Hey, fellow adventurers! The Trekking Pawns here, and we're about to embark on an exciting cruise from the vibrant city of New Orleans. But before we set sail, we've got two full days to dive into the rich history, culture, and cuisine of this incredible city. New Orleans, or NOLA as the locals call it, is a place like no other—steeped in history, bursting with culture, and brimming with mouthwatering food. So, let's explore what we plan to do, see, and eat during our stay in the Big Easy!

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A Glimpse into New Orleans' History and Culture

New Orleans is a city with a storied past that's as colorful as its streets. Founded in 1718 by the French, it has been a melting pot of cultures ever since, influenced by French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean traditions. This unique blend is evident in everything from the architecture to the music and cuisine.

The French Quarter, or Vieux Carré, is the heart of New Orleans and a must-see for any visitor. As we stroll through its narrow, cobblestone streets, we'll be surrounded by beautifully preserved 18th-century buildings, wrought-iron balconies, and hidden courtyards. This historic district is a living museum, with every corner telling a story of the city's past.

One of the most iconic landmarks in the French Quarter is Jackson Square, a lively spot that has been a gathering place for centuries. Here, we can admire the stunning St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest continuously active cathedral in the United States, and take in the local artists, street performers, and musicians that bring the square to life.

Savoring the Flavors of NOLA

You can't visit New Orleans without indulging in its unique and delicious cuisine. The city is a food lover's paradise, where Creole, Cajun, and soul food traditions come together to create something truly special. Here's what we're planning to eat during our two days:

1. Beignets at Café du Monde:
A visit to New Orleans wouldn't be complete without stopping by Café du Monde for their famous beignets. These fluffy, square-shaped doughnuts are generously dusted with powdered sugar and served piping hot. Paired with a chicory coffee, it's the perfect way to start the day.

2. Po' Boys at Parkway Bakery & Tavern:
For lunch, we'll be heading to Parkway Bakery & Tavern, a local institution known for its po' boys. These classic sandwiches are made with crispy French bread and stuffed with everything from fried shrimp to roast beef. We're leaning towards the shrimp po' boy, which comes loaded with perfectly fried shrimp and dressed with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo. 

3. Gumbo at The Gumbo Shop:
No trip to New Orleans is complete without a bowl of gumbo, and The Gumbo Shop is one of the best places to try it. This hearty, flavorful stew is made with a dark roux and can include everything from shrimp and sausage to chicken and okra. We're excited to dig into a bowl of this iconic dish. 

4. Jambalaya at Coop's Place:
Another must-try dish is jambalaya, a spicy rice dish that's a staple of Creole cuisine. Coop's Place is known for its rabbit and sausage jambalaya, which we can't wait to taste. The dish is packed with flavor, and the cozy, laid-back atmosphere of Coop's makes it a great spot to enjoy it.

5. King Cake:
Since we're in New Orleans, we're hoping to find some king cake, a traditional dessert associated with Mardi Gras. This sweet, cinnamon-filled cake is topped with colorful icing and sprinkles and is a true NOLA treat.

Getting Around the Big Easy

New Orleans is a city best explored on foot, especially if you're staying in or near the French Quarter. The area is compact and walkable, and wandering through the streets is part of the charm. However, if you're looking to explore a bit further, the city's streetcars are a fun and convenient way to get around.

The historic St. Charles Streetcar is a must-ride. It's the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world and will take us on a scenic journey through the Garden District, past grand mansions, and under canopies of oak trees. The Canal Streetcar line is another option that connects the French Quarter with Mid-City and City Park.

For shorter distances or if we're in a hurry, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available. But honestly, we're planning to walk as much as possible to soak in all the sights, sounds, and smells of this vibrant city.

What to Do in Two Days

With just two days in New Orleans, we're focusing on a mix of must-see sights and unique experiences. Here's what's on our itinerary:

Day 1: Exploring the French Quarter and Beyond

• Morning: After breakfast at Café du Monde, we'll take a leisurely stroll through the French Quarter, visiting Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral. We'll also check out the Cabildo, a museum that offers a fascinating look at Louisiana's history.

• Afternoon: We're planning to take a streetcar ride through the Garden District, where we can admire the historic homes and beautiful gardens. We'll stop by Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, one of the city's famous above-ground cemeteries, for a glimpse into New Orleans' unique burial traditions.

• Evening: For dinner, we'll head back to the French Quarter for some gumbo at The Gumbo Shop, followed by live jazz at one of the many clubs on Frenchmen Street. The music scene here is legendary, and we're excited to experience it firsthand.

Day 2: Discovering the Local Culture

• Morning: We'll kick off our second day with a visit to the National WWII Museum, one of the best museums in the country. It's a must-see for history buffs and offers a deep dive into the stories of World War II.

• Afternoon: After lunch, we're planning to visit the Tremé neighborhood, the oldest African-American neighborhood in the U.S. We'll explore the Backstreet Cultural Museum, which showcases the rich traditions of Mardi Gras Indians, jazz funerals, and more.

• Evening: We'll wrap up our day with dinner at Coop's Place for some jambalaya, followed by a sunset walk along the Mississippi River. If there's time, we might take a steamboat cruise on the river to end our New Orleans adventure in style.

The Countdown to Our Cruise Begins

As we get ready to set sail on our Caribbean cruise, we're so glad we decided to spend a couple of days exploring New Orleans first. This city has a unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine that you won't find anywhere else. Whether it's savoring a beignet, riding a streetcar, or soaking up the sounds of live jazz, we know our time in New Orleans will be a memorable start to our adventure.

Stay tuned as we share more about our journey, from the streets of New Orleans to the shores of the Caribbean!

— The Trekking Pawns 🎷🦐⚓