RESORTQUEST HILTON HEAD ISLAND PROUD SPONSOR OF THE 2009 HILTON HEAD ISLAND WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL

Each March, Hilton Head Island is home to one of the eastern seaboard’s foremost culinary events, the Hilton Head Food and Wine Festival. ResortQuest Hilton Head Island offers nearly 500 vacation rentals, condos and private beach homes in the premier resort destination, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina and just moments from the tasty treats of this gastronomic spectacle.

February 17, 2009 Hilton Head Island, SC – ResortQuest Hilton Head Island, in conjunction with the Hilton Head Island Hospitality Association, presents the 2009 Hilton Head Food and Wine Festival. The festival will be held March 11 – 15 at the Sea Pines Country Club and Coastal Discovery at Honey Horn. This signature event features the exquisite culinary delights from the island’s nationally recognized chefs paired with over 1,500 wines from across the globe.

The medal winning wines have already been announced for the 2009 event and include:
Best of Show Bubbly Champagne: Pascal Doquet NV Grand Cru Blanc de Blanc Best of Show Red: Alexander Valley Vineyards 2005 Cyrus Alexander Valley Estate and Best of Show White: Chasing Venus 2008 Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough
View a full listing of 2009 award winners at ResortQuestHiltonHeadIsland.com.

The Festival kicks-off on March 11 with the Pol Roger Champagne Tasting and Welcome Dinner, to be held at The Studio on Hilton Head Island and is presented by the Hilton Head Island Chapter of the American Institute of Food and Wine. Dinner events and wine tastings continue at venues around the island, including Wine Times 4, WiseGuys bar and restaurant, Aqua Grille & Lounge, the Old Fort Pub, Red Fish restaurant and the XO Lounge. The Grand Wine Tasting event takes place on Friday, March 13 at the Sea Pines Country Club from 5:30 – 7:30 pm. Cost for the Grand Tasting is $150 per person (plus $5 gate pass). Featured wines include La Crema Anderson Valley Pinot Noir 2005, Cliff Lede Poetry 2005, Miner Oracle 2005 and the Rombauer Diamond Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2003.

The most popular event at the Wine & Food Festival is the public tasting, held this year at the Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn, Saturday, March 14 from 12 noon – 4 pm. Cost is $40 per person, and includes entrance to all of the featured tasting events, such as the Tailgate Gourmet Challenge and the Grey Goose Best Bartender Challenge.

For more event details, tickets and a full schedule of events, visit the Hilton Head Area Hospitality Association website at hiltonheadhospitality.org.

ResortQuest Hilton Head is an official sponsor of the 2009 festival and is offering a full selection of discount Hilton Head Food & Wine Festival lodging packages including free tickets to the Public Tasting and vacation rental accommodations throughout Hilton Head during the event. Enjoy the comfort and privacy of resort accommodations, complete with kitchen, living and dining areas and scenic golf course and ocean settings.

Guests can experience 3 nights lodging in a 2 bedroom, 2 bath condominium or villa, plus four adult tickets to the March 14 Public Tasting event from as low as $180 a per person* (restrictions apply). All ResortQuest Hilton Head guests enjoy free tennis, discounted golf, free DVD rentals and the exclusive ResortQuest Recommends program offering deals and discounts on over 160 restaurants, shops and activities. All vacation rentals offer fully-equipped kitchens and immediate access to beaches, tennis, golf and water sports. To claim this offer, visit the ResortQuest Hilton Head Island lodging website or contact a reservations specialist at 800.653.9638 and mention promotion code REF WFF.

Throughout March, ResortQuest Hilton Head is offering 30% off lodging as part of the ResortQuest “More For Your Money” promotion. To claim this offer, visit the ResortQuest Hilton Head Island lodging website or contact a reservations specialist at 800.653.9638 and mention promotion code REF MYM.

Hilton Head Wine & Food Festival

For more information on the Hilton Head Wine & Food Festival, visit ResortQuestHiltonHead.com.

RESORTQUEST HILTON HEAD WELCOMES WORLD CLASS PIANISTS TO HILTON HEAD ISLAND

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina welcomes the Hilton Head International Piano Contest, a special presentation by the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra. This event brings together talented musicians from across the globe to compete for over $33,000.000 in prizes. ResortQuest Hilton Head offers over 500 vacation rentals and condominiums on Hilton Head Island and is proud to support the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra.

February 10, 2009 Hilton Head Island SC – This March, Hilton Head Island and the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra welcomes the talented musicians of the Hilton Head International Piano Contest. This world-class event takes place March 2 – 9, 2009 at the First Presbyterian Church of Hilton Head Island and is presented by the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra. It brings together international pianists and judges for a week of extraordinary performances by pianists ages 18 – 30. Participants compete for over $33,000 in prizes plus coveted concert placements.
For more information and tickets to the contest, contact the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra at 843-842-2055 or visit www.hhso.org.

The Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra is entering its 27th year on Hilton Head Island and for over a quarter century has remained true to their goal of bringing an unparalleled orchestral experience to the visitors and residents of Hilton Head Island. The 2009 performance schedule focuses on the work of the Masters, with major pieces by Bach, Beethoven, Berlioz, Brahms, Mendelssohn, Mozart, Sibelius, Stravinsky and Tchaikovsky in eight classically themed concerts.

ResortQuest Hilton Head Island is a strong supporter of the local arts and culture of Hilton Head Island. Guests visiting Hilton Head Island during the 2009 Symphony season receive special lodging rates through ResortQuest Hilton Head Island. ResortQuest's "More for your Money" March promotion gives guests 30% off any March stay. Guests must mention booking code INT MYM and book no later than March 1, 2009. The promotion is valid for any stay between March 1 and March 31, 2009. To book the “More for Your Money” March Hilton Head special, visit www.resortquesthiltonhead.com.

The Hilton Head Island condominiums and private vacation homes offered by ResortQuest Hilton Head Island offer the space, amenities and location ideally suited for any destination vacation. Guests enjoy free tennis, discounted golf, free DVD rentals and the exclusive ResortQuest Recommends program offering deals and discounts on over 160 restaurants, shops and activities. All vacation rentals offer fully-equipped kitchens for family meals and immediate access to beaches, tennis, golf and water sports.

Events Hilton Head

RESORTQUEST HILTON HEAD ISLAND HONORS CULTURE WITH THE ANNUAL GULLAH CELEBRATION

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina has a long history of culture rooted in the early settlement and colonization of the United States. The Gullah Celebration is a unique event that pays homage to the culture and language of the original “Gullah”, West African slaves who were brought to work the cotton plantations of the South. ResortQuest Hilton Head offers vacation rentals and condominiums on Hilton Head Island and is proud to support the Gullah Celebration, a Hilton Head cultural event.

February 4, 2009 Hilton Head Island SC – Although its origins are rooted in slavery, the Gullah culture and celebration in Hilton Head Island and the surrounding “Lowcountry” coastal region of South Carolina has become a tribute to West African language, crafts, culture and art. Described as “One of the cultural wonders of the world you must see,” by USA Today, the Gullah Celebration spans the month of February, and is hosted by the Native Island Business and Community Affairs Assocation, Inc (NIBAA). Schedule of events includes: De Aarts Ob We People XII Art Show & Sale, an Ol’ Fashioned Gullah Breakfast, National Freedom Day Banquet, A Gullah Film Fest Series, A Taste of Gullah – Food & Entertainment, A Celebration of Low Country Authors and Books, the Arts, Crafts & Food Expo on Presidents Day Weekend, De Gullah Playhouse, and Youth Musical.

The original “Gullah” were African slaves who were shipped across the Atlantic from West Africa to work the cotton plantations of the South. Out of this slavery was born a unique culture that is now known as Gullah. Although commonly associated with the language of these West African immigrants, the essence of Gullah encompasses the struggle, spirituality, perseverance and tradition of the people.

The modern day Gullah subscribe to high religion and the celebration of spiritual redemption in leading their daily lives. The culture is a thriving mix of language, folktales and superstition that has shaped generations of families who live on Hilton Head Island and in the Lowcountry today.

ResortQuest Hilton Head Island supports this celebration of local culture and community awareness. Guests searching to experience the Gullah Celebration this February can book vacation rentals and condominiums on Hilton Head Island through the ResortQuest Hilton Head Island website. The Hilton Head Island condominiums and private vacation homes offered by ResortQuest Hilton Head Island offer the space, amenities and location ideally suited for a family retreat. Guests enjoy free tennis, discounted golf, free DVD rentals and the exclusive ResortQuest Recommends program offering deals and discounts on over 160 restaurants, shops and activities. All vacation rentals offer fully-equipped kitchens for family meals and immediate access to beaches, tennis, golf and water sports.
In addition to attending the annual Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration which gives visitors the opportunity to share in rich cultural traditions and crafts; while in town, guests can also visit Mitchelville - the first freed Negro township; Gullah Heritage Trail - Hilton Head Island; Ibile Indigo House - a working studio where visitors learn the tradition of West African indigo-dye processes and products; Zion Chapel of Ease - Hilton Head's oldest cemetery; Queen Chapel AME Church - established in 1860 as a "praise house" for Pope Plantation slaves.
Hilton Head Island visitors can immerse themselves in Gullah culture year round with a visit to De Gullah Creations. Located in Shelter Cove Mall, this unique consignment store is a cultural co-op owned and operated by the native Gullah community and is dedicated to improving the economic condition of the Gullah community and to providing a unique showcase for the talented artisans who celebrate and capture Lowcountry life.

Check out this video for more information on the Hilton Head Gullah:

RESORTQUEST HILTON HEAD ISLAND PREPARES TO “UNCORK” THE HILTON HEAD FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

Each February and March, Hilton Head Island is home to one of the eastern seaboard’s foremost culinary events, the Hilton Head Food & Wine Festival. ResortQuest Hilton Head Island offers nearly 500 vacation rentals, condos and private beach homes in the premier resort destination, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina and just moments from the tasty treats of this gastronomic spectacle.

January 10, 2009 Hilton Head Island, SC – Hilton Head Island eagerly awaits the start of the 2009 Hilton Head Food & Wine Festival. This signature event features the exquisite culinary delights from the island’s nationally recognized chefs paired with over 1,500 wines from across the globe.

The festival officially begins on January 30, 2009 with the Wine 101 and Festival Orientation, and continues with the celebratory kick-off: “Uncork the Festival”.
“Uncork the Festival” begins on Wednesday, February 4 with a food and wine tasting at the Aqua Grille & Lounge, the official host restaurant of the event. Tasting begins at 5:30 pm and cost is $35 per person. The “Uncorked” event will also feature collections of local stories celebrating the heritage of Hilton Head Island, presented by the Hilton Head Area Hospitality Association, the official presenter of the 2009 festival. Story presentation will be accented with the uncorking of several special bottles of signature wines.

The International Food Judging & Competition begins February 5 and extends through February 8. The judging event is by invitation only, please visit the Hilton Head Area Hospitality Association for more information.

Open spectator events begin March 12 with the “Great Chefs of the South” seating and continue with a public wine and food tasting on March 14. For more event details, tickets and a full schedule of events, visit the Hilton Head Area Hospitality Association website at www.hiltonheadhospitality.org.

Guests searching for the perfect Hilton Head vacation rental to compliment their culinary escape to need look no further than ResortQuest Hilton Head Island. ResortQuest Hilton Head is an official sponsor of the 2009 Food & Wine Festival and is offering a full selection of discount Food & Wine Festival lodging packages and vacation rental accommodations throughout Hilton Head during the event. Guests can enjoy 3 nights lodging in a 2 bedroom condominium or villa, four adult tickets to the March 14 outdoor tasting and free daily tennis from as low as $160 a per person* (restrictions apply). To claim this offer, visit the ResortQuest Hilton Head Island lodging website or contact a reservations specialist at 800.475.9678 and mention promotion code DIS 8WP.

Hilton Head Island Food & Wine Festival

Alligator Stalking - Finding Hilton Head's Most Famous Residents

One of the most asked questions from Hilton Head Island tourist is; "where's the best place to see an alligator". Alligators and Dolphins are Hilton Heads most famous wildlife attractions, but for some reason, alligators seem to carry some aura of mystery or adventure about them, as well as awaken our sense of danger. Even mild adrenalin junkies realize a "death defying thrill" anytime they see a gator that is not separated from them by glass or fencing. There are several foot and bicycle bridges along Pope Avenue, which cross small lagoons and ponds, and its not unusual to see a dozen or more people crowded together peering over the rail of one of these bridges; mystified by the gator leisurely floating below. Often, people passing on the footpaths and sidewalks greet each other with, "there's a gator up by the second bridge", rather than, good morning or good afternoon.

Alligators are harder to find than Dolphins, but much easier to watch once you find them. Dolphins are usually seen in fleeting glimpses; a quick look at a fluke, or a dorsal fin, sometimes the whole animal (but just for a second) making a playful jump, or attempting to dislodge parasites. Gators, on the other hand, tend to stay in one place for long periods of time. Whether they're floating about or sunning themselves on the bank of a pond, they don't move much and they don't move fast; that is unless they spot prey or sense danger, be warned: Alligators can run faster than humans for a few feet!

The only problem with the gators preference to not move a lot is that it works both ways. It seems alligators spend a great deal of their time lying, out of sight, at the bottoms of ponds and lagoons. Don't think that you can just hang around and watch until they come up for air; gators can hold their breath longer than you could possibly imagine! They are creatures of habit though, and if you see one in a certain place, at a certain pond, you will probably spot him again at the same location; except during the summer mating season, when you might see one anywhere: including the highway!

If you'd rather go gator stalking the "easy way", an "Alligator Safari" operates a quiet (and canopied) electric boat in Sea Pines Resort; where you can sit and ride in comfort while the guide (who knows where to look) points out these prehistoric left-overs as you sip on a cold drink. If you're more ambitious, you might spot a gator in any pond you pass; Shipyard Plantation and Sea Pines Plantation have the largest populations of alligators on the island. Also, there is one pond in particular; just off the corner of Avocet Drive and Lagoon Road (behind Coligny at the entrance to Spinnaker Resort), which seems to always be teaming with gators. Good luck and be careful!

Article courtesy of HiltonHeadHotline.com