Louisiana
Louisiana consists of five regions, all of which boast fabulous cuisine, distinct music styles, exotic history, hundreds of year round festivals, tax free shopping and good old southern hospitality. New Orleans is the jewel in her crown, although Baton Rouge, the state capital and Lafayette in the midst of the meandering scenic back roads of Cajun Country, both deserve a visit.
New Orleans - Founded in the 1700s by the French, New Orleans is the South’s premier port and one of America’s most unique cities. Situated on the banks of the mighty Mississippi, which dominates the whole of the city, is the famous French Quarter. Renowned for its jazz musicians, superb food, party atmosphere (especially during Mardi Gras) and laid back attitude, the 'Big Easy’ is a city not to be missed.
Things to see and do in New Orleans
Bourbon Street - The main street in the ‘French Quarter’ is home to almost round-the-clock jazz and café style bars serving the aptly named drink - Hurricane. Now also home to many gift shops and strip joints, which adds to its rowdy, raunchy image!
Royal Street - Boasting the most distinctive architecture and the city’s finest antique shops.
Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral - Formerly the town’s main square during the French colonial settlement and situated at the front of the French Quarter, it is now a pleasant area to stroll around and watch the street theatre, browse in the shops or view local artists. The beautiful St. Louis Cathedral dominates the square and tours are offered every day except Sundays.
Mississippi River - When in New Orleans, take a cruise on the mighty Mississippi River. Day and night time jazz cruises are available.
Voodoo Museum - New Orleans is home to voodoo, the ancient African religion. There are many voodoo shops, a small museum and even a voodoo walking tour of the French Quarter.
French Market - This has been a farmer’s market for over 200 years. Today its colourful sights and atmosphere make it well worth a visit.
Louisiana Superdome - One of the city’s best known landmarks. Home of the New Orleans Saints and the annual "Sugar Bowl Classic" sports event. Tours offered Monday to Friday.
Swamps and Bayous - Just outside New Orleans are a wide number of mysterious bayous. Tours on air boats through the bayou are available.
Aquarium of the Americas - Situated on the banks of the Mississippi, it houses over 7,000 aquatic creatures in over 60 separate displays and four environments.
The place
Although New Orleans itself covers an eight mile stretch from the Mississippi to Lake Pontchartrain, the most famous part of the city - the old French Quarter - is easily walkable and with car parking expensive and in short supply, this is just as well. The Garden District is full of old southern antebellum homes and the Arts District has restaurants, art galleries, bars and clubs. We recommend taking a city tour or perhaps one of the carriage rides offered from Jackson Square.
The shopping
Away from Bourbon and Royal Street, try the Riverwalk Marketplace and the New Orleans Centre near the Superdome. Canal Place shopping centre on Canal Street is also worth a visit.
The nightlife
The French Quarter is where everything happens. Make sure you visit Preservation Hall, a ramshackle old building that has offered the most authentic jazz experience in town since the 1960s. The audience sits on wooden stalls and listens to small Dixieland bands play. There’s a huge choice of bars, often with live music – paradise for the jazz lover. For eating out the ‘restaurant row’ area close to the French Market is a good choice. New Orleans cuisine reflects the blend of all the historic influences from Creole to French, Caribbean and African and there is plenty of spice about!
Top Tips
Take in a coffee and beignet at the Café du Monde in Jackson Square - open 24 hours and a tradition since 1862.
If you want to visit Preservation Hall, get there early as queues form.
Get up late and take your time over breakfast at the famous Brennans restaurant.
Visit Pat O’Briens courtyard for a famous "hurricane". One should be enough!
Be aware of the long, hot and sticky summer months when it’s hard to stay cool. On the plus side, though, most places are air-conditioned and hotel prices are often lower!
