Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Savannah, Georgia and Tybee Island

 
For winter break, Ben and I went to visit my family in Georgia.  We took a day trip to Savannah, a place I'd never visited, although I had grown up less than 3 hours away. 
 
We checked Lonely Planet and Yelp to locate a place for brunch and we decided on B. Matthews Eatery at the corner of Bay St. and Habersham.  You can check out their website: http://bmatthewseatery.com/We had shrimp & grits and fried green tomatoes benedict--both were delicious!!! 
 
Parking was very easy to find and from there we simply walked across the boulevard, down "historic steps" (with signs warning us not to slip) and strolled along River St.
 
 

 
After 2 hours in Savannah, we headed to Tybee Island, about 20 minutes away by car.  Our family went here one time shortly after we moved to Georgia in the late 1980's.  Since that time the local historical societies have done a great job in their restoration efforts.  The lighthouse keeper's cottage is nicely furnished with many original pieces and the 15 minute film gives a good summary of the historical significance of the site.  The 178 steps to the top of the lighthouse are worth climbing.  (caution: take time to stretch or you might end up sore for days like I did!)  Happily, we found the staff at the lighthouse were very friendly and informative. http://www.tybeelighthouse.org/
 
Included in the $9 admission fee for the lighthouse and surrounding buildings, is admission to Fort Screven.  This has some interesting historical notes and displays.  The docent informed us that they are continuing to work toward restoration of this defense structure that dates back to 1855. http://visittybee.com/what-to-see-and-do/attractions/fort-screven/

 
 
   
 
Before heading back to Jefferson County, we walked over to the beach.  It was 75 degrees...quite nice for December 21st!
 
 
Back home in Lexington, Kentucky for New Year's Eve with family & friends...Ben introduced some of our friends to the Argentine custom of drinking mate. :)  Happy New Year to all!!!