Being from South Carolina, I have loved learning all about the “City of Brotherly Love,” but I will say I do miss my own hometown. Home to me is often filled with good food, friends and spending time doing the things I love.

I am from Columbia, South Carolina, also commonly referred to as “Cola” or “Soda City!” I decided I wanted to compile a few of my favorite places in case a few of my fellow Hawks ever make it down south to a city I hold so dearly to me. The University of South Carolina tailgates are a bunch of fun.

First off, food in Columbia is something taken for granted. I yearn for a slice of Kaminsky’s mountain of chocolate cake or ramen from Menkoi on Gervais street. The Korean fusion at 929 Kitchen is unmatched and the brunch and coffee at The Gourmet Shop are worth the fight over the outdoor tables.

Columbia has attractions like the Soda City Farmer’s Market on Saturdays, where local vendors sell amazing goods right in the heart of the city. There is the Riverfront Park, where you can take in the beautiful scenery or sit and eat lunch. There is also a small art museum in Columbia, and although it doesn’t compare to Philly’s in size, it definitely competes in beauty and exhibitions.

I love living in Philadelphia because there is so much to love about this city. Going to the Franklin Fountain with friends or the Christmas Village to ice skate is an experience unlike any other. 

However, there is always something special about your hometown that you will never stop missing or thinking about. The way you always know you have a place to go when you need a place to land, the southern hospitality that reminds you of childhood. Or the warm biscuits and gravy from the cafe you love. 

All of it just makes you know that you are where you are meant to be, that you are home. 

Columbia, South Carolina will always be my home. To me it’s magical, and these are just a few of my favorite things about my hometown.