Are you currently in the process of moving to Charleston, SC, and want to get a feel for the lifestyle? Have you been in the city for a few days and trying to get a sense of how to fit in?
If so, then you need to learn all that you can about becoming a Lowcountry local.
But what does that mean? What do you have to do to fit in? What is the city of Charleston all about?
See below for an in-depth guide listing all of the tips and tricks you need to know for moving to Charleston and becoming a native resident.
1. Know What “Lowcountry’ Means
If you read the title of this article and thought to yourself “What’s a Lowcountry?” then you aren’t alone. However, if you’re going to become a local in Charleston, then you need to know what it means; everyone around the region does!
The term “Lowcountry” refers to the chain of towns and cities that are located along the Atlantic coast of South Carolina. This includes noteworthy counties like Charleston, Jasper, Beaufort, Berkeley, and more.
The counties and cities that make up the Lowcountry are known for their lifestyles that are unique to the rest of the cities in the state. Lowcountry has palm trees, some of the best shrimp you’ve ever tasted, and a climate made for the tropics.
The name “Lowcountry” comes from its geographical proximity to the Sandhills. To most South Carolinians, the area above the Sandhills is known as the Up Country, and the area below is the Lowcountry. Others separate the state of South Carolina into four regions: the Upstate, Lowcountry, Midlands, and Pee Dee.
If you’re moving to Charleston, you’ll want to know what this meaning refers to. The second you say “Huh?” when someone mentions the Lowcountry, you’ll immediately be exposed as a newbie.
2. Try Out All the Spots
Those of you that are moving to Charleston SC for the first time might be taken back by the small population; only 125,000 people call it home. But even with that small amount of residents, the city is well known for its explosive food scene.
For those that are about to move and haven’t experienced Charleston eating yet, you’re in for a treat (pun intended).
But to become a local, you have to eat like a local. You have to know the go-to spots like a local would. We can’t have those of you moving from the north thinking that Zaxby’s is a local restaurant chain.
We recommend looking into places such as Moe’s Crosstown Tavern, Elliotborough Mini Bar, the Glass Onion, and Hannibal’s Kitchen. The good news is that Charleston pretty much offers any type of food you’re looking for. That said, you’ll want to take in some freshly-caught shrimp for your first authentic meal.
Social eating is a very popular pastime in Charleston. If you’re going to become a Lowcountry local, then you need to know the spots, try out the spots, and fall in love with the spots; just like all Charleston, SC natives do.
3. Go Golfing
Notice that we didn’t say you had to be good at golf. We didn’t even say you have to understand golf. All you need to do is go golfing sometime to see what Charleston is truly about.
Lowcountry locals love hitting the green. The local golf courses infuse the game of golf with the southern charm of the city itself. Unlike so many other parts of the country, you can enjoy golf year-round as a resident of the Lowcountry.
Where you decide to play is entirely up to you. That said, some of our suggestions would be to check out Shadowmoss, the Daniel Island Club, Charleston National Golf Club, The Harbor Course at Wild Dunes, and more.
Granted, there are many country clubs (such as some of the ones we just mentioned), that require a membership or knowing someone that has one.
4. Get Outside in Your Free Time
Listen, if there is one thing that Lowcountry locals are not, it’s being lazy. While the Lowcountry lifestyle certainly encourages time to relax and take in the palm trees, it does not allow for much time indoors.
You’re about to live in one of the most beautiful places on earth! Charleston is the perfect blend of southern land and tropical life that you’d typically only find when you go further south.
Make sure that you dedicate time to finding outdoor hobbies. These could be things like golfing, kayaking, or even surfing in South Carolina.
5. Choose a Side (for College Sports)
Perhaps one of the most unique aspects of living in Charleston (or anywhere in South Carolina, for that matter) is the lack of professional sports teams within it.
For that reason, most residents choose to focus on college sports teams to unite with their fellow locals on gameday. However, there are two primary college teams that most residents are forced to choose between: Clemson and South Carolina; the Tigers, or the Gamecocks.
As a new Lowcountry local, you must choose your side now. Learn all you can about the program’s history (it’s important to the fans) and be prepared to defend your decision!
Become a Lowcountry Local: Make Your Move as Smooth As Possible
Now that you have seen an in-depth guide on what it will take to become a Lowcountry local in Charleston, be sure to use this information wisely.
Take the time to read this article for more information on the 5 great reasons you should choose a local company for your move to Lowcountry Charleston.
To get started, call us at 843-860-9717 and we will be happy to assist you further.