South Carolina Smiles and Places 2008 Official Vacation Guide - (Page 31) By Mr. Blackwell Don’t think I’m a snob, but they know how to treat me here. They know my name and show me respect. I love luxury, and the really posh properties send a pampered pooch such as me into overdrive. So, knowing that your human companion only wants the best for you, I’d like to share my short list of upscale, pet-friendly properties. Each of these places is worth at least four or five paws on my rating scale. Tell your person to call ahead for specific regulations. It will make everything much smoother for you. At the turn of the last century, during the “Gilded Age, ” some of my well-pawed ancestors used to winter in Aiken, SC, at the Willcox Inn where they enjoyed lots of sporting activities. Why break tradition? When I arrive, my room is all prepared—my fluffy bed pillow is in place along with bottled water and bowls, treats, my favorite doggie magazine, a squeaky toy and, of course, a personalized welcome letter with instructions on how to keep my mom on a short leash. Just as my ancestors, I sit on the wide-columned front porch to enjoy the breeze or jaunt around the grounds to sniff out the competition. It doesn’t get any better than this. I give it a five-paw stamp of approval. Summerville, SC, was the destination of choice for my Colonial and antebellum ancestors who moved inland from the coast to escape the heat. I, too, find canine respite here at Woodlands Resort & Inn where I’m a VIP (Very Important Pet). The state’s only Mobil 5-star property, this is perhaps the classiest place I’ve ever stayed. I get my very own L.L. Bean® bed, placemat, bowls and Woodlands’ signature bottled water. But the best part comes from the kitchen—house-made vegetarian dog biscuits from the Inn’s pastry chef that I can just sink my teeth into. Imagine that. If your companion is too busy for you, don’t whimper or excuse my French—meow. Woodlands has a pet sitter and walking services with 42 wooded acres and trails. There’re still some trees I’ve missed. This one also gets my highest rating—five paws. During the high social season, the only place to be is Charleston. The cultural capital of South Carolina from its beginning, the “Holy City” still ranks high on all the lists that matter. The two places here that rate highest on my list are Wentworth Mansion and Charleston Place. Both are in the middle of Charleston’s historic district giving me access to everything, especially parks. Wentworth Mansion was built as a private residence during the Gilded Age and is a AAA Five-Diamond property. Here, three elegantly appointed suites with access to the outside are limited to guests with pets. Charleston Place also affords easy access to area sights, dining, shopping at the City Market and most other things my mom enjoys. I give both of these properties a four-paw rating. Farther down the coast is my favorite oceanfront haven—the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa. This property has everything a pooch of leisure could want, with a slice of heaven on the side. I put on my sunglasses and stroll the beach or enjoy the sights and sounds from the balcony of my oversized suite. When I’m tired, I retreat to the Heavenly® Dog Bed provided for my indulgence. The hotel staff leaves a welcome kit with useful supplies: pet bowls, a floor mat, a room sign to denote my presence, locations of the closest runs and parks, and important local rules to observe for pets on the beach. I’ve made quite a few friends here over the years. But what I like most is, they treat me like—well—people (in the good sense). This one definitely gets a five-paw approval rating. Take it from me. Don’t let your owner feed you that kennel stuff when there are properties that cater to the most discriminating pets. I should know. Been there! Done that! Find out more… 843.722.4900 or 800.611.5545 www.charlestonplace.com Charleston Place Hotel 834.853.1886 or 888.466.1886 www.wentworthmansion.com Wentworth Mansion 843.681.4000 or 800.933.3102 www.westin.com/hiltonheadisland Westin Resort Hilton Head Island The Willcox 803.648.1898 or 877 .648.2200 www.thewillcox.com 843.875.2600 or 800.774.9999 www.woodlandsinn.com Woodlands Resort & Inn www.DiscoverSouthCarolina.com 31 http://www.charlestonplace.com http://www.wentworthmansion.com http://www.westin.com/hiltonheadisland http://www.thewillcox.com http://www.woodlandsinn.com http://www.DiscoverSouthCarolina.com
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