NOLA
New Orleans is referred as the "most unique" city in the United States. Named after the
Duke of Orleans, who reigned as Regent for Louis XV, the city was established by French
colonists and then ceded to the Spanish empire, which is the influence behind the
European and Creole culture. After the Haitian Revolution ended thousands of refugees
from the revolution, both whites and free people of color, arrived in New Orleans,
introducing Voodoo and cajan cuisine that intrigues tourists from all over. Besides being
known as the birthplace of jazz music, the annual Mardi Gras celebration, it is also famed
for Bourbon Street, a central spot for multiple bars and nightclubs. Learn a little about
NOLA here before planning your next trip. Written by Lauren Adam
TRAVEL TIPS
Travel Time (from Seattle):
Plane: 4 hours 50 minutes
Train: 19 hours 27 minutes
Automobile: 38 hours
If you plan accordingly, tickets can be as low as $250
round trip. That said, the festivities are plentiful and
airfare will spike around Mardi Gras in February and
March. Festivals like French Quarter Fest and Jazz Fest
in April, or Voodoo Fest in November might also cause
higher prices. If your wallet allows, these yearly events
are worth doling out the extra dough. When you arrive,
head straight for a drive-thru daiquiri shop like New
Orleans Original Daiquiris (various locations) and get
the party started.
GETTING AROUND
New Orleans runs on its own time. The bus l