I always enjoy staying at Marriott hotels, but from what the locals told me as I landed in Myrtle Beach for the first time, I was in for a treat at the Marriott Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes. The hotel sits in a semi-secluded area off the main road and, as I drove up, I couldn't help but notice the cool little hideaways where visitors could grab a drink, take a dip in a pool or, if they have little ones, go for a ride down a waterslide. Despite the resort's size, they were still able to make it feel more intimate. Editors note: This post was written by guest blogger Erin Pope.

From the moment we pulled into the driveway at the Hopsewee Plantation, I felt as if I was going back in time to the American Revolution. Tree-lined driveways, birds chirping, mosquitoes buzzing - I was eager to learn more about the history of the property. Editors note: This post was written by guest blogger Erin Pope.

One of the Myrtle Beach area's most popular festivals is celebrating it's 32nd this year along the historic waterfront in Little River, S.C. The ‘World Famous' Blue Crab Festival's popularity with visitors is rivaled only by the love Myrtle Beach area locals have for the event that highlights one of the region's most popular attractions: the Atlantic blue crab.

On the south end of the City of Myrtle Beach, past the boardwalks, attractions and hotels, lies the Art Museum of Myrtle Beach. While most vacations involve sand, surf and sun, your next trip to Myrtle Beach should include a visit to this historic museum. Editors note: This post was written by guest blogger Caroline Allan.

I was so excited to be flying into the newly renovated Myrtle Beach International Airport - and it did not disappoint! The new development hosts spacious walkways, delicious restaurants and little touches around the airport to make each guest feel at home. Editors note: This post was written by guest blogger Caroline Allan.

Saturday night we crashed the VIP party of the Illusions of Magic show at the Palace Theatre in Myrtle Beach. We invited some friends and made it a double date after hearing others rave about the special effects and scenery. The show was a blast. Part magic, part illusion, part comedy and all fun. From what we had read, the show (direct from Las Vegas) is consistently rated a top touring illusion production that combines its special effects and elaborate scenery to create a modern spectacle.

Last week brought some good news to the Myrtle Beach area as Brookgreen Gardens was voted one of the ‘Top 10 Best Public Gardens in the U.S.' by popular traveler review website TripAdvisor. The list-based on user reviews and opinions posted to the site-lists Brookgreen Gardens as sixth on the list, noting that the gardens feature "four seasons' worth of horticultural surprises, including perennials, roses, and a stunning array of shrubs and trees."

Editor's Note:  This entry is submitted by guest blogger Mary McPherson, who visited the Myrtle Beach area with her husband, son and daughter in March 2013. She is from Ontario, Canada.

We knew the beach here would be gorgeous and we knew the sunshine would help clear the winter cobwebs from our heads but we did not expect the incredible warmth and generosity of spirit from everyone we met.

Southern hospitality is alive and well in Myrtle Beach. From the minute we checked into our hotel for our March break vacation, to the minute we left, we were amazed by the warmth and kindness of the people here. Sincere, genuine kindness... hospitality like we had never experienced. Amazing.