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Name: R E F B

Location: Inglewood, CA

Date: Jun. 18, 2008

Thank you for your site, NOLA Tourism. These are the memories that I have while living there 1951 through 1998. Preferred time to visit the City (NOLA) of New Orleans is in the late morning and early afternoon on weekends, or anytime when the temperatures are cooler than 80 degrees. Catching a ferry ride from the West Bank or taking a streetcar from Mid-City into the Vieux Carre' begins a day's adventure. The mixture of industrial barges, boats and cruise ships docked or maneuvering the Mississippi currents. Distinguishing views of old town Algiers peaking over the levee from the ferry in contrast with the blended towering hotels and corporate buildings bordering one side of the French Quarter are views to behold. Or, finding the appropriate change to catch the streetcar on Canal Street or Saint Charles Avenue before traveling among the shady trees and magnificent old and new architecture is worth going through every pocket. Taking almost any route with the windows open you can hear music traveling louder in the air. Once in the boundaries of the Vieux Carre's "neutral grounds", begin viewing into the shop windows and artful alleys. Searching for uniqueness in the spirit and talents of the locals does not take long. Brunch time is a great time. Continuing to enjoy the experience of the people & food, I like Acme Oyster House, Felix, Petunia's, Mother's, or Deanne's - typical New Orleans fare. Even if the buttons pop from the bottom of a shirt, taking a stroll through the streets to get a cup of coffee and a saucier of beignets at Cafe du Monde before trekking to Pat O's for tunes and libations, is worth the effort. Not far away is the French Market (recently renovated) and further "down the river" is Faubourg Marigny a wonderful area with its own unique ambience, art, food, and music. [Another favorite eatery is the Port of Call.] For an early evening meal, Irene's is worth the wait in line. The old Mediterranean flavor of their Italian specialties and a fine wine moves the soul into a different atmosphere. It is the added flavorful touch to begin the evening. If the French Quarter is not for you in the evening, taking a streetcar to Vincent's Restaurant or Jacquimo's in the Carrollton Avenue area is a unique change. Hold off on dessert because Brocato's has unforgettable Italian desserts. On a crisp cool day, taking a bike ride up and down St. Charles to visit the zoo or pedal through the universities and numerous old churches, I love taking in a deep breath of air to smell the sweet olive blossoms. For me the fragrance IS unique to being in my hometown. Along Magazine Street, there are several places to fill the hungry and quench the thirsty before shopping for antiques, clothes, art, old books and videos. Alternatively, hiking the trails along Bayou Coquille & Kenta Canal is not something a visitor would imagine seeing in an area so close to Bourbon St. The spring irises and other wild colorful foliage growing through the marshes set the adventure apart. Capturing a few other "things" growing or swimming in the cool or warm waters is not surprising to a local artist or photographer. Always keep your eyes open. I mostly enjoy cabin camping at Bayou Segnette. Listening to the animals, watching the moon reflecting onto the bayou flowing below the cabin porch is very relaxing or exciting, depending on the "visitors". There's crabbing in the mornings, if lucky to remember to bring the bait and traps. On the other hand, taking a visit to purchase local seafood from nearby vendors fulfills a family tradition. Boiling crabs, shrimp, crawfish, garlic, onions, corn, potatoes, sausage, celery, lemon, and liquid seasonings does not end the fun for many friends and family. The night falls slowly on the bayou. Listening to the sounds and noises of the insects, reptiles, animals, and friends only increases the uniqueness of the stay. To friends and family members who returned to the City, you are bravely a true New Orleanian full of warm spirit and love. For those in the reconstruction areas, I pray for your patience and understanding, because much must be done before 100% happens.