Exploring the World One Adventure at a Time: Our Journey to New Orleans
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to lose sight of the adventures waiting for us beyond our routines. That's why my fiancé, Eric, and I decided to infuse some spontaneity into our lives by creating our very own travel bucket list. But not just any list – one categorized into small inexpensive weekend getaways, four-day mildly expensive trips, and bucket list destinations. Little did we know that this simple act would lead us to some of the most unforgettable experiences, including our recent escapade to the vibrant city of New Orleans.
The idea stemmed from a desire to break the monotony and inject excitement into our lives whenever we felt the need for a getaway. We scribbled down destinations we'd dreamed of visiting, ranging from quaint weekend hideaways to dreamy bucket list adventures. Whenever we felt the itch for exploration, we'd randomly select a destination from one of these categories and off we'd go, ready to immerse ourselves in a new culture and create lasting memories.
New Orleans had always been on our radar, tucked away in the "mildly expensive trips" section of our list. So when the opportunity arose for a break from our hectic schedules, we knew it was time to make our way to the Big Easy.
Bar Tonique
Our first night in New Orleans began with a recommendation from a friend to visit Bar Tonique. Nestled away from the bustling streets of the French Quarter, Bar Tonique has become a beloved gem among locals seeking top-notch cocktails without any airs. Stepping into this hidden oasis, you're greeted with unparalleled hospitality, diverse beer and wine selections, and an array of invigorating cocktails (available for just $5 during Happy Hour on Wednesdays). It's yet another testament to the sheer awesomeness of this establishment.
A Court of Two Sisters
On our second day in the vibrant city of New Orleans, we kicked things off with a leisurely breakfast buffet at A Court of Two Sisters. With plates piled high with delicious morning fare, we set the stage for another day of adventure and exploration.
The National WWII Museum
After fueling up, we made our way to The National WWII Museum, ready to dive into history and pay tribute to the brave souls who came before us. The exhibits were captivating, and we found ourselves immersed in stories of courage and sacrifice.
Returning to our accommodation for our daily vacation nap (because let's be real, naps are essential on any vacation), we refreshed ourselves for the evening ahead.
Bourbon Street
As the sun began to set, we ventured out into the bustling streets of Bourbon Street, eager to soak up the atmosphere and see what the night had in store. And let me tell you, Bourbon Street was alive with energy, music, and a whole lot of character.
Mambo’s
Amidst the hustle and bustle, we stumbled upon Mambo's, a cozy spot tucked away from the chaos of the main strip. Intrigued by the promise of fantastic oysters and killer cocktails, we decided to give it a shot.
Entering Mambo's felt like discovering a hidden treasure. The ambiance was cozy, the lighting just right, and the aroma of delicious food filled the air. We settled into our seats and wasted no time in ordering up a round of oysters and cocktails.
To say that our taste buds were in for a treat would be an understatement. The oysters were fresh, plump, and bursting with flavor, while the cocktails were expertly crafted and downright addictive.
Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar
After a wild night of revelry on Bourbon Street, we found ourselves sleeping off the excitement the next morning, emerging from our room just in time for a late lunch at Mr. Ed's Oyster Bar. Determined to sample every style of oyster they had, we embarked on an epic taste test that left us feeling delightfully satisfied.
The Sazerac House
Feeling brave (or maybe just a little reckless) after our oyster feast, we decided to check out the Sazerac House for a tour. As we made our way through the historic building, tasting their famous liquors on every floor, things got a bit hazy – but hey, that's part of the New Orleans experience, right?
Jackson Square
Once we sobered up (sort of), we meandered through Jackson Square, soaking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant corner of the city. From the river views to the eclectic street performers, every step was an adventure in itself. The pièce de résistance was undoubtedly The Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis King of France, the oldest Catholic cathedral in continual use in the United States.
Forbidden Arts Tattoo
But the real highlight of our day came when we stumbled upon Forbidden Arts Tattoo. Spurred on by the spirit of spontaneity, we decided to commemorate our trip with matching tattoos, sealing our memories of New Orleans.
Bayou Bar
With ink still drying, we ventured across the street to Bayou Bar, a cozy piano lounge and whiskey bar. Surrounded by wood-lined walls and the sound of live music, we savored Creole classics and toasted to the end of our unforgettable journey.
As we reluctantly bid adieu to the Big Easy, we couldn't help but feel grateful for the whirlwind of experiences we'd shared. From the late-night escapades to the impromptu tattoos, our trip to New Orleans had been nothing short of magical.