Welcome to N’awlins!
Overview: Known to all as “The Big Easy”, New Orleans is a heady mix of bourgeois France meets African-American cultures, creating an atmosphere rich in energy and a love of music that is unlike anything else in the USA. Deeply rooted to its jazz history, in “N’awlins” the buzz takes to the streets every day, beyond Mardi Gras. I loved this city for its romantic promenades, stunning old world architecture and delicious Creole food…
Where to stay: Without a doubt, in the French Quarter. The oldest district of the city is incredibly well preserved with its colonial buildings – complete with beautiful flowering balconies. It is also really convenient for getting around. Hotels are pretty costly in this area but the romantic setting is totally worth it. I stayed at the reasonably priced Cornstalk Hotel on Royal Street but if you can manage it, push the boat out and book into the Place d’Armes. This is THE place to stay. A beautifully restored 18th century building surrounded by gardens and courtyards.
Where to eat: Bayona was my favourite restaurant by far. The food, inspired by a mix of Mediterranean, Asian and North African cuisine, is exquisite. In particular their specialty was divine… the melt in your mouth sweetbreads. During the day head over to Port of Call for the most decadent burger you’ll ever have. Lastly, don’t miss the Jazz brunch at local institution, Brennan’s. For breakfast on the go, grab some beignets from the Cafe du Monde. Completely indulgent but you can quickly work them off after with a bike ride around the French Quarter.
Shop: Jackson Square is great if you are looking for some local art. Look out for local artist, Nash, and his Jazzy slate paintings.
Don’t miss:
The street Jazz of course. This is an easy because one can’t miss this. Grab a drink at the nearest bar (they all serve drinks in plastic cups so that you can spill out onto the street and enjoy the balmy outdoors… take a seat on the sidewalk to soak up the music and atmosphere at your own pace.Don’t bother: Brunch in Antoine’s. It has a huge amount of hype because it’s the oldest French-Creole fine dining restaurant, but the atmosphere was rather stiff and awkward while the service also let the place down.
When to go/ How to go: Spring or early autumn. We went in November and then temperature was pleasant but slightly nippy at times…