Romantic Inns' B&B Group Spotlights Five Hot New #Savannah Happenings ... Worth the Trip!

SAVANNAH Georgia (September 16, 2013) -- Fast breaking Savannah news is counter to "southern slow", the beloved description and reputation of Georgia's First City -- Savannah, Georgia USA. A champion at finesse, the popular international city by the sea is no slacker and we, the public are so pleased!

"Savannah" movie director Annette Haywood-Carter at Savannah, Georgia USA opening.

We hope not only Savannah travelers, but travel editors and USA adventurers will check these five late-breaking news highlights. Answering the question of "What's new in Savannah?" these are only snippets of what helps to hold Savannah high in USA tourism ratings and a beloved place to visit in The American South.


#1. Affordable airfares. JetBlue Airways announces service to Savannah! 

Just a few days ago that was teasing news tweeted from JetBlue president and CEO, David J. Barger. Today, it's official! JetBlue announces its direct route new service from JFK in New York City to Savannah, plus a bonus of special offers. A $79 special offer is found at this link -- JFK to SAV -- New York City to Savannah, beginning February 13, 2014.

The Empire State of the South [Georgia] gets more direct routes to and from the Empire State of the North [New York] ... and beyond! 

Coconut Cake with Blueberries and Italian Cream at Zeigler House Inn, featured on Eat It and Like It with Jesse Blanco in October 2013.

#2. Inns stay in the News. Three members of Romantic Inns in Savannah, Georgia, champion big exposure for their historic inns  in October 2013 and for this popular southern city only 18 miles inland from the Atlantic Ocean.

Watch for Presidents' Quarters Inn, Green Palm Inn, and Zeigler House Inn on Wheel of Fortune, beginning early October 2013!  Savannah gets the spotlight for Fall with enticements to visit one of America's most haunted cities. Sixth Sense Haunted Tours gets a nod as well.

Mid October, Savannah's own Eat It and Like Like with Jesse Blanco features Zeigler House Inn's farm-to-table hors d'oeuvres, the bed and breakfast inn's sideboard of afternoon desserts, and the traveling public's swelling interest to choose Savannah B&Bs and popular historic inns for more "local" and personal Savannah lodging.

#3. Fall Getaway. Savannah B&Bs are among top reasons U.S. News Travel includes Savannah #6 on of list of Best Fall Getaways

"Why go: Beautiful architecture, amazing comfort food, and a distinct sense of Southern hospitality are Savannah's major draws. But you can enjoy fall's jazz and film festivals if you plan a trip for this season. This is also a great time to hunker down in a historic B&B." -- U.S. News Travel [emphasis added]

#4. Fresh food options. Savannah College of Art and Design announces two fun, healthy and fast food spots -- a new cafe near Tourist Information Center, plus Gryphon's breakfast on the run. 

The new Cafe' 78 is located on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, near the Savannah Tourist Information Center. Of the new eatery SCAD.edu writes, "Located inside Ex Libris Bookstore, this eatery features handmade breakfast and lunch dishes that incorporate natural ingredients, served in a relaxed and stylish atmosphere." Opens 7:30 a.m. Monday - Friday, 11:00 a.m. Saturday and Sunday.


On Twitter @WorkatSCAD announced today, "Running late? Get your grab-and-go breakfasts from Gryphon Tea Room, starting today 7:30-10am!!" To verify this is open to the public, they replied, "Gryphon Tea Room grab-and-go breakfast is open to the public 7:30-10am!! Lunch begins at 11am. We hope to see you soon!" A re-purposed pharmacy, the library-esque Gryphon is located on Madison Square across the street from ShopSCAD.

A masterpiece of 1791, and a "10 Places of Peril" (2009) in Savannah, GA gets masterful historic restoration -- The John Berrien House in the National Historic Landmark District.

#5. Architecture. Stay tuned, keep watch, and keep applauding the extensive historic home renovation of John Berrien House, circa 1791, located on Broughton Street at Habersham Steet. 

Chief architect is Gerry Cowart of Cowart Group Architects in Savannah. Significant architectural genius in workmanship is being uncovered, including ballast stones in the house footers, and craftsmanship that resembles fine furniture making in the building's joints. Follow Cowart Group Architects on Facebook for regular updates on the masterful restoration of this18th century statesman's home, one of the last in Savannah. The property is protected under the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Historic Savannah Foundation has championed saving the historic jewel.

"The Berrien House is a federal style building in Savannah built circa 1800 for Revolutionary War officer Major John Berrien. Located on Savannah’s main commercial street, the Berrien House has been vacant for more than twenty years [as of 2009] as several demolition permits have been sought and denied. Lack of maintenance and failed rehabilitation efforts have left the severely deteriorated building at risk of demolition by neglect.  Historic Savannah Foundation holds a preservation easement on the house and has invested $70,000 in roofing and structural repairs and has established a task force to seek strategies for the rehabilitation of this important building. A mortgage foreclosure has left the house in the ownership of a bank that is currently exploring and evaluating the economic feasibility of the building’s rehabilitation." [Source: The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation Announces Its 2009 List of State's 10 'Places in Peril', The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation.

More Savannah architecture and coastal scenery get national attention. On August 23, 2013, the movie, Savannah opened in many USA cities. The new movie showcases the coastal city's scenic beauty, the tidewater duck hunters' adventures in the Old South, and a gentleman's side of Savannah ... laced with romantic drama. The DVD release of Savannah the movie is set for September 24, 2013.

Come for a visit. Let Savannah Romance You! ™ sooner rather than later. Experience what's new and admired in Georgia's First City -- still populated by some of the most friendly people in America, beginning in our Romantic Inns in Savannah. You'll find us conveniently dotted throughout the National Historic Landmark District.

Wouldn't you love to experience what's endearing in Savannah, inside and out? Let us know how we might help any time. Follow us on Twitter @RomanticInns, Facebook and Pinterest.

Copyright © Romantic Inns of Savannah / Sandy Traub

Savannah Breakfasts in Historic Places: Sweet to Savory B&B Indulgences

SAVANNAH Georgia (September 3, 2013) - Foodies would enjoy crisscrossing the Savannah historic district simply to indulge in diverse B&B breakfasts. Below is a visual sampling of breakfasts in downtown Savannah served by the largest to the smallest of our Romantic Inns -- the historic places, welcoming travelers to indulge in southern hospitality daily in The Deep South.

"In Savannah, breakfast is an art as important as sculpture, painting and needlecrafts."  -- Savannah Morning News

FORSYTH PARK INN: "The Inn keeper prepared the most delicious breakfast and when finished sat outside with us and shared ideas and not to miss Savannah sites." -- via TripAdvisor.com review.

Breakfast on the porch overlooking Forsyth Park

GREEN PALM INN: "Breakfasts were delicious, as were the hor d'oeuvres, cookies, and wine." -- via TripAdvisor.com review. 

Holiday breakfasts are as delightful daily!

PRESIDENTS' QUARTERS INN:  "... loved the breakfast.....their banana french toast is to die for! Am going to find reasons to go back soon!!" via TripAdvisor.com review

Al fresco breakfast in the historic inn's private courtyard

ZEIGLER HOUSE INN:  "The atmosphere is exceptionally warm and friendly and Jackie the owner cannot do enough to please you from the fresh baked gems every day to great insights as to where to go for sightseeing and eating." via TripAdvisor.com review.

Generosity here with homemade from scratch pastries, fresh fruit and more in suite.

Each of the Romantic Inns' members will clarify inclusive amenities. 

In our culinary-centric southern city, there are top-rated breakfast places where the locals and tourists choose to go.  For example, the chic Goose Feathers Café and Bakery is a top-choice in downtown Savannah for fresh baked bagels and croissants, organic yogurt with honey and fresh fruit, and premium beverages.  The popular Clary’s Café is a nostalgic local diner, made famous in “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”.  The Breakfast Club at Tybee Island was so tasty that they catered John F. Kennedy, Jr.’s wedding on Cumberland Island.  The invitation from Back in the Day Bakery is to “slow down and enjoy the sweet life”. Boomers will adore the nostalgic reminders in this breakfast spot for time travel to the 1950s, complete with artisan breads, jams, and waitresses in head scarfs.

Bottom Line

As you can tell, Romantic Inns offer more than a wink at ways to savor the best Savannah breakfasts. Our Romantic Inns are your advance and back up teams for your Savannah trip. You're sure to enjoy a Savannah breakfast … whether your romantic inn is serving up inclusive, unique southern breakfasts daily or your Romantic Inn host is pulling out a treasure of spot-on breakfast places to recommend for a memorable breakfast out on the town! 

We make it easy. Simply send one email that will be routed to all member inns via this contact link. Stay in touch via Twitter @RomanticInns and check the Romantic Inns Printerest boards for more romantic Savannah ideas to max out your stay in America’s most beautiful city - Savannah, Georgia.   

Get away and "Let Savannah romance you!", beginning with Romantic Inns' lodging.

© 2013 Romantic Inns of Savannah / Sandy Traub

Throwback Thursday aka #TBT in #Savannah: Forrest Gump Movie Locations Near Romantic Inns in Savannah

SAVANNAH Georgia (July 31, 2013) -- Is it possible to think of more famous places in #Savannah for Throwback Thursday than scenes from the romantic drama, Forrest Gump? After all, Forrest Gump is a wildly popular movie told in flashback!

The popular Forrest Gump opening feather scene was filmed here at the historic Independence Presbyterian Church steeple near Chippewa Square where Forrest sat on a bench, storytelling with his box of chocolates for Jenny.

Have you heard the term "Throwback Thursday"?  Thursday is a fun groupie's share day -- a time to pause and look back, and share a memorable photo through the social media of Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Better still, kick up that thought for a Savannah trip! What would be more fun than seeing Savannah through the eyes of Forrest, Forrest Gump? Lodging in a Romantic Inn in Savannah will make the Savannah experience even more special.

In Savannah flashbacks are simple! 

So many Forrest Gump movie spots are still familiar today and easy to spot in downtown Savannah.

On Chippewa Square (park bench scene, facing north), Forsyth Park (playground scene), Lauri's Cafe on Wright Square (Jenny's waitress scenes), on West Bay Street (the running sequence), and the Independence Presbyterian Church steeple (the opening feather scenes).  A replica of the park bench is in the Savannah History Museum in the Visitor's Center on Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. A movie tour will introduce you to more film locations in Savannah.

The music is gentle and beautiful.



Released in 1994, the movie starred Tom Hanks in the title role, Gary Sinise (Lt. Dan), Sally Field (Mrs. Gump), and Robin Wright (Jenny Curran). Filming took place August 27, 1993 - December 9, 1993.   Here's a link to the movie trailer.

Oglethorpe Statue in Chippewa Square is a site seen in background during the park bench scenes in the "Forrest Gump" movie. Photo circa 1960s, showing Town & Country ladies shop in background. Today Gallery Espresso is on the southeast corner.

Forrest Gump won the 1995 Academy Award Oscar®  in these categories:

• Best Actor in a Leading Role:  Tom Hanks
• Best Director: Robert Zemeckis
• Best Effects: Visual Effects, Ken Ralston, George Murphy, Stephen Rosenbaum, Allen Hall
• Best Film Editing: Arthur Schmidt
• Best Picture: Wendy Finerman, Steve Starkey, Steve Tisch
• Best Writing, Screenplay Based on Material Previously Produced or Published: Eric Roth 
• Source: IMDb.com 

The movie's famous taglines have stood the test of time -- (1) The story of a lifetime. (2) The world will never be the same once you've seen it through the eyes of Forrest Gump. (3) Life is like a box of chocolates...you never know what you're gonna get.

Midday in Savannah, Georgia, hang around Chippewa Square. It's a fun spot for people watching and enjoying a picnic on a park bench. You may even spot the popular Forrest Gump look alike!

Want to know more? Check out the YouTube (below) identifying the behind the scenes "how to" of making the opening feather scene. The church and steeple are popular photos by Savannah tourists.

We hope to see you soon!  Meanwhile, check in daily with  Romantic Inns of Savannah innkeepers for more ideas for your next Savannah trip, and stay tune for more Throwback Thursday photos and story shorts via Twitter and Facebook.

Copyright (c) 2013 Romantic Inns of Savannah / Sandy Traub

Friendly and Romantic Savannah Places for Savannah Brew Fest + Favorite Pub Food Spots from Romantic Inns in Savannah GA

SAVANNAH Georgia (July 10, 2013) -- Already the drums (or should we say craft beer kegs and beer festival barrels) are rolling with the hype of Savannah Brew Fest. The Savannah beer tasting event is to be held August 31, 2013, the Saturday during Labor Day Weekend in downtown Savannah -- 1:00 - 5: 00 p.m -- attended by craft beer aficionados and locals. 

Beer in character-rich Savannah is legendary. It was a provision on board the ship Anne with the first British settlers traveling to the Georgia colony frontier (ca. 1733).

"...The ship [Anne] stopped in Madeira to take on five barrels of wine to go along with the ten barrels of Alderman Parson’s best beer already on board...." Source: ShipAnn.blogspot.com

Six Pence Pub, the popular British-themed pub for socializing, people watching, food and a brew. Photo: SkeeterMag via Flickr

Our Romantic Inns decided to toss in ideas for friendly pubs downtown -- the fun places to go for delicious Savannah pub food and a beer.

"The idea of legally walking around downtown [Savannah] in broad daylight with an open container was simply too good to be true...." writes Jürgen and Mike in their For 91 Days,com blog about the Savannah to-go cup.

[The few rules are below from the Savannah City Ordinance.]

Preparing for this popular beer festival weekend, the inns will informally champion etiquette for the notoriously popular Savannah to-go cup.

"Our member bed and breakfast inns in Savannah are simply going to inform our lodging guests of the City of Savannah Ordinances. It's a fun part of coming to Savannah, and we'd like to keep it.  So, we'll be adding one more request: 'Please dispose of the to-go cups in proper trash receptacles'."

"That seems so obvious, and we do not know who is doing the littering -- locals or travelers. But, it's troubling. A dozen small inns can do a little to heighten awareness about keeping Savannah beautiful and clean. We are seeing too many plastic cups tossed into manicured landscapes or discarded on window sills or steps," states Jackie Heinz, marketing chair of the Romantic Inns of Savannah association. 

"INTIMATE, ROMANTIC PLACES INCLUDE THE SAVANNAH PUBS," SAYS ROMANTIC INNS IN SAVANNAH, GEORGIA
You may be surprised, as we were, that none of the larger beer gardens, beer halls with hundreds of beers, or packed bars are on this list of recommendations. The distinctiveness, however, aligns perfectly with the smaller romantic inns, which offer and recommend quieter, romantic places where one gets to converse with the friendly Savannah locals.  

RECAP: The final rundown of favorite, friendly Savannah pubs, according to Romantic Inns' innkeepers:  Crystal Beer Parlor (3); Six Pence Pub (3); Planters' Tavern [Olde Pink House] (2), and one each (alphabetically) for Abe's on Lincoln, Billy's Place, Chart House, Churchill's, Cotton Exchange, Jazz'd Tapas Bar, Molly Macpherson's, Murphy's Law, Soho South, The Public, Wild Wings, and Your Pie.

Cheers! Now for the details.

Zeigler House Inn -- Crystal Beer Parlor
"I will go with the obvious for me here, I’ll take the Crystal Beer Parlor. My favorite dish: Duck Wings – these are on the special menu so they don’t always have them but when they do I always have to get an order.

Tip: get the Duck Wings with the sauce on the side, then you can control the heat (spicy). If they are not on the special menu, their hamburgers are the best with homemade hand-cut fries or potato chips, with blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping of course.

The Crab Soup is a must have with just a drop or two of Sherry! If you’re in the mood for shrimp, their fried shrimp is very good. Nice and fresh.

Best drink: take a look at the beer menu. Fabulous selection! After all it is 'The Beer Parlor'."

Learn the language of beer. Infographic 

Churchill's Pub on Bay Street, downtown Savannah, GA Photo: Jennifer / Gray Guitar via Flickr

Presidents' Quarters Inn -- Churchill's and Six Pence Pub
"We like Churchill's. Love their cheese tray and their wonderful beef pot pie with puff pastry. They make good Bloody Marys; but, the BEST Bloody Mary in town is at the Six Pence Pub. Food not so much. Our families like Churchill's as they have small plates and a large menu that gives lot of options for kids."

Amethyst Inn at Sarah's Garden -- Chart House Tavern and Billy's Place
We like the Chart House Tavern for happy hour, Monday through Friday, 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Great app's and special drink prices. Also we like Billy's Place, although we do not get out much!!"

Savannah Villas -- Crystal Beer Parlor, Cotton Exchange, and Soho South "Allen and I like the Crystal Beer Parlor. It's a nice, casual place to go and eat and offers a good value for the money. The bar always has a festive atmosphere where you will usually meet some very interesting people. Every time we go there I have the lamb burger. This is the only restaurant I know which serves this. It seems to be a popular dish.

I also like the Cotton Exchange on River Street. I always get the Reuben sandwich with a side of the potato salad, which is wonderful. Finally, I would say Soho South. They have a Mediterranean sandwich which is wonderful. It has pita bread, banana peppers, and an olive tapenade. It is excellent."

McMillan Inn -- Wild Wings, and Your Pie
"We do not have a favorite pub. We don't go to them very often. We like to get a drink from Wild Wings and carry it over to the tables at Ellis Square. Or Joe will pop in somewhere when we are on a walk to pick up some wine. We love the nacho's at Wild Wings, and the Panini's from Your Pie."

Armstrong Inn -- The Public, Jazz'd Tapas Bar, and The Pink House Tavern
"Comes to my mind: "The Public", recommended by my guests often (over 20 blend of beer, select big wine list), very European flair, worth to try.

Jazz'd Tapas Bar, great music 6 days a week: swing, jazz or classical vocals in the style of Sinatra or Savannah's own Johnny Mercer. Specialty Martini. Unique Food in Savannah - their fabulous Tappaz.z."

The Pink House Tavern [Planters Tavern]. They mix my virgin margaritas (delicious), select wine list, old time singer/pianist. Great Hospitality. My guests love it."

Whitaker-Huntingdon Inn - Crystal Beer Parlor, The OldePink House and Six Pence Pub.
"A larger number of our guests list these three places as enjoyable establishments to have a convenient meal and/or drink after a full day of sight seeing and touring.

I like Crystal Beer Parlor because is it family oriented and offers a wide range of food choices, and is within walking distance of the inn. If someone wished a beer or alcoholic drink, they seem to offer a wide range of choices. Home made style fries and chips, hamburgers and other healthier items such as salads and bison are available.

The Olde Pink House's downstairs piano bar [Planters Tavern] is also a nice place to meet friends or for a couple to go after (or for) a meal or just to relax and listen to live music. The range of meals downstairs are the same as up stairs; but, you can also have a number of after dinner dishes / desserts / drinks.

The Six Pence Pub is also listed in our guest books a number of times. Guests state that they enjoy sitting outdoors and watching the activities along Bull Street, as they enjoy a drink and/or a British style meal in the nicer months or on cooler summer nights."

1895 Inn -- Six Pence Pub
"Start with a Welsh Rarebit and follow it with a Beef Guinness or Open Face Roast Beef, and followed by a Crème Brulee."

We hope you enjoy a few Savannah pubs from the variety of friendly, romantic places listed. We cannot close without inviting you --Let Savannah Romance You! ... beginning in one of the Romantic Inns of Savannah. We'll be happy to help with your Savannah, in-town itinerary.

Talk to us! Follow us on Twitter @RomanticInns and Facebook; romanticinnsofsavannah.com
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[verified accuracy July 2013] Excerpt City of Savannah Ordinance: Sec. 6-1215. Consumption of alcohol on city streets prohibited; limited in certain area.

(b) Outside consumption of alcoholic beverage permitted in certain area; number and size limited. Within the area of the city bounded on the north by the city limits, on the west by the centerline of the Talmadge Memorial Bridge extended south on West Boundary Street to Jones Street, on the south by Jones Street extended east to the railroad track, and on the east by a line extending north along the centerline of the railroad track to the Savannah River east of the Marriott Hotel, then across the Savannah River to include all portions of Hutchinson Island which are within the city, the following regulations shall apply:

(1) One drink on-street limit. Any establishment licensed to dispense alcoholic beverages by the drink for consumption on the premises is authorized to dispense an alcoholic beverage in a paper or plastic cup, or other container other than a can, bottle, or glass, for removal from the premises; provided, however, that no establishment shall dispense to any person more than one such alcoholic beverage at a time for removal from the premises, and no person shall remove at one time more than one such alcoholic beverage from the licensed premises.

(2) Size limited to 16 ounces. No container in which an alcoholic beverage is dispensed and removed from the licensed premises shall exceed 16 fluid ounces in size. No person shall hold in possession on the streets and sidewalks, in parks and squares, or in other public places within the defined area any open alcoholic beverage container which exceeds 16 fluid ounces in size.

(3) Drinking from can, bottle, or glass prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person to drink or attempt to drink any alcoholic beverage from a can, bottle, or glass or to possess in an open can, bottle, or glass any alcoholic beverage on the streets, sidewalks, rights-of-way, and parking lots, whether public or private.

(4) Festivals. Unless specifically provided otherwise by ordinance, the regulations provided by this section shall be in full force and effect during the Saint Patrick's Day Festival and any other festival.

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Copyright (c) 2013 Romantic Inns of Savannah / Sandy Traub

Savannah Special B&B Summer Deals Announced by Romantic Inns Association in Historic Savannah, Georgia USA

Savannah, GA (June 26, 2013) -- An historic inns, members' collective -- Romantic Inns of Savannah, Georgia USA -- announces unique 2013 summer discounts to encourage a summer trip to Savannah, with lodging at the popular, privately owned bed and breakfasts in the downtown Savannah historic district.

Refreshing beverages and a delightful breakfast are complimentary amenities at each Savannah B&B lodging member of Romantic Inns of Savannah.

In addition to Summer in Savannah lodging deals, a long list of amenity options highlight the generous southern hospitality found in Romantic Inns of Savannah. Take a glimpse at a new historic Savannah inns association video -- "Romantic Inn of Savannah: The Savannah Way to Stay."

Summer enticements to travel to Savannah and incentives to stay in the stately to cottage historic inns range from a chilled tea party to a quintessential Savannah picnic, summertime discounts, and seasonal deals. Eight inns have posted a special offer on the association's web site -- romanticinnsofsavannah.com.

"Clearly, the early Summer in Savannah'deals are our personal enticements to stay in our historic inns, and are our personal invitations to visit beautiful Savannah, Georgia -- a city we love enough to invest millions to live here ourselves," states the association's marketing chair, Jackie Heinz of Zeigler House Inn.


"Summer is the best time to take full advantage of the best rates, an unhurried leisured-pace, gracious southern hospitality, and generous amenities our historic cottages and stately home inns," adds Diane McCray, innkeeper at Green Palm Inn and marketing committee member.

Travel editors have encouraged travelers to book lodging in the historic inns. "Guests adore Savannah from the outside in. They love it more from the inside out with lodging in character rich bed and breakfast inns. Here history, charming comforts, and storytelling enhance the experience. We simply are adding our famously friendly invitations, especially to our loyal B&B travelers and to first-time bed and breakfast travelers," states Jackie.

Summer in Savannah, frequently called 'America's most beautiful city', is a slower pace and less busy, less bustling and less packed. Along with the treasures that are classic Savannah, the National Landmark Historic District is where architecture, shopping, the arts and entertainment offer up something new and refreshing to do in Savannah any time of year. The multicultural cuisine is gaining in notoriety, especially in restaurants owned by the executive chefs.

In addition to Savannah's shade from the canopy of grand trees, more cool spots are the art galleries and museums, restored mansion tours, and legendary pubs. Tybee Island beach and the delightfully fun options of getting out on the water supplement the nightlife and daytime culture in the heart of Savannah's fun city.

Below are the first wave of summer specials from Romantic Inns' members. Follow the association on Twitter -- @RomanticInns and check the association web site for new offers, which will be updated throughout summer 2013. Events, festivals and things to do are also posted on the association web site.

Zeigler House Inn
Free "Chilled Tea Party for Two!" now through August! July 15 – August 29, 2013 stay: $159/night Monday -Thur.; Fri. - Sunday 15% off high season rates. Breakfast & parking included. 866-233-5307 or 912-233-5307.

Green Palm Inn
June, July & August 2013 add a "Picnic for 2", plus Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace tour to your 2- or 3-day summer stay! Free with 3-night stay. $25 with a 2-night stay. Toll free 888-606-9510 or local 912-447-8901.

Presidents' Quarters Inn
Romantic Inns' special: All rooms 20% off. Rates for online bookings reflect discounted specials. Rates include lodging, parking, breakfast, hors d'oeuvres and wine. Toll Free 800-233-1776 or local 912/233-1600.

Armstrong Inns
Summer Special: ** 15% off regular rates on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. In-room bottle of wine on arrival, complimentary silk rose petals on bed upon request. Call 912-232-9175.

McMillan Inn
Summer discount: $25 off the total with a 2-night or more stay when you mention summer special at time of booking. Call 912-201-2128.

Olde Savannah Inn
Book 2 nights and get 50% off the third night. Book 3 nights, get the 4th night absolutely Free. Cannot be combined with gift certificates or previous reservations. Offer expires Sept. 30, 2013. Call 912-247-8254.

Catherine Ward House Inn
All teachers receive a 10% discount on any room reserved for a stay between Sunday and Thursday during July, August, and September 2013. Call toll free 800-327-4270 or local 912/234-8564

1895 Inn
Receive $25.00 off each room night between July 25 - August 28, 2013. Call toll free 866-900-1895 between 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Eastern time. Mention offer, “Romantic Inns of Savannah summer special”.

Add required 13% taxes (includes federal, state and local) to all specials and Savannah lodging rates. For more information, contact via Twitter @RomanticInns or use the contact form on the web site, here.

ABOUT ROMANTIC INNS OF SAVANNAH
A collective marketing association of family--owned historic home inns (circa 1855 - 1898), Romantic Inns of Savannah LLC interprets and romanticizes southern hospitality a dozen different ways in Savannah, Georgia USA -- renown as North America's most beautiful city. Let Savannah Romance You!™" is the invitation from the bed and breakfasts' non-profit organization. Situated along the southeast Atlantic Ocean coast, Savannah's National Landmark Historic District (2.5 square miles) is home to the city's smallest restored home inns -- private carriage houses to 16-room European-style town homes -- that dot prestigious, quiet residential neighborhoods. Elite among America's original 13 colonies, Savannah is prized for its southern traditions and architecture that survived the American Civil War (1861-1865), urban and coastal landscapes, the arts, international cuisine and commerce. For more information -- romanticinnsofsavannah.com, Twitter @RomanticInns & Facebook. Press Contact: Sandy Traub, straub@spatior.com

Savannah Georgia 4th of July! 4th of July Recipes from Romantic Inns

SAVANNAH Georgia (June 5, 2013) -- Our Romantic Inns innkeepers have a great holiday idea for July 4th! Get away to Savannah and let our Romantic Inns' chefs host your guest lodging stay and do some fabulous southern cooking for your 4th of July holiday in Savannah!


If that is not possible for July 4, 2013, we'll share (below) some  favorite 4th of July recipes from the foodies at our member Savannah romantic bed and breakfasts.  Innkeepers are trying their social media hands, too, in Pinterest. Check out Green Palm Inn's patriotic recipes in Pinterest. 

We'll be adding more innkeepers' recipes between now and July 4th.  Please share your comments about these B&B recipes.

Innkeeper Jackie Heinz at Zeigler House Inn prepares "Red, White and Blue, Chocolate Dipped Strawberries". Photo: Zeigler House Inn

Zeigler House Inn
B&B Recipe: Red, White and Blue White Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
**Not recommended for outside warm weather. 

1 pint  fresh large, beautiful strawberries (appx. 12 oz.)
4 oz. white chocolate (chips or block)
Blue sugar (Jackie purchased from Michael's)

Carefully wash and dry strawberries and set aside on towel. Chocolate will not adhere to wet strawberries.  Line a baking sheet or cutting board with wax paper or parchment paper.  Chop up the chocolate roughly with a knife if it is in block form. In a medium-sized, microwave safe bowl, melt the chocolate in double boiler pot or microwave. For microwave: Heat it in 45 or 60-second intervals, stirring between each time to ensure that the chocolate is melting evenly and not burning.  Meanwhile, mix blue food coloring and white sugar into a small bowl to desired color. Set it aside.

When chocolate is smooth, dip the berries 3/4 of the way into the chocolate. With the chocolate still warm, dip the tips into the blue sugar, and place on wax paper.

Refrigerate berries until ready to serve.

###

Presidents' Quarters Inn
B&B Recipe: Baby Back Ribs (Southern Barbecue)
Season a rack of ribs to your taste. Pre-heat oven to 400F degrees. Place ribs (covered) in oven for 20 minutes. Reduce heat to 250F degrees and bake for three hours. Last hour of baking, apply the BBQ sauce of your choice. Serve immediately. Fool proof and delicious!

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Green Palm Inn
B&B Recipe: Red, White and Blue Sangria
(see photo at Punchbowl.com)

Strawberries cut up
blue berries whole
Raspberries whole
Pineapple cut into star shapes
2 bottles white wine
1 cup triple sec
1/2 cup berry flavored vodka
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup simple syrup

Gently mix all ingredients together in a large pitcher and chill. Enjoy!

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Catherine Ward House
B&B Recipe: Watermelon/Blueberry Mojito Salad

4 cups diced or balled watermelon (about 1/2 melon)
2 cups blueberries
1/3 cup mint leaves, chiffonade
2 Tablespoons lime juice
1/2 teaspoon lime zest
2 tablespoons light rum (I might use a little more than that.)
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
dash cayenne pepper
salt to taste

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the lime juice, zest, rum, brown
sugar, and cayenne.
2. Add the fruit and mint, then mix together gently. Use your hands,
they are the best tool in your kitchen. Add salt to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Variation: Add 1 cup of feta cheese and/or 2 cups of diced cucumber. If
using feta, blend it in just before serving to prevent it from becoming
soggy.

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1895 Inn
B&B Recipe: Cod Cakes with Scallion and Herbs

¾ teaspoon salt
2 pounds cod fillet
1-½ cups dry bread crumbs
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup lemon juice
1 egg, beaten to mix
½ red bell pepper, chopped fine (optional)
4 scallions including green tops, minced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley
Pinch cayenne
1/8 teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper
Cooking oil, for frying (whichever you prefer)
Lemon Mayonnaise (recipe follows)

1. Put 1 inch of water in a large frying pan. Add ¼ teaspoon of the salt and bring to a simmer. Put the cod in the pan. Cook, covered, until just done, about 6 minutes. Remove the doc from the water and let cool. Pour out the water and wipe the pan.

2. With your fingers, flake the fish into a large bowl, removing any bones as you go. Add ¾ cup of the bread crumbs, the mayonnaise, lemon juice, egg, bell pepper, scallions, basil, parsley, cayenne, the remaining ½ teaspoon salt, and the black pepper. Stir until well combined.

3. Divide the cod mixture into 12 portions and shape into patties. Coat the patties with the remaining ¾ cup bread crumbs and pat off the excess.

4. In the frying pan, heat about ¼ inch of oil over moderate heat. Working in batches if necessary, fry the cakes until golden brown and crisp, about 2 minutes. Turn and fry until golden brown on the other side, about 2 minutes longer. Drain on paper towels. Serve with Lemon Mayonnaise or sauce of your choice.

B&B Recipe: Lemon Mayonnaise: (mix in small bowl)
½ cup mayonnaise
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1/8 teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper

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Cherry Ice Box Pie | Photo from Forsyth Park Inn, Savannah GA

Forsyth Park Inn
B&B Recipe: Cherry Ice Box Pie
1 #2 or #3 can sour Bing cherries
1 can Eagle Brand milk
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/2 tsp almond extract
1 cup pecans, chopped
1 pint whipping cream
4 Tbsp sugar
2 8-inch graham cracker crusts

Thoroughly drain cherries. Add lemon juice and almond extract to condensed milk. Stir. Add cherries and nuts to milk mixture. Whip cream separately
adding sugar slowly; then fold whipped cream into milk mixture. Pour mixture into 2 pie crusts. Chill overnight.

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Low Country Boil | Photo from Forsyth Park Inn, Savannah GA

Forsyth Park Inn
Recipe: Low Country Shrimp Boil
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup salt
4-5 pounds new potatoes quartered
16 ears fresh corn, broken in half or 18 small frozen ears
4-5 pounds Roger Wood Lumber Jack Smoked Sausage cut into 2 to 3 inch pieces
6 pounds shrimp (deheaded) in shells

Fill a 10 to 12 quart pot half with water. Add butter and salt and bring to a boil. Add potatoes and boil 10 minutes. Add fresh corn and boil 5 minutes, or 10 minutes for frozen corn. Add sausage and boil 5 minutes. Add shrimp and boil 3 to 5 minutes or until shells begin to separate from shrimp; do not overcook. Drain and serve from a large bowl or tray.

The Olde Savannah Inn 
B&B Recipe: White Chocolate Pancakes

2 cups of all purpose flour
1 tbs of baking powder/eliminate if using self rising fl
1 tbs of baking soda
2 tbs of pure vanilla
1 cup of premium white chocolate
2 cups of buttermilk
2 egg whites/fluffier than yokes

Wisk all ingredients together and you will have the best pancakes you have ever tasted. Serve with your favorite whipped cream. These are a real treat! Serves 6-8 guests.

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Green Palm Inn
B&B Favorite Recipe: Red, White, and Blue Potato Salad

1 cup chopped green onions, divided
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
4 teaspoons Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 pound unpeeled small or baby red-skinned potatoes
1 pound small purple or blue potatoes, peeled
1 pound unpeeled small white creamer or White Rose potatoes
2 cups cooked fresh peas, or one 10-ounce package frozen, thawed
1 1/2 cups crumbled blue cheese (about 6 ounces)
Paprika

Whisk 1/2 cup green onions and next 7 ingredients in medium bowl. Cover and chill dressing. Do ahead: Can be made 1 day ahead. Keep chilled.

Place all potatoes in large saucepan. Add enough water to cover by 1 inch. Sprinkle with salt. Bring to boil, reduce heat to medium, and boil until tender, 10 to 15 minutes (time will vary depending on size and variety of potatoes). Drain and cool to room temperature. Cut potatoes into 1/2-inch-thick slices and place in large bowl.  Add dressing, peas, and blue cheese; toss gently. Cover and chill at least 2 hours and up to 1 day. Sprinkle potato salad with paprika and remaining 1/2 cup green onions.

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Romantic Inns in Savannah members send wishes for your enjoyable USA holiday and a safe 4th of July ... at home or vacationing! If we don't see you this July 4th, we'll hope to see you for July 4, 2014!
 

Father's Day Gifts for Him: Savannah Gift Ideas from Romantic Inns

SAVANNAH, Georgia -- Father's Day is Sunday, June 16, 2013.  Who's shopping in Savannah for a unique Father's Day gift?

Fishing Men | Photo (c) Bruce Tuten

We took a quick poll of our romantic bed and breakfast innkeepers, asking for new gifts for him ideas found only in Savannah, Georgia  

QUESTION: "What is a favorite Savannah gift to give a man, say for Father's Day, birthday, etc.?"  

The early ANSWERS from our Savannah B&B members are fresh, and impress!  We'll keep adding recommendations when we receive more replies.


Leslie Larson at Catherine Ward House 
"An elegant escape you will long remember"
-- BarBQ 101 [Barbecue 101] Class at Wiley's Championship BBQ 
-- A round of golf at the Club at Savannah Harbor
-- A day on the water with Moon River Kayak Tours
-- A banana-split at Leopolds Ice Cream

Ed Bryant at 1895 Inn 
"A Victorian Bed and Breakfast"
-- A pair of shorts or shirt from J. Parker Ltd. on Broughton Street

Lori Glass at Forsyth Park Inn 
"Parkside Paradise"
-- Gold Dusted Lions Heart from Chocolat by Adam Turoni

Jackie Heinz at Zeigler House Inn
"Deliciously southern. Comfortably elegant."
-- "For my dad it would be a day of deep sea fishing off the coast with his two grandsons and, of course, his favorite daughter." 

Diane McCray at Green Palm Inn
"The Softer Side of Savannah"
-- Fly fishing with Unreel Expeditions or Sundial Charters, Fishing and Nature Tours. Did you know that Dolphin sleep with 1/2 of their brain at a time? One half remains awake to remind the other half to return to the surface to take a breath.
-- Day trip to Daufuskie Island with Daufuskie Discoveries.

Bill Saxman at Whitaker Huntingdon House
"Yesterday's Ambiance in an 1883 Home with All Today's Conveniences"
-- A gift certifcate to a nice restaurant
-- A can of Byrd Cookies (Byrd Cookie Company)
-- Something from Savannah Sweets

Jane Sales at Presidents' Quarters Inn
"Luxury with a Legacy"
- A gift certificate to Home Depot, the idea of heaven for most men!

Kathleen Dupuis at Olde Savannah Inn
- A complimentary pass to Fort Pulaski and Fort Jackson
- Celebrate Father's Day with complimentary breakfast in bed
- $50 Gift Certificate to Crystal Beer Parlor
- 18 holes of Golf
- A Complimentary day pass for Tybee Beach

Sip something cool and refreshing in private places Photo: Presidents' Quarters Inn

Of course, we'd love for you to consider the gift of travel.  Each Romantic Inns' B&B member has bed and breakfast gift certificates, which would make a lovely Father's Day gift!  

ABOUT ROMANTIC INNS OF SAVANNAH
A collective marketing association of family--owned historic home inns (circa 1855-1898), Romantic Inns of Savannah LLC interprets and romanticizes southern hospitality a dozen different ways in Savannah, Georgia USA -- renown as North America's most beautiful city. Let Savannah Romance You!™ is the invitation from the non-profit organization. Situated along the southeast Atlantic Ocean coast, Savannah's National Landmark Historic District (2.5 miles) is home to the city's smallest restored home inns -- private carriage houses to 16-room European-style town homes -- that dot the prestigious, quiet residential neighborhoods. Elite among America's original 13 colonies, Savannah, Georgia is prized for its southern traditions and architecture that survived the American Civil War (1861-1865), now famous for its urban and coastal landscapes, the arts, friendly people, and international commerce. For more information -- romanticinnsofsavannah.com, Twitter @RomanticInns, and Facebook. Press Contact: Sandy Traub, straub@spatior.com

Copyright 2013 Romantic Inns of Savannah LLC