Boasting a comfortable climate, a great location, historical charm, and a variety of resources, the Charlestonmetropolitan area is among one of the best places to live in the nation. Comprised of Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties, the Charleston metropolitan area stretches from central to southern South Carolina and some 50 miles inland, with 90 miles of oceanfront.

With a diverse economic mix and one of the largest containerized cargo ports on the South Atlantic and Gulf coasts, the Charleston Metropolitan area continues to grow and flourish, yet its rich, historic charm and cultural sophistication are evident throughout the city.

In addition, the region boasts a multi-billion visitor industry, one of the Southeast's most impressive medical hubs, a well-established base of national and international manufacturers, as well as a large military presence. Arts, recreational and cultural opportunities are abundant, including museums, music, dance and theater, as well as water sports, golf, hunting ,fishing, horseback riding and more.

The above is an exerpt from The Charleston Chamber of Commerce web site. 

Charleston is the 9th "Top City in the United States & Canada" according to Travel & Leisure magazine's sixth annual World's Best Poll. Also honored is Charleston Place, the luxurious Orient express hotel conference and retail complex, which was ranked twice in the poll at number 30 in the " Top 100 Hotels in the Continental U.S. and Canada" and number 96 in "Top 100 Hotels Overall." Charleston's top ten ranking is a testament to the charm and beauty of our area, the tremendous array of activities that visitors can enjoy, and the warmth and hospitality of our residents," says Prem Devadas, Chairman of the Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. "To be consistently ranked so highly by readers of Travel + Leisure is an extraordinary achievement."

The above is an exerpt from The Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau web site.