Destination

New Orleans

Introduction

The Crescent City. The Big Easy. The birthplace of Jazz. These are just some of the names that New Orleans goes by. It’s a city filled with great food, people, and music. The city holds a spot in my heart especially during Halloween. From Bourbon Street to the Garden District to the swamps, New Orleans is a place like no other. 

Where To Stay

The French Quarter is where to be in my opinion or near it. Staying on Bourbon Street though can be noisy, so just keep that in mind.

Transportation

If you’re staying in the French quarter, you can uber or take the streetcar. Anything outside of it, you’ll need to rent a car or take a tour bus. Buy the hop-on hop-off bus pass for 3 days and travel around.

 

Things To Do

Take a tour outside the quarter. I would recommend the Oak Alley Plantation tour if you’re a fan of “Interview With The Vampire.” I liked the swamp tour but take a jacket cause it can get cold if you’re out on the water (we went during October). I also liked the Hop On Hop off Bus. It took me around the city. I love the Garden district and the architecture. Make a trip to the WWII museum. Cafe du Monde and Cafe Beignet are my favorite for beignets.  My favorite restaurants are Clover Grill, Mothers Restaurant, and Krystals (after a night out). If you don’t mind the taste of licorice, I’d go to Pirates Alley Bar and try absinthe and see how they make it. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop bar is the oldest in America. Get the purple drink when you go. The hurricanes are the best at Pat O’Brien’s. There are ghost, vampire, and cemetery tours and can be purchased throughout the quarter. Go to Royal Street and listen for one of the best clarinets I’ve heard played by Mrs. Doreen Ketchens. Love listening to her and the energy that she creates with her music. Take a ride on a steamboat! 

Tips

  • Pace yourself. It’s a marathon and not a sprint.
  • Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate.
  • If someone says, ” I can guess where you got your shoes at (usually for $20)” ignore them and keep walking. Answer is “on Bourbon”.
  • Don’t venture out alone at night away from the main street.
  • Get off of Bourbon Street to experience a more authentic feel of New Orleans. 

 

Photos