Other

In New Orleans, a rite of summer is our first taste of the coveted and meaty Creole tomato. The Creole tomato was originally imported from the West Indies and thrives in southern Louisiana's rich soil and subtropical climate. When the farmers in nearby St. Bernard and Plaquemines parishes first called their tomatoes Creole, it meant they were grown in the rich alluvial soil of the area and vine ripened because they did not have to be transported long distances to market. This gave them a rich flavor.

The “Greatest Show on Earth,” otherwise known as Mardi Gras, will be celebrated this year on Tuesday, March 5th. The biggest free party thrown in North America always falls 46 days before Easter and is the city's most popular attraction. Visitors and locals alike love the party atmosphere, the crowds, costumed revelers, and the esprit de corps.

Proximity, convenience, dazzling entertainment and dining choices--all in a town that has no respect for closing times. The reasons for visiting New Orleans are varied and often dizzying.

New Orleans is celebrating its 300th birthday and from the energy of the place, you would not guess the town is anywhere near that old. On most nights, the pace of choices can be pleasantly confusing. Where to go can be a question to ponder. Yet, the harder answer is arriving at a decision from the myriad of unfolding selections.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! My girlfriend Christine and I always vow to give back to our community we love by doing all of our holiday shopping with local businesses. We think it is only fair to support the shops who give back to the city where we live, work, and play. Our favorite wonderland is the French Quarter, so we always look forward to a shopping extravaganza there during the holidays. We shop ‘til we drop, stop for lunch, and shop some more.

Strolling down Toulouse Street one warm summer night, I caught a hazy glimpse of an old woman appear out of nowhere. She was dressed in black with beads in her hand as she stepped into a doorway. Curious, I went to see where she went. As I approached the doorway, I felt a coolness and noted a strange aroma. Old yellowed mail was stuck in the door making it obvious that the place had not been visited recently. Goosebumps covered my arms, and I went home to research the area. Nearby is The Olivier House, a charming little hotel built in 1836 by Madame Olivier, a wealthy plantation owner.