New Orleans is a vibrant city where French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences blend into a unique culture celebrated for its jazz, cuisine, and the spirited energy of Bourbon Street and Mardi Gras, pulsing with history, resilience, and joy
Walking through New Orleans, I felt as if I was immersed in layers of American history that trace back to French, Spanish, and African influences, each leaving an indelible mark on the city’s culture, architecture, and traditions. Founded in 1718 by the French Mississippi Company, New Orleans changed hands several times, falling under Spanish rule before returning to French control and finally being sold to the United States as part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. This blend of colonial legacies has shaped the city into a unique cultural mosaic, giving it a character that stands apart from any other American city.
Bourbon Street, located in the heart of the historic French Quarter, exemplifies this rich cultural fusion. The street’s distinct Creole townhouses with their signature wrought-iron balconies are a vivid reminder of the city’s colonial past. Yet today, Bourbon Street is equally famous for its vibrant nightlife, where the sounds of jazz, blues, and brass bands echo through every block. Visiting Bourbon Street feels like stepping into the heart of New Orleans, where the city’s musical heritage and energy are always on full display.
The visit coincided with Mardi Gras, the legendary festival that New Orleans has celebrated since the 18th century. Originally rooted in French Catholic traditions, Mardi Gras has evolved into an internationally renowned event marked by extravagant parades, masked balls, and elaborate costumes. Each krewe, or parade organization, brings its unique theme and traditions, making the festival an enduring expression of New Orleans’ communal spirit and artistic flair. Experiencing Mardi Gras firsthand allowed me to witness not just the city’s love for celebration but also its resilience and unity—qualities that have sustained New Orleans through centuries of change and challenge.
Stay
JW Marriott New Orleans Staying at JW Marriott New Orleans for Mardi Gras was the perfect intersection of walkability and modern luxury in New Orleans, Louisiana Experiences
Sazerac House Touring Sazerac House taught me the history of the Sazerac cocktail while experiencing interactive exhibits in New Orleans, Louisiana
Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro Jazz at Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro is - in short - a must do when visiting New Orleans, Louisiana Eat
Bon Ton Cafe The now closed Bon Ton Café was a warm welcome to the history and culture of New Orleans, Louisiana 
Cafe Beignet Beignets and coffee at Cafe Beignet allowed me to savor the quintessential breakfast of the Crescent City - of New Orleans, Louisiana
Daisy Dukes Cafe Daisy Dukes Cafe gave me a welcomed cozy goodbye breakfast, on my last day of enjoying New Orleans, Louisiana
Dat Dog A late night snack at Dat Dog in the Faubourg-Marigny district served me one of the most delicious and unique hot dogs I've ever had - in New Orleans, Louisiana
Luke New Orleans Happy hour at Luke in the Central Business District was a great way to cap off a day of touring New Orleans during Mardi Gras
Mahony’s Po-Boys & Seafood Lunch at Mahony's Po-Boys & Seafood was exactly what I desired for a classic taste of a po-boys sandwich in New Orleans, Louisiana
Ruby Slipper Cafe Breakfast at the Ruby Slipper Cafe was a perfect Southern breakfast, wrapped up in the vibrancy of New Orleans. Sazerac House Touring Sazerac House taught me the history of the Sazerac cocktail while experiencing interactive exhibits in New Orleans, Louisiana Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro Jazz at Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro is - in short - a must do when visiting New Orleans, Louisiana 
