Moon Handbooks : South Carolina

South Carolina is a land of contrasts -- placid salt marshes and thundering Appalachian falls, majestic Lowcountry plantations and austere cotton farms, gracious manners and fiery passions. In Moon's new South Carolina Handbook, author Mike Sigalas provides a thoughtful look at the history and people of this defiant state, with insights into its myriad subcultures from the Bluegrass world of the mountain mill towns to the unique Gullah culture of the coast. In addition to exploring the cobblestone streets of Charleston and the golf meccas of Myrtle Beach, Sigalas offers readers such unusual destinations as Cheraw, birthplace of Dizzy Gillespie; Ocean Drive Beach, headquarters of the Shagging subculture; and Cayce, home to the world's only combination BBQ joint, gospel mission, and job office. South Carolina Handbook also focuses on the state's outdoor recreation offerings, including Chattooga River whitewater and the new statewide Palmetto Trail. Extensive listings, unparalleled maps, and fascinating sidebars round out this comprehensive guide.