The Sense of arrival at Charleston Place Hotel, South Carolina, is so perfectly in keeping with its location in the center of the city's historic district that you would never know it was built in 1986. From the Greek Revival — style fountain flanked by four bronze horses in the entrance courtyard, to the sweeping Georgian-style grand staircase in the lobby, to the 441 guest rooms and suites decorated with chintz and damask, the hotel conveys traditional Southern flair.

When I stayed at Charleston Place, I was thrilled with its convenient location. I loved getting out for strolls in the city, whose historic district is said to be the second largest in the world. (Rome is first.) It's a short walk to the harbor, lined with splendid waterfront mansions. Great shopping is everywhere, from 28 upscale shops in two galleries flanking the hotel to a vast flea market around the corner.

There are many recreational opportunities for groups, starting with the Spa at Charleston Place. A full array of spa services is available in its six treatment rooms. The spa also includes a well-equipped gym and a 50-foot pool.

Off site, the hotel's in-house destination management team can set planners up with tee times at the area's golf courses, city walking tours, and visits to historic plantations. I opted for a kayak tour that included close-up views of dolphins frolicking in the harbor and a visit to a barrier island.

Ample meeting space at Charleston Place includes 23 meeting rooms. A 14,432-square-foot ballroom with a 16-foot-high ceiling accommodates up to 1,500 people, and banquets for up to 300 can also be set up in the hotel's art deco — style Riviera Theater across the street. The Charleston Grill serves regionally inspired cuisine that has garnered many awards and accolades.

One of four Orient-Express properties in North America, Charleston Place has attentive service that makes it a standout.