Taking it easy in “The Big Easy"

The entrance to Pat Obrien's

       

Here is my opinion:

There are three things that make people happy. 

1.  The beach

2.  Free porn (settle down, it’s a joke)

2.  Newborn babies- the quiet ones, not the loud ones (is that better?)

3. New Orleans… yep the whole city will make you happy.

 

The Canal Street "streetcar"...rides start at $1.25

Even for you scrooges out there (you know who you are), I believe it is impossible to travel to “Nawlinz” and not have a good time!  If you have never been there, it is site to see. It was established in the 1700’s so it is rich with French-Creole history that is obvious in everything from the architecture to the music and the food.

 

typical street in the French Quarter



Holy Moly...Cajun spices galore!



Love all the paint colors

French Quarter

Somehow, they have managed to transform this historic, gorgeous city into a ridiculous daily party while still maintaining its integrity. Since it is also the birthplace of jazz music, you can hear the music penetrating through the streets basically any time of day or night.  It is common to find live jazz in one bar, a hip-hop dj in the next, and country music all on the same block.  Where else can you see that??

Live Jazz and no cover charge!!

Shake your booty to a little hip hop

This place was a bit more rock n roll

Sure booze helps, but I think it is the overall vibe of the city that creates a fun, vibrant atmosphere that just makes everyone happy.  Here are a few random pics of the characters me met along the way.  Notice, everyone is happy to be posing with complete strangers.  That is a sign of true happiness.  Isnt it? 

These two just met

Gotta love your hat dude!!

Hat guy again with his boyz

For us, this trip was even more exciting because we were able to meet up with my lovely cousin Brooke and my Aunt “Goodie” who live there.  Together we strolled through the French Quarter and hit a few hotspots as they pointed out some interesting landmarks! 

Brooke and Goodie...look how happy

I am sure you have heard of this place

Brooke and Me

Umm yes those are tire swings at the bar

Brooke and Ryan

According to our local family this place has the best muffulettas

Okay I am tired.... so thats it for now.

 

Are you still cranky?  I hope not! 

P.S.    For all you first time visitors: I highly recommend doing an alligator swamp tour (gators love marshmallows), visiting the cemeteries, and driving past all the wonderful plantation homes.  We did not do any of these on this particular trip but we have done them in the past!!  Enjoy

Next Stop is San Diego.  Woot, Woot

Jill