Top 5 Things to Do when Traveling to New Orleans

Travelling is an amazing experience. But let’s be honest, it can sometimes get a little overwhelming. There’s a lot of planning and research required to make sure you see and experience everything you want to while you’re there; and planning equals time. 

Whether you are spending a lot of time in the New Orleans, or just making a quick pre-cruise stop, these are my “must see and do” recommendations for getting the proper feel of the the Big Easy.

1. Cafe Du Monde & Jackson Square

When in New Orleans this is a must-do! Stop by Cafe Du Monde in the French Quarter for an order of their world-famous beignets and an iced cafe au lait. Not only is it open 24 hours for all of your sugar cravings, it’s also located on Decatur Street right across from the beautiful Jackson Square. 

My recommendation: Grab a snack and eat in the park. You will not be disappointed!

2. Swamp Tour

I love the French Quarter. It’s the heart of New Orleans and definitely a must-see; but there is a lot more to experience. One of my favourite things to do is a swamp tour. The bayou is incredible. Spanish moss decorates the edge of the swamp and alligators swim freely all around. It’s a nice change from the buzz of the French Quarter. 

My recommendation: You definitely want to get out on the water. Book a tour that offers an airboat trip and a chance to see some ‘gators and hopefully feed them. Tip: ‘Gators love marshmallows.

3. Haunted French Quarter tour at night

New Orleans has some serious ghoulish history. It’s said to be one of the most haunted cities in the world. Voodoo. Ghosts. Vampires (after all, it is the hometown of Ann Rice and the voodoo priestess Marie Laveau). 

What’s better than taking a walking tour of the city and hearing eerie tales of New Orleans’ sinister past while drinking a tasty hurricane? It’s a great way to explore the city and learn some really interesting history at the same time. The tour guides are full of information and have a flare for the dramatics.

My recommendation: Make sure you take a night tour for an extra haunted feel.

4. Frenchman Street

Whether you’re looking for a party or just a place to relax and wet your whistle, New Orleans has no shortage of bars and lounges. If you are looking for somewhere to hear some real jazz and watch music come alive you have to visit Frenchman Street. It’s a little less touristy than the French Quarter and is geared a little more to the tastes of the locals.There is also a night market where local artists sell their crafts. 

Located just a few streets down from the French Quarter in the Faubourg Marigny neighbourhood, Frenchman Street is filled with live-music bars and lounges pumping out some of the most beautiful jazz and blues you’ve ever heard.

My recommendation: After an afternoon of sightseeing, treat yourself to a walk down to Frenchman Street when the sun goes down. Let your ears guide you. You’ll be dancing in no time.

5. The Court of Two Sisters Jazz Brunch

Creole Jambalaya. Shrimp and grits. Southern BBQ Ribs. Pecan Pie. Bread pudding with whiskey sauce. I could go on but you’re probably already salivating. These are just some of the things you’ll find on the menu at The Court of Two Sisters located at 613 Royal Street in the French Quarter.

There is a beautiful dining room and a stunning open-aired courtyard to enjoy your meals in and the staff are friendly and engaging. 

My Recommendation: Don’t miss the jazz brunch. You’ll be seated outside in the stunning, classic southern courtyard. Stack your plate with goodies from the buffet, order a mimosa, and enjoy the sounds of the house jazz trio.

It is not 1857 anymore, and so, travel has acquired a new definition altogether. It no longer necessarily means a vacation with your family. It could be solo travel or group travel as well. I am rather happy about the fact that an increasing number of women are making their experiences better with this kind of travel. I would not be astounded if in the coming years adventure women travel and the likes become more popular than family holidays. 

3 Must-Visit Places in the World for Solo Women Travelers

Sometimes doing things all alone can be really therapeutic. Do you know that you may appreciate a solo meal more than having someone to share it with, or that a solitary walk can be great opportunity to think? Surprised? Don’t be!  Traveling on your own can also be an incredible opportunity for self-discovery as well as personal growth. Point in case - solo trips can be a great adventure for women.

So, if you love traveling and exploring new corners of the world, nothing could be better than a solo trip. To support this notion, here is an interesting statistical fact that has been drawn from a survey held by a popular traveling site – 72% of American women like traveling alone, be it for corporate purposes or for pleasure. And, most of them said that being alone on a trip resulted in improving their self-confidence. So such trips are a great idea. But, before you pack your bags, and set out for a voyage, let’s scroll down to see some of the most popular destinations that should definitely be a part of your bucket list.  

• Queenstown, New Zealand
  
  
  

First on the list is Queenstown. It happens to be in New Zealand, which is undoubtedly one of the most insanely stunning countries in the world. Well, this beautiful island might not seem too big on the map, but don’t allow an illustrated atlas to fool you. Maybe, it is not a massive place in terms of area, but it has myriad cultures, adventures, landscapes, and beaches. Wow! You can experience distinct cultures right from the North Island to the South Island. This island has a treasure hidden for solo women travel groups. Explore them all!

Tourist Attractions: Lakes Hayes, Hollyford Track, Skycity Queenstown, Lake Wanaka, Queenstown Art Centre, Dart river Funyak Canoe, etc.

• Paris, France
  
  
  

You may feel a little strange to find this place on the list as it is known as the city of love, and thus meant for couples. But, it is an amazing place that every woman should visit once in their lifetime. It is an interesting place to explore alone. Can you imagine how amazing it can be to just get out early in the morning, and walk by a river while everything around is silent. Perfect backdrop to relax! It is the right time to have a classic French croissant and a cup of coffee. Absolutely perfect!

Tourist Attractions: Eiffel Tower, Place de la Concorde, Sainte-Chapelle, Arc de Triomphe, Jardin du Luxembourg

• Perth, Australia

In case you are crazy about beaches and have desire to visit the best ones, Australia should be your destination. It has some of the cleanest and breathtaking beaches in the world that can make you speechless with their beauty. Well, Perth is the capital of Western Australia with a population of more than 180,000 people. It is a great place to visit, and its beaches are the sublime for women traveling alone. So, just pick your option be it Sun tan at Cotteslo Beach, or go surfing at surfing at Scarborough Beach. Enjoy!

Tourist Attractions: Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, Swan Bell Tower, Fremantle Prison, Elizabeth Quay, The Perth Mint,. The list is endless.

Traveling is a therapy in itself, and if you plan to take a trip on your own, it will just add to the thrill and enjoyment. Women traveling alone is surely one of the most confidence-boosting experiences, and something that is highly recommended. Get ready to travel in a completely new way by just being alone, and discover your new side. Be a true traveler!