When Explore Georgia hosted a fam trip to showcase some of the southeastern state’s key attractions, agents and operators were blown away by what they saw. Here’s what they had to say about Georgia:
Kevin Preston of Stewart Travel in Glasgow was particularly wowed by the scenic Jekyll Island, a one-time playground of America’s rich and famous including the Crane family, the Pulitzers, Vanderbilts, Rockefellers and Goodyears.
Linked by bridge to the mainland, it is steeped in history, with many historic homes including the 19th century Island Club, once an exclusive hunting retreat for the likes of the Rockefellers, which is now a stunning heritage hotel and was one of Kevin’s highlights.
“The island is compact and flat, so it’s perfect for hiring a bike and exploring the 20 miles of trails and pathways,” said Kevin, who also recommends taking a dip in the ocean from one of the many quiet beaches.
“Driftwood Beach is well worth a visit, with amazing and unusual vistas,” he added. The beach, considered by some to be the most romantic in North America, is known for its bleached driftwood monuments.
“Jekyll ticks so many boxes. Lovely beaches, wildlife, history and offers excellent accommodation,” added Kevin.
Cassie Stickland of Titan Travel fell in love with Savannah, describing it as ‘an absolute dream’.
She was particularly taken by the beautiful tree-lined squares and historic mansions, which you can explore on a hop-on-hop-off trolley tour.
“An unexpected highlight for me was the American Prohibition Museum, the sole prohibition museum in the US,” said Cassie. “The guided tour was fantastic, informative and it finished with a delicious cocktail in their underground bar.
“The great thing about Savannah is that it perfectly blends the old and new. One moment you are exploring the fascinating historic district and the next you are strolling along the buzzing Plant Riverside District with its plethora of bars and restaurants – I could have stayed forever!”
For Annabel Thompson, Virgin Atlantic Contracts Manager, Atlanta, with its trendy bars and restaurants, was the highlight of the Georgia fam. She particularly liked Ponce City Market, a converted Sears building that is now full of independent bars, restaurants and shops.
“On top of Ponce City Market is Skyline Park, which boosts amazing views of Atlanta. I would definitely recommend a drink there,” said Annabel.
“Atlanta has lots of new things opening up, such as the Illuminarium, which is an immersive light show that transports you to a different destination. If you’re looking for a unique date night then the Illuminarium is the place to go.
“If visiting Atlanta for a few nights, then I would recommend getting to know the city on a Peachtree trolley tour. This is a fun and informative tour that shows you the best Atlanta has to offer, including Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park. The tour guides are super-friendly and excited to show off their beloved city.
“They give the best recommendations on where to eat and visit, so you should start your trip with this tour.”
For more information about Georgia, go to exploregeorgia.org
