New Orleans Romance

New Orleans is the largest city in Louisiana, as well as the state's top tourist destination. The Crescent City has a reputation for historical roots, hot and muggy weather, good food, good music and non-stop partying. Despite the damage from Hurricane Katrina in 2005, New Orleans welcomes visitors to incredible restaurants, beautiful sites (such as the French Quarter and Garden District) and hot live music clubs.

Nicknamed the Big Easy by some, New Orleans has long had a reputation as a city of vice. However, the city also offers many attractions for families with children and those interested in culture and the arts. Its famous Creole food, nearby swamps and plantations, 18th and 19th century architecture, streetcars and museums offer a unique cultural experience travelers will never forget.

Famous festivals like Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival bring in tourists by the millions, and are the two times of the year when one needs to be sure to book accommodations well in advance to be sure of a room.

Three beautiful 1830 townhouses in a residential part of the French Quarter, Soniat House is New Orleans best-kept secret. It will be your refuge and cater to your every sense; picture-perfect rooms filled with a personal collection of French antiques and luxurious linens. With pretty wrought-iron balconies, this historic gem possesses a genuine genteel charm. This peaceful sanctuary exudes elegance, with an ambience that is timeless, serene and warm. Verandas and spiral staircases lead to private courtyards lushly planted with fragrant sweet olive and jasmine; the perfect setting for breakfast or your evening cocktail. Stroll leisurely to Jackson Square, see the artists displaying their work and as evening falls be sure to take in the legendary New Orleans jazz. Soniat House is a Small Luxury Hotels of the World property.

Jackson Square, in the heart of the French Quarter, has been around since the 1700's, it was originally known as the "Place d'Armes". The center of the park showcases a large statue of Andrew Jackson. The square is surrounded by historic buildings including the St. Louis Cathedral, which is a minor Basilica. The square was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960.

Renowned chef and restaurateur John Besh combined German and French cooking traditions with his Louisiana roots to develop the menu at his Central Business District brasserie. Unlike most CBD restaurants, Luke offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast diners can choose from baked goods from the patisserie and à la carte sides like Skillet Potatoes and Cane Syrup Sausage. The lunch menu includes salads, soups, daily hot specials, and selections from the raw bar. Those looking for an evening meal can enjoy fine offerings like a Whole Roast "Cochon de Lait" with cherry mustard and stewed greens, or Crabmeat Maison with fresh herbs, greens, and country bread croutons. Don't miss daily blackboard specials. - Bethany Culp

It's just impossible to get bored of New Orleans' plush City Park. Sprawled over 1,500 acres, this welcoming oasis attracts hordes of people every day. You'll find love-birds sharing some time together, children playing around, joggers doing their daily rounds and people absorbing the park's beauty. Camps, field trips and an amusement park are the facilities for children. Sports lovers can choose from golf, football, tennis and lots more. The park also provides the perfect setting for weddings, picnics, birthdays or other special functions. If you're a nature freak, volunteer to help protect this beautiful park. Not a cent of tax money is used to maintain this facility, so donate generously towards this venue. Stop by to spend leisurely hours of your evening or delight in the various sporting facilities offered.

Family owned by the Riccobono's, they have built an extensive clientèle around better than average fare. Your nose, upon entering, is greeted by the heady aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the scent of fabulous waffles on the grill. Your eyes will be pleased with the spotless appointments that surround you and the colorful consignment art that adorns the walls. The breakfast menu boasts of Belgian banana nut waffles and fluffy omelets. There are always the ultimate morning meal staples of oatmeal, granola and fruit to complement whatever you choose. Lunch features excellent Italian seafood fare, including a robust gumbo or an oyster po-boy.

Three beautiful 1830 townhouses in a residential part of the French Quarter, Soniat House is New Orleans best-kept secret. It will be your refuge and cater to your every sense; picture-perfect rooms filled with a personal collection of French antiques and luxurious linens. With pretty wrought-iron balconies, this historic gem possesses a genuine genteel charm. This peaceful sanctuary exudes elegance, with an ambience that is timeless, serene and warm. Verandas and spiral staircases lead to private courtyards lushly planted with fragrant sweet olive and jasmine; the perfect setting for breakfast or your evening cocktail. Stroll leisurely to Jackson Square, see the artists displaying their work and as evening falls be sure to take in the legendary New Orleans jazz. Soniat House is a Small Luxury Hotels of the World property.

New Orleans is the largest city in Louisiana, as well as the state's top tourist destination. The Crescent City has a reputation for historical roots, hot and muggy weather, good food, good music and non-stop partying. Despite the damage from Hurricane Katrina in 2005, New Orleans welcomes visitors to incredible restaurants, beautiful sites (such as the French Quarter and Garden District) and hot live music clubs.

Nicknamed the Big Easy by some, New Orleans has long had a reputation as a city of vice. However, the city also offers many attractions for families with children and those interested in culture and the arts. Its famous Creole food, nearby swamps and plantations, 18th and 19th century architecture, streetcars and museums offer a unique cultural experience travelers will never forget.

Famous festivals like Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival bring in tourists by the millions, and are the two times of the year when one needs to be sure to book accommodations well in advance to be sure of a room.