Other

In 18th-century America, the first lodgings which offered a bed and breakfast came into existence. With more travelers than rooms available, locals began renting out extra rooms in their homes to guests. It later became a way for homeowners to make money, and for travelers to cut expenses during the Great Depression. By the end of World War II, several middle-class Americans, inspired by trips to Europe, began establishing their own bed and breakfast services. Today’s tourists enjoy the benefits of staying in a home, sharing experiences with locals, and relishing in true hospitality.

On September 22nd through 27th, the New Orleans Jazz Museum’s NOLA River Fest will virtually celebrate the cultural, economic, environmental & inspirational impacts and contributions of the Mississippi River to the Crescent City. For centuries, Old Man River has been an important route for trade and travel, has sustained livelihoods, offers opportunities for recreation, and has a significant role in the culture, health and livelihoods of people along its long route.

Everywhere else in the country, it may not yet be spring, or it may be spring that feels like the final throes of winter, but this is New Orleans—spring has decidedly sprung. Carnival comes early this year, and even the chilly days radiate with celebratory buzz. Mardi Gras Day (February 25), French Quarter Festival (April 16-19), and the first weekend of JazzFest (April 22-27) fire off in rapid secession to bookend the blitz between the new year and summertime.

Patrick van Hoorebeek, a Belgium-born French Quarter bon vivant, is founder of the Krewe of Cork and serves as their King for Life. On February 14, he will lead fellow Corkians on their 20th annual wine-fueled Mardi Gras jaunt through the French Quarter. “We have an 11 am Bloody Mary block party in front of the Court of Two Sisters, followed by a ‘sparkling lunch’ where the champagne shall flow in the lush courtyard, culminating in the 3pm parade, explains the benevolent King.”We celebrate Wine! Food!