"Capturing the soul of the Big Easy" New Orleans by maestrousmc

New Orleans Travel Guide: 4,162 reviews and 7,182 photos

What you will find on this page

THINGS TO DO - Tips on undiscovered sites and insider and historical information on the not-so-off the beaten path.

RESTAURANTS - From the foodie. The poboys most outsiders don't know about; why the locals go to Cafe Maspero even though it's tourist-driven

LOCAL CUSTOMS - Local lingo. Find out what a hurricane party is. What to do if someone asks you if you want it dressed.

GENERAL TIPS - Find all the answers to all things New Orleans. What is creole? What is Cajun? Etouffee?

WHY DO I LOVE NEW ORLEANS?

Jackson Square

1. Of all the major cities in the United States, I must say that New Orleans is one with a truly unique, incomparable character. It's not about skyscrapers, bistros, and shops; it's about the people and the character the surround and embrace your surroundings, your meals and the music you hear.

2. New Orleans is paradoxical in that it is where vibrant and solemn, exciting and relaxed, historic and new converge.

3. Food lovers, history buffs, music and art lovers alike can meet in this city full of Southern charm to find a truly unique New Orleanean experience.

There is truly no city like it. The feeling of what New Orleans is - and was - will capture you immediately upon your arrival.

A rebirth? Yes Indeed!

Colorful Bourbon Street

I lived in New Orleans for six years and with my frequent visits, it has become my former and second home. I've just begun to create this page and s of May 2008, this page is a work in progress.

As I build this page and as the city continues to rebuild itself, I will make every attempt to include everything that is truly New Orleans. There is more to New Orleans than Mardi Gras, hurricanes - the drink and the natural phenomenon - and three for one beers. It is a city galvanized by great southern hospitality, unforgettable family-owned eateries, and top-notch music.

I will give you insider information: local hot spots and more importantly a local point of view on the more commercial and touristy establishments that you're probably planning to visit. However, I encourage all of you to look past the swamp tours, haunted mansions, Cafe du Monde to see what New Orleans REALLY has to offer.

Additionally, take a look at the Local Customs tips to see translation of the local lingo.

Last visit to New Orleans: May 2008
Intro Updated May 12, 2008
Add to Trip Planner (?)
Report Abuse

Reviews (85)

Just a 'lil fun Warnings and Dangers (2)

Neither warning nor danger, I consider the "I betcha I can tell ya where you get dem shoes," trick more of a street act... more travel advice

A focal point central to all Off The Beaten Path (6)

Since it was built in 1884, the most prominent monument in New Orleans has been a 60-foot (18 m)-tall monument to... more travel advice

The Shotgun Things to Do (14)

Two of the homes I owned in New Orleans were built in this style. Not too much of a surprise considering that this... more travel advice

Trad and Dixie on Bourbon Nightlife (12)

Because of it's central location in the French Quarter, on Bourbon Street, this Jazz Club focuses on traditional jazz... more travel advice

Tourist Traps (3)
See All T-shirts, Mardi Gras Beads, Shot Glass,...
Restaurants (22)
See All Fabulous Crawfish Enchiladas!
Favorites (3)
See All Etouffee
Shopping (1)
Local tourist-centric merchandise
Local Customs (10)
See All Doubloons

Sports & Outdoors (4)
See All Old Point Bar Cheer for the Saints with...
Transportation (5)
See All Function and scenery
What to Pack (1)
Change your shirt
Hotels (2)
See All Near the Quarter, Far from New Orleans
Been to New Orleans?
Share your travels with the world!

Comments (2)

Reply
- Report abuse
BeatChick May 18, 2008 at 8:35 AM

Maestro, I love your main photo on the front page in its monochromatic green! Love etouffée, too - yummy. :) All the foods sound divine, down to the oatmeal at Tout de Suite. What's in an Alabama Sunrise?
Reply
- Report abuse
BarryAir Apr 29, 2008 at 2:53 PM

Well done page about Nawlins.... Barry in Louisiana (disaster area)