Savannah, Georgia: Shopping, Flavors and Fun

Funky and locally owned businesses dominate the retail scene, making for an all-day shopping experience. Check out Savannah Bee Company which has a warm, wooden storefront and an original concept. Here, I sampled different types of honey as well as honeycomb with apple and cheese (yum!). There was also a wine bar where you could try wine fermented with honey.

I found natural products at Lowcountry Gourmet Food, which stocks dozens of balsamic vinegars in the craziest flavours you can think of. Savannah’s homage to all things Parisian is at Paris Market, a very popular destination with a French-style cake and pastry shop, a subway station sign, reproductions of antique furniture, decor, unique gifts and even macaroons.

A little farther on the pedestrian street of City Market, between the artists playing jazz and blues music in the street, is the Savannah Candy Kitchen – home of the praline. These delectable, buttery treats are baked in front of you. Watch the conveyer belt going around the store carrying candies in all shapes and colors for the happiness of your taste buds.

To be transported back in time in the heart of downtown, have lunch at the Olde Pink House and order their amazing specialty: fried green tomatoes on a bed of sweet corn. It’s an explosion of flavours! Save some space to end the day for Belford’s, a renowned culinary institution throughout the South. Located in an old brick home built in 1902, the atmosphere inspires you to take time and savour the best seafood and steaks with a Southern twist.

I ended my day of culinary indulgence listening to live jazz at the Jazz’d Tapas Bar while sipping a rich artisanal cocktail.

Cobblestoned River Street along the riverfront is lined with tempting restaurants, cute shops and fun bars, where you can always find something to do. Caricature and balloon artists set up shop here too, always ready to put a smile on someone’s face.

Forsyth Park is a romantic gem, almost like a mini Central Park. It attracts artists, walkers and the curious people looking for some unexpected live music or entertainment. It’s a breath of fresh air in the heart of the city.

For a unique way to get around the historic district, don’t miss the trolley buses, a charming mix between a streetcar and a bus. This old-fashioned journey sets the pace of the city. It is a glimpse of a bygone era, like the city’s wrought iron accents and historic, prestigious homes.

Enjoy the intermingling of historic influence and modern diversity. Time and time again, Savannah will surprise and seduce you with its food, fun and charm.