable hikes, and famous landmarks like the Biltmore Estate, Grove Park Inn, one my favorite drive thru burger joints: Cook Out.
I may have come to the Carolinas at a crossroads in my adventures, but I leave well rested by way of the Blue Ridge Parkway with the sun shining bright, warm memories in my rear view, and my eyes toward the future.
Gone with Carolina in mind ✨