Charleston, S.C., is a city known for its southern charm.
It is a mecca for Civil War history buffs, connoisseurs of low country cuisine and those who aspire to become the next Scarlett O’Hara. This coastal port town offers something for every type of traveler.
Downtown Charleston is a collection of historic homes, some dating back to the 18th century. Located across the harbor from downtown, is Fort Sumter, the site of the first activity of the Civil War.
A series of bridges connects James Island, Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island to Charleston. Numerous beaches, both public and private, offer a place for travelers to enjoy a moment soaking their feet in the saltwater or relaxing on the white, sandy beaches.
A few miles from downtown Charleston, one can tour a genuine Southern plantation and admire the historic buildings and gardens while learning about life in the South.
For the more adventurous traveler, several companies offer sea and blackwater kayaking tours.
However, this southern city is not charming when it comes to finding a place to stay. A weekend at a hotel in downtown Charleston can easily cost the price of a semesters’ worth of books.
Fortunately, there is an affordable, student-friendly option for those who want to explore all that Charleston has to offer. For less than the cost of a night in a budget motel, one can stay an entire weekend in Charleston’s’ Notso Hostel, currently the only hostel located in South Carolina.
Though most think of hostels as a lodging option only found in Europe, hostels are becoming a more popular option for travelers in the United States as well. Rooms in hostels are usually dormitory style, though some hostels offer private rooms for a higher price, and bathrooms and common areas are shared.
Despite the sacrifice of privacy, sharing living space opens doors to explore the world without ever living your country.
During my stays in hostels, I’ve learned about the intricacies of European politics from a man from Belgium, learned the Portuguese word for “house slippers” from a girl from Portugal and shared a cup of tea with a couple from Germany, all without ever leaving the United States.
The Notso Hostel in Charleston has been serving travelers from all over the world since it opened its doors in 2002. At the Notso Hostel fresh linens are provided for every tenant and the staff is attentive to maintaining a clean and pleasant living environment.
Breakfast is served every morning and includes a freshly-brewed pot of fair-trade coffee, locally-made bagels, jelly and cream cheese.
The hostel also offers laundry services and free internet. Prices for one night at the Notso Hostel start at $21 for a shared room and $60 for a private room. The hostel is located at 156 Spring St., a convenient walk to downtown Charleston. More information can be found by calling 843-722-8383 or visiting their Web site: www.notsohostel.com.
So if you’re looking for a weekend getaway that won’t leave your relatives wondering where the money for their Christmas presents went, I recommend visiting Charleston and the Notso Hostel.
In the words of one of my fellow hostellers, Patrick Thurman of Michigan who was biking from Michigan to the Florida Keys, “Charleston and the Notso Hostel have been the highlight of my trip.

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