New Orleans Cajun, Creole and Jazz
Strolling along the cobblestone streets of the French Quarter in New Orleans takes you back to another era—when people spent the afternoons sipping cocktails on their balconies, horse-drawn carriages transported families through the city, and the crooning notes of a saxophone emptied into the narrow streets from steamy corner bars. It’s a little bit spicy and a little bit smooth, a little European and very American.
Though New Orleans is still reeling from the devastation and havoc of the infamous Hurricane Katrina, The French Quarter has managed to revive itself—perhaps because is, after all, the heart of this city.
Savory
Rich, flavorful food marks New Orleans cuisine. Fresh seafood is often combined with spicy notes to give your taste buds a treat. Whether you like your dishes blackened, smothered, or swimming in a rich stock, you’ll find it in the French Quarter.
Cajun, Creole, Spanish and African cultures come together in New Orleans cuisine. Many restaurants serve jambalaya, but others serve the Spanish paella or African Bennachin. And, of course, New Orleans is the perfect place to pick up a fried oyster or shrimp “po’ boy,” a French-bread sandwich filled with crispy seafood, lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise.
Sweet
After filling up on a tasty meal, be sure to save room for dessert. New Orleans is also known for its French beignets and macaroons, and luxury chocolates. Café du Monde is perhaps the most famous place to sip a coffee while eating a delicate, luxurious beignet—a fritter dusted with powdered sugar and sometimes filled with fruit. However, the Café du Monde is certainly not the only place to indulge in one of these delicacies. A quick Internet search will reveal that the city is dotted with bakeries and cafes where you can pick up a variety of French-inspired treats.
Smooth
New Orleans is known for its live music, especially jazz. The city is often referred to as the birthplace of jazz, and the dozens of clubs let you sample some of the music while you sip tasty cocktails. The annual Jazz Fest brings music lovers from the world over into the area every year. They can check out a variety of music styles, crafts, and delicious food during the day. At night, they the buzz in the French Quarter—it’s not as chaotic as Mardi Gras, but just as fun.
Old
The French Quarter is New Orleans’ oldest neighborhood. Its colorful architecture blends Spanish, French, American and Creole influences. The Gallier House is a prime example of the historic architecture and is decorated as it was in the 1800s. Several tours take visitors through the city, teaching them about the historic landmarks and spectacular plantations in and around New Orleans.
The cemeteries in New Orleans are also fascinating places to visit. Some of the elaborate tombs date back to the 1700s, and most are above the ground because New Orleans is so close to sea level. Several cemetery tours are available through an assortment of companies in the area. Learn about the history of New Orleans’ cemeteries and its rumored haunted areas.
New
Newer attractions, such as the Audubon Zoo and Aquarium, are popular for families. City Park is a 1,300-acre expanse that houses a sculpture garden, amusement park, horse stables, and a train garden. New Orleans is also home to several professional sports teams. Football, baseball and basketball fans will enjoy taking in a game or two. Golfers can play a few holes, fishermen can take a charter into the ocean. New Orleans lets you be as active as you want.
Whether you are an animal lover or a history buff, you’ll find something to capture your interest in New Orleans. The French Quarter has inspired writers and artists for years. It’s a popular tourist destination and home to celebrities and millionaires. It offers unique shopping, eclectic dining, and a captivating historic and cultural experience.
Photo credits: French Quarter at Dusk by Tulane University Public Relations/flickr; The Pearl Restaurant by laffy4k/flickr; Cafe du Monde by Timothy Tolle/flickr; Ornate House in the Garden District by Frank Kovalcheck/flickr.
Gina Hamilton is an insurance consultant and contributes content for Kanetix, a full-service insurance company for the U.S. and Canada. Their coverage includes homes, businesses, vehicles, travel and health insurance. Visit their car insurance comparison site for everything from home insurance rates in San Diego to car insurance Ontario quotes.
