I’ve traveled around the world, been to so many beautiful countries but had never been to New Orleans…shame on me, right? Well, I rectified that with my latest sponsored media trip. Working with NOLA, I chose some outstanding hotels, restaurants, and tours to review and was not disappointed at all! New Orleans ~ That And More!

New Orleans ~ That And More!

New Orleans’ culture is like no other. With its mix of Cajun, Creole, French, and African influences in every bite, note, and dance, the city vibe is palpable. The people on the streets, in the pubs, and cafes were eager to make sure that every visitor to this exclusive destination left with a piece of the exuberant city.

 

 

Like any good vacationer, my first stop was Café Du Monde. Come on, don’t tell me that you wouldn’t be up for the crispy, dough, covered with a thick layer of powdered sugar. I made the mistake of wearing black and walked away covered with a fine layer…proof that I’d been there! My right to passage if you ask me!

 

 

Cushioned between the old, moss-draped oaks of City Park and the uniquely colored clapboard houses of New Orleans you’ll find Ralph’s on the Park. Chef Chip Flanagan has used global inspirations to create distinctive versions of local cuisine while still maintaining the traditions of the city.

 

 

Dinner was a culinary affair. The unique dish I ordered comprised of local barnacles (YES barnacles!) and was a delight; the rest of the meal was a gastronomic affair. The highlight of my evening was the staff who were knowledgeable and extremely attentive. If you’re after something a bit upscale during your visit to the area, Ralph’s is a must!

 

 

Food in New Orleans does not disappoint. From Etoufee to savory beignets, the city is a culinary nirvana! Once your belly’s full (and in this city that’s a feat unto itself!) indulge in one of the fantastic activities the area is known for.

 

 

I’m all about scaring the bejesus out of myself and all things spooky so I absolutely HAD to try one of the many cemetery tours that are offered. My favorite tour group and one that I would highly recommend is Haunted History Tours. These people know their stuff when it comes to the under and after-world of the city. This walking tour took us to places where the undead visit and our guide was nothing short of awesome explaining what we should and shouldn’t do!! Born and raised in New Orleans, he knew the difference between rumor and actual fact…and was happy to tell us the difference. I loved every blood-curdling minute of it!

 

 

New Orleans ~ That And More! Another must do is the lunch or dinner tour with Steamboat Natches riverboat cruises. With the authentic jazz band and the endless buffet complete with all things New Orleans, this was a fantastic way to spend a few hours. The captain and crew took us up and down the famous Mississippi River and provided us with a step-by-step audio guide of each part of the river, the famous people who called her home, and a history of the goings on along her shores. This tour shouldn’t be missed and is a great place to celebrate a special occasion…yep saw someone gets married on her deck while I was there!!

 

 

While there are innumerable places to lay your head while visiting this bustling city, my choices and those I recommend are W New Orleans French Quarter and Hotel Le Marais. Both are wonderful boutique hotels whose staff pride themselves in the traditions of hospitality and community New Orleans ~ That And More!.

 

 

 

I want to thank NOLA, Marc Becker from the New Orleans Hotel Collection, and all the staff from every place I visited for helping to organize my stay and for their incomparable hospitality. I’m planning another trip soon and can’t recommend the city enough!!

 

Have you been to New Orleans? Would you like to go? What’s your favorite memory of the city? Share your experiences with us!!

 

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via a cash payment, gift, or something else of value to write it. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”