Top 10 Reasons We Love New Orleans

It’s Fat Tuesday and we are fat with love for New Orleans. This Louisiana city by the sea is home to some of the best food, cultural events and architecture in the world. Here are a couple of reasons we love N’awlins.

1. Mardi Gras – Practice your bead grabbing and parade etiquite and head to N’awlins for an unforgettable time. Mardi Gras starts long before Fat Tuesday, as different krewes have parades the weeks leading up to the big day. It’s such a big deal here that schools and many offices get a Mardi Gras break. We’re jealous.
2. Crawfish: These mudbugs are some of the tastiest treats in the South. Every Spring, backyards and restaurants are busy with Crawfish boils. Remember not to dress too fancy – these bad boys are going to get messy.
3. Swamp Tours: When the partying in the city gets too much, you can escape and head out to the swamp and go gator watching. Hold on to your hat on this airboat tour and make sure you have your camera ready. You’re getting up close and personal with an alligator!
4. Bourbon Street: Bourbon Street is mecca for party enthusiasts and people watchers alike. Take a stroll down this pedestrian friendly street and see all walks of life – street performers, bachelor parties, college kids, locals, and more. There are also great shops, restaurants and bars if you need to escape the madness of the street.
5. Karaoke: The bars on Bourbon have some of the best karaoke in the states – we’re talking huge stages that put you straight in the spotlight. Grab a Hurricane for liquid courage and then belt out your best Madonna. 
6. Nature: Walk down St. Charles and you’ll be transported to a different time. The live oak lined streets, lush grass and incredible flowers make you forget you are in the city, not the ‘burbs. While there, head over to Audubon Park and trade the concrete for even more beautiful nature escape.
7. Cajun English: One of the most interesting things about New Orleans is that the locals speak another language – Cajun English. It’s a dialect of the earliest French settlers in the area and has transformed over the years to a unique blend of Cajun French and English.
8. Daiquiri Shacks: For the 21+ folks out there, New Orleans has many a drive through Daiquiri Shack. We’re talking 32oz of frozen goodness ordered through a drive through line. But rest assured, the lids are taped and secured so you can’t drink and drive. Save these babies for when you get home.
9. Jazz Music: New Orleans is home to some of the best Jazz in the world. Pop into any Jazz bar, grab a dirty martini and listen to the best tunes. They Jazz is so good here, that Jazz Fest is held here every May with the top musicians from around the world.
10. Architecture: The French left their footprint here and as a result, New Orleans has some of the most beautiful architecture. Walk around the French Quarter and you’ll see the European influence around every corner.