New Orleans Recommendations

I love New Orleans.
The first time I visited the infamous town was three short months before Hurricane Katrina.
I've wanted to return - and finally was able to visit again last weekend.

Here are some of my top recommendations should you visit the city!

1. Honey Island Swamp Tour - Honey Island Swamp is one of the least-altered river swamps in the country. It's pretty much in its original condition, almost a pristine wilderness. Take a personalized narrated nature tour into the 250-square-mile Honey Island Swamp. Nearly 70,000 acres of it is a permanently-protected wildlife area--the Nature Conservancy's First Louisiana Nature Preserve. You will come in contact with alligators, snakes, wild boars, jumping fish, dragonflies and more! The captains/guides are very knowledgable, kind, and entertaining. Although I am sure they are all fabulous, I'd suggest requesting Captain Bishop!


2. Muriel's - The epitome of decadence, opulence, and mystery that surrounds the French Quarter, coupled with the area's finest contemporary Creole cuisine. Experience a feast for the senses and enlightenment for your soul…Muriels Jackson Square. The food is delicious and the atmosphere isengaging. If you like a little spookiness - you will be delighted to know the place is HAUNTED! After enjoying your meal, you can head upstairs and relax in one of the two lounges. Who knows...you may be paid a visit by Mr. Pierre Antoine Lepardi Jourdan {the resident ghost.}

3. French Quarter - Of course nobody goes to NOLA without strolling endlessly through the French Quarter. I love the history, the old buildings, the street performers, the excitement. For a great history lesson, I suggest taking the Haunted NOLA Tour which departs from Flanagan's Pub. The tour is not one that will frighten you...it is more of an educational/historical tour based on scientific evidence. Not wanting to ruin it for you...but my guide debunked all ghost stories and gave us cold hard facts. VERY interesting. Basically I walked away believing there are no ghosts or vampires in NOLA!