New Orleans wasn’t part of the original plan, but when Nancy (David's sister) and her husband Steve called and said they needed some warmth in early December, we happily added it to the itinerary. They flew out to meet us, and wow, did we have a blast! Luckily, their friends who had been to New Orleans before gave us some great recommendations.
We found a state park just 20 minutes from downtown in Saint Bernard Parish, a quirky and lively neighborhood. Driving past the prison and refineries on the way made us a little wary, but the park was a hidden gem. The local seafood dive, the charming bakery, and an amazing boat tour minutes from the park proved the neighborhood to be perfect for the Carmeins and Action Peas (nickname for Nancy and Steve).
Nancy and Steve stayed in the trailer with us for three nights before treating themselves to a hotel in the French Quarter for the last night. It worked out perfectly!
So, y’all — check out our schedule! We’ve got room to sleep two more people. Come join us for a few nights; we’d love to see you!
David and I rolled into town a day before Nancy and Steve, giving us time to hit up Costco, the grocery store, and a fresh seafood market before they arrived. After their long flight, a nightmare rental car situation, and a rainy drive, we greeted them with cocktails, fresh shrimp, and seared Almaco jack fish. The fish was sashimi-grade — so we seared it just like Mahi tuna.
We only had a few days, but we made every minute count! We explored the campground, always on the lookout for alligators (because, you know, Louisiana). Lunch was at a local seafood dive called Casanova’s, where we tackled fresh boiled crawfish — with a much-needed tutorial — and devoured some incredible Po' boys and Boudin balls. The restaurant’s decor wasn’t much to write home about, but the food? Absolutely mouthwatering!
We got the perfect tip for a bunch of old boomers — there's a bar in the French Quarter with live music on Wednesdays during happy hour! Half-priced drinks, and the music kicks off at 5 p.m., so no staying up too late for some great tunes. We met a couple of locals our age who go there every week. The band was fantastic, and the vibe was super intimate — we even scored front-row seats!
We also experienced the Garden District with the fine old houses and a terrific brunch with amazing food.
More time in the French Quarter - experiencing the local drink: Sazerac
Finally, no trip is complete without some time in the bayou. We took a boardwalk hike and a bayou boat tour.
The boat tour was just 4 minutes from the campground, at a charming, independently run spot with a bar and restaurant. It’s owned by a couple who grew up just a few miles away. George, the boat owner, was a non-stop fire hose of information about the area.
Did you get a chance to try Bignets and coffee at cafe Dumond? If so did you see the Joan of Arc statue nearby? I highly recommend Mark Twain’s self-described greatest work “Joan of Arc”.
What a trip Dave and Judy! Can’t wait fir the next leg! Jan