There is something about small country towns that make them more relaxed and fruitful than the city. Whilst the city might bring opportunities and enhance career prospects, sometime's its certainly worth travelling back to a smaller town to rediscover your appreciation for life, and Savannah, Georgia is certainly one of the best places in the United States, perhaps even the world to come and do that.
If you are an American, chances are you've come to accept that customer service and hospitality isn't always top notch. That pimple-faced kid behind the counter at McDonalds does not really care for you, and neither does the man who pumps the gas for you at the gas station. It doesn't have to be like this however, as the town of Savannah is one where people well and truly leave their doors open at night (but not in winter!) and put their best face on for the local tourists. There's very little crime amongst the Savannah community, particularly compared to the rest of the United States, and in fact, the entire state of Georgia is relatively crime-free in comparison with some other U.S States.
There are a few concepts and reasons for the incredible friendliness that is exhibited by the people of Savannah, with the most obvious being that many people in the town are likely to be tourists themselves. Tourists are generally just looking to have a good time and aren't bothered by the problems that the average 9-5 person might be facing. In addition, many people in Savannah community are retired, leaving them relaxed and able to escape from the demands and pressures of life's daily grind. It could also be argued that the coastline makes people happier as well. By living close to the waves and other elements of nature, one can feel at home and breathe fresh air every day, much unlike the city where the air is generally polluted and the backdrop is skyscrapers and nothing much else. In Savannah, however, it is almost as if you are stepping into a town that has yet to be struck by commercialisation and the influence of fast-food and cheap retail that has led to the poor reputation of today's hospitality industries. Savannah services are still top-notch, but with just an extra touch of brilliant hospitality! With the ancient, historic buildings and the focus on savouring the past, the true meaning of southern hospitality and friendships have not been lost. A visit to the Savannah Tybee Island Lighthouse reflects just the attitude that the people of Savannah have towards change and modernity - the lighthouse is in an almost perfect condition, completely untouched (many of the Savannah bed and breakfast bed resorts are also in similar pristine condition).
If you've come to Savannah then you won't want to miss out on any of the Savannah fine food or attractions. Whether you like local seafood, or you'd rather dine in international cuisine (there's Mexican, Italian, Sri Lankan, Indian, and almost everything else you can think of!) you'll be very excited because many of the best restaurants are located right in the city centre - within walking distance of most of the Savannah bed and breakfast resorts. But if money is not a problem then look no further than the cuisine at nearby Tybee Island. Just a 20 minute drive from the Savannah CBD, the island is home to approximately 30 of the best restaurants that Georgia has to offer. With freshly famed produce right from the beautiful waters of Savannah, and waiters and chefs with worldwide experience, you're guaranteed an amazing night out. If you do decide on Tybee Island, there are regular bus services that depart the Savannah CBD and head to the island. These services are hourly during the week, but somewhat limited on the weekends, so if you do opt for bus services instead of hiring a rental car, be sure to take this into consideration. Make sure during your stay that you also visit some of the wonderful architecture around the city, including the railway station, which has been standing since the 1800's and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The lighthouse, as has been already mentioned, is a marvellous attraction and needs to be seen in person to be appreciated, just like the beautiful bed and breakfast resorts that are located nearby.
Savannah services are like very few places in the world. In a society that has become accustomed to poor hospitality and customer service, Savannah, Georgia comes as a relief. Savannah is one of those towns where photographs just don't do it justice - you need to go there, feel the atmosphere, and talk to the people to really appreciate what a beautiful town it is.