Wed 25th: Guess what, it lashing down with rain as the blinds are opened, but by the time we've got our arses in gear, it's just about stopped and it's a dry but overcast day in Savannah. We take the trolley tour and learn about the history of Savannah, from English colony in 1733, with a charter from King George II to the beautifully restored city it is today. The original charter stipulated no slavery, no lawyers, no Catholics and no alcohol; probably only one element remains intact today, and it's always difficult to be sure about that.

Sixty years ago the Historic Savannah Foundation was formed by six ladies who bought old properties and restored them. The battle was eventually won, and Savannah has been preserved rather than turned into another standard US city. On a better day it would be just delightful to walk the squares and boulevards, and capture some wonderful images, but the light was so flat today, it really didn't inspire much photography, other than some shots to note we had been here.

An hour on the river in an old river boat was included, and we learn surprisingly that Savannah is the second largest container port in the US after New York; this is confirmed with several massive container ships towering over us both on the boat and on our strolls down River Street.

The food is pretty standard, and one meal between two usually suffices, if not in the evening, then certainly at lunch time. Our first latte coffee in America is tracked down and enjoyed, but now I feel the need for a little rant at this time........tips, I know it shouldn't come as a surprise in the US, but the naked appeal for tips at every turn is starting to grate big time. One meal recently, a 20% gratuity was added to the bill, 20%!! On today's lunch bill, printed below the total for those whose maths is below standard was the dollars and cents value of the tip at 15%, 17.5% and 20%. There are jars everywhere and when complimentary drinks are served in the hotels, the bar-person expects a tip in the jar. Our chamber-person has kindly left an envelope for us, instructing us to leave our gratuity at reception when we leave. Signs on tour buses say "tips are both appropriate and appreciated". I think a new strategy may be necessary, every tip is $1, regardless, that would mean I would fulfil the quantity, if not the quality aspect.

Spend today: Eden Vacation Rentals (Paypal $1,301), trolley tour (card)