New Orleans, Louisiana

I plan on heading towards New Orleans around 8 in the morning on Saturday, since the event starts at 11am and it will be approximately a four hour drive.  As silly as it sounds, I've never been that interested in traveling to Louisiana, even though it's only a few hours away from my hometown. I've always either traveled up north by plane or down south to Mexico, so I've never even driven through Louisiana. However, now I am super excited to make the trip there!!

This road trip will definitely allow me to be more familiar with my neighboring states. I would want to stop by the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival on my way to Jackson.  It would be perfect timing since it will still be going on the weekend after school ends. Music has been a very integral part of the history in the South. We saw how it played a major role in several of the assignments we had, such as: "O Brother Where Art Thou", "Wolf Whistle" and "Stuck Rubber Baby". In a time of turmoil, it was as if music was one of the only elements that was able to transcend skin color and gather the masses.

I will drive straight into the Festival, because they will have a great variety of food and things to do there. I won't have to do much more exploring outside of the grounds until tomorrow, since this will suffice. I am most excited to see the various musical performers, but I also can't wait to see their multiple Culture tents. They have the Louisiana Folk-life Village, which showcases Master Artisans which show architectures with characteristics of the historical New Orleans. I will witness the state's unique cultural history. I also plan on seeing the Native American Village which celebrates the state's indigenous people. I will enjoy traditional drumming and singing by Southeastern dance and pow-wow troupes, while relaxing under the shade canopy of a palmetto-thatched chickee. Last, but not least, I will visit the Grandstand. This stand is said to exhibit the vibrant culture, food, and art of Louisiana.


Admission will be $50 for a single day pass, which isn't much when compared to all the exhibits and live musical performances. You can't find a ticket for a concert cheaper than $50, so great deal!!

On my second day in New Orleans I plan to spend the day exploring the French Quarter, since I don't drink, I heard this is the next big stop than just partying on Bourbon Street. They offer tours which show off New Orleans' history, beauty, and cultural influence that many say expanded throughout the entirety of the United States. The French Quarter has great good, more jazz music, and one of a kind shops.  I plan on exploring the surrounding area, which is said to also be filled with historical landmarks, all within walking distance.


However, there is a place I really want to visit and dine at, Domilise Sandwhich Shop & Bar. Although it's a drive into the deep south of New Orleans, it is said to have the best Po-Boys in the area and the pricing is average. Their decor is "Old New Orleans" so I am happy to see how they have preserved their old tradition and culture.

Both nights I will be staying at 171B, it is a one bedroom unit in the renovated French Quarter Mansion. I think this will be an awesome place to stay, right in the heart of New Orleans, plus it is decorated with antiques and artwork.