Getaway French Quarter – New Orleans

I imagine that New Orleans will have other charming places. I'm sure. But it is clear that the French Quarter is very special and unique. In fact, it is the main tourist destination in the city.

It is also known by the name "Vieux Carré". It was founded in 1718. It is the oldest neighborhood in the city; around which New Orleans grew until it became what it is today.

When someone asks me what to see in New Orleans, I always answer a short phrase: "you should walk, slowly, around Bourbon Street, cross Jackson Square and end up at the Mississippi River." Nothing more, but... no hurry. This will allow you to experience three basic axes that fascinated me:

• The architecture
• Life
• The gastronomy

Regarding ARCHITECTURE, most of the historic buildings around Bourbon Street were built in the 18th century during the period of Spanish rule. The great fire of 1788 destroyed most of the French colonial architecture, allowing the Spanish to rebuild it in a more modern style. As a result, there are colors on the facades and iron balconies that make us see modernized French architecture today. Amazing buildings, some damaged and others not so much, but all of them make you look at them.

The neighborhood has been called a "National Historic Landmark" with many buildings considered separately significant. Luckily, since 1920 these buildings have been protected by law and cannot be demolished; In fact, any renovation must be done following the established regulations to respect the style.

Jackson Square is another story. In an elegant way it shows, on one side, the Saint Louise Cathedral and on the other the imposing and silent Mississippi River. It seems incredible that the bustle of Bourbon Street is so close to the tranquility of this square.

As for LIFE, at the end of the 19th century, the neighborhood became one of the least elegant parts of the city where many immigrants from southern Italy and Ireland settled. And already in the 20th century, the low prices and decadence attracted the bohemian community who settled here permanently. There is a rogue atmosphere, lots of nightlife and a bit of perversity. Known throughout the world is "Mardi Gras"; which is their Carnival. There are daily float parades and distribution of colorful ball necklaces that everyone must wear. In the United States moral standards are quite strict; but during carnival there is an evident unofficial relaxation.

Be that as it may, there is music, alcohol and sex on every corner.

I also have to say that it is the city in the United States where I have seen the most sadness in people's eyes. I think (it's just a personal assumption) that Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the subsequent poverty have left a lot of impact.

Regarding GASTRONOMY, I will make two recommendations. Go to the "Cafe du Monde" which is between Jackson Square and the Mississippi River. You will queue, but it is worth it. Order the famous "beignets" (sweet pastry similar to churros) with hot chocolate or coffee with milk and you will love it! For dinner I went to Irene's. I know it's not appropriate to go to an Italian restaurant in Louisiana, but it was recommended to me and I really enjoyed it.

I stayed at the Inn on St. Ann. It is well located without being in the middle of the hustle and bustle. It is a small hotel, very clean and well maintained.

If you need and/or want help in organizing the getaway, do not hesitate to send me an email.

If you want to go to New Orleans with the eSIM card already purchased, you can request it from Holafly and you will get a 5% discount if in the "Discount Code" you introduce "Raconets"!

For me, it is a must.

A whole day, including night, is enough.

No problem.

No problem.