Savannah Derby Devils – Insanity on Skates
One night, we decided to check out a Roller Derby match between Savannah's own Derby Devils, and the Cape Fear Roller Girls.
For 91 Days, the southern jewel of Savannah, Georgia, was our winter home. From beautiful squares to historic houses, unforgettable restaurants and an eccentric cast of characters that could be (and actually is) straight out of a novel, we tried to capture everything that makes Savannah so special.
Paula Deen’s The Lady and Sons
While we were living in Spain, eating incredible, organic dishes fresh off the fields, the Paula Deen Phenomenon was sweeping America. And by the time we moved to Savannah, she had become a bona fide celebrity.
Tybee Island – Savannah’s Beach
Just a short half-hour drive from Savannah, Tybee Island is the region's top recreational destination, with a beach, surf and kayak shops, nature trails, cool restaurants, dolphin tours and bunch of hotels.
The Scarborough House: Ships of the Sea
William Scarborough was an early American from North Carolina, who made his fortune in shipping. He was perhaps best known as the mastermind behind the famous S.S. Savannah, the first steamship to successfully cross the Atlantic.
Bonaventure Cemetery – Good Fortune Comes to Those Who Die
Known as one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the entire country, Bonaventure is found on the outskirts of Savannah, bordering the Wilmington River across from Whitemarsh Island. Its name means "Good Fortune," and those buried on its grounds might certainly consider themselves fortunate. There are worse places to rest in eternal slumber.
Fine Dining at The Olde Pink House
The Olde Pink House, on the western side of Reynolds Square, was built in 1771 and is the oldest surviving mansion in all of Savannah. Today, it's one of the city's most beloved restaurants, and is also home to a popular bar on its bottom floor.
Washington Square
The most northeastern of Savannah's squares, Washington is a lovely garden in a quiet residential neighborhood. It was named in honor of our first president, who visited the city shortly after his election.
Oglethorpe & Tomochichi: Savannah’s Bestest Buddies
James Oglethorpe is the founder of Georgia. A Briton born in Berlin, he made his name as a soldier and eventually became a member of Parliament, where he successfully lobbied for the creation of a 13th colony, foreseen as a buffer to protect the lucrative Carolina colonies from Spanish Florida.
The Heroic Genius of To-Go Cups
"Now just to make absolutely sure: you're saying that you'll put my beer in a cup, and then I can walk around outside, in front of cops, and there will be no problems?" The bartender was growing exasperated with me. "Yes, dude. For the hundredth time, yes. You're golden."
Johnson Square
We had 24 squares to explore during our time in Savannah, and decided to start with the oldest and largest. Johnson Square was established in 1733, and named in honor of South Carolina's colonial governor Robert Johnson.
The 24 Squares of Savannah
At the time of its founding in 1733, Savannah was the first North American city planned around public squares. General Oglethorpe's grand design for his new capital called for four squares to serve as gardens and meeting areas. The western and eastern sides of each square were reserved for public buildings, such as churches and government offices, while the northern and southern ends were for private residences, called tything blocks.
Forsyth Park
Drayton and Whitaker Street, Forsyth is Savannah's answer to NYC's Central Park. It's not as massive as its counterpart, but blends more seamlessly into the city, and has long been a part of its history.
