Charleston Climbs Higher in the Rankings Among Top American Travel Destinations

Charleston, SC — For the fifteenth consecutive year, readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine honored Charleston as a Top 10 travel destination in the U.S. Charleston was honored with a # 3 slot. Only San Francisco and New York City ranked higher. Last year, Charleston ranked # 5 in the poll.

According to Charleston Mayor Joseph Riley, “This honor supports our status as one of the greatest destinations in the nation, and it ‘ s of even greater importance because the ranking is decided by a travel-savvy readership. For Condé Nast Traveler to bestow this award upon Charleston means readers have experienced our unique blend of history, charm, attractions, nightlife and fabulous dining and they recognize that what we have here is special.”

Nearby, Kiawah Island, home to The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, received the # 2 ranking for being among the best islands in North America. The Sanctuary received two additional honors – # 5 Resort and # 60 in The Best of The Best category.

The Boardwalk Inn at Wild Dunes on the Isle of Palms received a # 8 ranking in the Top Resort category.

Condé Nast Traveler readers lauded several individual properties in the Charleston area. The list of top hotels in the U.S. included # 26 Charleston Place, # 50 Market Pavilion Hotel, # 51 Wentworth Mansion, # 65 The Woodlands Resort & Inn and # 69 John Rutledge House Inn.

Terri Haack, Chairman of the Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, noted that the people of Charleston enjoy welcoming guests to their city,” It’s the Charleston area ‘ s fine friendly people who create an atmosphere of hospitality and warmth. There’s plenty to do and see here – beaches, golf, museums, art galleries, shopping, touring plantations and more – all of it is memorable. But the generous welcoming spirit of the city is what abides, long after guests have returned to their homes. ”

Condé Nast Traveler, whose credo is “Truth in Travel” , is a monthly publication with a circulation of 782,551 caters to the experienced, discerning and frequent traveler. For more information and details on the 2007 Readers Choice Awards visit: www.cntraveler.com.