#247: The Garden District (2nd Ed pg 797)

In January 2004, just 17 months before Katrina hit, I traveled to New Orleans with my friend Lisa.  

One of our favorite self-made excursions was venturing out to the Garden District.  We loved seeing all the above-ground cemeteries.

And indulged in a delicious lunch at Commanders Palace!

Verdict:  The Garden District is a new addition to the 2nd Edition.  It did not appear in the original 2003 edition, which is why I am just now posting about it.  And truthfully, I think she (Patricia Schultz) got it right the first time.  It's unique.  It's charming.  It's worth seeing if you're in the area, but it's not a must-do before you die experience. 

#203: Soniat House (page 638)

We were invited to a wedding in New Orleans this past weekend.  I have three things left to see in New Orleans in the 1000 Places book (I've been here once before in 2004 and did Preservation Hall, French Quarter, etc - of course I did that all again this time around too! ;)).  The bad news..... two of those three things (Mardi Gras and the Jazz Festival) are date specific, but the good news is that I was able to do at least one of those three things - the Soniat House!

My 2003 edition states that rooms go from $195, but 2017 prices range from $325-$700/night.

They have their own antique shop.

And a beautiful balcony overlooking Chartres St.

And it is well known for its two private courtyards.

No wonder, this boutique hotel has made it on to Fodor's choice Top 20 in the world.

There are 31 rooms beautifully and uniquely decorated with four-poster beds, Oriental carpets and antiques.  And what makes it really neat is the location..... you can experience the New Orleans/French quarter vibe while still having a luxury, almost European experience. 

Verdict:  No.  It's lovely, no doubt.  But definitely not a must-do before you die!

Side Note:  This was my 200th sight in my 1000 Places book!  I'm on #203 because I've added a few things that should be in the book, but anyway.... 200 down, 800 to go!

#65: Preservation Hall (Page 638; Listed as New Orlean's Music Scene in 2nd Ed, pg 798)

January, 2004

Verdict: I'm not a jazz lover, but thought this was worth seeing/experiencing nevertheless. I wouldn't put it on your top 1000 list if you're not a jazz lover, but if you are, it should definitely make your list. The ambiance is just quintisential traditional jazz and the bare bones venue just makes you soak it all in that much more.

#64: The New Orleans Restaurant Scene (Page 635; 2nd Ed pg 635)

January, 2004: So, this isn't exactly a restaurant (it's a piano bar), but you must admit, it's pretty cool looking! We actually went here the night before this picture was taken and loved the look of the place so much, we came back the following day to take a picture. And the other reason I'm using this picture is because for some stupid reason, I didn't take a picture of what should really be here..... Commander's Palace. We ate at Commander's Palace, located in the Garden District, and loved it!
Enjoying some of the yummy food (this is a beignet) that New Orleans has to offer.
Verdict: For the most part, it's really, really high in fat and calories. But it's also really, really high in taste, flavor and variety. So, as long as you're just visiting and not moving there.... Enjoy and Indulge!

#63: The French Quarter (Page 634; 2nd Ed pg 796)

January, 2004: My friend, Lisa and I decided to head to New Orleans for a 3-day weekend. We found a good deal on air fare and neither of us had ever been, so why not?

The famous Cafe du Monde, located on the edge of the French Quarter and famous for it's beignets. It's a great place to soak in the sights, sounds and delicious smells of the city!
Verdict: Admittedly, this was pre-Katrina and I haven't been back post-Katrina, so I'm not entirely sure how much is in tact, but at least pre-Katrina, the French Quarter was fabulous and we loved it! The shops, restaurants and sensory images all around you were so fun!