New Orleans Vacations — Jazz, Extraordinary Creole Cuisine, and the Most Unique City in America
USA
New Orleans is one of the most extraordinary and unique cities in America — a vibrant, soulful city with a culture unlike anywhere else in the USA. The extraordinary French Quarter, the world-famous jazz clubs of Frenchmen Street, the extraordinary Creole and Cajun cuisine, and the legendary Mardi Gras celebration make New Orleans one of the most rewarding travel destinations in North America.
Why Visit New Orleans?
- ✓French Quarter — the most extraordinary historic neighbourhood in America
- ✓Frenchmen Street — the best live jazz in the world
- ✓Mardi Gras — the world's most extraordinary carnival celebration
- ✓Creole and Cajun cuisine — the most unique and extraordinary food culture in America
- ✓Garden District — beautiful antebellum mansions and extraordinary architecture
Things to Do in New Orleans
Wendy can arrange any of these experiences as part of your personalised itinerary.
French Quarter Walking Tour
Explore the extraordinary French Quarter — the most extraordinary historic neighbourhood in America, with beautiful Creole architecture, jazz clubs, and extraordinary food.
Frenchmen Street Jazz
Experience the extraordinary Frenchmen Street jazz scene — the best live jazz in the world, with multiple clubs and extraordinary street musicians every night.
Mardi Gras
Attend the extraordinary Mardi Gras (February/March) — the world's most extraordinary carnival celebration, with parades, costumes, and extraordinary revelry.
Garden District Tour
Tour the extraordinary Garden District — beautiful antebellum mansions, extraordinary oak trees, and the famous Lafayette Cemetery.
Swamp Tour
Take an extraordinary swamp tour — explore the bayous and swamps surrounding New Orleans, with alligators, herons, and extraordinary wildlife.
Café Du Monde
Visit the extraordinary Café Du Monde — the most iconic café in New Orleans, famous for beignets and café au lait since 1862.
Ready to book your New Orleans trip?
Wendy handles flights, hotels, transfers, and experiences — all in one place.
Where to Eat in New Orleans
Wendy's recommended restaurants — from fine dining to authentic local cuisine.
Fine Dining
Commander's Palace, Garden District
New Orleans's most celebrated restaurant — extraordinary Creole cuisine, a New Orleans institution since 1893.
Creole
Dooky Chase's Restaurant, Tremé
New Orleans's most beloved restaurant — extraordinary Creole cuisine by the legendary Leah Chase, a civil rights landmark.
Café
Café Du Monde, French Quarter
New Orleans's most iconic café — extraordinary beignets and café au lait, a New Orleans institution since 1862.
Where to Stay in New Orleans
Wendy has personal relationships with these properties and can often secure upgrades and exclusive rates.
The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
LuxuryNew Orleans's most iconic hotel — extraordinary historic building, exceptional service, and the legendary Sazerac Bar.
Hotel Monteleone, French Quarter
LuxuryThe French Quarter's most celebrated hotel — extraordinary historic building, exceptional service, and the famous Carousel Bar.
Audubon Cottages, French Quarter
LuxuryThe most extraordinary accommodation in New Orleans — beautiful private cottages in the French Quarter, with exceptional service and private pools.
Planning Your New Orleans Trip
📅 Best Time to Visit
February through April for Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest; October through December for comfortable weather and fewer crowds.
🌤️ Climate
Subtropical with hot, humid summers (30–35°C) and mild winters (10–18°C). Hurricane season is June through November.
✈️ Getting There
Connecting flights from Calgary to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) via Dallas or Houston. Total travel time approximately 5–6 hours.
Wendy's Take on New Orleans
35+ years of travel expertise
New Orleans is a city that truly captivates the soul, a place I've had the pleasure of visiting and recommending to my clients for over 35 years. It's a vibrant tapestry of cultures, history, and unparalleled culinary delights. When planning your trip, I always tell people to immerse themselves in the French Quarter's unique atmosphere, where every corner offers a new discovery, from jazz clubs spilling onto the streets to charming courtyards hidden behind wrought-iron gates. Don't miss a leisurely stroll through the Garden District to admire its stunning antebellum architecture, or a swamp tour for a taste of Louisiana's wild side. The best time to visit is typically during the spring (February to May) or fall (October to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable, perfect for exploring on foot.
My clients often ask about accommodation, and New Orleans offers a fantastic range, from boutique hotels in the French Quarter that exude historic charm to more modern options in the Central Business District. For a truly authentic experience, consider a guesthouse in a quieter neighborhood like Marigny or Bywater. When it comes to food, prepare for a feast! You absolutely must try the beignets at Cafe Du Monde, a classic po'boy, and a hearty bowl of gumbo or jambalaya. The city's culinary scene is a reflection of its diverse heritage, blending French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences into something truly extraordinary. I always advise my clients to be adventurous with their dining choices; you won't be disappointed.
Beyond the famous Mardi Gras, New Orleans hosts countless festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from jazz and blues to food and literature. Even if you're not there for a major event, the city's musical heartbeat is ever-present, with live performances echoing from clubs and street corners. For those interested in history, a visit to the National WWII Museum is incredibly moving and informative. My 35+ years in travel have taught me that New Orleans is more than just a destination; it's an experience that stays with you long after you've left. It's a place where every visit uncovers something new, and the warmth of its people is as inviting as its soulful music.
Insider Tips — New Orleans
Always carry cash for street performers and small vendors, especially in the French Quarter; many don't take cards.
Explore beyond Bourbon Street; Frenchmen Street is where you'll find the best local jazz clubs and a more authentic music scene.
Take a swamp tour to see the bayou wildlife; it's a unique experience and a great way to understand the local ecosystem.
Book a cooking class to learn how to make classic Creole and Cajun dishes; it's a delicious souvenir to bring home.
Consider staying in the Garden District for a quieter, more elegant experience, and enjoy the beautiful architecture and historic homes.
Frequently Asked Questions — New Orleans
When is Mardi Gras in New Orleans?
Mardi Gras falls on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday — usually in February or early March. The celebrations begin 12 days before Mardi Gras Day, with parades every weekend.
Is New Orleans safe for tourists?
The main tourist areas (French Quarter, Garden District, Frenchmen Street) are generally safe for tourists. As with any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
What is the best time to visit New Orleans?
February through April is the best time — Mardi Gras (February/March) and the Jazz & Heritage Festival (April/May) are the most extraordinary events. October through December is also excellent.
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Book Your New Orleans Trip with Wendy
As your trusted travel consultant, Wendy handles every detail of your New Orleans vacation — from flights and hotels to transfers and experiences. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.
Book Your New Orleans Trip with Wendy
Tell Wendy about your New Orleans travel plans and she'll respond within 24 hours with personalised options and pricing.