Ron and Teresa Lost in America: New Orleans...(sorry it took so long to post)

Well, first off we didn't quite know what to expect. You hear about it, you see TV and movies about it, then to be there was surreal. The French Quarter was simply amazing. From the bars and restaurants to the people, we were blown away.

Lets start with the food. WOW, we can safely say that as an overall experience, we had the best food at every meal and at every turn in this town. Now that's a big statement to make since we have been to so many wonderful eating establishments, but in all truth, N.O. rules when it comes to food! From simple po-boys, to Muffaletas, to fine dining, we experienced some of the best food we have ever had! You get the picture...

Now, on to walking the streets. We spent an entire day walking thru the French Quarter, stopping for lunch at Acme Oyster Bar, a must if you're ever in the area. We went to the famous No. 1 cemetery, up and down the streets and to the French Market place where people sell their goods and art. We saw half naked girls with flowers painted on their breast, I guess as a disguise, who were selling themselves for photo ops. There were a number of psychic readers doing tarot cards. And there was even a wedding parade complete with the jazz musicians and the entire church of family and friends. Overall, a blast to experience it all.

We didn't stop there. We went out the next night for dinner and ended up at Dickie Brennan's. It had to have been one of the finest meals we have ever had and great service. We took to the streets again, a little different by night. We proceeded to Bourbon Street where it is ok to drink in the streets and anything goes. We danced to a live band, had a few shots, and fit right in. We can only imagine if it were Mardi Gras and not just an ordinary Saturday night, what the town would be like.

The next day we went on an air boat ride through the swampland. Very exciting! We had a great guide who took us to see alligators and his favorite raccoon! It was an amazing trip and gave us a better appreciation for the people who call it their home. After that, we found one of the fanciest plantation homes that still exists and took a tour.

Swamp living

Highways over the water are a little scary at first

Grave of Marie Laveau (September 10, 1794 – June 16, 1881) Famous voodoo queen

rows and rows of crypts

Generations are buried in each crypt

Bourbon Street by day

City life garden

old buildings

St Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square

Got caught in the middle of the Wedding Party parade

Taking a break in the park

This is a Muffaletta! Basically all different deli meat and cheese with a chopped olive salad topping. Delish! We had already eaten a huge lunch at Acme, so we took it to go for dinner AND lunch the next day!