South Carolina has historically slipped below the radar when it comes to vacation spots. In recent years, this has turned around as excellent resorts have appeared. If golf is your thing, the Kiawah Island Golf Resort will qualify as a slice of heaven.

Your first steps into the resort proper send you into another world of grand southern charm. Imagine a proper parlor decked out in elegant silk covered chairs, a huge fire place and elegant sconce derived lighting along the walls. It is a delightful and imposing beginning.

Although the grand lobby will take you back in time, the resort has a decidedly modern twist. The layout is elegant, but definitely modern with the individual units being comprised more of modern townhomes than one would expect at first glance when taking in the resort.

The meshing of time periods works even if it is somewhat eccentric. This was obviously given serious consideration by the designers. The real find of this resort which was built in 2004, however, is not on the outside of the facilities but on the inside.

And then we get to the spa. Oh, my. The resort has a top rated spa that is simply sinful. From wraps to massages to facials, the spa has a little of something for everyone. Not only will they get rid of your obvious problem points, they will get the subtle ones as well.

At the end of the day, it is time to just relax and take it all in. Oh, and get a bit to eat. The resort has a variety of restaurants in the Southern and French style. Seafood is a definite specialty, so give it a try.

There is no doubt that you will feel elevated, alive, and rejuvenated once your vacation is through, though you may not get a large helping of that southern flavor from this hotel. Those that solely focus upon spa and golf offerings will be thrilled at the location and selection, which is why most people travel to this spot.

Think of a perfect vacation. What would it include? Golf. Lodging on the ocean. An incredible spa to relax and rejuvenate in. Quality food from excellent restaurants. At $400 a night, the Sanctuary gives you that and more.