Savannah and Tybee Island, GA

Visitors to Savannah often come to view the elegant architecture, ornate ironworks, fountains and lush green squares. Savannah's natural beauty is rivaled only by the city's hospitable reputation, creating one of the country's most popular vacation spots. More than once, we have been captivated by the city's charm and heritage.

Savannah became the second planned city in the Thirteen Colonies, the first being Philadelphia. Wary of possible Indian aggression, Savannah's master plan included a series of squares with walls, wells, and buildings where the inhabitants could quickly find refuge. As it happened, the Indians, under the imposing Chief Tomochichi, turned out to be friendly. The squares were converted into parks and connected by wide, tree-lined boulevards.

This visit, however, was much more than a 4-day getaway. On Saturday, May 20th, we would gather at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist to witness the marriage of Wally's nephew. This church, founded in 1799, is absolutely beautiful and should not be missed if you come to Savannah. The church also boasts a white 2,081 pipe organ that is magnificent. You can take a self-guided tour Monday through Friday.

We spent three nights in The Garden Hotel, located in the Historic District of Savannah. This is a convenient location, within walking distance of museums, horse carriages, fine and casual dining, and lots of shopping. We enjoyed an exceptional dinner at Belford's in the City Market.

Sister-in-law Paula Snider, along with her two daughters, their husbands and 6 children - all from Texas - looked upon the wedding as an opportunity for a family vacation and reunion. Along with Wally's sister, they rented a beach house 18 miles East of Savannah on Tybee Island. The Tybee Light Station stands as one of North America's most beautifully renovated Lighthouses. In addition to the lighthouse, Tybee Island is home to Screven, a museum, and Fort Pulaski which is just west of the island on Hwy 80.

Part vacation and part wedding, we are always captivated by Savannah's charm and heritage.

Click each photo to enlarge. Click your back button to return to this page.