4. Gullah Geechee Corridor, South Carolina: Immersing in a Cultural Mosaic
For Erika, a San Francisco-based travel writer, the Gullah Geechee Corridor in South Carolina offered a deeply immersive cultural experience that challenged her preconceptions about the American South, even as the year drew to a close.
“From the moment I stepped into Beaufort, I knew I was in for something special,” she reflects. “The town had this unique blend of Lowcountry charm and African-American heritage that was instantly captivating, even as the holiday season approached.”
Erika’s exploration of the Gullah Geechee culture began with guided tours, storytelling sessions, and visits to local artisans’ studios. “Learning about the history and traditions of this resilient community was a true privilege. I was particularly fascinated by the art of sweetgrass basket weaving, a craft that has been passed down for generations, even as the year came to an end.”