Jazzy New Orleans

New Orleans was a lot of fun! Jazz music on every corner — and good jazz, too! Voodoo shops and cemeteries, greasy yet tasty food, quaint architecture, and a unique vibe. Definitely a place of culture and heritage. The first few days we were able to enjoy it with my sister’s family before they headed back to Salt Lake. We tried all the local foods like po boys, gumbo, jumbalaya, and of course, bignets. We also visited a cemetery where we saw some graves decorated in voodoo symbols and objects. We visited a lovely park and strolled through some art in the garden. I like this photo I took of the bayou. Reminds me of an impressionistic painting. And this guy chillin’ on a park bench. We also took a ferry ride across the Mississippi river. There were lots of cool street performers, and some were interactive, like this movable percussion cart. (See video below to hear what it sounded like). And this guy who played crystal goblets. He was very entertaining, and even let the kids help. We also toured an old house and learned more about what life was like in New Orleans in the 1800’s. For example, how slaves were allowed to earn money outside of the home in New Orleans, and could buy their own freedom, because the town was settled by the French and Spanish. And we learned about some of the privileges that were denied to women during that time, and how they were expected to hide their negative emotions, and often took opium to cope. The Hurricane Katrina and Mardi Gras Museum was very interesting as well. The night life was interesting, although Bourbon street was a bit stinky and dirty. Many interesting shops to browse through in the French quarter. New Orleans definitely has a feel of its own. Check out more pictures and videos of New Orleans below.