In the summer of 1996 (August), I decided to venture out to the city that loves to party, New Orleans. This is definitely an experience you would not want to miss. The state of Louisiana is located in the southern region of the United States with a humid subtropical climate averaging in the mid 90s during the summer months. It was definitely hot and it was definitely humid, and no rain. I enjoyed my stay at the Sheraton Hotel and Resort on Canal Street located right in the heart of the famous French Quarter. The location was perfect; everything was within walking distance and the hotel offered all the amenities you could need. The ever popular Bourbon Street in the French Quarter was a mere couple of blocks away. I found a great way to take in many of the local sites was by horse and carriage. How fun! The architecture is simply fascinating, the details absolutely spectacular. As you travel along the city and depending on the time of day, you catch a scent of the various cuisines, from freshly made "beignets" for which New Orleans is known (they are a deep-fried dough much like doughnuts) and taste heavenly, to the very well known jambalaya. Since there are a number of varieties of jambalaya, those of you who are seafood lovers will be happy to know that seafood jambalaya is a top seller.
New Orleans has a casino riverboat that remains docked in the Mississippi River for those interested in a little gambling. You can also book a dinner cruise if you were so inclined. In stark contrast, the city is relatively quiet during the day, but once evening falls upon the city, it comes to life. The air is filled with jazz music - all different kinds, depending on the club you should wonder by. Bourbon Street is filled with bars and clubs and the hospitality of the locals of New Orleans.
New Orleans is definitely a fun place to visit and a destination that should find its way onto your travel list. So, go ahead and think outside the box, or in my case, outside of the Caribbean! It's a big world out there and many very cool places to see!
I'll fill you in on my next travel destination ... soon.
