New Orleans - Food Lovers Mecca

Best Things Nearby:
Bourbon Street - 2 blocks away!
Desire Oyster Bar - a New Orleans staple
Old Absinthe House - built in 1856, this is the coolest bar and the former stomping grounds of the likes of Oscar Wilde and Walt Whitman!

Best Things About the Resort:
Paul, the general manager, who is a true, down-home, Southern gentleman just oozing charm and grace. Just ask Paul, and he can tell you how to get there and what to do when you do!

Resort Experience:
Quaint, charming, gated resort in the heart of the city with a delightful little courtyard and swimming pool. Our unit had its own balcony that faced out onto the bustling street. There was a nice, comfortable living room with two sofas, and a mahogany armoire to house all of our hanging clothes; the adjacent eat-in kitchen had everything we could possibly need, and there was also a very nice bathroom with a jetted tub, although no shampoo was provided, so make sure to bring your own. The bedroom was smallish, yet comfortable, with a tall mahogany dresser and sofa bench. If you’re into learning how to cook Cajun and/or Creole-style, check out the Chateau Orleans’ on-site cooking classes offered once a week.

• Unit Type: 1 Bedroom
• Activities: Good
• Amenities: Very Good
• Unit Satisfaction: Very Good
• Family Friendliness: Excellent
• Service: Very Good

We discovered this restaurant in Frommer's New Orleans 2004 Guide Book, and as the author said, we too, "were shocked it could be so good." (Being restaurant owners ourselves, we are somewhat skeptical of pronouncements such as this.) Muriel's not only serves up some of the best Creole/eclectic dishes in New Orleans, but has an atmosphere like none other. Definitively Gothic, Muriel's not only has a floating doorway to nowhere, but also sets a "ghost" table nightly (see photo) for the one-time former owner (who reportedly hung himself in the mansion where the restaurant is now set) and has the funkiest "Séance Room" we have ever seen.

Muriel's is a New Orleans destination in and of itself, and that is high praise in a city known for its plethora of fantastic restaurants. Situated in famous Jackson Square, you can follow your meal by hanging out in one of the hippest spots in the city!

After a recent total renovation, this zoo has become one of the best in the country and will delight even non-zoo fans (like my husband!). Created in a setting of subropical plants, waterfalls, and lagoons, over 1800 animals, including some really cool rare and endangered species (like the white gator)live in their own natural habitats (i.e., no cages - yay!).

Wow! There are a lot of guys and gals out there in the New Orleans area hawking these tours, and choosing one can be mind-boggling, but let me assure you that this one truly is the best. Led by native, professional naturalist guides, you are guaranteed a true, educational experience by knowledgeable wetland ecologists who seem to know everything about the swamps and bayous of Louisiana, not to mention the flora, fauna, and wildlife that live in them. What a great way to spend half a day - out on a swamp boat in the blue bayou!