It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Charleston, SC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Best Senior Service Care in Charleston to work for. Christine and Rick are very positive”
“Very Professional and excellent staff.”
“Our family has been using the services of Always Best Care for the past six”
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Always Best Care Charleston! I am truly blessed”
“Always Best Care caregivers have been taking care of Dad for over a year. We”
“Like most I was not prepared for the transition to being the responsible one for”
“We have had several senior services for my Mother that we were really not happy”
“Good Afternoon! I hope you're doing well! I wanted you to know that my dad”
“The absolute best caregiving company to work for hands down! Rick and Christine are genuine,”
“This is a great company to work for. All their caregivers are dedicated and caring.”
“These people are lifesavers! We searched for months to find an in-home care agency for”
“Always Best Care has constantly provided quality care services for my wife over many months”
“Couldn’t imagine a better team of people to take care of my loved ones. Rick”
“Rick and Christine, of Always Best Care Charleston, are the exact people I would trust”
“I've known Christine and Ricky Johnson for more than 30 years and would highly recommend”
“I joined Always Best Care as the Director of Operations about 3 months ago. I”
“I have known Christine and Rick for years. Their actions and words repeatedly demonstrate their”
“I couldn't be happier that Ricky and Christine Johnson have joined Always Best Care Senior”
“How fortunate the Charleston community is to have Always Best Care to serve the needs”
“I have known Christine and Rick Johnson both professionally and personally for over 20 years”
“Best Senior Service Care in Charleston to work for. Christine and Rick are very positive and supportive and for that I love my Job.”
“Very Professional and excellent staff.”
“Our family has been using the services of Always Best Care for the past six months and are grateful for the assistance provided to my elderly parents. Initially Rick, one of the owners, met with us along with my parents to closely assess their needs. His warm, friendly manner was helpful in persuading my father to give the assistance a try for two days per week. Rick listened carefully to choose the best match in caregivers, and we could not be more satisfied than we are with our parents' caregiver. She has quickly become essential in their lives and makes a huge difference in whether or not they can remain in their home. Her manner with my parents is professional, but loving, always--- always--- going the extra mile to meet their needs. She is knowledgeable, hard-working, caring, and trusted to do what is in their best interest. We are thankful that someone told us about Always Best Care and ever grateful for our caregiver.”
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Always Best Care Charleston! I am truly blessed to be a part of such a wonderful team! Christine and Rick are very dedicated to the work that they are doing, and it shows in everything they do. I have never had the pleasure of working for a company with more passionate and involved owners. They show up for their clients and caregivers in every way possible. They go above and beyond to treat everyone like family and enrich the lives of those around them. I am so grateful to be able to be a part of this journey and cannot wait to see all the great things they will accomplish!”
“Always Best Care caregivers have been taking care of Dad for over a year. We appreciate Christine and Rick very much. Quentin, Ann, Alexus , you and others have been a joy to have in our home and doing whatever needs to be done. You show your care and concern for Dad’s physical and emotional well being and you have become part of our family. I really rely on you when we can’t be home and know Dad is in good hands!!! Keep up the good work!!! Love you all.”
“Like most I was not prepared for the transition to being the responsible one for my Mom. Looking back there were signs of memory decline but after emergency surgery and move to rehab the combative paranoid person my sweet, witty, well read , soft spoken Mom became was shocking. Medication and skilled care were prescribed. Several missteps were made with both. Mom’s dark side resulted in first skilled care company dropping us which I totally understood. I was very straight with Christine and Rick regarding Mom’s recent ‘trips out on the ledge’. Rather than politely taking a pass on us...they spent 2 hours in person with us, 3 cumulative hours on the phone asking me questions and strategizing how to avoid the triggers that put Mom ‘on the ledge’, and 2 twelve hour days observing, testing and tweaking strategies. We are approaching 2 months with no major or reportable incidents. I don’t know how long this again found quality of life will last. I am thankful that one of the nurses referred me to ABC. I am tremendously thankful to be their client for the remainder of this journey.”
“We have had several senior services for my Mother that we were really not happy with, then we found Rick and his staff with Always Best Care. There name says it all ... always the best care. Their staff are warm, caring and assist my Mother seven days a week, and she loves seeing Rick. I couldn't ask for better care & highly recommend them to anyone who needs this type of service.”
“Good Afternoon! I hope you're doing well! I wanted you to know that my dad LOVES Rick and so does Amya!! I can't thank you guys enough for all that you guys are doing, not only for my father but me! Rick went out of his way today and that truly meant a lot :) My dad is so happy and that makes me happy! you guys rock!! thank you!!!”
“The absolute best caregiving company to work for hands down! Rick and Christine are genuine, loving individuals which make them amazing business owners/ bosses. They do not hesitate to make their employees and clients happy. I’m so thankful to have met these amazing people and be apart of their outstanding company.”
“This is a great company to work for. All their caregivers are dedicated and caring.”
“These people are lifesavers! We searched for months to find an in-home care agency for my aging mother. Previous agencies we used had high turnover and repeated no-shows, leaving us scrambling to adjust and worried sick about Covid exposure from a revolving door of caregivers. Christine and her staff came to our rescue and changed all that. Their caregivers were patient, loving, dedicated and RELIABLE. They provide service at the highest level and we would wholeheartedly recommend them to others. My mother deserves the best care and I wouldn't use anyone else.”
“Always Best Care has constantly provided quality care services for my wife over many months of required assistance. The caregivers provide professional services with a loving touch. They have always addressed any questions or concerns immediately with kindness. The administration checks with me, periodically, for a review and any input for improvement. I highly recommend this company.”
“Couldn’t imagine a better team of people to take care of my loved ones. Rick and Christine are the kindest and most genuine people. Their years of work in the customer service industry truly show through the care they provide to others. Aside from the physical and emotional care they provide, which is most important, they are reliable, punctual, trustworthy, and their connections with others last a lifetime. Everyone is family with Rick and Christine.”
“Rick and Christine, of Always Best Care Charleston, are the exact people I would trust and choose to care for my aging loved ones. They are loving, patient, knowledgeable and extremely detail oriented. They have decades of experience in the customer service industry and truly value the relationships with each of their clients.”
“I've known Christine and Ricky Johnson for more than 30 years and would highly recommend their services! They've built businesses from the ground up and this one is / will be a perfect fit for them and their clients. They come from, and have created, a large family where assisting others is part of their everyday lives. Their caring nature, solid work ethic and integrity will be highlighted through Always Best Care Senior Services Charleston and will be to the benefit of clients' loved ones.”
“I joined Always Best Care as the Director of Operations about 3 months ago. I bring 15 years experience in senior living to this brand new non medical home care company. We have put together an excellent team of personal assistant’s and are ready to accept new clients.”
“I have known Christine and Rick for years. Their actions and words repeatedly demonstrate their high expectation of what it takes to nurture a loving family and to be active members of a positive, supportive community. Both clients and employees will benefit from their consistent standard of compassionate honesty & integrity as well as the positive energy they bring to every encounter. I recommend them without reservation.”
“I couldn't be happier that Ricky and Christine Johnson have joined Always Best Care Senior Services. From years of experience in dedicated customer service to the love and care of their own (and extended) family, this is a wonderful fit! The Johnson's tireless work ethic, attention to detail and heart for people should give family members of clients absolute confidence and trust in their care. Bravo!”
“How fortunate the Charleston community is to have Always Best Care to serve the needs of seniors. Rick and Christine Johnson, known for their dedication to helping others, have prayerfully commited to finding and nurturing the best team possible to assist them on this mission. Thank you, Rick and Christine, for offering families peace of mind for the care of loved ones.”
“I have known Christine and Rick Johnson both professionally and personally for over 20 years now. I know them to be caring and loving. I with no reservations would have them care for my 93 year old father, If I still lived in the Charleston area. I can not state a higher praise to their character and integrity than that. Allen Sandridge”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Hampton Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Magnolias or visit Middleton Place, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Charleston, SC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Charleston, SC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Charleston, SC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCSC) - Charleston County leaders discussed several updates in departments, officials and projects at their retreat meeting on Wednesday afternoon.One of the presentations involved new ideas for the transportation sales tax.After the presentation from the Berkeley Charleston Dorchester Council of Governments and the county’s new consultants, the council made a motion to move forward with exploring the idea of a new referendum, but with a different approach.In the past, the council has been ...
CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCSC) - Charleston County leaders discussed several updates in departments, officials and projects at their retreat meeting on Wednesday afternoon.
One of the presentations involved new ideas for the transportation sales tax.
After the presentation from the Berkeley Charleston Dorchester Council of Governments and the county’s new consultants, the council made a motion to move forward with exploring the idea of a new referendum, but with a different approach.
In the past, the council has been focused on roadways, transit, bike and pedestrian ways, and a Greenbelt project, where the council has put the referendum on the ballot first before going to the public.
Charleston County Council Member for District 9 Jenny Costa Honeycutt said they learned from their mistakes when introducing a referendum on the ballot without getting the public’s feedback prior to decision making.
“I think everyone across all districts wants to know that they were heard,” Honeycutt said.
In 2024, community members voted against a referendum when it was on the November ballot.
However, with this possible new referendum, the council will gather the data and public feedback before any decisions are made or any voting is to be done.
“What the council is doing is they’re leading a campaign to gather data to help them make informed decisions about possibly putting another transportation sales tax on the 2026 ballot,” Deputy County Administrator for Public Services Steve Thigpen said.
With the Tri-County council asking the Charleston County council to lay down a framework, it helped provide new goals and a clear understanding of where this referendum could be headed. Their overall message was to begin with the end in mind.
“I think you can learn a lot from failure and so I think one of the priorities has been how we structure this in a way that really captures the public engagement, and making sure if we do proceed with another referendum that we do so in a way that the public really understands,” Honeycutt said. “Not only understand the question being asked, but they understand the program as it currently exists today.”
For Honeycutt, she said in her district, they really pushed for connectivity along with other initiatives.
“Capacity is always an issue. Traffic’s always an issue, and without additional roads to help with that increased capacity coming across the islands, we have to use our existing infrastructure. So, we need to figure out the best way to improve that,” she said.
She said they’re prioritizing transparency and making sure the public is informed of any possible new decisions, along with making sure they’re educated on what has already been done in previous projects.
While they move forward to explore this idea, the council’s transportation consultants must come back within 60 days, providing an analysis and data before the decision process for any future transportation can begin.
Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.
WEST ASHLEY — A New York-inspired deli is preparing to open in a small space that previously housed a catering business.The Wedge, set to debut at 2487 Ashley River Road in the next month, will specialize in sandwiches, burgers and prepared foods. The new establishment is an extension of a ...
WEST ASHLEY — A New York-inspired deli is preparing to open in a small space that previously housed a catering business.
The Wedge, set to debut at 2487 Ashley River Road in the next month, will specialize in sandwiches, burgers and prepared foods. The new establishment is an extension of a food truck chef Gerry Meehan and his wife Erin Sorbanelli launched after relocating to the Lowcountry from Westchester County near New York City.
With the new establishment, the pair joins the growing list of Charleston-area restaurateurs who are leaning into food that celebrates the culinary traditions of the Northeast.
The Wedge food truck has been popping up at various establishments since its inception, recently at Hobcaw Brewing Co. in Mount Pleasant and House of Brews in West Ashley. Its offering has resonated, with people from New York and New Jersey gravitating to sandwiches like the chicken cutlet, a top seller on the truck.
When it opens in the space previously occupied by The Good Cooker Charleston, The Wedge will serve morning and lunch sandwiches, including the chicken cutlet and a smash-burger with American cheese, pickles, griddled onions and a signature sauce.
The Wedge will mainly serve as a grab-and-go destination. Meehan and Sorbanelli plan to operate the food truck in the evenings after the new deli closes in the afternoon.
The Wedge is targeting a late July or early August opening. For more updates, follow The Wedge on Instagram @thewedgechs.
CHARLESTON — The Holy City's 12-year streak as Travel + Leisure's "Best U.S. City" has officially been snapped as it dropped down to the No.3 spot.Santa Fe took the crown for the 2025 list, released July 8, with New Orleans in a close second.Charleston may no longer be No....
CHARLESTON — The Holy City's 12-year streak as Travel + Leisure's "Best U.S. City" has officially been snapped as it dropped down to the No.3 spot.
Santa Fe took the crown for the 2025 list, released July 8, with New Orleans in a close second.
Charleston may no longer be No. 1, but it still beat cities like Savannah and Honolulu. It also wasn't the only South Carolina city to make the list, as Greenville earned the No. 7 spot.
When asked about this year's rankings, Travel + Leisure editor-in-chief Jacqui Gifford said Charleston’s 12-year run at the top is "a testament to its timeless charm."
"(Charleston's) rich history, vibrant culinary scene, and signature hospitality have long resonated with our readers," she said.
The city is still going strong on the best of list at No. 3, while Kiawah Island and multiple resorts and hotels were recognized in various categories, including several “Best in the U.S.” lists.
South Carolina newcomer Greenville also earned a spot on the "Best U.S. City" list for the first time. Travel + Leisure wrote that the Upstate destination "made a strong debut" at No. 7 and cements the Southeast as a "powerhouse region."
"This mid-size city was described as one of the South’s best kept secrets. Visitors appreciated the high number of locally owned restaurants and the proximity to the outdoors — the Reedy River, which flows right through downtown, also provides a peaceful setting," the publication wrote.
Santa Fe's rise, Gifford said, comes in turn as a result of it's "unique blend of art, history and Southwestern culture."
Helen Hill, CEO of Explore Charleston, said regardless of the ranking, the region has forged a reputation for "delivering meaningful experiences and genuine hospitality." She added that readers clearly continue to "recognize the Charleston area’s uniqueness and character."
“In addition to Charleston being voted a top three U.S. city, the market’s outstanding reputation and desirability are further illustrated by the number of industry partners regionwide — from our beaches to the historic district — that were voted among the best in the country,” Hill said.
Charleston's $14 billion tourism machine saw more than nearly 8 million visitors last year. Almost 25 cents of every dollar spent in the region is attributable to the industry, College of Charleston’s Office of Tourism Analysis estimated in a study last year.
Randy Randall, director of Tourism Santa Fe — the visitor's bureau for the New Mexico city — said Charleston and Santa Fe have been running neck-in-neck in the Travel + Leisure rankings for the last few years. He gives The Holy City credit for retaining the title for so long.
Randall said he's asked often what city Santa Fe competes with, and his response is always, "No one." But when it comes to what city Santa Fe is most like, he always answers, "Charleston." He said it's the cities' authentic storytelling and preserved history that create a resemblance, but each has something the other does not. Charleston has a waterfront, while Santa Fe has mountains.
"One thing we're very proud of the fact that we don't change much," Randall said. "We've been very protective of our history. Santa Fe is the second-oldest city in the United States, and it's the oldest state capital. Very early on, we created the urban historic protection rules that we have in our historic district."
Santa Fe's welcomes 3 million visitors per year, with 2.2 million overnight stays and 800,000 day trips, according to Tourism Santa Fe data. Much of Santa Fe's tourism is regional, similar to Charleston's "drive-in" visitation trend of several years ago, before the growth in local air service options began to pull travelers from a wider geographic area.
Santa Fe is a community of roughly 92,000 people, while its greater county has a population of 142,000. Meanwhile, the city of Charleston has more than 155,000 residents, with the county totaling closer to 424,000, according to Census Bureau data.
Randall said many are surprised to hear Santa Fe is home to more than 250 art galleries, a world-class opera house and a robust culinary scene of more than 400 restaurants. It's also known for its rich cultural and art festivals.
"We live above our size and I think that's one of the things that makes us different than most places," Randall said. "It's the visitation that is our lifeblood. Because our communities are smaller we deal with less issues that other cities face, like rush-hour traffic."
Randall said he has a deep respect for Charleston and the city's tourism leaders. He's no stranger to South Carolina, having worked on Hilton Head Island for a few years. If anyone had to take the crown from Charleston, he said he's "honored it was Santa Fe."
The magazine's annual survey fetched more than 180,000 responses that rated the best places to visit and stay around the world. The Travel + Leisure survey rates top cities based on sights, landmarks, culture, cuisine, friendliness, shopping and overall value.
Charleston first climbed to the top of the Travel + Leisure best U.S. city ranking in 2013.
For the first time in 12 years, a new U.S. city has been crowned the best domestic destination by Travel + Leisure readers.On Tuesday, July 8, T+L released its annual ...
For the first time in 12 years, a new U.S. city has been crowned the best domestic destination by Travel + Leisure readers.
On Tuesday, July 8, T+L released its annual World’s Best Awards. In a remarkable upheaval, Santa Fe, N.M. tops the list of best U.S. cities, ousting Charleston, S.C., which had held the title since 2013. The coastal city not only lost the top spot, it dropped to fourth place.
Known for its vibrant art scene, outdoor recreation and more than 300 days of sunshine each year, Santa Fe, was described by one reader is “a true gem of a place in America.”
“Every trip exceeds the last, with so many new things to discover,” another repeat visitor told the outlet, adding, “Santa Fe offers a multi-layer experience.”
T+L readers “raved” about the inventive New Mexican cuisine and the city’s natural beauty. Urban markets and galleries combine with the rolling foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain ranges to make for a perfect getaway.
Celebrities are also fans of this Southwest culture capital.
The late Val Kilmer spent decades living in Santa Fe, as did Gene Hackman. Game of Thrones author George R. R. Martin also has deep roots in the community. In 2013, he pledged his own money to rejuvenate the local and historic Jean Cocteau Cinema.
Each year, T+L sends a survey out to readers through the magazine, tablet editions, newsletters, social media and travelandleisure.com that asks respondents to rate nominees in each category based on certain characteristics. For cities, readers were asked to rate sights/landmarks, culture, food, friendliness, shopping and value. Final scores are averages of these responses.
While Santa Fe has had a spot in T+L's top 10 list for the past 20 years, this is its first time it has claimed No. 1.
Overall, readers were big fans of cities in the Southeast and Southwest, with only one city in the Northeast and one in the Midwest rounding out the top 10.
Santa Fe was also the only U.S. city to make T+L’s list of top 25 cities in the world, coming in at No. 19. At the top spot, a 10-time honoree, is San Miguel de Allende, Mexico followed by Chiang Mai, Thailand and Tokyo, Japan.
For vacationers looking for an island getaway, Páros, Greece takes the top spot for best island. According to Forbes, big names like Tom Hanks, Matthew McConaughey and Jeff Bezos are frequent visitors. In the U.S., the top island goes to Mount Desert Island, Maine — a protected part of Acadia National Park.
“This year’s results reflect a travel landscape in motion,” Travel + Leisure’s editor-in-chief Jacqui Gifford said in a press release. “From a high-desert city in the American Southwest to a quiet Greek island, our readers are seeking depth, character, and a strong sense of place. We’re thrilled to honor the hotels, destinations, and travel companies that are delivering those transformative experiences.”
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See more from Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards in the July issue, on newsstands now, or visit travelandleisure.com.
Travel + Leisure readers have long loved the Palmetto State.And while there are plenty of vacation-worthy places across South Carolina, from the marshy ...
Travel + Leisure readers have long loved the Palmetto State.
And while there are plenty of vacation-worthy places across South Carolina, from the marshy Lowcountry to the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, one region is a clear winner this year. Eight of our readers’ 10 favorite South Carolina resorts can be found along the coast; three winners are located on Hilton Head Island (with another just off the island in Bluffton), and four are located in the communities surrounding the reader-favorite city, Charleston. Of course, the Upstate is home to a couple of standout properties as well—two of this year’s winners are in Greenville, a blossoming city in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
It’s clear the South Carolina Lowcountry has captured our readers’ hearts. Both Hilton Head Island and Kiawah Island, frequently voted among the top islands in the continental U.S., are home to some of our readers’ favorite coastal resorts. Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort, voted No. 8 this year, offers a family-friendly escape in a scenic natural setting (far from Disney’s famous theme parks), while The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort (No. 4) is a prime golf getaway with world-renowned courses just minutes away.
Of course, no matter which of these hotels you pick across the Palmetto State, one thing remains consistent: the dedication to that warm Southern hospitality the region is known for. Of Hotel Hartness, which made No. 2 this year after winning the top spot in 2024, one reader commented, “This hotel continues to provide excellent and bespoke service, as well as a truly unique experience.”
While there are several returning favorites, the top property for 2025 is a luxe newcomer—but more on that below.
The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection
One of South Carolina’s newest luxury resorts is also the state’s best, according to T+L readers. The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection opened last summer in the new Kiawah River development on Johns Island, about 20 miles from downtown Charleston. The WBA newcomer has 72 rooms and suites spread across several buildings that feel like a Lowcountry home away from home. The luxe property features a marshfront pool lined with mint green loungers, an elevated take on Carolinian coastal cuisine at Linnette’s, and guest rooms decked out in gingham and pastels. One reader described it as a “new gem just outside Charleston” with “incredible interior design.”
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