Tuesday, January 7, 2014

New Orleans, Louisiana

     With the frigid temperatures and the sound of the wind whistling outside, I thought it was appropriate to visit a time when the weather was a bit a different, and I was anywhere but my little apartment.  Last November, PDub spent two weeks working in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.  I couldn't miss out on some southern hospitality, so I hopped on a jet plane and met my main squeeze in one of my favorite cities, New Orleans (a.k.a. Nawlins).  New Orleans is by far the most unique city in the United States with top-notch food, the bluesiest, jazziest music, a hopping night life, creole architecture, and gigantic plantations.  Many memories are made (and sometimes forgotten) in such a place.
We began our weekend with a plantation tour at the Nottoway Plantation House.
The house was completed in 1859, just prior to the beginning of the Civil War.
It is well-known for its completely white ballroom.
The front of the house overlooks the Mississippi River.
A gorgeous walkway on the backside of the house.
Tropical foliage....yes, please.
I love these trees.  You find them everywhere in the south.
Selfie!
We then headed for the warehouse district of New Orleans for one of the best meals I've ever had.  I've decided to start a top five list.....This was immediately added.
The phrase "street performer" takes on a new meaning in this city.
At every corner, you're guaranteed to have some great entertainment!
Just a' pickin'.  Walking around the French Quarter is probably my favorite thing to do.
The famous Grenade drink.
Cheers!
Pat O'Briens piano bar, never enter unless you expect to spend the rest of your evening there....drinking hurricanes and singing at the top of your lungs.
This tray-tapping man has been there FOREVER!
On our final morning, we sat here overlooking the Mississippi River on one side and the St. Louis Cathedral on the other, eating our beignets and hot chocolate (coffee for PDub) from Cafe du Monde.
With memories of warmer times.....