A Perfect New Orleans Day

We kicked off our last day in The Big Easy with brunch at the legendary Commander's Palace. Jazz musicians set the mood in a space that evokes the spirit of New Orleans. The staff was extremely friendly, and we were surrounded by a group of people celebrating significant moments (mostly birthdays!). The food was a classic spread—Turtle Soup, Eggs Benedict, and bread pudding topped with rum caramel sauce for dessert. It was delicious and indulgent. Naturally, our boozy brunch featured prosecco and a Bloody Mary, with some seriously generous pours right at the table.

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Parades Part 2!

While Shari ditched us for more volleyball action, Christy and I decided to enjoy the parades from the sidelines this time—no more float-riding for us! What a spectacle it was! People were dressed to the nines. In their Mardi Gras getups, kids were strategically positioned on ladders like little throw-seeking vultures, and the crowd was cheering like they were at a rock concert!

Our Last NOLA Meal

For our last meal in New Orleans, we hit up the French Quarter for some legendary food and drinks at Jewel of the South. Even though we were still full from our indulgent brunch, we snacked on perfectly smoked and spiced cauliflower, lobster ravioli, and fried rabbit (a cool spin on fried chicken with coleslaw!). The best part of the night was the Sazerac, which our server swore was the best in New Orleans. Plus, we found out that the manager caught one of our throws from our parade float the night before, which made the evening even more fun!

We End as Tourists

For our last stop, we strolled down Bourbon Street. It was jam-packed with drunken revelers. Overserved men leaned over balconies asking women to flash them for beads, the smell of weed was everywhere, and we found ourselves lost in a sea of tourists between overpriced stores and clubs promising scantily clad young women. However, as we navigated through the chaos, we felt a sense of gratitude for the experiences we had already enjoyed. We quickly left and returned to our hotel, thankful that we had witnessed more of the true essence of New Orleans than this tacky street had to offer.