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Key Insights:
- All Quiet on the Southern Front: Some counties synonymous with hurricane disasters didn’t rank as high — more vulnerable, that is — despite very high risk of storms and loss. Lee County, Florida (No. 36), for instance, was devastated by Hurricane Ian in 2022. Apart from one other Category 5, Irma in 2017, Lee County has had a relatively calm decade. Likewise, Orleans Parish, Louisiana (No. 61), was leveled by Hurricane Katrina. That was back in 2005 — the past 10 years have been more peaceful.
- Inland ≠ Immune: While some counties might be farther from the coast, they are not necessarily safe from hurricanes or their effects. Richland County, South Carolina (No. 112 overall), and Wake County, North Carolina (No. 93), for instance, both lie more than 100 miles from the Atlantic Coast but show above-average risk and active hurricane histories. Typical hurricanes cover an area of about 100 miles but can be as wide as 300 miles.
- When It Rains, It Pours: Although hurricanes are rare in the Middle Texas Coast, some arrive with intense force. During Hurricane Harvey in 2017, a record 1 trillion gallons of water fell over Harris County over four days. This is why Harris County received the highest risk assessment and financial loss estimate — from separate research entities — despite a relatively quiet decade. Prior to Harvey, Celia was the last major hurricane to hit the area — in 1970.
- Costliest Counties: Of the 10 counties with the highest expected annual financial loss from hurricanes, eight are in Florida. Collectively, those eight counties represent over $4.3 billion of losses, though actual losses often are significantly higher. Harris County, Texas (No. 13 overall) — covering Houston, the fourth largest U.S. metro area — and Charleston County, South Carolina (No. 3), make up the other two counties. Harris County leads this entire group and represents potential losses greater than $1.1 billion.
- Myrtle Beach ranks 1st in the USA’s top 10 most popular beaches on TikTok, according to new social media study.
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- The number of TikTok views have been analysed by travel and luggage experts at Bounce, who have compiled a list of the States most popular viral beaches on social media, to reveal the must-see top 10 beaches in the US to visit this summer!
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- You can view the full study here: https://usebounce.com/blog/beloved-beaches
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- The most beloved beaches in the US on TikTok:
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- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina proves to be the superior summer spot in the US, with a staggering 1.7 billion TikTok views. The sunny climate of South Carolina’s coast has long been a popular beach destination for families, couples, and solo vacationers alike, making it the perfect place all year round - no wonder she’s basically viral!
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- Sweeping in second, is Venice Beach, Venice, California, with lovers of the special summer haven often mentioning the bohemian and artistic vibe that characterizes the city and spectacular coastline. Its vibrant skate park, iconic Boardwalk and relaxing atmosphere, sees the surfer’s paradise reaching 1.2 billion views on TikTok, making it the second most popular beach in the US.
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- Third but not final, Miami, Florida’s South Beach sparkles with its vibrant party scene, oceanfront restaurants, and world-class shopping spree experiences. This sandy beach attracts visitors every summer thanks to its sexy beach clubs and skillful street art, stealing 884.9 million views on TikTok.
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- The Angel Oak Tree in Johns Island (SC) Voted America's 6th Favorite Landmark for a Marriage Proposal.
- Survey identifies the top 250 most iconic landmarks for a marriage proposal family vacation destinations this summer.
- Pitt Street Bridge (Mount Pleasant), The Battery (Charleston), and Libery Bridge at Falls Park (Greenville) also included.
- Infographic revealing America’s top 250 most iconic spots for picture-perfect proposals.
- Few settings are as magical and memorable as iconic landmarks when it comes to cinematic marriage proposals. Central Park in New York City, for example, has been the backdrop for countless on-screen declarations of love - remember when Patrick Dempsey's character planned his proposal in "Enchanted"? Similarly, the glamor and elegance of Tiffany & Co. on Fifth Avenue added an undeniable charm to Reese Witherspoon's engagement scene in "Sweet Home Alabama". Not to forget, the stunning Eiffel Tower replica at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel has seen Edward Norton profess his love to Drew Barrymore in "Everybody Says I Love You".
- As we approach wedding season, Mixbook, a #1 rated design platform for photo books, commissioned Cherry Digital to carry out a poll of 3,000 singles to ask in which iconic landmarks top their list for ideal proposal spots. The survey revealed that Americans are notably drawn towards unique, Instagram-worthy locales for popping the question.
- 1. Topping the charts is the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park in San Diego. Sunset Cliffs offers a serene and beautiful setting with a clear view of the Pacific Ocean, making it an ideal spot for a memorable marriage proposal. The sound of waves and the majestic sunset create an atmosphere that's both romantic and awe-inspiring.
- 2. Following closely, Tampa Riverwalk clinched the second spot. Tampa Riverwalk, with its calm waters and well-maintained landscape, provides a picturesque environment that's perfect for a romantic proposal. Stroll along the river or enjoy a boat ride as you celebrate your love in this vibrant setting.
- 3. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden secured the third position. For those who appreciate natural beauty, Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden's colorful flowers and lush vegetation present an elegant backdrop for popping the question. Seasonal events and exhibits make each visit uniquely special.
- 4. Fourth in line was the Denver Botanic Gardens. With its rich gardens and peaceful ponds, Denver Botanic Gardens offers a tranquil setting within the city, ideal for a private and intimate proposal.
- 5. Fifth place saw Cummer Museum and Gardens in Jacksonville (FL) take the spotlight. Nestled along the St. Johns River, this mesmerizing museum is surrounded by beautiful gardens, with a diverse flora, quaint walkways, and calming water elements.
- 6. Angel Oak Tree on Johns Island, South Carolina, grabbed the sixth spot. For a proposal surrounded by history and nature, the ancient and majestic Angel Oak Tree creates a special and timeless atmosphere. The tree's sprawling branches and shaded area provide an intimate space for a cherished moment.
- 7. Claiming seventh place is Alaska’s Point Woronzof Park. If a proposal with a natural, expansive backdrop is desired, Point Woronzof Park's views of Cook Inlet and the Chugach Mountains are unparalleled. The crisp Alaskan air and wide-open spaces make for an invigorating and unforgettable experience.
- 8. In eighth place, the Charles River Esplanade in Cambridge, Massachusetts is a classic spot, where the river and views of the city combine for a simple, yet charming setting for a proposal. The park's pathways offer numerous private spots to get down on one knee.
- 9. Ninth place was awarded to San Francisco’s Conservatory of Flowers. For a distinct and lush setting, the Conservatory of Flowers provides an indoor garden experience that is both exotic and intimate. The Victorian-style greenhouse is not only romantic but also an architectural gem within Golden Gate Park.
- 10. Concluding the top ten is none other than the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles. Perched atop Griffith Park, it offers a sweeping vista of LA’s tapestry, with twinkling lights and the boundless night sky overhead.
- South Carolina had 3 other picture-perfect landmarks that were voted among America's top 250 for a marriage proposal:
- 11. Pitt Street Bridge in Mount Pleasant - Spanning across the scenic waters of the Intracoastal Waterway, the bridge provides stunning views of the surrounding marshes, sailboats, and distant horizons. The serene atmosphere and gentle coastal breeze create a sense of tranquility and intimacy, perfect for a heartfelt declaration of love.
- 84. The Battery in Charleston - Situated at the southern tip of the Charleston peninsula, The Battery offers stunning waterfront views of the harbor, grand mansions, and lush gardens. The picturesque promenade, lined with centuries-old oak trees and charming benches, provides a romantic setting for a heartfelt proposal.
- 114. Liberty Bridge at Falls Park in Greenville - The iconic Liberty Bridge, gracefully suspended over the scenic Reedy River Falls, offers a captivating and picturesque setting that is sure to take your partner's breath away.
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- I’m writing to let you know about a new study by Golf Workout Program looking at the U.S. states with the most pro golfers. The past few years have been transformational for golf’s reach and popularity. A desire for socially-distanced recreational activities during the COVID-19 pandemic brought millions more golfers onto courses around the world. The upstart LIV Golf tour introduced new formats to increase fan engagement and lured stars like Phil Mickelson, Brooks Koepka, and Dustin Johnson to the league. In response to LIV’s emergence, the PGA Tour made changes to its tournament schedule that have produced a boost in broadcast ratings so far in 2023. And with the recent surprise merger between the PGA, LIV, and the European Tour, all of the sport’s top players and tournaments will now be housed under the same organization with a truly global reach—but with nearly 50% of PGA Tour golfers hailing from the U.S., America is the largest single producer of the world’s elite golf talent. And within the U.S., top golfers frequently come from a limited number of locations. To identify the U.S. states where the best golfers are from, researchers ranked states according to the total number of golfers to make at least one cut at a PGA Tour event in the last decade.
- The analysis found that 18 South Carolina-born golfers have made at least one cut at a PGA Tour event in the last decade. Among all 50 states and Washington, DC, South Carolina produces the 8th most pro golfers.
- Below you’ll find a summary of the analysis with complete data for South Carolina—please feel free to republish or use the findings in your own write-up. If you choose to use the analysis, please link to the original report, which includes a table with data on Washington, DC and all 50 states: https://golfworkoutprogram.com/where-are-best-golfers-from/
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- Travelers’ Testaments: Survey of Roadtrippers Reveals South Carolinians Among the Friendliest and Most Welcoming in the Country.
- 3,000 seasoned roadtrippers asked to rank their hosts' friendliess on a scale of 1-10.
- South Carolinians received a score of 7/10.
- Interactive map showing survey results in each state.
- A road trip's magic isn't merely stitched together by appealing accommodations, tantalizing dining spots, scenic routes, or well-maintained roads, although these are certainly essential threads. At the heart of a truly memorable road trip, the fondness of the memories that outlive the journey itself, is the warmth of the people encountered along the way.
- There is something incredibly special about the connections formed with locals during these journeys. The difference between a cherished road trip and a regrettable one often boils down to these human interactions. Indeed, it's the engaging encounters, the friendly advice, the welcoming smiles, and the shared laughter with kind and helpful locals that indelibly imprint on a traveler's heart, turning an ordinary trip into an extraordinary experience.
- Gunther Kia recently commissioned a survey of 3,000 seasoned roadtrippers. The aim of the survey was to capture their real-life experiences to identify which American states boast the friendliest locals - the individuals who, with their spirit of hospitality, have the power to transform a road trip into a cherished memory. Respondents were asked to rank their hosts friendliess on a scale of 1-10 (with 10 equating to the friendliest).
- The survey revealed that the friendliest locals in the country, as voted by regular roadtrippers, reside in the Show-Me State. Missourians' friendliness was rated at 7.9/10, comfortably above the national average of 6.7. Indeed, it seems that the heartland state of Missouri took the crown in this survey thanks to the warmth and openness of its residents.
- South Carolinians were also scored highly, at 7/10. South Carolinians are also known for their down-to-earth nature and generous spirit, which often manifests in friendly greetings and a readiness to help others. Also, many of the state's community-oriented way of life also seems to resonate with travelers. A strong sense of camaraderie and togetherness exists in small towns and big cities alike.
- On the other end of the scale, the locals deemed less friendly or helpful are in California, where they received a poor 5.6 out of ten. California's lower score may stem from its fast-paced, highly competitive environment, particularly in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco.
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