Breaks In New Orleans – New Orleans

Posted August 10, 2010 by BookingBuddy

 Despite being devastated by Hurricane Katrina a few years back, New Orleans is still a popular destination for visitors. The Big Easy is one of the most atmospheric cities in the US, and boasts a long, colourful history. Don’t miss a trip to the French Quarter, the city’s oldest (and best-known) neighbourhood, where the buildings feature beautiful iron-worked galleries wrapped around their facade. The notorious Bourbon Street is the city’s party central, filled with bars, clubs, restaurants and drunken revellers. For a macabre look at the city, take a trip through New Orleans’ old cemeteries, or join a walking tour and discover the city’s most haunted spots. Don’t leave the city without tasting some of its world-famous cuisine, which ranges from the traditional – gumbo, po-boys – to the, shall we say, exotic, such as nutria, a large rodent much like a beaver.

Stay

Le Pavillion Hotel – You won’t be far from the action at this elegant hotel. Located only a few blocks away from the French Quarter, it’s close enough that you won’t feel like you’re missing out on the fun, but far away enough that you can be sure of some peace when you need a rest. The hotel itself is a throwback to the age of beautiful, grand hotels – full of marble floors, huge chandeliers and grand staircases. The rooms are just as luxurious – expect plush four-poster beds, sumptuous draped curtains and thick, soft carpets. Room rates start from around £75.

Eat

Cafe du Monde – This coffee shop on Decatur Street in the French Quarter is a landmark New Orleans dining spot. There are probably other items on its menu, but most people are there for only two things – their beignets and cafe au lait. The beignets – square, doughnut-like pastries dusted with powdered sugar, are world-famous, and can lead to long queues outside the cafe. Enjoy it with the classic Cafe du Monde coffee, made with chicory and made creamy with fresh, hot milk.

See

Audubon Nature Institute – The Audubon Nature Institute, is a haven for nature-lovers. Marvel at the jewel-hued insects in the Insectarium, or enjoy a game of golf at the Audubon Golf Course, set among beautiful old oak trees. You’ll spend many happy hours admiring the mix of exotic and familiar animals at the Audubon Zoo, often voted one of the country’s best zoos. The Aquarium of the Americas features an impressive Gulf of Mexico exhibit which holds 400 000 gallon s of saltwater as well as hundreds of sea creatures. 

Check here for New Orleans travel information. 

(Photo: planetware.com)

Categories: City break destinations, New Orleans, North America, USA