For those of you who know the song “Friends in Low Places” by Garth Brooks, it’s one of my favorites. However, the friends in low places I’m referring to here are those in the low country of South Carolina. For Memorial Day weekend, I skipped out of the city and headed to the beach. Unlike most New Yorkers, I didn’t head to the Hamptons but instead hopped a quick and easy two-hour flight to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina for the first time. My only regret is that it took me this long to visit the area. I visited with a friend from the island and couldn’t have asked for a better tour guide. We kicked off the weekend at Old Oyster Factory, listening to the Broad Creek Rum Runners while the sun set over the creek. After a delicious dinner of fresh fish with good company, we headed to the beach and did some star gazing — a luxury Manhattanites don’t have. If I wasn’t already sold on this little island and the charm of my friends, the next day sealed the deal. We spent the day on a boat, tied to a sand bar visible only during low tide, grilling and taking in the sunshine. Later, as we drove around the island, I decided that for those looking to settle there for any length of time, I’d recommend Palmetto Dunes. In addition to the wonderful waterways, the island has more than 40 golf courses and more tennis courts than in any tennis lover’s dreams. The island also has beauty, charm and history. Best of all, it is so close to New York City, especially flying out of LaGuardia Airport. After listening to crashing waves before bed the first night, I was reminded of how much there is to explore in this country. I love to globe trot, but I’m also excited to learn about and get to know the gem destinations right in my backyard. Looking back on the Memorial Day weekend, I hope yours was great as well. Most of all, I want to offer my heartfelt thanks to those who serve our great country and remember those who have fought and given their lives to let us enjoy the freedom to travel and enjoy life in the USA. — Alex Young, vice president and associate publisher