Stay At The Best Bed And Breakfast In New Orleans And Experience The Most Unique Of American Cities

By Roseann Hudson


Few countries boast as many must-see cities as the USA does. There are the skyscrapers of New York or Chicago, the famous monuments of Washington DC, the glamour of Los Angeles and the character of San Francisco. If you want to experience something different, however, head down to Louisiana, look for the best bed and breakfast in New Orleans that you can afford and find out why Southern hospitality is so famous.

The city known as the Big Easy has a fascinating history. The French founded it along the banks of the Mississippi back in 1718 and named it after the duke who was their country's regent. It became a major port over time and when the USA obtained Louisiana, it got this city too as part of the deal. Today it has one of the country's busiest airports and is a major tourist destination.

Sightseeing in the charming city does not involve going from one famous landmark to the next and taking pictures of yourself with the local equivalent of Big Ben or the Statue of Liberty. Here it's all about the atmosphere. History comes alive with imposing old mansions, the French Quarter's old-world streets, the cemeteries with their ornate tombs and the sounds of streetcars.

Any city that has French roots will be renowned for its cuisine. The Big Easy is a glutton's paradise where the food is a jambalaya of tastes from French, African, Cajun, Spanish, Native American and even Italian and Chinese culinary traditions. From dishes as simple as red beans and rice to the freshest crayfish and dainty pastries, there's something for everyone. Work off the calories by exploring the nearby bayous.

Music is of course what the Big Easy is really famous for. Jazz was born here and the sounds of Dixie are everywhere. Then there are the infectious rhythms of zydeco and the music of the Cajuns, not to mention the Delta blues. Bourbon Street is famous for its nightlife but you'll also find a music festival going on at almost any time of year.

The Jazz Fest is probably the most famous jazz festival in the world. However, it's in February that the streets are at their most crowded and lively, as people come from all over to experience the madness, the colors and the sounds of Mardi Gras. The cooler months are the most popular time to visit but you'll find great off-season deals in the humid and hot summer.

Many tourists prefer staying in or near the French Quarter, where most of the action takes place. St Charles Avenue is a popular choice too, since the streetcar travels down this street. If you want to get away from the tourist areas, try accommodation establishments in Marigny or other less central neighborhoods. Some of these, like the Lower Ninth, were hard hit by Hurricane Katrina and will welcome your help in rebuilding them.

The public transport system is excellent and makes getting around a breeze. In fact, it's usually easier to use public transport than to try and navigate the streets by car. Getting to New Orleans is easy too, with Louis Armstrong International Airport having connections to a large number of destinations.




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