'Nawlins

We skipped New Orleans 2 years ago when we were staying about 40 miles to the north. I  thought it would be unwise to drive an hour into the city and then have to drive back, after doing what they do best here, day and night.
But the park we're staying at now has a shuttle!
It's only a few minutes the the French Quarter... and man, we have been using it!

So, first night. We made a beeline for Pat O'Briens for a Hurricane. Loaded with fruit juices and vitamins! Yum, and sooo good for you.

This is how it's made, (you can try this at home...)

2 ounces white rum.
2 ounces dark rum.
2 ounces passion fruit juice.
1 ounce orange juice.
1/2 ounce grenadine.
1/2 ounce simple syrup.
1/2 medium lime, juiced.
slice of orange and maraschino cherry, for garnish.


And the music!  

This was the "big finish" of a tune featuring what appears to be an electric saxophone. Our favorite place, BB King's Blues Club. This is the kind of talent that makes this place so special.

And there's a new kid in town. Bourbon Street has traditionally been party central in the French Quarter. A mile of bars, restaurants and various other types of "entertainment".

We learned of a newer, trendier, grittier (if that's even possible) area called Frenchman's Street.
It's at the north-east end of the French Quarter.
Apparently, that's where the locals go. So we, being "local" (for a few days anyway),  had to check it out. Not crazy like Bourbon Street but still lots of bars and no shortage of great music.

Frenchman's Street

And some of the music on Frenchman's Street

A band on the street, I've never heard anyone play a clarinet like that!

And buskers. This guy gets marks for originality.

Coffee and biegnets at Cafe du Monde. A hearty breakfast for two, equal parts of biegnet and icing sugar. I believe "Biegnet" is french for "donut without a hole". They're served warm, right out of the fryer.

Tomorrow is the start of the 3 day "Pardi Gras. Not sure what it's all about but they say it's a "Pardi" and it seems like a good time to get in shape for the BIG party in a few weeks. We won't be here for Mardi Gras, but we'll be glad to participate in the warm up party.