New Orleans has a unique, vibrant history, award winning chefs, craft cocktails galore, and a low-key, Southern fun atmosphere. There's no wonder NOLA is consistently ranked one of the best US cities to visit. We've got you covered with tips on locals' favorite spots to check out during your stay. Scroll through our blog for suggestions, current events and truly experience New Orleans like a local.

Christina DiPierro 10/19/21 Christina DiPierro 10/19/21

Spooky Halloween Loves Ghosts

We’re now on our third October blog: all are set up to give you lots of pertinent info very quickly. We’re heading for Halloween so here’s an overview or history of this annual event that can be read in a couple of seconds: (1) It goes all the way back to an ancient Gaelic festival called “Samhain,” (2) It marks a pivotal time of the year: when the seasons change OR the boundary between this world and the next becomes especially “thin” and (3) It almost didn’t make it across the Atlantic – the Puritans were against this holiday’s pagan roots, but then (4) the Irish and Scottish arrived in America and the holiday made its way back. Since I’m 50% Irish, I love this version.

1. WHAT TWO EVENTS ARE WE GOING TO COVER?

We’ll begin with the Halloween festivities in all their various forms – this will take you from Friday, October 29th to Sunday, October 31st. Then we’ll go back a bit and take a close look at the Krewe of BOO. It takes place on Saturday, October 23rd and promises to be a real eye-opener.

FIRST: HALLOWEEN IN ALL ITS VARIOUS FORMS

No matter how old you are or how many times you’ve been around the block, this holiday never gets old. The littlest ones get a chance to dress up and go trick-or-treating while a parent can take a break with a Halloween cocktail.

The New Orleans Art District: Here’s where you’ll see brick warehouses that recall NoLA’s industrial heyday. Now, it’s fine restaurants and galleries that showcase our thriving arts + culinary scene.

II. WHERE DOES HALLOWEEN TAKE PLACE?

New Orleans is thought to be one of the most haunted places in the entire country. It’s known for: its ghosts, voodoo, vampires, above ground tombs and much more. Or, the perfect place for a little fright and fun! This brings us to a parade that you and your family won’t want to miss.

CLICK HERE to read our blog about New Orleans + Halloween in 2018

SECOND: THE KREWE OF BOO PARADE

Are you bringing the family to the French Quarter for Halloween? Well, this parade is one you don’t want to miss. The Krewe of BOO Halloween parade is a family-friendly parade where the little monsters can collect beads, toys and more!

III. WHERE – EXACTLY – DOES IT TAKE PLACE?

Read carefully because you don’t want to disappoint the young ones. The 2021 Krewe of BOO parade winds its way through the French Quarter, the Central Business District and into the New Orleans Arts District.

IV. WHEN AND WHAT TIME DOES IT START?

It takes place on Saturday, October 23, 2021 at 6:30 pm.

V. THE VIEUX CARRE BECOMES THE BOO CARRE

Just so you know: the “Vieux Carre” means the “French Quarter” or, where spooky things happen! The Krewe of BOO became the official Halloween Parade in 2007 and it’s grown every year since that time.

You’ll see great, heart stopping floats pass by AND guess what? Smiling parade riders will throw lots of items to kids and adults as they pass by. This includes: light-up medallion beads, voodoo doll pins plus magnets, doubloons and children’s toys. (If you – like me – don’t know what some of these things are – then come to the parade and find out.)

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? Do consider us when you are planning to visit – we’re a 15-minute stroll to the French Quarter.

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB if you are looking for any changes or more information about the events described in this blog.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Christina DiPierro 10/12/21 Christina DiPierro 10/12/21

Looking Forward to a Cool Fall

As promised in last week’s blog we’re going to focus on fun things that you can enjoy during the month of October. All the pertinent info that you need to attend will appear in each blog – or, as Joe Friday (played by Jack Webb) used to say in a famous TV show named “Dragnet” – it’s “Just the Facts, Ma’am.” This always meant: Get to the heart of the matter. No beating around the bush.

A scene in CBD/Downtown – Welcome to the Central Business District, where historic buildings, business offices, fine dining and the hidden gems of New Orleans await visitors to our delightful city.

I. WHAT TWO EVENTS ARE WE GOING TO COVER?

We’re starting with a Concert Series in New Orleans (free) that we believe you’ll enjoy and add a second, namely: “A Book Festival” that’s held on the campus of Tulane University. This is great because it’s a fest plus your chance to visit a famous private institution that was founded many years ago. That alone is an adventure.

FIRST: WEDNESDAY AT THE SQUARE CONCERT SERIES:

The 2021 dates are: Wednesday, October 20th and Wednesday, October 27th plus Wednesday, November 3rd and Wednesday, November 10th – with a rain date on Wednesday, November 17th.

II.WHAT – EXACTLY – IS THIS MUSICAL SERIES?

This series of free outdoor concerts features well-known local artists and highlights a variety of musical styles including: jazz, rock, funk, swamp pop, Latin rhythms and more.

III. WHERE IS IT HELD?

It all happens at Lafayette Square Park – which is located right in the heart of the Central Business District – the address is: South Maestri Place, New Orleans, LA 70130. Hours are: 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

IV. ANY FOOD AND DRINKS?

Yes, there are booths offering everything from entrée items to desserts. Plus, you’ll be able to purchase alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. But, everything must be purchased with tickets that are sold on the grounds. No outside items can be brought in to any of the events.

SECOND: THE 2021 NEW ORLEANS BOOK FESTIVAL

Tulane University kicks off its inaugural weekend (Thursday, October 21st to Saturday, October 23rd) with a three-day, in-person literary celebration.

I. WHO AND WHAT WILL BE THERE?

More than 100 national, regional and local authors will attend. This includes some of America’s bestselling scribes so lovers of literature will really enjoy themselves. This is a multi-day event that includes readings, panel discussions and keynote speeches.

II. WILL WE BE ABLE TO MEET-AND-GREET?

Of course, that’s what will make this event a lot of fun! Readers and authors will be able to interact with each other – one can never tell what will happen!

III. WHAT – EXACTLY – WILL TAKE PLACE?

This event will kick off with a welcome reception on Thursday and conclude with a New Orleans-style celebration on Saturday evening (we all know what THAT means).

IV. WILL WE BE ABLE TO SEE TULANE?

Why not? Tulane is a private institution situated on 110 acres. It has been around since 1834 and, in a Time magazine article, it was described as having the “most beautiful campus in Louisiana.” Come for the fest. And savor the Southern elegance of this fine school.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? Do consider us when you are planning to visit – we’re close to the French Quarter and more. For example, from Rathbone Mansions at 1244 Esplanade Avenue it is only 15 minutes to Tulane University at 6823 Charles Avenue. Go by car via US-90 W. That’s the fastest route.

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB if you are looking for any additional information about the events/places described in this blog.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Rathbone Mansions 10/8/21 Rathbone Mansions 10/8/21

Let the NOLA Fests Begin

NEWS FLASH: JAZZ FEST FOR 2021 HAS BEEN CANCELLED

Please Note: To make sure that we don’t miss any deadlines we all work “way ahead” with our monthly schedule. Hence, our description of New Orleans’ wonderful Jazz Fess that takes place annually was written back in the day. Below you will find the blog that was created with the expectation that JAZZ FEST was going to take place as per usual. Not so!!!

THINK OF THIS BLOG AS A PREVIEW OF THINGS TO COME IN THE SPRING OF 2022

We’ve all been under lockdown for some time now so it feels good to get out and experience life as it used to be – or not. We’ll see what happens. For the month of October 2021 I will be touching on what you can do, see and enjoy in five blogs. I am purposely making them factual and right on the mark: lots of pertinent information fast – that’s my goal.

I. WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN OCTOBER?

You’ll find that The Big Easy has warm – but pleasant days in October. This is coupled with mild to cool nights. It is also the driest month of the year for our fair city.

Note: NoLA is home to more than 130 festivals and events throughout the year so we know how to treat our visitors.

Around the clock, every day, week and month we have fests and events going on. It’s all here: everything from festivals to music-and-dance shows plus comedies and performing arts. Let’s take a look.

FIRST: THE NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL: It goes from Friday, October 8th to Sunday, October 17th or said differently: October 8, 9, 10 and October 15, 16, 17, 2021,

II. WHAT IS JAZZ FEST?

Basically, it’s a 10-day cultural feast where hundreds of musicians, cooks and craftspeople welcome 400,000 visitors annually. It offers music on multiple stages, delicious Louisiana favorites in two food areas and talented crafts artisans who gladly describe and sell their work to attendees.

III. WHERE IS IT HELD?

It takes place at the Fair Grounds Race Course – which is centrally located at 1751 Gentilly Boulevard – or 10 minutes from the French Quarter. The hours are 11 am until 6 pm.

IV. HOW DO WE GET THERE?

Gray Line Tours will operate regular round-trip transportation: THE JAZZ FEST EXPRESS – from three spots:

The Sheraton Hotel located at 500 Canal Street
The Steamboat Natchez Dock at Toulouse Street – or at the River and next to Jax Brewery
A City Park location at the Wisner Boulevard Lot – this is at Fillmore Boulevard or 5700 Wisner Boulevard (on Google maps). Hours: daily from 10:30 am to 6:30 pm

Jazz Fest Express vehicles will use a special entrance to avoid traffic tie-ups and delays. This will bring attendees inside the gates of the festival.

V. IS JAZZ THE ONLY MUSIC FEATURED?

No, no and no – you’ll find the music and culture of New Orleans and Louisiana or, to clarify: blues, R&B, gospel, Cajun, Afro-Caribbean, folk, Latin, rock, country, bluegrass – and everything in-between. Of course, there’s lots of jazz: both contemporary and traditional.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? If you’re looking for a great place to stay during Jazz Fest keep in mind that we’re fairly close – or 1.34 miles from the Fair Grounds Race Course. In addition, we’re only 15 minutes from the French Quarter so you can visit that as well.

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB for any changes or additional information you may want to look into – we want you to have a great time when you visit us.

Christina DiPierro 9/26/21 Christina DiPierro 9/26/21

Ride in Style: Eat and Laugh

Now, we’re heading for the finish line – this is the final blog for September and, if you recall, I’ve written all four blogs this month specifically for visitors to New Orleans. Said differently: I’ve rounded up some of the best things to see and do so you can do ‘em fast-and-easy. A minimum of hassle: I’ve done the digging; you do the exploring.

6. A Streetcar Named Invincible

Sorry, I couldn’t resist this play on “A Streetcar Named Desire” because I truly believe that Tennessee Williams really made the world sit up and listen when his play – and the movie based on it -- became such smash hits worldwide. Now, if you’ve never been on a streetcar you have to definitely put this on your “to do” list

The St. Charles Avenue Streetcar is as essential to Uptown and the Garden District as live oaks and mansions

(W) What year did streetcars start appearing in New Orleans? The St. Charles streetcar line began in 1835 as a passenger railway between New Orleans and a suburb called Carrollton. It was one of the first passenger railroads in America and remains the oldest operating street railway in the world.

(X) How many are there and when do they run? There are five lines that run 24 hours a day – during peak hours, they come along every five minutes or so. The historic St. Charles runs on a 13-mile track that goes “in” and “past” storied streets. You can catch these GREEN CARS all along St. Charles Avenue.

(Y) What is the cost of riding a streetcar? It is just $1.25 each way or LESS if you buy a multi-day pass that will allow you to get “off” and “on” – this means you can take a closer look at things that catch your fancy. For example: live oaks, antebellum mansions plus Loyola and Tulane universities. The most popular place to catch the St. Charles is at Canal and Carondelet streets in the French Quarter. Just look for a YELLOW sign that says, “Car Stop” on a pole near the corner.

(Z) What are the other four? Here’s the lineup: (1) The Canal Street line is a 5.5-mile route that goes into the CBD and winds up at City Park Avenue. (2) The Riverfront line will take you to the French Market, the aquarium and Harrah’s if you’re in the mood to gamble. (3) The Loyola line picks up passengers from the train station and goes to Canal Street and the French Quarter. (4) The Rampart/St. Claude is the newest line – it takes passengers from the train station to Marigny/Bywater + the French Quarter.

It’s time to break loose and have some fun!

7. Beignets: Eat With Abandon

1862 was a banner year. Why? That was the year the Café du Monde (this is French for “Café of the World”) opened on Decatur Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans. It is now a landmark and tourist destination that is known for its café au lait (coffee with milk) and beignets. By the way, its chicory coffee was first introduced to The Big Easy when it was still a colony of France.

IN 1928 a report appeared in the local newspaper that said, “No class distinctions are recognized at the Café du Monde. Sweet young things in evening dress rub elbows with unshaven hucksters in overalls. And dowagers sit down beside gamblers, debutantes, artists and cab drivers. In fact, tourists from all parts of the world mingle and fraternize together.”

IN 2021 not much has changed. At one time or another EVERYONE comes to Café du Monde at any time of the day or night. You read this correctly: Café du Monde is open 24 hours a day, every day with the exception of Christmas Day OR when the city is threatened by a particularly severe hurricane.

THE 18TH century was the time when the French colonists from “the old mother country” brought beignets to New Orleans. A newspaper interview in the 1920s reported that, “sometimes a customer turns up his or her nose at our doughnuts. For example, the other day a lady from New England came into Café du Monde and was served coffee and beignets.

She took one look and said with disdain, “Doughnuts? I don’t want them. Never eat the things.” The finale? She tried one, ended up eating four AND asked for the recipe.”

TODAY Here’s a straightforward description of our delicious beignets: a square piece of dough that is fried and covered with powdered sugar. They are served in orders of three. What they DO NOT tell you is this: to eat this delicacy is nothing like anything you have ever done “in public” in your entire life. The white powdered sugar goes all over you, your clothes, the table, the floor and your shoes – two or more people at a table leads to an incredible mess. But then you look around and realize EVERYONE is in the same boat. The whole experience is one you will probably never have again in your life. It’s a real hoot!!

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? Since you’re really getting into the swing of things with NoLA activities why not stay with us at Rathbone – two antebellum mansions that will REALLY take you back in time. We’ll be very happy to see you!

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB for any updates or changes that may occur during your stay in The Big Easy.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Christina DiPierro 9/20/21 Christina DiPierro 9/20/21

Turtle Soup & Our Famous Sazarac

Now we’re on the third week of our September Series for our favorite folks: the visitors who come to see if New Orleans is everything “they” say it is. I’ll bet that, within a couple of hours, we’ll win you over with our energy, hospitality, sass and big, wide welcoming smiles. CLICK HERE to review our first blog. THEN CLICK HERE to review our second one.

4. Whiskey Sauce Adds a Kick

Before we tackle a favorite topic – namely, our delicious food – I’d just like to explain where you’ll find us. “The Big Easy” (our nick name) is located at the mouth of the Mississippi. It’s bordered by Lake Pontchartrain to the north and the Gulf of Mexico to the east. By the way, in case you didn’t know this, we’re world-famous as the birthplace of jazz.

This map let’s you check out our neighbors:

(R) What on earth is Bread Pudding Soufflé with Whisky Sauce? Believe me, once you’ve had this delicious dessert at Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington Ave., 504-899-8221) you’ll never forget it. Or, as the chef says, “If it ain’t broke, fix it anyway.” So he added a touch of meringue to the restaurant’s original bread pudding. Result? It became the most sought-after item since the restaurant began in 1893 or 128 years ago. Yikes!

(S) When do I order this fantastic dessert? You order it the minute you sit down at your table – even before you look at the menu. Remember: it must be ordered ahead of time and, even if you feel a bit foolish doing this, as I did – JUST DO IT. It will be one of the smartest things you’ve ever done.

(T) What’s the deal with Commander’s turtle soup? Think of it as a bookend: start with a delicious soup and finish with a fabulous dessert. The secret is the “au Sherry” as part of the soup description. It’s a dark, rich, thick stew-type dish that has become legendary.

(U) What are the entrees like? I just checked out the restaurant’s menu and it looks great: Crispy Duck Confit, Creole Gumbo, Pecan Crusted Fish and many more delicious dishes BUT for the life of me I can’t remember what we ordered because I was so taken with the soup and the dessert – never happened to me before – or since.

(V) Should I try to eat differently in NoLA? Yes, yes, absolutely! Go out on a limb and try brand new dishes that you’ve never had in your life. You may be missing the“taste of a lifetime.” Ergo: warm bread pudding covered in a spiked and sweet Whiskey Sauce!

“So what’s in here?” Exploring begins at a young age.

5. America’s First Cocktail

TODAY What is the most ordered cocktail in the world? Based on data from 115 countries, the Margarita claimed the crown as the most popular cocktail internationally. It was the most searched-for cocktail in 30 countries, including the US and the UK, averaging 546,280 searches worldwide per month.

IN 1850 the Sazerac Coffee House was founded in New Orleans. It soon became known as the home of “America’s First Cocktail.” A Creole apothecary (pharmacist or druggist) named Antoine Peychaud invented the Sazerac in his shop at 437 Royal Street in 1838.

IN 1938 or 100 years later, the Sazerac Bar in the Roosevelt Hotel at 130 Roosevelt Way (three blocks from Bourbon Street) began serving this famous drink.

IN 2008 the state of Louisiana passed legislation that made the Sazerac Cocktail the official cocktail of New Orleans. I can’t give an opinion about this drink – alas, I have never had a Sazerac – I’ll put it on my bucket list!

A drink with friends as the sun goes down

TODAY If you’re interested in learning more about this famous drink please visit The Sazerac House – a museum located at 101 Magazine Street that is open from 11 am to 6 pm. You can book a free tour by calling (504) 910-0100.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? The French Quarter Festival takes place this fall from September 30th to October 2nd. This celebration highlights the food, music and culture of this beloved neighborhood. Since “The Quarter” is only a 15-minute stroll from Rathbone Mansions it’s the perfect place for you and yours to stay while you’re visiting New Orleans.

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB for any changes to the info provided in this blog. Overall, we make a great effort to be up-to-the-minute.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Christina DiPierro 9/13/21 Christina DiPierro 9/13/21

Looking Forward to a Cool Fall

WHAT TWO EVENTS ARE WE GOING TO COVER?

FIRST: WEDNESDAY AT THE SQUARE CONCERT SERIES:

The 2021 dates are: Wednesday, October 20th and Wednesday, October 27th plus Wednesday, November 3rd and Wednesday, November 10th – with a rain date on Wednesday, November 17th.

I.WHAT – EXACTLY – IS THIS MUSICAL SERIES?

This series of free outdoor concerts features well-known local artists and highlights a variety of musical styles including: jazz, rock, funk, swamp pop, Latin rhythms and more.

II. WHERE IS IT HELD?

III. ANY FOOD AND DRINKS?

SECOND: THE 2021 NEW ORLEANS BOOK FESTIVAL

Tulane University kicks off its inaugural weekend (Thursday, October 21st to Saturday, October 23rd) with a three-day, in-person literary celebration.

I. WHO AND WHAT WILL BE THERE?

II. WILL WE BE ABLE TO MEET-AND-GREET?

Of course, that’s what will make this event a lot of fun! Readers and authors will be able to interact with each other – one can never tell what will happen!

III. WHAT – EXACTLY – WILL TAKE PLACE?

This event will kick off with a welcome reception on Thursday and conclude with a New Orleans-style celebration on Saturday evening (we all know what THAT means).

IV. WILL WE BE ABLE TO SEE TULANE?

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB if you are looking for any additional information about the events/places described in this blog.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Christina DiPierro 9/10/21 Christina DiPierro 9/10/21

Great Drinks – Jumpin’ Gators

For the month of September 2021 we are going to devote the entire month to two topics each week. Every single one will have a specific goal: to give detailed, up-to-date information about what to drink, eat and where to go when you visit New Orleans.

1.Three Cheers For Us

Since I have experienced roughly 90% of this list you will be getting a first-hand “been there, done that” report without having to search the web yourself – in other words, it’s all here, just for you. Let’s begin with an upcoming event and festival.

(A) Tales of the Cocktail Foundation (TOTCF) is offering a digital format of its “Tales of the Cocktail 2021” conference from September 20th to the 23rd. Call (504) 948-0511. CLICK HERE for more information. https://talesofthecocktail.org/

(B) The National Fried Chicken Festival that will take place from Saturday, October 23 to Sunday, October 24. 2021 will feature fried chicken in more ways than you can imagine. This event will be held near the UNO Lakefront Arena located at 6801 Franklin Avenue (or, said differently: a 17-minute drive from the French Quarter). Entrance to this fun in the sun is FREE!

If it swims – they love it!

2.Gators on Steroids

When my husband Peter and I visited New Orleans one of the “most fun” and exciting things we did was take a guided swamp tour on an airboat. If you’ve never been on one, you’re in for a real treat. Over the years, I’d seen pictures of airboats but nothing beats actually going on one.

(C) What is riding in an airboat like? The short answer is this: lots of speed and noise BUT as you whip along you barely notice the large caged fan at the back of the boat because you’re having so much fun. Airboats can operate in water as shallow as a few inches. There are no parts under the water level.

(D) What’s the difference between a gator and a croc? You can relax. Crocodiles don’t inhabit New Orleans swamps. Between the two, the alligator is smaller (between 6 and 12 ft. in length). Not exactly a dwarf, BUT the crocodile is a giant (up to 20 ft. long).

(E) What do NOLA alligators eat? Not you, so don’t worry! They favor water birds, lizards etc. BUT they really love marshmallows. Put marshmallows at the end of a long branch, hold it up high over the water and watch a gator jump up and up. What a show off!

There’s real good fishin’ in the swamp

(F) What’s the difference between a swamp and a bayou? A swamp is low ground saturated with water – it may have certain kinds of trees while a bayou is a stagnant body of water.

(G) What is the most scenic thing on a swamp tour? For me personally, it was the live oak and bald cypress trees covered with Spanish moss. An astounding fact: the bald cypress can live up to 400 years.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? To make your stay in New Orleans as pleasant as possible be sure to read our blogs for ideas and/or speak to our staff at the front desk. We want you and your family/friends to really enjoy your time in our fair city.

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB for any additional information you may need or want. We strive to give as much “contact verbiage” as possible.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11 IN NEW YORK CITY: THE EVENT THAT SHOOK THE WORLD

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum from the 25th Floor of One World Trade Center

Christina DiPierro 8/30/21 Christina DiPierro 8/30/21

“Gimme Some Green”

Almost nothing restores the human spirit faster than the great outdoors. The simple act of looking at a beautiful flower, plant or tree makes one feel as if “God is in his Heaven all’s right with the world” -- courtesy of Robert Browning, the British poet. Keeping this in mind I’ve decided to explore a topic that includes both New Orleans and New York City. And yes, they both have a great relationship with Mother Nature – so let’s start with New Orleans first.

The spectacular City Park in New Orleans

CITY PARK: THE WORLD’S LARGEST COLLECTION OF MATURE LIVE OAK TREES

New Orleans is home to some of the most stunning parks in the country. City Park’s 1,300 acres are in the heart of the city. Remarkably, it’s one of the oldest parks in the country (around since 1854). You can take a gondola ride, go fishing or have a picnic by one of the bayous or lagoons.

ARMSTRONG PARK: A STUNNING ARCHWAY OFFERS A WARM WELCOME TO ALL

This park is named after one of the city’s most celebrated native sons, Louis Armstrong. Festivals, celebrations and concerts that honor the musical traditions of New Orleans are often held here. At the south end you’ll find Congo Square, an historic open-air gathering place of slaves and free people of color throughout the 19th century.

WOLDENBERG PARK: 16 ACRES OF GREENERY FROM THE MISSISSIPPI TO THE FRENCH QUARTER

One can begin or end a walk in this Park with a visit to the Audubon Aquarium where you’ll see a 90 ft. water feature. There is also a riverside jogging path and picnic spots or waterfront benches that offer some of the city’s best views of the river traffic on the Mississippi.

AUDUBON PARK: A SCENIC RIDE ON THE ST. CHARLES STREETCAR GOES RIGHT TO THE ENTRANCE

This park dates back to 1898. Sprawling green lawns can be found in every corner along with stunning oak trees draped with Spanish moss. Best of all, there’s the Audubon Zoo where one can look at whooping cranes, leopards, tigers and the mysterious white alligator.

THE GARDEN DISTRICT: THE NAME SAYS IT ALL -- THIS 134-ACRE SPOT HAS MANSIONS AND MORE

This neighborhood’s beauty is best experienced up-close and on foot. However, we hasten to add that the St. Charles streetcar affords great views of this area with its giant oaks and oversized azaleas. But now it’s time to move on to the latest “greenery” news from New York City.

THE LITTLE ISLAND: IT HAS BEEN 10 YEARS IN THE MAKING – AND FINALLY – IT’S HERE IN NYC

Little Island is a brand new public playground that is: (1) a floating island, (2) a pier and, (3) a park – that’s quite a combo. It has 35 species of trees, and 65 of shrubs plus 270 varieties of grasses, perennials, vines and bulbs.

A dramatic aerial view of the 2.4-acre Little Island: an amazing structure – note the 700-seat amphitheater in the foreground

The location itself is amazing. It is in the Hudson River just off West 14th Street or, said differently: a mere 200 feet from busy Eleventh Avenue.

Behind all this is the Diller-von Furstenberg Family Foundation that is headed by former Hollywood mogul, Barry Diller who has paid for the whole project – even when it ended up costing more than twice the original estimate of $130 million. Do the math.

“We had our first meeting on it 10 years ago, and I am kind of surprised it’s actually opening,” says Diller in an interview with the New York Post newspaper.

The whole project is on a platform supported by 132 CONCRETE TULIPS – that are mounted on pilings where the old Pier 54 stood. And make no mistake – they look absolutely spectacular. Probably the most photogenic tulips in the Western Hemisphere – when I first saw them the hair went up on the back of my neck.

IT’S A COMPACT, ROLLING WONDERLAND that seems much larger than its 2.4 acres – mainly because of its peaks, valleys and serpentine walkways. It has three main areas: (1) a playground with snacks, (2) an amphitheater with 700 seats, and (3) a “Glade” area for peace and quiet.

Little Island is FREE and open daily from 6 am to 1 am. For General Contact: info@littleisland.org for Ticketing Contact: please use ticketing@littleisland.org

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? Whether you plan to visit the cities of New Orleans or New York in the next six months or so – you’ll have a great time (as a reward for making it through a calamitous pandemic that upended the entire world). No matter, it’s time for you and yours to enjoy yourself.

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB for any additional information about the parks that we mention in this blog.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Christina DiPierro 8/23/21 Christina DiPierro 8/23/21

The Prof and Alabama

I’ll say one thing about Columbia University: it definitely keeps in contact with its grads. I get an endless stream of brochures, emails – even phone calls from this institution. Recently, I received a publication dated “Spring/Summer 2021 that had a heart-warming piece about a radiology professor and his garden that’s (get this) smack in the middle “of a brick-and-limestone urban campus.” This eye-opener by Paul Hond is one of the most interesting pieces I’ve read in recent months.

The creative and beautifully rendered cover of the Spring/Summer 2021 publication – the bronze walking lion on a large granite pedestal is my favorite

“I WAS BORN TO BE A FARMER,” says Tommy Vaughan, as he surveys his modest L-shaped plot – just steps away from his office in the Shapiro Center for Engineering and Physical Science Research – that has long served as an ad hoc student-run garden. But last spring, after the pandemic hit and the weeds took over Vaughan decided to roll up his sleeves and start digging.

After obtaining official permission he planted seeds for a small field of vegetables. Since then he has raised carrots, corn, beets, turnips, onions, squash, beans, peppers, kale, broccoli and cucumbers. He finally realized that he was returning to his roots in Alabama. He named the plot the George Washington Carver Victory Garden, after America’s most famous agricultural scientist.

“IN THE 1930s WE HAD THE GREAT Depression, the Dust Bowl and the depletion of the soil due to decades of intensive cotton farming,” says the professor. “Carver promoted new crops – such as peanuts and sweet potatoes, that not only could be grown on the depleted soil but could also restore it.”

Vaughan’s grandmother taught him how to plant vegetables when he was six-years-old. He learned the right way to do this because it was in accordance with Carver’s principles of crop rotation and self-sufficiency.

Vaughan with his bounty of nature – artwork courtesy of Columbia

Carver’s legacy also lives in the phrase “victory gardens” – which began as “war gardens.” At the time of Carver’s death in 1943 (when he was then an advisor to presidents and politicians) and at the height of another war – Americans, facing rationing again, had planted millions of victory gardens.

“TODAY, CHILDREN TELL THEIR PARENTS that they want to visit our garden,” says Vaughan. “We label the rows, so they can get to know all the names of the vegetables. And whenever I’m out there weeding and watering, I assume the role of garden interpreter,” says Vaughan. “The kids are a wonderful audience.”

Vaughan holds posts at Columbia Engineering, CUIMC and Zukerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute. The eight to ten hours doing “nice tedious laborious work” provides respite from the lab and the classroom. It also draws him back to the basics of life.

“IT’S HUGE THERAPY FOR ME TO DIG IN the dirt, plant things and watch them grow,” he says. “It also brings together two parts of my life. One, by honoring George Washington Carver and two, by connecting rural Alabama to a campus in the heart of Manhattan.”

Light yet filling: has peas, shallots, Pearl barley, baby spinach and strawberries plus Parmesan cheese and buttermilk dressing – yummy!

CLICK HERE to read our blog titled, “What’s Happening in Alabama?” You may be in for a surprise!

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? It takes roughly five hours to drive from Alabama to New Orleans and 19 hours to drive from New York to New Orleans. Do you think that’s a lot? Not so, I’ve driven from New York to California and that’s 10 states + umpteen hours. Come for a visit – no matter how far you drive, you’ll have a great time when you get here. That’s a promise.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Christina DiPierro 8/16/21 Christina DiPierro 8/16/21

“After Hours” in New Orleans

We’ve put a different spin on where to eat-and-drink for this write-up. It includes nine spots under the headings: Classic, Casual, Date Night and Late Night. Amazingly, each offers a twist on what-and-how to eat, drink and be entertained – so take your pick and have some fun!

ONE: CLASSIC

THE SAZERAC BAR in the Roosevelt Hotel

130 Roosevelt Way, phone: (504) 648-1200

This famous Art Deco bar offers classic drinks and plush banquette seating. If you’re looking for an elegant Old World vibe this bar is for you. It’s named after – what many consider to be – the world’s first mixed drink that was created by a druggist (named Antoine Peychaud in the 1850s). This after-dinner drink is made up of cognac, absinthe, a sugar cube and a dash of Peychaud Bitters.

THE CAROUSEL BAR & Lounge in the Hotel Monteleone

214 Royal St. phone: (504) 523-3341

This is New Orleans only revolving bar. Or, as they proudly proclaim, “We Have Been Spinning For Over 70 Years.” Basically, it’s a 25-seat whimsical carousel that serves The Sazerac (that’s a given) along with anything else you may desire: e.g., the Daiquiri, Margarita, Cosmopolitan and many more.

THE FRENCH 75 BAR is in Arnaud’s Restaurant at

813 Bienville St. (just off Bourbon), phone: (504) 523-5433

This 4 1/2-star bar is located in the heart of the French Quarter. The famous Arnaud’s restaurant offers Classic Creole cuisine and has been doing so since 1918. It also offers Dixieland Jazz in the Jazz Bistro and romantic dinners in the Main Dining Room. Esquire magazine claims that it is “One of the Top Five Bars in the Country.”

TWO: CASUAL

The Silk Road Restaurant & Wine Bar

2483 Royal St. phone: (504) 494-8307

THE SILK ROAD features the modern cuisine of India and Asia. Here’s what one diner had to say, “The ambiance was charming, soft-lit and romantic for those looking for a date venue. The red curry was delicious – the food is truly a blend of Creole and Indian.” Another adds, “The Restaurant Week menu was awesome.”

Picnic Provisions & Whiskey

741 State St. phone: (504) 266-2810

PICNIC PROVISIONS & WHISKEY celebrates the traditional American picnic. But with a twist! The menu is pure New Orleans-style: Crab & Corn Beignets, Smoked Pulled-pork Po-boy, Cajun Hotdog and Boudin Egg Rolls – you get the picture. Remember: the Rathbone hotel has kitchen facilities in some rooms so you can picnic indoors at any hour if you wish.

THREE: DATE NIGHT

Cane and Table Restaurant

1113 Decatur St. phone: (504) 581-1112

CANE & TABLE notes that their building is located in the heart of the French Quarter. This restaurant offers vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. One pleased patron recently wrote, “Everything we had was very tasty.” Another writes, “I definitely recommend The Hurricane – if you want to sample one that’s not made from a mix. I also really liked the Coctel de Camarones (Mexican Shrimp Cocktail) and the Paella.“

The Effervescence Restaurant

1036 N. Rampart St. phone: (504) 509-7644

EFFERVESCENCE offers sparkling wines and small plates served in a sophisticated, modern setting that includes outdoor seating. It describes itself as a “French Quarter Destination for Lovers of Bubbles.” Translation: this is a place where champagne is the drink of choice. There’s a long list of sparkling wines from: France, California, Brazil and England that can be ordered by glass, flight or bottle. You can accompany your sparkler with caviar, oysters, shrimp and more.

FOUR: LATE NIGHT

The Saints and Sinners Bar

627 Bourbon St. phone: (504) 528-9307

SAINTS AND SINNERS is a trendy lounge styled like an old-time bordello. Meaning: there is an explosion of RED and it’s everywhere – on the bar, chairs, walls and even the ceiling. They also have a balcony that overlooks Bourbon Street. Food selections include Mac and Cheese plus Red Beans and Rice – basic all-American fare. This is a restaurant that turns into a club at 10 pm.

The Spirits on Bourbon Street Bar

615 Bourbon St. phone: (504) 524-6014

SPIRITS ON BOURBON is a lively bar that serves cocktails with Cajun-type pub grub to the sound of dueling pianos (that’s a touch I’ve never seen in New Orleans). One patron writes, “I went for their drink named The Resurrection and it was excellent. Believe it or not, I also got to keep the glass that lights up.” WHAT! You read that correctly: it’s an icy blue cocktail served in a skull-shaped cup that flashes with phantom lights. (I’ve never seen this anywhere on planet earth.)

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? Please keep us in mind when you’re looking for digs in New Orleans. Why? First of all we’re only a 15-minute stroll from the French Quarter – where the famous Bourbon Street is located. And second, our antebellum hotel will really remind you that you’re in the Deep South – nothing like back home.

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB or call on the phone for any additional information you may need about any of restaurants/bars listed in this blog.

Christina DiPierro 8/9/21 Christina DiPierro 8/9/21

Naomi Campbell in Kenya

I have had a subscription to Architectural Digest magazine for as long as I can remember and it never fails to surprise. That said, one recent issue that I received included a 10-page article with fabulous photos by Khadija Farah of Campbell’s villa in Malindi – a tropical town situated on a stretch of idyllic, white sandy beaches and warm, blue tropical waters on the north coast of Kenya.

I have borrowed liberally from this piece (beautifully written by Lola Ogunnaike) simply because I know very little about this part of the world and even less about the spectacular retreat that Campbell has owned for the past 20 years. What I also learned about her career as a supermodel – it started when she was 15-years-old – was fascinating to say the least.

Keeping up with the times, Campbell is a constant presence on social media. She regularly updates her more than 10 million Instagram followers (and nearly 500,000 YouTube subscribers) with archival images from her storied career and videos from her far-flung travels. She sums up her actions with this fascinating quote.

“NEVER REST ON YOUR LAURELS – I still like what I do.” Then she adds, “I use myself as a gateway to uplift and guide my culture on the right path. This is what drives me.”

When it’s time to unplug, her idyllic retreat is the epitome of indoor-outdoor living. It serves as a haven from the pace of her native London and adopted New York City.

“IT’S A VERY CALMING PLACE,” she says. “You don’t really want to be on the phone. You’re not trying to find a television. You just want to read and be with yourself. It’s nice to just have the silence and the crickets.” (She’s right. We used to listen to the crickets at night on Block Island, Rhode Island – they’re very low key and reassuring.)

Campbell first visited Malindi in the mid-1990s and returned a few years later with a longtime friend, the owner of this Kenyan luxury resort, which houses a handful of private residences. It includes Campbell’s getaway and is just over an hour’s flight from Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi.

The beauty of Malindi has long been a favorite of the Italian jet set. “ALL THE LOCALS SPEAK ITALIAN,” Campbell shares. “It’s like LittleItaly in East Africa.”

When Campbell is in the mood to entertain, twin voile-curtained pergolas serve as the perfect space for family-style dinners. Taking a walkabout here is a delight because Campbell enjoys furniture shopping throughout Africa. She has found great success in Marrakech and Cairo. “SENEGAL HAS AMAZING FURNITURE,” she notes. “Every time I go. I buy furniture that I store away.”

Armando Tanzini designed the hand-carved wooden doors (above). They depict two men dancing in traditional ceremonial dress. The artist is an award winner who has lived and worked in Malindi for many years.

Some of Campbell’s fondest memories are tied to Kenya outings. For example, the annual Great Migration. “It’s a wonderful thing to see in July,” she says. “ALL THE ANIMALS ARE CROSSING OVER FROM KENYA TO TANZANIA.” It’s incredible! It’s like seeing National Geographic come to life right before your eyes.”

The makuti-thatched roof is made from the sun-dried leaves of the coconut palm. This type of roof has been a staple in East Africa for centuries. The leaves are hand-sewn in intricate layers. “We’ve had this one for at least 12 years and it’s still in good shape,” she says. “IT’S JUST LIKE A PIECE OF ART.”

And now we’ve come to the most recent news about Naomi Campbell. I first spotted this in the New York Post newspaper of Wednesday, May 19, 2021 where Campbell announced that SHE HAS JUST BECOME A MOTHER! Congratulations, Naomi! We wish you all the best.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? We can’t promise a wildlife adventure in New Orleans like the Great Migration BUT we’re only 20 minutes away from the Audubon Zoo and their white alligators with deep blue eyes. Yikes!

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Christina DiPierro 8/1/21 Christina DiPierro 8/1/21

Are You in the Mood for Italian Cuisine?

There are 993 restaurants in New York City that serve Italian dishes ONLY so I know that this cuisine is very popular. There are also 845 that just sell PIZZA and finally – there are 453 that sell both Italian and pizza. As you can see, Italian restaurants are very popular in The Big Apple.

The same applies to New Orleans: this type of food is popular with both residents and visitors. When I made up this list I focused on two things: no overlapping of locations or dishes. My aim was to cast a wide net and come up with a good number of different choices – so here goes.

AVO RESTAURANT

5908 Magazine St., (504) 509-6550

You’ll find Avo, a regional Italian restaurant, located between Nashville and State streets. Nick Lama, a third-generation Sicilian is the chef at Avo. This means the menu is inspired both by his family’s recipes and classic dishes such as Lasagna.

If you have a yen for something different why not try their delicious grilled octopus? One diner writes, “The octopus was cooked to perfection – very tender.”

THE ITALIAN BARREL

1240 Decatur St., (504) 569-0198

This award-winning restaurant prides itself on serving classic Northern Italian cuisine. The owner and chef, Samantha Castagnetti believes in serving the freshest and highest quality food she can find – whether it’s sourced locally or across the globe.

The dress code here is “Dress Casual.” Or, coats and ties are not required BUT males are asked not to wear open-toed shoes, tank tops or athletic wear and to remove their hats in the dining room.

DOMENICA RESTAURANT

123 Baronne St., (504) 648-6020

This restaurant is part of the elegant Roosevelt Hotel in the Central Business District of New Orleans – that’s about a block away from the French Quarter. Let’s begin by saying that Domenica is a lot classier than your typical neighborhood pizzeria.

They’re famous for their pizza that is cooked in an oven made in Parma, Italy and features a rotating base that can hold up to 13 pizzas at a time. It cooks the crust to perfection every time – that’s pretty remarkable!

Delicious pizza is always a family favorite – quick and fun to eat

JOSEPHINE ESTELLE RESTAURANT

600 Carondelet St., (504) 930-3070

PURE WOW! When I saw a shot of this restaurant it took my breath away. It’s described as a “soaring dining room with spectacular, ornate décor.” You’ll find it in the Ace Hotel, located in the Warehouse District. Two James Beard Award-nominated chefs are behind the Southern-inspired Italian menu.

Since it’s at the corner of Carondelet and Lafayette streets, it’s close to up-and-coming art galleries, shops and museums. Moreover, it’s just a bike ride to the lively Bywater and Marigny neighborhoods.

ARABELLA CASA DI PASTA

2258 St. Claude Ave., (504) 533-9223

This is a laid-back Italian eatery specializing in build-your-own pasta dishes with various sauces and add-ons. Their focus has always been on the food: organic chicken, grass-fed beef and locally sourced seafood plus fresh, handmade pastas and seasonal salads.

The Arabella Casa Di Pasta offers a fun and relaxed environment. Or as one reviewer writes, “It’s like your Grandma’s house -- if your grandma was Italian.”

MANDINA’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

3800 Canal St., (504) 482-9179

Mandina’s has been a favorite restaurant for Italian home-style cooking for more than eight decades. It began as an Italian grocery at the turn of the 20th century. Now it offers everything from shrimp, crab and oysters to classic Veal Parmesan with Spaghetti.

Come visit this two-story pink house with white trim and see for yourself. Then sample their delicious homemade Turtle Soup with Sherry – a classic if there ever was one.

THE MONA LISA

1212 Royal St., (504) 522-6746

You have to go to the Mona Lisa if you’re in New Orleans! It’s a quaint and cozy neighborhood Italian restaurant. One enthusiastic diner reports, “We absolutely love their pizzas and think they are the best in the French Quarter. You can choose from traditional red sauce or, if you prefer, their garlic butter sauce.”

This place is “vegetarian friendly” and offers “vegan options.” On the walls you’ll see versions of the Mona Lisa that overlook red-checkered tablecloths on the tables. We’ve heard that she approves.

RIZZUTO’S RISTORANTE & CHOP HOUSE

6262 Fleur De Lis Drive, (504) 300-1804

The Rizzuto's family's drive and energy over generations has brought this place from its early beginnings as a simple grocery stand founded by their immigrant ancestors, into today’s new-restaurant-concept “Rizzuto's Ristorante & Chop House.”

On the menu you’ll find steaks or chops that range from an eight-ounce center-cut filet to a 22-ounce bone-in, rib-eye steak. The bar menu features Kobe beef sliders and truffle fries.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? Remember: if you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine you can dine at one of the spots we’ve mentioned in this blog. Or, you can buy a delicious takeout pizza. Best of all, you can prepare a steaming bowl of pasta and team it with a small salad, garlic bread and a glass of wine -- our kitchenette facilities give you lots of options.

Or, as we’ve said before, “You Only Get One Spin.” CLICK HERE to read again.

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB for any additional information you may need about any of the Italian restaurants mentioned in this blog.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Christina DiPierro 7/26/21 Christina DiPierro 7/26/21

A Spectacular Tale

Earlier this year I received an email from my kid sister who lives in British Columbia. She wrote about a book that she had read for her monthly Book Club meeting. Since I had never heard of the book or the author I decided to do a little digging.

The author, Delia Owens, is an American author and zoologist who was born in southern Georgia and grew up riding horses in the woods around her family’s home in Thomasville – slightly over 200 miles from Atlanta.

In 2018 her fictional book, (that takes place in North Carolina) and is called “Where the Crawdads Sing,” was published. By December 2019 it had sold over 4.5 million copies. As of January of this year, Crawdads has spent 124 weeks as a New York Times Best Seller.

Last, but not least, the movie production company owned by Reese Witherspoon (another southern dynamo) has plans for a Crawdads film. CLICK HERE to read our 2020 blog about Witherspoon who grew up in Nashville.

On the right side of the cover it says, “The Worldwide Sensation” and inside you’ll see, “More Than 10 Million Copies Sold Worldwide”

A BRIEF DESCRIPTION

The best way to describe this book is that it is a “page turner” – but in my opinion that’s too trite – it’s much more than that. I purchased the book at the Amazon bookstore (on 34th Street, just off Fifth Avenue in NYC) and arrived home around 4:00 pm in the afternoon. I sat down and thought I’d take a quick look at it: big mistake. HUGE.

It grabbed me in such a way that I couldn’t move: I read straight through (no dinner) all night (no sleep) and into the morning until 11 am (no breakfast). When I finally got up I could barely move I was so stiff – then I crashed.

I’m purposely keeping the story itself brief because I don’t want to spoil Crawdads for those who haven’t read it. Briefly, it describes the life of a young girl named Kya who grows up isolated in the marsh of North Carolina from 1952 to 1969. Her mother and, later her father, abandon her – as well as the rest of the family. As she gets older, she faces prejudice from the local folks and is called “The Marsh Girl.”

Later, she falls in love with a young man named Tate Walker who heads for college and promises to return but doesn’t. Then, at 19 she has another romantic relationship with a playboy named Chase Andrews who promises marriage. Her hopes are dashed when she reads of his engagement with another in the local newspaper. She retaliates in a stunning way that you will never guess in a million years. JUST READ THE BOOK.

I’M HOOKED: A 2ND BOOK

After I recovered, I took a good look at the book and saw that “Cry of the Kalahari” by Mark and Delia Owens was listed as a previous publication by these authors. I have always been interested in deserts because when I was growing up, we used to drive through Washington to Spokane and up to the US/Canada border to see relatives. This meant going through the Yakima Valley desert. That’s where we’d smell sagebrush and see tumbleweed rolling along – a real treat.

Delia Owns and her husband Mark spent seven years looking closely at the wildlife in the Kalahari Desert – a vast area of Southern Africa

The Kalahai book was published in 1984 so I wasn’t sure if Amazon would have it. They didn’t. So I headed up to Barnes and Noble at 46th and Fifth where they ordered it for me.

Here is an excellent write-up from the back of the Kalahari book, “Carrying little more than a change of clothes and a pair of binoculars, two young Americans caught a plane to Africa, bought a third-hand Land Rover truck and drove deep into the Kalahari Desert. There they lived for seven years, in an unexplored area with no roads, no people and no source of water. In this vast wilderness they began their research, working alongside animals that had never seen humans. This is the story of life with lions, brown hyenas, jackals, giraffes and many other creatures.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? Well, we can’t promise any hair-raising adventures if you stay with us. But we’ll do our best to make your New Orleans visit as pleasant as possible with: comfy beds, our pristine pool and hands-on service that you’ll love. Come, you deserve it!

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Christina DiPierro 7/19/21 Christina DiPierro 7/19/21

Alfresco Dining in New Orleans

When the sun starts heading down it’s fun to sit outside and dine in style. Even the food seems to taste better when eaten outdoors. Remember all those days when, as a kid, you gobbled up everything Mom brought – in a big basket – to the beach. All picky eating vanished.

CAFÉ AMELIE, 912 Royal Street. Dine at this restaurant, in a lush French Quarter courtyard, for a truly unique experience. It’s the ideal setting for dinner or a leisurely weekend brunch on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm and for dinner on Friday and Saturday from 5 pm to 9 pm. Do come and enjoy their Roasted Chicken with Buttermilk Waffle Topped with Sausage Gravy.

BACCHANAL FINE WINE & SPIRITS is at 600 Poland Avenue and offers the funkiest yard party in Bywater! You’ll find live music on the patio starting at noon on weekends, 5 pm on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. One upbeat reviewer says: “This is a hidden gem! Buy a bottle of wine, grab some cheeses and have the guys in the kitchen make up a platter. If we had pillows we would have stayed all night!

BAYONA, 430 Dauphine Street. This place has been charming diners since it opened in 1990. It’s set in a romantic 18th century Creole cottage but the vibe is very “today” – casual and inviting. You’ll find Small Plates during Happy Hour plus Vegetarian and Vegan delights. Chef Susan Spicer uses the freshest local ingredients to craft flavorful, complex dishes. Be sure to request a courtyard table.

COPPER VINE can be found at 1001 Poydras Street. You’ll find a great outdoor patio here with a live plant wall and a glass ceiling. This lushness is both pretty and welcoming. Copper Vine offers “Weekday Happy Hour Flights & Bites” that include: $8 Wine Flights, $8 Local Brew Flights AND special snack pairings by Chef Amy for under $6. Happy Hour is 2 pm to 6 pm. My feeling about this restaurant is that it puts great emphasis on “uniqueness.”

BLUE OAK BBQ, 900 N. Carrollton Avenue has a spacious patio that fills up on game days. That said, we believe any day is good for chilling out at this popular Mid-City spot. Happy Hour runs from Tuesday until Friday, 3 pm to 6 pm. This place is described as “A Southern barbecue joint with a down-home vibe selling sandwiches, classic plates and sides.”

DELACHAISE WINE BAR is located at 3442 St. Charles Avenue. It has a uniquely shaped outdoor space with ample seating. If you order food and a drink at the bar a server will deliver it to you when it’s ready. This bistro offers Lamb Burgers, Salmon Johnny Cakes and is rumored to have “The Best Fries in Louisiana.” You can watch one of our famous streetcars pass by while sipping some bubbly.

BROUSSARD’S RESTAURANT & COURTYARD is located at 819 Conti Street. This is one of the grand old French Creole restaurants in the French Quarter. You can take a seat in their lush outdoor space and order a classic dish or a seasonal special. The Gulf Shrimp Linguine with caramelized onions, herbs and olives is a real winner. Come and enjoy.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? If you are a guest you can treat yourself to a free drink by our pool before you head out for fun and eats in our fabled city. It’s a nice way to start your evening at an outdoor café.

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB for any additional information you may need about any of the places we write about here.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Christina DiPierro 7/13/21 Christina DiPierro 7/13/21

What’s Happening in August?

Make no mistake: this is the month where the temperature is usually around 91 degrees (rarely goes above 97) and can dip to 78 for a cooling off spell. But that can’t stop the fun from happening! Looking over the list of past events at this time brings up: The Satchmo Summer Fest, Southern Decadence, White Linen Night and the Red Dress Run. Of these, the only one that I haven’t written about is Red Dress Run – so here goes,

THE RED DRESS RUN

This event always takes place on the second Saturday in August (8/14/21) – and, according to my research, it may or may not take place this year. That said I still want to write a brief description of it because it sounds like a lot of fun and it’s for a very good cause. UPDATE: Will Definitely Go On

The Hash House Harriers (a local “drinking club with a running problem”) hosts The Red Dress Run in New Orleans. It doubles as a fundraiser – and a chance to party. All proceeds go directly to charity. The run begins in Crescent Park where the runners, with drinks in hand, go through the French Quarter – this results in a sea of red with a lot of lopsided running, joyous hooting and doubling-over laughing.

Participants in the Red Dress Run sign up to support local charities – and provide live music and beers for the run. Crescent Park opens at 9:00 am with a DJ playing until the run starts two hours later. This is when runners swarm into the French Quarter. Following the run, lunch is served at noon back at Crescent Park for those who registered. The menu includes fish tacos, red beans and rice, jambalaya, hot dogs, sausage, Po-boys, pizza and more. Beer, wine and snowballs will be flowing throughout the day.

Please note that Crescent Park is located right on the riverfront in Bywater. It stretches for 1.4 miles along the Mississippi, providing unparalleled views and access to the water.

WHITE LINEN NIGHT

Again, this situation is iffy. However, at the present time White Linen Night is scheduled for Saturday, August 7, 2021. This event has been described as, “more of a block party than a festival.” CLICK HERE to read our blog about White Linen Night.

I just reviewed this blog. It touches on the history of white linen and why it is used, where and when this event takes place and the most popular drinks in New Orleans. UPDATE: Will Definitely Go On

THE SATCHMO SUMMER FEST

The 2021 dates for this event are Saturday, July 31 and Sunday, August 1. To get the hot skinny on Louis Armstrong CLICK HERE for a close look at his fascinating life and accomplishments. UPDATE: Will Definitely Go On

SUMMER IN THE SOUTH

Finally, take a look at our Summer in the South for a description of the event named: “Southern Decadence ” CLICK HERE for our report.

In 2021, Southern Decadence has been scheduled for Thursday, September 2 until Monday, September 6. UPDATE: Will Definitely Go On

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? We’re in two lovely antebellum mansions that will definitely make you feel as if you’re living in a different era. We’ve all been through a lot lately – it’s definitely time for fun and lots of laughs!

PLEASE CHECK ALL INFO AGAIN for late-breaking information about these events – we double-checked everything very carefully – but one never knows what will happen during this trying time.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Christina DiPierro 7/6/21 Christina DiPierro 7/6/21

A Toe in the Water: The Two-day Visit #2

This blog brings the total to four days of nonstop fun in NOLA. First, we took a look at what one can do in two days. CLICK HERE to refresh your memory. Now we’re following this up with another two days to equal a FOUR-DAY sojourn in The Big Easy.

DAY THREE:

FAUBOURG MARIGNY AND BYWATER

MORNING:

- Join the Confederacy of Cruisers: a bike company that offers cycling tours through scenic Creole neighborhoods, namely: Faubourg, Marigny, Tremé and colorful Bywater – call (504) 400-5468

- Stroll in Washington Square Park that’s located at Elysian Fields and anchors Frenchmen Street with its incredible music scene.

THEN:

- Walk east (or down) along Royal or Congress Streets and take a look at all the colorful houses. Go by Press Street and you’ll be in Bywater, where you’ll see Dr. Bob’s Folk Art at 3027 Chartres Street. Then stroll into City Park (roughly 50% larger than Central Park in New York City) where you’ll have great views of the Mississippi River.

DRINKS:

- Stop at 600 Poland Avenue for Bacchanal and enjoy wine and cheese with live music playing on a back patio: it’s a lovely and relaxing scene.

FUN:

- Stay in this area to enjoy live music on St. Claude Avenue or onFrenchmen Street – it’s usually crowded and buzzing,– but it offers live music ranging from traditional jazz to blues and rock. This street attracts audiences from all over the world.

There are times when “A Toe in the Water” is definitely the best way to go

DAY FOUR:

MID-CITY AND THE TREMÉ

MORNING:

- The Backstreet Cultural Museum is located at 1116 Henriette Delille Street in the Tremé (the oldest African-American neighborhood in the United States). Stopping here is a must if you come to New Orleans. It’s a small museum that holds the world’s best collection of traditions such as: the Mardi Gras Indians, jazz funerals, Pleasure Clubs and Skull and Bone Gangs (a tradition that dates back to 1819).

- The Louis Armstrong Park is just steps away from the French Quarter. Its iconic, arched entrance can be spotted at once. Inside you’ll find Congo Square (a historic meeting place for slaves in the 1800s). Come and view sculptures, marvel at the serenity of duck ponds and relax with lots of greenery and open spaces

LUNCH:

- Enjoy delicious soul food at the Dooky Chase restaurant, 2301 Orleans Avenue, (504) 821-0600. One visitor says, “The four of us went there for lunch – they ordered seafood and I ordered the fried chicken that the restaurant is known for -- at the end, the three of them had finished and then all three tried to pick chicken off my plate.”

THEN:

- Take a stroll up Esplanade Avenue, one of the quietest, most scenic and historic streets in New Orleans. View all the stately Creole mansions under live oak trees as you walk along

- Go on Esplanade until you reach the 1,300-acre City Park where you’ll find the New Orleans Museum of Art, the oldest fine arts museum in New Orleans – it hosts an impressive permanent collection of 40,000 objects. Phone: (504) 658-4100

After this, you can stop for a rest on the banks of bucolic Bayou St. John where you can sail, eat or drink at a local beer garden.

DINNER:

- Dine at Café Degas, a classic French Bistro you’ll find at 3127 Esplanade Avenue (fairly close to Rathbone Mansions). It can be reached at (504) 945-5635. For dinner one can order entrées such as: pan-seared gulf fish, hanger steak or crawfish and spinach quiche. For desert we suggest Chocolate Decadence to round out your meal with style.

DRINKS:

- Enjoy an after-dinner drink at the welcoming Twelve Mile Limit, a watering hole with a pool table and patio that offers cocktails and beer. It is located at 500 S. Telemachus Street and is open from 5:00 pm until 2 am.

FUN:

- PURE WOW! Hail an Uber cab and spend the rest of your evening at the Mid-City Rock & Bowl – a super fun spot that has bowling lanes, a bar with Creole-inspired eats plus live music by local legends and a dance floor. It’s at 3016 S. Carrollton Avenue and can be reached at (504) 861-1700. Please remember: Uber operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week in New Orleans.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? If you’re in the mood for an elegant, fun place to stay that will remind you of the gracious antebellum South then we’re the spot for you. Have you ever slept in a four-poster bed? Come and see ours – you’ll fall in love in seconds!

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB for any additional information about any of the places you see in this blog.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Christina DiPierro 6/28/21 Christina DiPierro 6/28/21

Think “Free” in NOLA, Part 2

Here are more ideas on how to enjoy the freebies that we have in The Big Easy and, if you to missed Part 1 CLICK HERE to catch up and review.

Overall, I explored 18 possibilities: 12 are completely free and six charge a modest fee ($25 or less).

EXPLORE ELEGANT ROYAL STREET: FREE

Royal Street runs parallel to Bourbon Street. Yet this thoroughfare – one of the finest stretches of art galleries, antique stores, restaurants and architecture in the country – is sometimes almost completely missed by visitors.

The blocks of Royal between St. Louis and St. Ann Streets become a pedestrian mall from 11am to 4pm. You’ll find the shop, Trashy Diva at 537 Royal (504) 522-4233 and it’s a must-visit – the name alone can stop traffic. You’ll find 40s and 50s-inspired retro dresses, jewelry, lingerie and much more. There’s an entire line of clothes for those who love rockabilly (country + rock), plus some corsets and other fun finds if you’re feeling adventurous. Some sections of Royal are fenced off to form pedestrian malls (don’t bike through these areas—you will be ticketed).

New Orleans is even more magical when the sun sets and night falls

VISIT OUR BOTANICAL GARDENS: $10

From the 1930s on, we've been proud to offer views of our cultivated Botanical Gardens in City Park. Open year-round, ten acres of gardens and art await you. Whether you are a local or a visitor, make sure to take a leisurely stroll through our many gardens where more than 2,000 plants from around the world are featured. It usually takes 1 1/2 to 2 hours to walk through – but feel free to stay longer if you wish.

NEW ORLEANS GLASSWORKS: FREE

Here is where you’ll find free daily demonstrations, studios, cutting-edge facilities, and first-class workshops led by master craftsmen. There’s also a gallery/exhibit space for contemporary art, with demos and artists working in studios on-site. This unique endeavor is located at 727 Magazine Street (504) 529-7277. Watching an artist create a beautiful piece is an incredible experience.

Housed in a restored 1800's brick building with over 25,000 sq. ft., the New Orleans GlassWorks & Printmaking Studio is located between Girod and Julia Streets. This means that it’s less than two blocks from the St. Charles streetcar line and the National World War II Museum.

SAIL AWAY ON THE ALGIERS FERRY: $4

Since 1827, the ferry has traveled across the Mississippi River to Algiers Point, a historic neighborhood with loads of 19th century village charm. You can board the ferry at the foot of Canal Street – right next to the Aquarium of the Americas. Round trip for pedestrians and bikers is $4.

THE HISTORIC NOLA COLLECTION: FREE

The Historic New Orleans Collection (THNOC) is a museum, research center, and publisher dedicated to preserving the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South. It has helped local residents and visitors become aware – and learn about -- the multicultural history of the region through thought-provoking exhibitions; original books, periodicals and articles. This treasure is located at 520 Royal Street (504) 523-4662.

Chatting, strolling and just having fun – all free at Jackson Square

LONGUE VUE HOUSE & GARDENS: $10

You can set your own pace when you opt for a self-guided stroll through the gardens and grounds. Or, bring a picnic basket and enjoy dining under the shade of majestic Oak Allée. A guided tour of the house OR garden is $20, while a tour of the house AND garden is $25. Location: 7 Bamboo Road, New Orleans, (504) 488-5488.

THE ALLWAYS LOUNGE: FREE LESSONS

You can swing dance every Sunday at this lively joint. The Lounge offers free swing dance lessons, courtesy of the NOLA Jitterbugs Dance School. One visitor says, “I totally recommend checking out this diamond-in-the-rough; especially on Sunday nights when they offer lessons that really get things going.” The lounge and theatre are at 2240 St. Claude Avenue and they can be reached at (504) 321-5606.

LE BON TEMPS ROULE: FREE OYSTERS

This historic neighborhood bar is open 24 hours, features live music, an all-day happy hour and free oysters on Fridays. Can’t beat this combo! It was founded in 1877 – which makes it the third oldest restaurant in New Orleans. Antoine’s is the oldest, followed by Tujague’s (the second oldest). It is located at 4801 Magazine (504) 897-3448. And yes, there are free oysters on the half shell from 7 pm – until they run out and the live music starts -- with no cover. Comment: when you’ve been around for 144 years I guess you know what you’re doing. Let the Good Times Roll!

SATURDAY MORNING JAZZ YOGA: FREE

Arrive at 10 am at the historic French Market (the city’s oldest public market) for indoor classes in the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park visitor’s center that is about a block downriver from Café du Monde. Bring your own yoga mat – show up about 10 minutes early to register.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? I made a point of choosing a mix of places and things to do. So between our first write-up and this one you may feel a little dizzy with all this activity. Never fear: when you’re back at Rathbone Mansions and sink into one of our super-comfy beds you’ll sleep like a baby and be ready to tackle the world all over again. That’s a promise.

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB for any additional information you may need about any of the places that appear in this blog.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Christina DiPierro 6/21/21 Christina DiPierro 6/21/21

A Toe in the Water: The Two-day Visit #1

Think about this: If you’ve had it with a lockdown that seems to be going on forever – how about a quickie two-day trip to New Orleans. Yes? No? First, we’ll give you ideas for two days in NOLA. Then we’ll follow up with a second two-day blog/schedule later. This will add up to ideas for a four-day sojourn in The Big Easy. Think you can swing that?

DAY ONE: THE FRENCH QUARTER

MORNING:

Enjoy a coffee and croissant at Croissant D’Or Patisserie. This is a French bakery, pastry and sandwich shop located at 617 Ursulines Avenue – which is in the heart of the French Quarter.

“Friends of the Cabildo” (FOC) walking tours depart every day at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm from the 1850 House Museum Store on historic Jackson Square at 523 St. Ann Street.

The lively, active French Quarter with flags flying and folks strolling

LUNCH:

Stop at the Sylvain Restaurant located at 625 Chartres Street (a block off Jackson Square) and enjoy lunch at an elegant gastro pub with cocktails and American fare. It’s located in a former carriage house with courtyard seats.

The New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint celebrates jazz in the city where it was born. It’s located at 400 Esplanade Avenue and can be reached at (504) 568-3659. They offer free afternoon concerts on the third floor in an intimate performance space.

DINNER

The Bayona Restaurant offers creative Louisiana fare in a charming old cottage with a lush courtyard. You’ll find this gem at 430 Dauphine Street, (504) 525-4455.

Relax with a drink at French 75, a cocktail bar you’ll find at 813 Bienville Street. The drink itself is a champagne cocktail made with gin, grenadine and, of course, champagne.

Take in a show at Preservation Hall – a jazz venue in the French Quarter that you’ll find at 726 St. Peter. One visitor says, “It was a lot smaller and more intimate than I thought it would be – but it was perfect and we loved it.”

Follow this up with One-Eyed Jacks, a nightclub that’s at 615 Toulouse Street. It’s named after the 1961 movie with Marlon Brando and is the funkiest spot to let loose and dance to DJ + live music in the French Quarter.

When this is over you can eat with abandon at the Clover Grill, a retro-styled diner that draws folks from nearby bars. It’s located at 900 Bourbon Street and has been serving night owls its three-egg omelets since 1939.

DAY TWO: CBD & THE WAREHOUSE DISTRICT

MORNING

For the record: CBD means “Central Business District” – now we suggest spending a morning at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art that you’ll find at 925 Camp Street in the Warehouse District. It holds more than 4,000 paintings, watercolors, photos and sculptures from the American South.

LUNCH

You’ll agree that Cochon Butcher is perfect for lunch. It can be found at 930 Tchoupitoulas Street and serves this eye opener: Herb-roasted chicken with an olive tapenade (a Provençal paste or dip) + lemon on a baguette.

After this you should hop onto the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar. It’s one of the oldest and most notable streetcar lines. A 45-minute trip takes you from the CBD to Audubon Park plus Tulane and Loyola universities. It runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

CLICK HERE for a video on how to pay for and ride our streetcars.

DINNER

Tipitina’s began as a neighborhood juke joint in 1977. One visitor reports, “It’s about 15 minutes away from the French Quarter (Canal Street) by car and is one of the best-known clubs in New Orleans.” You’ll find it at 501 Napoleon Street. If you are looking for dinner while there, go to nearby

Casamento’s Restaurant at 4330 Magazine Street (in the heart of Uptown New Orleans) -- it’s a cash-only spot serving fresh oysters and other seafood. Believe it or not, this place is over 100 years old!

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? Did you know that the French Quarter is only a 15-minute stroll from Rathbone? The list above has more than one can do in two days – it allows you to pick-and-choose what you’re interested in seeing. Or perhaps, you’ll decide to stay longer! Please check the web for any additional info.

COMING UP SHORTLY: Restaurant Week in New Orleans takes place from Monday, June 21st until Sunday, June 27th. You’ll pay $25 or less for a two-course lunch and $45 or less for a three-course dinner. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Christina DiPierro 6/13/21 Christina DiPierro 6/13/21

Think “Free” in NOLA, Part I

It’s true! You can have lots of fun in New Orleans without spending one thin dime. We looked near and far for the best deals for you – take a look:

STROLL UP MAGAZINE STREET: FREE

This famous street goes on for an astounding six miles – from Canal Street to Audubon Park. It runs parallel to the Mississippi and is where you’ll find clusters of shops next to elegant private homes. You’ll also discover charming renovated warehouses plus stores selling pottery, period furniture, clothing, books, toys, china and jewelry.

Moreover, it’s the ideal spot for a leisurely stroll that allows you to take a break at a café, restaurant or coffee shop. If you’re hesitant about this trek – never fear. There’s a Magazine Street bus that starts from Canal. No matter what you decide your day will be quite adventurous.

ENJOY COOKING DEMOS: $8 AND UNDER

City Park is more than a green space. It’s twice the size of New York’s Central Park and includes a Botanical Garden, bike trails, walking paths, performance spaces plus a golf course. It also offers events and classes, including gardening tips, live music and culinary classes that tend to last about two hours. Teachers include chefs from around the city. Snacking is encouraged.

Classes that are held in the garden cover topics such as: mixing cocktails, making bread and selecting seafood. If you decide to visit, you may discover the wonders of the outdoor oven.

WOLDENBER RIVERFRONT PARK: FREE

Why not take a stroll along the French Quarter from Canal to the Moon Walk? This will allow you to cover the riverfront and see large barges being pushed or pulled by tugboats – or steamboats and other ships – that ply the mighty Mississippi. At Crescent Park (which is part of the French Market District and stretches 1.4 miles along the Mississippi) folks enjoy breathtaking views of New Orleans.

NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART: $15

The New Orleans Museum of Art in City Park is the oldest fine arts museum in the city and has a permanent collection of more than 40,000 objects. It is noted for its French, American and Japanese works. You’ll find it’s a short distance from the intersection of Carrollton and Esplanade Avenues. It’s also near the terminus of the "Canal Street-City Park" streetcar line.

The exterior of the New Orleans Museum of Art in City Park

NOLA BREWERY AND TAP ROOM: FREE

Every Friday and Saturday there are free tours at this two-story brewery with a roof deck. Tours take place from 2:00 to 3:00 pm and are open to the public (no reservations). You can enjoy live music after your Friday tour. This fun spot can be found at 3001 Tchoupitoulas (or chop-a-tool-us) Street.

SYDNEY & WALDA BESTOFF SCULPTURE GARDEN: $5

The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden occupies approximately eleven acres that are adjacent to the museum in City Park. Come and enjoy a landscape of pines, magnolias and live oaks. It is also home to more than 90 sculptures created by renowned artists from around the world.

BARATARIA PRESERVE VISITOR CENTER: FREE.

You can just visit this preserve or, if you wish, participate in many year-round free programs and walks. Trail maps and up-to-date info can be obtained by speaking with a Ranger at the Visitor Center. Bayou Coquille Trail is a one-mile (round trip) boardwalk that offers a view of our wild wetlands. You can get a look at: swamps, marshes, bayous, alligators and birds. The center is located at 419 Decatur Street in the French Quarter.

BRENNAN’S SABER CHAMPAGNE: FREE

Head for Brennan’s courtyard at 417 Royal Street on Fridays at 5 pm to learn how to saber champagne. Or, said differently, you can add suspense to popping a champagne cork by slicing it open with a saber! Youza!

Here’s how: chill the champagne, remove the foil, look for the seam in the glass, take off the wire cage, hold the bottle away from you at a 45-degree angle, position the blade flat against the bottle, slide the saber in a smooth motion along the seam of the bottle and follow through. The bottle should crack right under the lip, taking the cork with it. Note: I won’t be trying this any time soon.

You can also order a champagne cocktail for $7 or buy a bottle of champagne that’s “half off” – making it very reasonable. CLICK HERE to find Champagne sabers on Amazon.

The handsome, four-legged creatures at the Audubon Zoo

GREENERY AT THE AUDUBON ZOO: FREE

This is known as “The Fly” and is located behind the Audubon Zoo – on the banks of the Mississippi River. It’s a perfect place to watch the spectacular sunsets of New Orleans. One can also view a great show from Lakeshore Drive where you can sit on a bench and marvel at the sun slowly sinking over Lake Pontchartrain.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? If you’ll notice many of the spots mentioned above are in City Park – which is a hop-and-a-skip from Rathbone Mansions. You’ll have no problem getting to, and enjoying, the freebies we found there.

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB for any additional information you may need about the fun stuff we’ve described in this blog.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Christina DiPierro 6/7/21 Christina DiPierro 6/7/21

Where Can We Swim? Part Two

Here we are again – more spots for you to consider when you’re feeling adventurous and ready to explore a beach that’s a totally new experience for you and your friends or family. CLICK HERE to read Where Can We Swim? Part One.

A day spent in perfect water, sand and sun. What could be better?

EIGHT

The UNO Aquatics Center, 6801 Franklin Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70122

This is where you’ll find a heated INDOOR 50-meter, eight-lane pool and a heated OUTDOOR 25-yard, six-lane pool all year-round. Pools are open from 10 am to 8:30 pm on Monday through Friday. On Saturdays the hours are 10 am to 5 pm. Day passes are available for $10. The entire pool is set aside for lap swims on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8 to 10 am.

NINE

Beach Boulevard in Biloxi Beach, Mississippi

A little over 90 miles via 1-10E

This beach (Biloxi) is just under an hour-and-a-half from New Orleans. Or, if you’re in Pass Christian, drive 30 more minutes and you’ll hit it. Why not? Biloxi has more resort life and action than the charming, but peaceful, Pass Christian. Both resorts offer live entertainment plus casinos if you find you and yours in the mood for gambling.

TEN

Dauphin Island, Alabama is 147.1 miles (2 hr 24 min) via 1-10E

This is a 14-mile barrier island that’s located three miles south of Mobile Bay. You can take a scenic 40-minute ferry ride there or drive across the Dauphin Island Bridge. This is a quaint vacation spot with long stretches of pristine beaches, clear water and white sand. At the marina you’ll find an aquarium and an archeological site called, “Shell Mound Park.”

ELEVEN

Golf Shores, Alabama is 196.2 miles (3 hr 8 min) via 1-10E

There are lots of things to do in this friendly Alabama beach town. You can charter a boat to admire the sunset, watch leaping dolphins or even fish for pompano on the beach. For the young ones, there’s the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo where the kids can get up-close to touch, hold and do things such as: snap a picture with a baby red kangaroo and feed a goat or donkey.

Kiddies always love treats and their favorite pals along for fun

TWELVE

Flora-Bama or Orange Beach, Alabama is 197.9 miles (3 hr 9 min) via 1-10E

The Flora-Bama Lounge is a beach bar whose claim to fame is that it is on the Orange Beach, ALABAMA and the Perdido Key FLORIDA state line. This honky-tonk joint has been a landmark since 1964. It’s a rite of passage for those from New Orleans who visit regularly. And, it’s been touted as “America’s Last Great Roadhouse.” Be sure and order a Bushwacker!

THIRTEEN

The beach at Pensacola, Florida is 200.9 miles from New Orleans

This beach is roughly three hours away from New Orleans. It’s a popular tourist destination in the South. Yet it’s more peaceful than the larger beach towns such as Destin. There’s plenty to do here: the beach scene itself plus the Pensacola Boardwalk or Peg Leg Pete’s that’s described as: a pirate-themed seafood restaurant that features a kid’s play area and a raw bar.

FOURTEEN

The Grand Isle State Park in Louisiana is 110 miles via LA-1

This is a great spot for sunbathing and fishing. And because you’re so close to where most of Louisiana’s seafood is caught – it’s a good idea to check out a local seafood restaurant – they’ll definitely have the freshest fish.

LAST BUT NOT LEAST: Check out the Coconut Beach Volleyball Complex at 100 Coconut Beach Ct in Kenner, LA – it’s only 25 minutes from New Orleans. This is exclusively for beach volleyball fans and features 22 courts, a bar and a grill.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? Here’s an idea that works: book a room with us, stay for several days, then leave all your belongings behind in your room (except for a toothbrush and swimsuit) and take off for an overnight adventure that’s too far for one day – THEN RETURN to Rathbone and explore more of the Crescent City (my husband and I used to do this sort of thing all the time).

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB for any additional information you may need about the beaches, etc. that we’ve described in this blog.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

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