Settling into New Orleans
New Orleans is about history, people, architecture,
food, music and traditions that make it a great place. It is the
land of Mardi Gras,
jazz, King Cakes, streetcars, cafe au lait
and beignets,
muffulettas, heat,
humidity, crawfish,
Yats, hurricanes (both
the storm and the highly intoxicating drink), the French Quarter, gumbo, and red beans 'n rice. It
is a great place to visit, and you might just wanna stay after all!
No one needs to be reminded
about the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. But as each month
passes, the “Crescent City” is rebuilding and reenergizing as never before.
Happily, Mardi Gras is back – as flamboyant, vibrant and outrageous as ever.
Just bring loads of beads.
New Orleans is a city full
of eccentricities born from a rich heritage. French style blends with Caribbean
flare. Haitian and African Creoles developed the exotic, spicy cuisine and the
music now called jazz. Architecture, food, music, traditions, history and
culture combine to create a unique destination for the gay and lesbian
traveler.
New Orleans sprawls over
365 square miles of tamed swampland. Despite its size, it does not have a big
city "attitude." The dozens of distinct neighborhoods have their own
ambiance and attractions. So no matter your tastes or budget, you’re sure to
find a neighborhood that best meets your needs, interests and check book.
The heart and pulse of New
Orleans centers around the neighborhoods of the Faubourg Marigny, French
Quarter, Central Business District, Warehouse and Arts District, Magazine Street,
Garden District, Audubon Park and Zoo and St. Charles Avenue.
The French Quarter is the
soul of old New Orleans. This is, by far, the best and most popular place to
stay and you can choose from intimate Creole cottages, apartments, boutique
hotels and guesthouses.
The Faubourg Marigny and
Baywater areas, adjacent to the French Quarter, are the quiet, colorful gay
neighborhoods, with a number of trendy restaurants, coffee shops and clubs.
Many of the gay-friendly bed and breakfasts are located here, as well as
several gay bars including the Phoenix, Cowpokes and Matrixxx, plus the “gay
restaurant of the year:” the Bywater Bar.B.Que/Lorenzo's. The Lesbian and Gay
Community Center is also located in this area.
The Garden District is
located "Uptown." Italianate mansions have been turned into hotels
and guesthouses and the St. Charles Street car line makes this a convenient
neighborhood to stay. The bar of the Columns, with its porch that flirts with
the grandeur of St Charles St, is popular for cocktails.
If you prefer to stay in
larger hotels, The Central Business District or "CBD" is where you'll
find most of the major hotel chains. Some of these hotels border the French
Quarter making them quite convenient for restaurants, jazz clubs and bars.
Most of all, New Orleans is
a city of music and food, almost in equal measure. For every Emeril’s,
Antoine’s or Brennan’s in this city of fine dining, there is a beloved
neighborhood restaurant where locals will wait hours for a table. For music
offerings, get a free copy of Offbeat, and checkout the Maple Leaf Bar, Snug
Harbor or Spotted Cat for some serious jazz. Just be prepared for late nights
and lazier days!
Please visit us at Pink Choice to see our members had to say about New Orleans.
It's been too long since I've visited. I think this Fall will find me there.
Posted by: Merrilyn | January 29, 2008 at 02:50 AM
Excellent Merrilyn! Have a wonderful time, and please don't be shy about posting a review of your experience (in N'Orleans or elsewhere, of course) on Pink Choice.
Posted by: Evan | January 29, 2008 at 02:56 AM