The lurid patterns and rampant pastels so popular in Charleston are noticeably absent at sleek, subdued Ponytail. This beautiful interiors shop is restrained, refined and, best of all, refreshing.

In the less-tourist-led neighbourhood of Harleston is a luxury mansion house, originally owned by Francis Silas Rodgers in 1886. Now, it's a 21-room historic hotel in downtown Charleston. It's grand, to say the least, complete with stained-glass-panelled doors, marble-fronted open fireplaces, and antique mahogany furniture.