Island Vibes September 2024

cation she and Troy spent here, they felt a connection to this place and a desire to keep coming back, which we are happy to report they do. Here’s to many more years of trips to our isle for the entire Confer clan! or Troy and Karen Confer, there’s no better place to vacation than the Isle of Palms. The Confers have been traveling to our seaside city from a small town in northern Illinois every May and October since 2013. “IOP has become our favorite destination,” said Karen. “We are creatures of habit and we tend to keep the same routine year after year, trip after trip.” Karen’s love for our island shines IslandVibesIOP.com 26 Home Away from Home A family vacation worth repeating By Laura Fogarty F Rusty STREETMAN INDEPENDENT VOICE FOR ALL ISLE OF PALMS CITY COUNCIL TRAVEL through every endearing word she has to say about this place many of us are lucky enough to call home. Because their two children live in the area, every trip begins by reconnecting with family and friends. Upon arrival, Karen and Troy start with lunch at Acme Lowcountry Kitchen followed by a stop at The Windjammer for drinks, while enjoying the beautiful view of the pristine beach and ocean. After checking into their beach rental and picking up groceries, the Confers take the first of many long beach walks they enjoy throughout their time here. Day two includes pedicures and brunch at Page’s Okra Grill to top their agenda, followed by a visit to the Isle of Palms Fire Department. A retired volunteer firefighter of 30 years, Troy’s favorite highlight is watching truck inspections at the IOPFD. “We have so many ‘musts’ on our list, one of which is taking in all that Shem Creek has to offer,” said Troy. “Our grandchildren have enjoyed exploring like pirates and still talk about the rich history of Forts Moultrie and Sumter and the entire Charleston area.” Karen is passionate about her family’s love of the Isle of Palms and all the wonders in the surrounding area. “Over the years we have enjoyed family and friends staying with us. One of the best memories for our family was the beautiful Charleston wedding of our daughter and son-inlaw,” she recalled. Karen described the journeys back to Illinois as full of conversation recapping the latest stay on the island while anticipating and planning the next. “We love all the flags displayed around town!” said Karen. It seems there isn’t much the Confers don’t love about our little island paradise and the municipalities and sites that envelope us. Karen reports that each rental property they have stayed in has been wonderful and she and her family have enjoyed each one immensely. “We continue to tell everyone about the history and hospitality of the Charleston area. It’s a wonderful place to be, and a wonderful place to gather! I could go on forever about your wonderful island,” she gushed. Keeping her description “short and sweet,” according to Karen, was no small task. The Isle of Palms has captured her heart and from the first vaVisits with the grandkids. Routine stops with family and friends.

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