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Oil Change in Charleston, SC
Despite what the Jetsons would have you believe, automobiles like cars, trucks, SUVs, and minivans are still a necessity in modern times. Whether you use your vehicle as a daily driver for running errands or as a weekend canyon carver, you rely on your automobile to get things done. But what happens when, out of the blue, your car quits working?
Imagine this: Your spouse is tied up with work, so you've got to pick up your kids and their friends from soccer practice. Suddenly, you hear a loud noise under the hood of your car. A yellow light comes on in your car's dashboard near the speedometer. You step on the gas to accelerate a little but get no response. You're not sure what's going on, but you do know that you've got to find a safe place to pull over. After a few minutes, smoke starts coming out of your engine bay, and you know you've got a serious problem on your hands. What could it be? And then, it dawns on you - it's been years since you had an oil change. Because of that, you've got to have a friend take your children and their friends back home while you wait for a tow truck to haul your vehicle away.
Scenarios like these are quite common in South Carolina. The truth is that it's easy to forget about having your oil changed in our fast-paced society, packed full of work obligations and after-school activities. Fortunately, having an oil change service is easy when A+ Auto Service is right down the road.
The Premier Oil Change Auto Shop in Charleston, SC
As a family-owned, independent oil change provider, we're proud to have served drivers with reliable car service and oil changes for more than 20 years. We are a full-service automotive shop that does everything from routine maintenance to major car repairs to engine and transmission rebuilds. We started off in 2004 as a Major Repair Auto Shop and made it through the 2008 recession, though it hit us very hard. We were able to rebuild and come back stronger in 2010 by adding more services and becoming a true full-service auto shop.
After growing our North Charleston location for the past 16 years, we decided it was time to expand and better serve the Lowcountry. In January 2019, we bought our Summerville location on Old Trolley Rd. With a limited budget and three months of labor-intensive work, we opened our doors with a new slogan: "Your Dealer Alternative."
When we say we're your car dealer alternative, we mean it. Car dealerships are notorious for long waits, shotty repair ability, high prices, and poor customer service. That's why, at A+ Auto, we prioritize hard work, quality repairs, fair pricing, and excellent customer service. Because, at the end of the day, that's the way we'd want to be treated if we needed an oil change in The Palmetto State.
As a family-owned and operated auto mechanic shop in Charleston, we are proud to serve the Lowcountry. After all, you're our neighbors, and neighbors must look out for one another. Swing by our shop to see the A+ Auto difference. We think you'll like what you see!
Here's Why Cars Need Oil to Function
The primary function of engine oil is to lubricate the moving parts in your engine. There are many intricate and high-speed components that make up an engine, many of which need oil. They need oil to operate smoothly and minimize the effects of friction and wear. It might sound hard to believe, but sometimes, the only thing preventing engine parts from grinding together is a small amount of engine lubricant.
Despite having proper oil levels, even a well-lubricated engine generates substantial amounts of heat. Another important function of engine oil is to help draw this heat away from your engine's components. By maintaining the correct temperatures, your vehicle will run smoothly. Without engine oil, the engine would rapidly seize and could potentially overheat.
Understanding why cars need oil to function is important. But you've also got to know how to check your oil levels to see if you need more. Consistent oil changes are essential for maintaining the reliability and optimal performance of your vehicle. Neglecting regular oil changes can result in severe repercussions for your car's health, potentially leading to complete engine failure if operated without sufficient oil. That's why, even if you can't do it on your own, it's smart to work with a professional oil change auto shop like A+ Auto for help.
When Do You Need to Change Your Car's Oil?
It used to be recommended to change your oil every 3,000-5,000 miles, but you might need to do it more or less often, depending on what your car manufacturer suggests. Always check your owner's manual for the recommended oil type, grade, and maintenance schedule. If a red oil light pops up on your dashboard, get your car checked right away because you could be dealing with low or no oil pressure or a serious oil leak.
Other Benefits of Engine Oil
Motor oil has evolved significantly since its initial use in the late 1800s. While its primary purpose remains to lubricate and cool engine parts, modern engine oils offer numerous additional benefits that enhance engine performance. Another role of motor oil is to help maintain engine cleanliness by filtering out dirt and other contaminants. Moreover, engine oil can contain various beneficial chemical compounds, known as additives, that can enhance its performance.
- A few common additives found in engine oil include
- Viscosity index boosters that improve oil performance under extreme temperatures
- Corrosion inhibitors that prevent rust from forming
- Dispersants to help remove sludge from your engine and prevent it from forming
A+ Auto Service Pro Tip
Despite what you may have heard, you can safely mix synthetic and regular (conventional) oil in your engine. That is, as long as they have the correct viscosity and meet the performance and quality specifications set by your vehicle's manufacturer. However, there are rare exceptions, such as some older Mazda rotary engines that do not allow the use of synthetic oils, so it's important to check your owner's manual first.
Regardless of the type of oil your car requires, it plays a crucial role in maintaining efficient engine operation. Plus, regular oil changes can help you save on gas by ensuring that engine parts are well-coated and protected from wear and tear.
Top 5 Reasons to Get an Oil Change in Charleston, SC
A recent survey conducted by the Car Care Council revealed that 22% of vehicles are equipped with either low or contaminated engine oil. Taking proactive steps to change a vehicle's oil and filter can help ensure that the engine continues to operate at peak performance and can prevent drivers from incurring costly repairs in the future. Try comparing the average cost of a year's worth of oil changes (about $200) to the cost of damage caused by neglecting them ($4,000+). It's clear to see that having your car's oil changed regularly is hugely beneficial for your bank account.
Proper lubrication is essential for moving parts to prevent the creation of friction, which leads to the generation of heat. To avoid excessive friction and engine overheating, it is crucial to ensure that the oil is clean and at the right levels.
Imagine all the moving parts of your car's engine: its valves, pistons, and other parts moving at high speeds. If these parts are not properly lubricated with oil, they will generate a lot of heat and cause significant wear and tear on the engine. Consult the owner's manual to find out the exact viscosity and quality of oil that your vehicle needs, and make sure to maintain it at the recommended level.
When your engine isn't properly lubricated, it can consume more fuel than normal, so it's a good idea to ensure that your engine has enough clean oil. When you get an oil change to replace your dirty oil, it can improve your gas mileage by 1-2%. That doesn't sound like much, but for the average driver, it can mean big savings over time.
Dirt can be extremely harmful to engines. With time, dirt can lead to corrosion and reduce an engine's lifespan. Furthermore, as time passes, oil deteriorates and transforms into "sludge." The key is to maintain a clean engine. Regular oil and filter changes aid in eliminating particles and sludge, ensuring that engines remain in optimal condition.
You don't have to be a graduate from College of Charleston in Charleston, SC to know that routine car maintenance makes your vehicle last longer. Contaminant buildup from old oil reduces a car's fuel efficiency and performance and causes its internal parts to experience increased strain. Plus, an overworked engine is more likely to develop issues and have a shorter lifespan in the long run. Why deal with those problems when you can help prevent them with an oil change from A+ Auto Service?
The Right Oil at a Price You Can Afford
Now that you understand why oil and oil changes are so important, you may be looking for reliable oil change services. Head to your local A+ Auto Service for a quality oil change and learn why so many South Carolina drivers trust our professional technicians to service their vehicles.
Oil Change Myth #1: Thicker Oil is Best for Your Engine
During the 1960s, when classic Camaros and majestic Mustangs dominated the drag strips, there might have been some truth to this. The clearances between engine parts were not as precise as they are today, and a thicker oil might have assisted in reducing certain types of engine wear. However, back then, it was mainly the anti-wear additives in the oil that offered proper protection in other types of engine wear - such as in the valve train - rather than the viscosity itself.
Using motor oil that is too thick nowadays could, at best, lower engine efficiency. At worst, it could impede proper lubrication (especially on cold mornings), affect the performance of certain engine parts that depend on oil pressure as a hydraulic fluid, and result in even greater engine wear. Some vehicles may display an illuminated check engine light if the wrong viscosity oil is used. This means that many newer vehicles necessitate lower viscosity grades to accommodate tighter tolerances and deliver improved fuel economy.
The bottom line is that thicker oil doesn't equal better. If your engine is stock, you should read your owner's manual to find out your oil recommendations.
Oil Change Myth #2: Black Oil = Immediate Oil Change in Charleston, SC
It's a common belief that you should change your oil when it turns black, but it might not always be necessary. The darkening of engine oil occurs naturally due to oxidation from heating cycles. The detergents and dispersants in engine oil work to clean the engine by absorbing soot, carbon, and other combustion byproducts, which also darkens your oil.
Although changing your oil before it's time to do so isn't inherently harmful, it could hurt your wallet. Ultimately, black engine oil can be a natural occurrence and a sign that it's doing its job effectively. The best course of action is to change your engine oil and oil filter according to your vehicle manufacturer's suggested maintenance schedule.
Oil Change Myth #3: You Must Get an Oil Change Before Road Tripping
Whether you're driving to see Hampton Park near Charleston, SC or you're traveling to see family, road-tripping is one of the most fun and exciting ways to enjoy your vehicle. According to some drivers, though, you've got to change your oil before embarking on a long road trip. While it is important to ensure your vehicle is in good condition before a lengthy drive, changing your oil beforehand isn't always needed.
If your oil change interval indicates that there are still many miles left before needing service, you should be OK. However, it's still a good idea to check and make sure your oil levels are where they should be before road-tripping. If your car is scheduled for an oil change shortly after you return, you can probably wait until you get back from your trip. In any case, there's really no downside to getting your oil changed early - if it gives you peace of mind, go ahead and do it.
Superb Oil Change Service in Charleston, SC, Starts with A+ Auto
You may be on the fence about getting an oil change, but the consequences of not doing so can be horrible. At best, you'll experience diminished performance and gas mileage. At worst, you or a member of your family could end up in Indigo Hall Assisted Living and Memory Care in Charleston, SC because your engine failed and you got in a car wreck.
Why risk your safety when you can swing by A+ Auto every few thousand miles for a quality oil change? You'll benefit from a healthier car, and you won't have to wait for hours on end like you would at a dealership. Plus, you'll be treated with the care, compassion, and professionalism that only a local auto repair shop can provide. Contact A+ Auto to schedule your oil change service and learn more about why we're the Lowcountry's top choice for reliable auto repairs.
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Latest News Near Me Charleston, SC
Travel + Leisure Readers' 15 Favorite Hotels in Charleston of 2025
Maddie Hiatthttps://www.travelandleisure.com/worlds-best-awards-2025-hotels-charleston-11741888
Year after year, Charleston, South Carolina lands among the top U.S. cities in Travel + Leisure’s World's Best Awards, and it’s easy to see why it’s a fan favorite. From its charming cobblestone streets and vibrant seafood restaurants to its laid-back coastal energy and famous Southern hospitality, there’s really no other place quite like Charleston....
Year after year, Charleston, South Carolina lands among the top U.S. cities in Travel + Leisure’s World's Best Awards, and it’s easy to see why it’s a fan favorite. From its charming cobblestone streets and vibrant seafood restaurants to its laid-back coastal energy and famous Southern hospitality, there’s really no other place quite like Charleston.
Charleston’s unique character and culture can be found in spades throughout the many hotels that pepper the city—and one particular property stole the hearts of readers this year.
What comes to mind when you hear the word Charleston? Maybe something about the beautiful beaches or the local cuisine? Or maybe it’s those charming hotels and inns you can find throughout the city? According to our readers, all of the above would be correct. Each hotel on this list truly has something special to offer. Take HarbourView Inn (No. 15) for example—in addition to sleeping in stunning rooms a reader described as “beautiful and posh,” you can order nighttime milk and cookies from the comfort of your bed here. Our readers also can’t seem to get enough of that famous Southern hospitality. After staying at The Spectator Hotel (No. 5), one person wrote that, “the butler service is the best luxurious amenity I have experienced.” Whether you’re planning a vacation for the family or a romantic getaway, Charleston has a little bit of something for everyone.
Still, one property rose above the rest—and it may be a familiar name.
The Winner
Wentworth Mansion
You guessed it: For the third year in a row, Wentworth Mansion was voted the No. 1 hotel in Charleston by T+L readers. What was once a grand 19th-century mansion on landscaped grounds is now a gorgeous hotel located in the heart of historic downtown Charleston. The property has just 21 rooms with Italian crystal chandeliers, hand-carved marble fireplaces, and luxurious amenities like around-the-clock concierge service and fresh flowers. And while there are many things to love about this unique property, it was the warm staff that cinched the deal for guests. “Fabulous service, delicious cooked-to-order breakfast, beautiful venue,” one reader said. “The knowledgeable staff made it an exceptional stay.”
The Full List
Two South Carolina cities rank among the best US travel destinations. Here’s why
Simone Jasper July 15https://www.thestate.com/news/state/south-carolina/article310644735.html
South Carolina is home to two of the nation’s best places to visit, a new report finds.Charleston ranks No. 3 and Greenville is No. 7 on a list of cities travelers love the most, according to results published July 8.While Charleston has spent years ranking as a fan-favorite destination...
South Carolina is home to two of the nation’s best places to visit, a new report finds.
Charleston ranks No. 3 and Greenville is No. 7 on a list of cities travelers love the most, according to results published July 8.
While Charleston has spent years ranking as a fan-favorite destination, Greenville received a nod for making a “strong debut” on the list from Travel + Leisure.
To choose the best U.S. vacation spots, the magazine teamed up with researchers at Proof Insights. From Oct. 21, 2024, to Feb. 24, it received hundreds of thousands of responses in an online reader survey. For cities, scoring criteria included “sights/landmarks, culture, food, friendliness, shopping” and value, according to the magazine’s website and details shared with McClatchy News via email.
In the resulting World’s Best Awards, Charleston was the highest-ranking South Carolina destination in the best U.S. cities category. Travel + Leisure said fans raved about its architecture and charming downtown.
“After 12 straight years at the top of the list, this coastal escape has moved into the third spot,” the magazine wrote. “Still, there’s much to adore about the Holy City, which is brimming with history and Southern hospitality.”
Meanwhile, Greenville was praised for being a hidden gem in the Southeast, a region that boasts several destinations in the top 10.
“A newcomer to the list, this mid-size city was described as one of the South’s ‘best kept secrets,’” the magazine wrote. “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.”
Across the country, places that offer travelers a glimpse into the past and a taste of regional foods received high marks in the rankings.
“When choosing city escapes in the United States, travelers continue to seek destinations with pedestrian-friendly streets, dynamic arts and culture institutions, and excellent food,” the magazine wrote in its report. “For many visitors, it was also important to have access to activities that suit everyone, whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or as a multigenerational family.”
Nationwide, the top-ranked vacation spot was Santa Fe, New Mexico. The other destinations that round out the top five:
In addition to boasting winners in the best cities category, places in South Carolina made their mark in the top 10 on other World’s Best Awards lists. Here’s where those destinations landed in the continental U.S. rankings:
AC unit break leaves 40 dogs at Charleston animal shelter in need of fosters
Marissa Thompsonhttps://www.live5news.com/2025/07/11/ac-unit-break-prompts-charleston-animal-shelter-seek-emergency-fosters/
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - A Lowcountry animal shelter is calling on the community to take on emergency foster dogs because of a critical air conditioning unit failure that won’t be resolved for weeks.Pet Helpers Adoption Center and Spay/Neuter Clinic, located at 1447 Folly Road in Charleston, announced Friday morning that 40 dogs are in urgent need of foster care because of the broken AC unit.The unit’s compressor failed, and shelter officials sai...
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - A Lowcountry animal shelter is calling on the community to take on emergency foster dogs because of a critical air conditioning unit failure that won’t be resolved for weeks.
Pet Helpers Adoption Center and Spay/Neuter Clinic, located at 1447 Folly Road in Charleston, announced Friday morning that 40 dogs are in urgent need of foster care because of the broken AC unit.
The unit’s compressor failed, and shelter officials said they’ve been told that the replacement parts are on backorder, forcing the shelter to fight the heat of the summer for the next three to five weeks.
Team members have deployed several emergency measures, ranging from the installation of portable AC units and industrial fans to the housing of dogs in administrative offices; however, this is not enough, as it still leaves several areas in the shelter to be far too hot for dogs to comfortably or even safely inhabit and these solutions will not last for the long term.
The shelter said intake has not been slowing down, creating a “desperate need” for the public’s immediate help by providing temporary homes for those dozens of dogs. These emergency fosters are taking place through the “Summer Break Foster Program,” a rapidly-launched initiative designed to secure safe housing for these dogs.
“We are doing everything in our power to ensure our animals are safe, cool and comfortable, but the reality is that we need help,” Executive Director of Pet Helpers Melissa Susko said. “This community has always shown incredible compassion, and we’re counting on that same support now. These dogs deserve more than a temporary solution — they deserve care, comfort, and a path to a forever home.”
Right now, Pet Helpers is looking for members of the community to step up and provide temporary homes for the shelter dogs until the AC system has been fully repaired, which is expected to take several weeks.
Dogs are eligible to leave starting July 20.
Foster families will be matched with a dog who fits with their lifestyle and home environment and will receive all needed supplies, including food, crates, leashes and medical support.
“Most of the dogs needing placement are medium to large breeds, and some are best suited to homes without other pets,” the shelter said in a release.
They also stated that the program is about more than getting these dogs out of the heat.
“Importantly, this program is not just about temporary relief. These fosters will also serve as adoption ambassadors — helping their foster dog find a forever home by sharing photos, introducing them to friends and family and posting on social media. With more dogs arriving daily, it’s critical that these fosters don’t all return in five weeks, only to find the shelter at capacity,” shelter officials said.
Applications for the program are officially open. Those who wish to apply can click here.
Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.
Charleston County leaders discuss new ideas for transportation sales tax
Caroline Spikeshttps://www.live5news.com/2025/07/09/charleston-county-leaders-discuss-new-ideas-transportation-sales-tax/
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.
Charleston breaks 12-year streak as Travel + Leisure's Best US City. Here's why.
Megan Fernandeshttps://www.postandcourier.com/business/tourism/charleston-santa-fe-travel-and-leisure-best-us-city--greenville-sc/article_865156f1-e33d-4bb1-a5a5-c41f7789a523.html
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.
Views from afar
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.
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