• How to travel safety in New Orleans

    Is It Safe To Travel To New Orleans Right Now?

    4 Min Read

    Like big cities across America, New Orleans has had its portion of challenges when it comes to safety, but your security shouldn’t be an issue day in and day out. Take it from someone like myself, who is a frequent annual traveler to ‘Nola.

    If you’re headed to New Orleans for Mardi Gras or another festive event, you should educate yourself on many things, crime, included. But, again, that doesn’t mean New Orleans is different than other similar cities.

    How Safe is New Orleans: A Guide For Visitors

    When it comes to travel, it’s natural to prioritize your safety first and foremost. That’s what you should do when visiting any city. But here’s what you need to know about the safety in the Crescent City.

    This article will tell you how safe New Orleans is from two perspectives — crime and COVID.

    Crime

    New Orleans is as safe as its ever been these days. While there are news reports of murders on the regular, that is the case in many cities with populations as large as New Orleans.

    The key is safety in New Orleans, like it is in many cities, is to do what you can to stay away from known trouble spots and to be awere of your surroundings at all times.

    For what it’s worth, the city is known to look after its own and cater to tourists and weekend visitors.

    COVID

    What it comes to COVID, New Orleans has some of the lowest numbers its had in nearly three years. As of October 10, 2022, here are the city’s COVID levels.

    Via Google.com

    To see the current status of COVID cases in Louisiana, check out the state’s official website.   That being said, New Orleans doesn’t have any travel restrictions or quarantine requirements for travelers to abide by.   Travel to the Crescent City does come with risks, as it does in any big city. The main reason has nothing to do with COVID.

    Travel To New Orleans: What You Need To Know

    Now let’s talk about traveling to New Orleans and the other aspects involved in that.

    Read Hotel Reviews

    To secure lodgings at a place that you can trust, it’s good to read up on hotel reviews in the area you want to stay. Some things you’ll want to take particular note of are:

    • Cleaniness
    • Customer service
    • Free breakfast bar
    • Parking (free or paid)

    New Orleans is a mecca for revelers. That means there are frequently intoxicated tourists on the streets at all hours.

    Here the best hotels in New Orleans.

    Book Some Transportation

    New Orleans has a lot of taxicabs, but just like everywhere else, Uber and Lyft has really reduced the need for public transit. That means that there are fewer taxicabs on the street.   Always map your journey before you go and tell someone when you expect to arrive at your destination.

    Here are some top taxi cab companies in New Orleans.

    Stay Away From High-Crime Areas

    Every city has places that would be best avoided by visitors. New Orleans is no different. If you look and feel out of place, there’s a good chance you are.

    Here’s an example: In any city, you would want to make sure you park in well-lit areas and don’t dress too flashy when out on the town. It’s a recipe for a rough night.

    Don’t know where to hang out in New Orleans? Talk to the locals.

    Final Word

    Urban crime has been a problem in many cities across America, and New Orleans, Louisiana, is no different. But how safe is the city?

    If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans, like anywhere else, be aware of your surroundings at all times.

    This one goes for where ever you go: Be mindful of your environment. There are pickpockets and scammers in every big cities in the world.   If you plan to walk down Bourbon Street, you especially need to be careful.

    If you’re thinking about traveling outside the country right now, safety should be your top priority. The COVID pandemic continues to rage around the world.

    Instead of international travel, you might want to stick to one of the domestic cities like New Orleans, Louisiana. The food is good and there is plenty to see and do there.

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  • Southwest Airlines

    Southwest Airlines Switches From Open Seating To Assigned Seats

    3 Min Read

    Southwest Airlines is changing its longstanding rule of having open seating for its flights and will go to an assigned seating policy, the carrier announced.

    With the move, which was announced on Thursday, July 26, 2024, the airline will be able to charge a premium for some of its seats, which will make it more difficult for budget-conscious passengers to travel for less.

    Southwest also said that it will begin selling tickets to “red-eye” flights that fly overnight

    Southwest said the changes are in response to passenger demand.

    Southwest Airlines has had a unique seating policy known as “open seating,” which differs from the traditional assigned seating model used by most other airlines. Here’s an overview of how it works:

    1. Assigned Seats

    Southwest will now assign seats to passengers. This policy effectively does away with the first-come, first-served basis seats that previously allowed those boarding the aircraft to choose any available seat.

    2. Boarding Groups and Positions

    Passengers are assigned a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a boarding position (a number between 1 and 60+) when they check in for their flight. The earlier you check in, the better your boarding position is likely to be. Check-in opens 24 hours before the flight’s departure time. The boarding process follows this order:

    • Group A boards first, starting with A1 and ending with A60.
    • Group B follows, from B1 to B60.
    • Finally, Group C boards, starting from C1.

    3. EarlyBird Check-In

    Southwest offers an optional service called EarlyBird Check-In, which automatically checks passengers in 36 hours before the flight’s departure. This service increases the likelihood of getting a better boarding position but does not guarantee it. EarlyBird Check-In costs an additional fee per flight.

    4. Business Select and A-List Priority

    Passengers who purchase a Business Select fare receive a boarding position between A1 and A15. Additionally, Southwest’s A-List and A-List Preferred members (part of the airline’s loyalty program) enjoy priority boarding and are checked in automatically.

    5. Family Boarding

    Families with children aged six and under are allowed to board between the A and B groups, providing a better chance to find seats together.

    How to save money when you travel.

    6. Additional Policies

    Southwest Airlines also accommodates passengers with disabilities and those requiring additional assistance by allowing them to board before the general boarding groups. Additionally, passengers traveling with pets or those who need to check in items such as musical instruments may also have specific boarding considerations.

    Southwest’s open seating policy is designed to simplify the boarding process and increase efficiency, However, it requires passengers to be proactive about checking in early to secure a better boarding position.

    Read our complete guide to flying out of New Orleans.

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  • Best Cheap flights out of New Orleans

    Complete Guide To Cheap Flights From New Orleans

    4 Min Read

    The summer travel season is in full effect these days and you can score a low fare with a little research into airline tickets.

    Flying in or out of New Orleans’ Louis Armstrong Airport is a relatively easy process because it’s one of the most convenient locations in the Southeast, and you can save money if you’re astute.

    We’re going to show you some of the best cheap fares from New Orleans.

    Book These Best Cheap Fares From New Orleans, Louisiana

    As always, the way to find the cheapest flights is travel during slower months. Know the best times to book cheap flights.

    What we’re seeing now from Southwest is just a preview. Airfare prices are about to drop as more airlines battle for your vacation dollars.

    The good thing about Southwest flights are that you get two major perks:

    • No change fees
    • 2 free checked bags

    Flights From New Orleans To Atlanta, Houston, LA For Cheap

    If you’re flying out of Hartsfield, here are some cheap flights you might not want to pass up. These are current as of June 2024.

    Here are the cheapest flights out of New Orleans right now. Fares may change slightly based on normal variations in price.

    New Orleans Flights:Nonstop:One-Way Fares Starting From:
    To AtlantaYes$59
    To AustinYes$59
    To HoustonYes$88
    To ChicagoYes$103
    To New York (LaGuardia)Yes$93
    To Los AngelesYes$93
    To Washington, D.C.(Dulles)Yes$140
    To NashvilleYes$88
    To DetroitYes$79
    To San DiegoYes$172

    See other dates on Southwest’s nationwide sale HERE.

    To New Orleans is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Louis Armstrong International Airport is so accessible.

    How To Find Cheapest Fares

    The airline industry has a vested interest in keeping you from finding the lowest fares online. What many of them do is hide them in plain sight – but you can discover affordable flights with a strategy.

    Frontier Airlines’ Year-Round Subscription

    Frontier Airlines’ all-you-can-fly subscription plan allows you to pay one fee for unlimited flights within the year. The price of the Go Wild! Plan is now $799 for the first year and will auto-renew for $1,999 in the second year unless you cancel.

    Needless to say, you can save a lot of money if you plan to fly a lot in the coming year. Book now though because Frontier just may raise the prices!

    Fly At The Right Time

    It’s a proven fact that flying at the right time saves you money. Here are the days you should travel:

    • Travel On: Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays
    • Don’t Travel On: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays

    When it comes to the time of day, always opt for the red-eye or first of the morning. That flight is typically the lowest-price fare.

    Use A Web Browser In Incognito Mode

    Instead of searching for fares on a browser that tracks your location and the sites you’ve searched, opt for the incognito window. By searching for fares in incognito mode, you can largely avoid the location-specific fares that the airlines try to steer you toward. Those are not necessarily the lowest prices.

    Also, make sure if you use Google that you’re not logged in. Again, in incognito mode, don’t log into your Google account if using Google.

    Use Budget Airlines

    I know you may feel that it’s risky, but flying a low-cost or “budget” airline is the way to go to save major money on your flight.

    The best low-cost airlines give you comfort as well as great pricing, but there will be a few fees for baggage, seating and other things.

    To give you an example of how cheap some flights can be on budget airlines, here’s a comparison of a Delta flight from Atlanta to Los Angeles, and that same flight on Spirit Airlines. Delta’s fare is $508, while Sprit’s is $197.

    Delta vs. Spirit airline fares
    Screengrab via skyscanner.com

    Because Spirit fares are bare-bones, we know that there will have some additional fees, but it will still beat the $508 that Delta charges.

    Final Word

    Cheap flights in and out of New Orleans, Louisiana used to be as rare as a unicorn, but that’s not been the case of late. The major airlines have advertised some affordable low fares over the past couple weeks.

    Cheap flights may be kind of difficult to discover right now, but that’s not the case when it comes to fares in and out of New Orleans, Louisiana. The major airlines have published some great low fares of late.

    Because travel is bouncing back in a big way, New Orleans is literally a hot ticket for people looking to take a vacation. To find flights that are affordable, it’s going to take some strategy.

    Here’s how to search for low-cost airfare online.

    More From NolaFi.com:

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  • Southwest Airlines

    Southwest Airlines Launches Pay Later Option

    3 Min Read

    Southwest Airlines has teamed with travel lender Uplift to allow eligible travelers an opportunity to pay for travel later via 0% financing. The deal is only good with Southwest’s Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, and Business Select® qualifying fares.

    The 0% financing promotion is only available for a limited time, according to a news release.

    How Can I Get 0% Financing for a Southwest Flight?

    To take advantage of the deal, just head to Southwest.com and book, where you’ll see the Uplift option already integrated into the process. Prior to booking, you should know that Uplift comes with no fees, including late fees or prepayment penalties.

    You cn travel before completing payments and not have to worry about junk fees.

    “We’re excited to support Southwest Airlines by offering 0% financing to their Customers,” said Tom Botts, Chief Commercial Officer at Uplift. “Travel should be fun and fulfilling. Being able to spread out payments at no extra cost enhances the overall experience and makes flights accessible to more people.”

    Southwest’s 0% promotion is available for loans with three-month terms on Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, and Business Select qualifying flights. Customers can book today and fly as soon as tomorrow. 

    “We’re thrilled to partner with Uplift on this exclusive offer. It’s another great example of how we’re connecting our Customers to what matters most in their lives,” said Jonathan Clarkson, Vice President of Marketing at Southwest Airlines.

    Here Are the Details

    *The 0% APR offer is available on three-month terms between April 1, 2024, through April 14, 2024, for approved applicants purchasing Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, and Business Select tickets. Based on a purchase price of $200, Customers could pay a down payment of just $50 today, followed by three monthly payments of $50 at 0% APR. APRs range from 0%-36%; not everyone is eligible to receive a 0% APR offer. A minimum $49 purchase is required. Actual terms are based on the Customer’s credit score and other factors and may vary. Not everyone is eligible. Loans made through Uplift are offered by these lending.

    Final Leg

    You can fly for cheap on Southwest, which is why we love them.

    If your destination is not as popular, you may be able to get a cheap fare closer to the departure date, but it just depends. Read our guide on how to save on Kayak.

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  • travel with a cat.

    How To Travel With A Cat

    4 Min Read

    Arline prices right now are the cat’s meow right now, but if you like to travel (Rome is one of our best cities), you might consider traveling with your feline. But how? Or more accurately, meow?

    This article will show you the best ways to travel with your cat.

    The Best Ways To Travel With Your Cat

    Traveling on a plane with a cat requires careful preparation and adherence to airline and travel regulations. Here are some steps to help you travel with your cat on a plane:

    Familiarize Your Cat with Travel

    Help your cat become comfortable with travel by taking short car rides in the carrier. This will help them acclimate to the motion and confinement. Additionally, expose your cat to the sounds and sights associated with air travel, such as recorded airplane noises, to reduce anxiety.

    Comfort and Calming Techniques

    Place a familiar blanket or piece of clothing with your scent in the carrier to provide comfort to your cat. Additionally, consider using calming products or natural remedies (under the guidance of your veterinarian) to help reduce anxiety during the journey.

    Feeding and Water

    Avoid feeding your cat a large meal before the flight, as it can cause discomfort. However, ensure your cat stays hydrated by providing water in a spill-proof container attached to the carrier. Some airlines may require freeze-proof water containers for travel during colder months.

    Identification and Microchip

    Ensure your cat is wearing a secure collar with identification tags containing your contact information. Additionally, consider microchipping your cat as a permanent form of identification.

    Check Airline Policies

    Start by researching and understanding the specific requirements and policies of the airline you’ll be flying with. Each airline may have different regulations regarding pet travel, including restrictions on breed, size, and the type of carrier allowed.

    For example, Delta Air Lines says, “Small dogs, cats and household birds can travel in the cabin for a one-way fee, collected at check-in. They must be able to fit in a small, ventilated pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.”

    Note any additional documentation, fees, or specific procedures that may be necessary.

    Familiarize yourself with the security procedures at the airport, as you may be required to remove your cat from the carrier during screening. Practice doing so calmly and safely at home to prepare for the process.

    Visit the Veterinarian

    Schedule a visit to your local veterinarian to ensure your cat is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. Some airlines may require a health certificate issued by a veterinarian within a specific timeframe before travel.

    Choose an Airline-Approved Carrier

    Purchase a suitable airline-approved pet carrier that complies with the airline’s regulations. The carrier should be well-ventilated, secure, and large enough for your cat to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Get your cat accustomed to the carrier by gradually introducing it in the weeks leading up to the trip.

    Here are some pet carriers you may like:

    Mesh Pet Carrier

    Buy Now

    Top Load Soft Pet Carrier

    Buy Now

    Prepare the Carrier

    Line the carrier with absorbent bedding and ensure it is secure and properly fastened. Familiarize your cat with the carrier by leaving it open in your home, placing treats, toys, or comfortable bedding inside, and gradually encouraging your cat to spend time in it.

    Make Reservations

    Inform the airline in advance that you will be traveling with a cat. Airlines often have limited space for pets in the cabin, so it’s important to secure a reservation for your cat as early as possible. Be aware that some airlines may not allow pets in the cabin and may require them to travel in the cargo hold.

    Final Tail

    Having a cat in tow when you travel is a doable exercise in patience, and procedure. Remember to always prioritize the safety and well-being of your cat when traveling. It’s recommended to consult with your veterinarian and the airline directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding traveling with pets on a plane.

    Check out our Travel Savings Guide.

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  • What to do at night in New Orleans, Louisiana.

    Crescent After Dark: Best Things To Do In New Orleans At Night

    10 Min Read

    New Orleans’ nightlife has just what you need for a night out on the town, including cool places to eat and drink and accessible hangout spots.

    We’ll show you some of the best things for adults to do after dark in New Orleans.

    Does New Orleans Have A Good Night Life?

    The Crescent city’s nightlife scene is full of jazz clubs and other musical performances like concerts from pianists, renown saxophonists and even local rappers. There are also quite a few nightclubs, which we’ll get into in a bit.

    What Are The Best Things To Do In New Orleans At Night?

    Here are some of our favorite places to go in New Orleans after dark.

    • Go To A Jazz Club
    • Hang Out On Frenchman Street
    • Grab A Drink At These Local Bars
    • Eat At A Nice Restaurant
    • Go Party At A Club

    Go To A Jazz Club

    New Orleans is full of jazz clubs, which is a testament to the city’s history and the fact that it is the musical artform’s birthplace. Here are some jazz joints you must go to:

    Tipitina’s

    501 Napoleon Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 895-8477

    Tipitina's in New Orleans

    Tipitana’s has for years been where the neighborhood parties. The tourists have found out about it and the show has just gotten bigger, but just as downhome.

    Here is what one visitor says about Tipitina’s. “The drinks are to die for and the space is so open. I come here to see New Orleans greats in the hopes that one day I can perform along side them or have my own spot in this piece of heaven section. This night I saw the great Erica Falls she always gives me great advice on singing and performing and this is one of my fav places to see her shine. Keep up the great work and keep booking amazing talent you guys.”

    House of Blues

    225 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 310-4999

    House of Blues has the best live music in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one visitor says about the House of Blues. “Restaurant: Very savory jambalya with a healthy portion of shrimp and sausage, gumbo seemed a little salty, and everything had a good kick.
    Venue: always opt for VIP. However, the smaller, intimate venue provides a great experience regardless. Two bars downstairs and one upstairs with food options (which is nice). I would watch any artist in this venue.”

    Preservation Hall

    726 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116

    Preservation Hall in New Orleans

    Here’s what one visitor says about Preservation Hall. “Loved it. Definitely recommend the seats vs standing. It was warm in there and the standing crowd didn’t look overly comfortable. Music was great, exactly what I was hoping it would be. Only thing that would have made it better would be an encore at the end.”

    Palm Court Jazz Cafe

    1204 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 525-0200

    Palm Court Jazz Cafe in New Orleans

    Here’s what one reviewer says about Palm Court Jazz Cafe. “This place is wonderful. The music 1st, owned by the darlingest woman on the planet, staff warm and welcoming, food is Delicious. We had crabcake, and steak pie, fried crawfish for app…. in love completely. Dinner and phenomenal Jazz. Like I felt a warm musical hug from NOLA “

    Fritzel’s European Jazz Club

    733 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116 |  (504) 586-4800

    Fritzel's European Jazz Club is the best in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one visitor says about Fritzel’s. “Live music all day and eve starting at 12:30pm. Middle of the day piano man, takes requests and does traditional Nola jazz. Night time! Lookout. Katie Rogers on trumpet kills it, along with the band. A must. Drinks starting at $5.”

    Hang Out On Frenchman Street

    Frenchman Street is perhaps the most musically alive street in the Southeast. Known for its penchant for brass music and percussion, the party can literally start at any time.

    But that’s not all. Frenchman Street has a solid stable of restaurants and bars that can hold their own with any stretch of town.

    Some great places to visit along Frenchman Street include:

    The Spotted Cat Music Club

    623 Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA 70117

    Spotted Cat Music Club in New Orleans

    Here’s what one patron says about The Spotted Cat Music Club. “Love this jazz bar! The band (Pat Casey and the new sound) that was playing last night was simply amazing it is a bit small and rather tight. Even if you get a seat, you will be blocked by others standing around. Nonetheless, am glad me and my friends discovered this place as we were looking for a jazz bar. They started charging $10 cover fee at 9:30 p.m. and we got in just before that. Make sure you tip this band if you enjoy their music because that’s how they earn.”

    D.B.A.

    618 Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA 70116 |  (504) 942-3731

    D.B.A. is one of the best live music spots in New Orleans

    Here’s what one reviewer says about D.B.A. “Phenomenal jazz music venue! Wonderful bartenders, grateful for this incredible opportunity to listen to such amazing jazz artists! We saw the Palmetto Bug Stompers, wow, just wow!”

    Blue Nile

    532 Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 766-6193

    Blue Nile has the best live jazz in New Orleans.

    “We loved the vibe and decor of The Blue Nile! The feel was so much better than the insane, frat party vibe on Bourbon Street. After a long day walking around exploring the French Quarter we stopped here for cocktails while listening to the Washboard Chaz Blues Trio. The band was rocking and had great energy and banter with the audience.

    “The cocktails are expensive ($15-20), but the fleur de lis cocktail was absolutely divine! (Grey Goose vodka, essence of peach & rosemary, elderflower, and tonic!) This place was the perfect experience to wrap up our first day in New Orleans. We’ll definitely be back again!”

    Where To Grab A Drink In New Orleans

    You want to go someplace that doesn’t scream “tourist!’ or have pajamas on the wall. Someplace you can hear yourself think while you drink? We’ve got you.

    The Chloe

    4125 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 541-5500

    Drinks at The Chloe hotel in New Orleans

    The Chloe is known as a historic mansion hotel with a top-notch restaurant and manicured grounds, but its drinks are underrated.

    Here is what one drink lover says about The Chloe: The drinks and ambiance were good … Very beautiful vibe! The food was thought out and flavorful. The shrimp scampi dumplings were pretty tasty. Our server was super friendly & amazing! The sweet potato curry was the perfect fall dish to start the season!”

    Coquette

    2800 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 265-0421

    Coquette has the best drinks in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one customer says about Coquette: “Every dish was a well balanced pairing of local flavor and impressive culinary capacity. The way they put these dishes together is going to stick with me for a while. Everything was wonderfully paired with the other components on the dish. Perfect for a nice dinner on a quiet night. Stick around for dessert and the Amaro list. We will be coming back again!”

    Herbsaint

    701 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 524-4114

    Herbsaint has the best cocktails in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one diner says about Herbsaint: “The food deserve 5 stars, but I had to go with 4 because when we ate, almost everything was quite too salty. However we got there at almost 9pm with no reservation, and still they managed to give us a table, which was awesome. For VEGANS don’t be afraid to come eat here, the chef will prepare something at his discretion. And what I go it was Soo Good! My husband asked for 3 portion of short ribs, that’s how much he enjoyed them. My husband actually returned a dish back because it was too salty, and we appreciate that we were not charged for it. Service could have been more personable, but no complaints.”

    Some Nice Places To Eat In New Orleans

    Sometimes you want to enjoy a meal that deserves its price tag. You want to go where the help is all about the business and the food is to. Check these New Orleans eateries out.

    Domenica

    123 Baronne St, New Orleans, LA 70112 | (504) 648-6020

    Domenica has the best Italian food in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one diner says about Domenica: “Best food i had in New Orleans !! the bread is to die for and everything me and my family ordered was superb.”

    Oceana Grill

    739 Conti St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 525-6002

    Oceana Grill has some of the best seafood in New Orleans

    Here’s what one diner says about the Oceana Grill: “One of the best meals I ever had. The Cajun food is so good I could die happy after eating it. The delicious bread pudding is warm and drizzled with rum sauce. The crab cakes are so good it’s ridiculous. I highly recommend coming if you carving some Cajun food.”

    Gianna Restaurant

    700 Magazine St #101, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 399-0816

    Gianna  is the best Italian restaurant in New Orleans.

    Customer review: “One of the best pasta with crab i ever had. However had to order 2 portions because of a small portion size. I did ask the waitress the portion size but i guess it is subjective – that’s all i had other than a salad.”

    Mona Lisa

    1212 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 522-6746

    Mona Lisa  is the best Italian restaurant in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one eater says about Mona Lisa: “We have called it our favorite Italian Restaurant for a lot of years but we got take out Chef Salad tonight and it was the BEST I’ve had in a long long time. Still the best of the best.”

    Go Party At The Club

    If you want to go shake something, there’s always some music somewhere in New Orleans. At the cities many clubs, you get to have a good time in any part of the city.

    Masquerade Nightclub

    8 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130 |  (504) 533-6000

    The Masquerade in New Orleans is one of the best places to party.

    Here’s what one partygoer says about Masquerade. “VIP experience but I didn’t like how other VIP parties could cross ours, but the music was on point and we had an fantastic time.”

    Razzoo Bar & Patio

     511 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 522-5100

    Razzoo Bar and Patio is the best place to party in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one partyer says about Razzoo. “This place is AMAZING! Great live music and live entertainment! There is a dance floor and an outdoor area where you can enjoy your drinks. The band was awesome and we had a lot of fun! One of the best spots in Bourbon street.”

    Ohm Lounge

    601 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130 |  (504) 335-1760

    Ohm Lounge is one of the best places to party in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one party person says about Ohm Lounge. “OHM Lounge rocks and the drinks are strong. Definitely going back here when I’m in the city again!”

    Funky 544

    544 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 592-0544

    Funky 544 is one of the best clubs in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one partygoer says about the Funky 544. “I had such a good time. I was a lil skeptical going in at first bc they have people enticing you to come in but I couldn’t resist the band. The band … was amazing. They had me dancing and I have forgotten all about everything that was on my mind.”

    Last Word

    You can have a crazy fun time in New Orleans. You can walk the streets with open booze and the clubs stay open nearly all night. Then there’s Bourbon Street, which is a whole ‘nother situation.

    The city’s entertainment districts are scattered throughout its neighborhoods, which makes for a great, diverse experience. The nightlife is top-notch and the food is amazing. What’s not to love? Check out our guide to Rome, Italy.

    Looking for more places to eat in Nola? Here Are Some Top Desserts To Order In New Orleans.

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  • live music in New Orleans tonight and this weekend.

    Who Has Live Music Tonight In New Orleans?

    4 Min Read

    New Orleans is a musical oasis at nearly every quadrant: From its street corners to its restaurants, speakeasys and bars and more. But where are the live music venues in New Orleans this weekend?

    There are several New Orleans music venues that offer live bands, vocalists performing across several genres. And of course, you can check out all the Mardi Gras festivities. There are seedy joints, upscale big band-type options as well as restaurants, taverns and banquet halls that offer jazz and R&B standards.

    Live Music in New Orleans Tonight: Friday, Feb. 2, 2024

    Live Music in New Orleans: Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024

    Live Music in New Orleans: Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024

    Tipitina’s

    501 Napoleon Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 895-8477

    Tipitina's in New Orleans

    This iconic music venue hosts a variety of live performances, including blues, funk, and rock, featuring both local and touring artists.

    Here is what one visitor says about Tipitina’s. “The drinks are to die for and the space is so open. I come here to see New Orleans greats in the hopes that one day I can perform along side them or have my own spot in this piece of heaven section. This night I saw the great Erica Falls she always gives me great advice on singing and performing and this is one of my fav places to see her shine. Keep up the great work and keep booking amazing talent you guys.”

    House of Blues

    225 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 310-4999

    House of Blues has the best live music in New Orleans.

    A well-known chain of music venues, the New Orleans House of Blues features a mix of local and national acts, covering genres like blues, rock, and gospel.

    Here’s what one visitor says about the House of Blues. “Restaurant: Very savory jambalya with a healthy portion of shrimp and sausage, gumbo seemed a little salty, and everything had a good kick.
    Venue: always opt for VIP. However, the smaller, intimate venue provides a great experience regardless. Two bars downstairs and one upstairs with food options (which is nice). I would watch any artist in this venue.”

    Preservation Hall

    726 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116

    Preservation Hall in New Orleans

    A historic venue dedicated to preserving traditional New Orleans jazz, Preservation Hall offers intimate performances by talented local musicians.

    Here’s what one visitor says about Preservation Hall. “Loved it. Definitely recommend the seats vs standing. It was warm in there and the standing crowd didn’t look overly comfortable. Music was great, exactly what I was hoping it would be. Only thing that would have made it better would be an encore at the end.”

    Palm Court Jazz Cafe

    1204 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 525-0200

    Palm Court Jazz Cafe in New Orleans

    Here’s what one reviewer says about Palm Court Jazz Cafe. “This place is wonderful. The music 1st, owned by the darlingest woman on the planet, staff warm and welcoming, food is Delicious. We had crabcake, and steak pie, fried crawfish for app…. in love completely. Dinner and phenomenal Jazz. Like I felt a warm musical hug from NOLA “

    Fritzel’s European Jazz Club

    733 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116 |  (504) 586-4800

    Fritzel's European Jazz Club is the best in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one visitor says about Fritzel’s. “Live music all day and eve starting at 12:30pm. Middle of the day piano man, takes requests and does traditional Nola jazz.”

    Final Word

    Live music is a part of New Orleans’ culture for sure. from jazz clubs to the city’s diverse bar scene, from historic cocktail bars to trendy craft beer spots. listening to lie music is a popular nighttime activity, especially in areas like the French Quarter and the Warehouse District.

    Want more fun things to do? Check out the best things to do in New Orleans at night.

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  • cheap travel internationally

    How To Travel For Cheap For 2024

    4 Min Read

    Traveling for cheap is not only something that you should try once or twice, but it should become a part of your lifestyle. Yes, you can travel for cheap this year and beyond.

    This article will show you how you can travel for cheap anywhere in the world this fall. You can use these money-saving tips anytime of the year.

    In This Article:

    Research Cheap Fares

    The #1 way to start your journey to finding cheap fares is to research online. Don’t book on the first travel site that you run across. This step takes some real research.

    Sites like Priceline, Orbitz and Google Flights are great resources to find cheap flights.

    Kayak has a map that shows you cheap fares. So does Google Flights.

    You’ll also want to consider whether you need travel insurance, which could cover you in the event something unexpected happens.

    Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected events, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Many insurance providers offer coverage specifically for travel to Rome.

    Be Flexible

    Flexibility is perhaps the most important strategy in finding cheap flights. It pays to know whether the timeframe you plan to travel is the destination’s peak tourist season or offseason, when things are cheaper.

    If you’re locked in on a date and can’t change it, the likelihood is that you’ll pay more.

    Know The Exchange Rate

    If you’re traveling to another country which has a favorable exchange rate compared to the U.S. dollar, you can save money by buying things there.

    For example, the euro is trending lower than the dollar right now, which means you can pay for things like food or other expenses for less.

    Use this Historical Currency Converter to research how much a particular country’s money has increased or decreased in value.

    Get A Sightseeing Pass

    Some cities have what is called a sightseeing pass or city tourism pass. That is usually the cheapest way to experience several of a destination’s top landmarks for less.

    Before you book your travel, research the particular city you’re going to and see what it offers where sightseeing passes are concerned. They typically offer bundled deals that are less expensive than buying admission tickets a la carte.

    Stay Near A Big City

    Tourist destinations attract visitors for a reason: They have the amenities, landmarks and infrastructure to accommodate travelers. The downside is that visitors will pay a premium to stay there, but if you fly into a major city but stay outside the city, you can save on lodging.

    Of course, you’ll bear some expense to travel in and out of the travel destination each day, but depending on where you book your hotel, it could be worth it by a lot.

    Book Free Tours

    Always search for free tours and book early. That way, you get to experience the city on your own terms without it costing you an arm and a leg.

    Free tours may not include many of the stops or features that a paid tour will have, but it will let you know what you need to pay for.

    Book At The Right Time

    Buying a flight at the last minute will be expensive. If you can help it, try to book at least a month out to get a reasonably priced fare. Anything within three weeks will likely be higher.

    For lodging, Airbnb used to be the best bargain, but that’s not necessarily the case anymore. Hotels are increasingly offering flat rate deals that are competitively priced.

    If you don’t mind living with strangers, CouchSurfing offers some cheap options.

    Save On Food

    One website that allows you to see what most locals are eating in any given country is EatWith, which shows you immersive culinary experiences.

    Take Advantage Of Lunch Specials

    If you want to experience a certain restaurant you’ve read about, don’t wait until dinner when the menu is pricey. Go to lunch!

    The lunch menu is typically cheaper than any other time of the day, so that’s when you should patronize that particular restaurant you’ve always wanted to try.

    Final Word

    You can travel for less if you keep your goal in front of you: saving money. That means you need to use travel apps and other strategies that help you lower your expenses.

    Here are cheap flights from New Orleans.

    More From NolaFi.com:

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  • New Orleans to Baton Rouge trip how far

    How Far Is Baton Rouge From New Orleans?

    3 Min Read

    Going from Baton Rouge to New Orleans seems to be getting shorter and shorter due to housing sprawl, but the distance — and travel scenery of oil refineries, rural parishes and swampland river — has not changed.

    This article is going to tell you what you need to know about the trip.

    How Far Is New Orleans From Baton Rouge?

    New Orleans and Baton Rouge are approximately 80 miles apart. In a vehicle, you can make the trip in about an hour and 10 minutes give or take a few minutes.

    Baton Rouge to New Orleans route

    The most notable route is to take Interstate 10, which goes right through both cities. You can also take Interstate 12, but it’s 15 minutes longer and you’ll have to curve back through Slidell.

    For a more scenic route, you can take Airline Highway from Baton Rouge to New Orleans as well, which will take about one hour.

    What is The Halfway Point Between Baton Rouge And New Orleans?

    The halfway point between Baton Rouge, LA and New Orleans, LA is Denson, Louisiana, which is also known locally as Bear Island.

    Between Baton Rouge and New Orleans is several parishes, the Louisiana version of counties.

    What Parishes Are Baton Rouge And New Orleans In?

    Baton Rouge is in East Baton Rouge Parish, while New Orleans is primarily in Orleans Parish. Nearby is Jefferson Parish, which is considered part of the Greater New Orleans area.

    New Orleans map

    The Fastest Way: I-10

    The quickest way to get there is to take Interstate 10, which is the federal highway system’s east-west corridor. If you choose this route, you’ll go over the bayou and several bodies of water. On your way, you’ll cross over the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway. At 23-miles long, the Causeway is the longest continuous bridge over water in the world.

    The I-10 corridor between New Orleans and Baton Rouge also has another distinction. A part of it is known as “Cancer Alley.”

    What And Where Is Cancer Alley?

    Cancer Alley is a span between New Orleans and Baton Rouge that has gotten the infamous moniker because of the high instances of cancer in the communities along the route.

    The nickname especially characterizes St. James Parish, which has a majority of its population living below the povery line.

    The area is also known an “environmental sacrifice zone.” That means it’s made up of a geographical area that has been contaminated by dangerous chemicals.

    The Street Way: Airline Highway

    You can also take Airline Highway to go from New Orleans to Baton Rouge. If there’s an evacuation, you may find that this scenic route is less crowded and makes sense.

    On your GPS, all you have to do is input U.S. Highway 61 from New Orleans and take it northwest to Baton Rouge and U.S. Highway 190.

    Final Word

    If you’re traveling from Baton Rouge to New Orleans, Louisiana, or vice versa, you’ll want to pick the most convenient route between the state’s largest cities.

    Traveling around Louisiana to experience the different communities is one of the joys of the South. Make sure you fill up on gas and don’t speed (the cops are watching).

    More From NolaFi.com:

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  • Where to eat in New Orleans French Quarter.

    Where Locals Eat In New Orleans’ French Quarter

    3 Min Read

    No matter if you’re visiting the great city of New Orleans or you live here, you know the tourist food spots in the French Quarter a mile away: long lines, bad food and great reviews.

    For an authentic dining experience, you might ask where do the locals go to eat in New Orleans, specifically the French Quarter. We’ve got a few spots that we enjoy. Shall we?

    Café du Monde

    800 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 587-0833

    Best beignets in New Orleans at Cafe Du Monde

    Famous for its beignets and café au lait, this iconic spot is popular among locals and visitors alike for a classic New Orleans breakfast or snack.

    Love these sweet treats? Read our Beignet Guide for New Orleans.

    Central Grocery

    923 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 523-1620

    Central Grocery has the best food in New Orleans.

    Known for its Muffuletta sandwich, Central Grocery is a favorite among locals for a taste of this classic New Orleans dish.

    Acme Oyster House

    724 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 522-5973

    Acme has the best oysters in New Orleans.

    A popular spot for fresh seafood and oysters, Acme Oyster House is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious dishes.

    Here’s what a visitor to Acme Oyster House says. “If Chargrilled oysters are your thing then this is the place for you! One of the best in town. I always overeat everytime we visit. Love the staff as well. Always so welcoming.”

    Coop’s Place

    1109 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 525-9053

    Coop's Place has the best red beans and rice in New Orleans.

    This casual eatery is popular with locals for its Cajun and Creole cuisine, including dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and fried chicken.

    Here’s what one customer says about Coop’s Place. “This place is incredible! The Rabbit and Sausage Jambalaya is so good I could probably eat a gallon of it. The Cajun Fried Chicken is perfectly seasoned, moist, and crispy. The Cole Slaw is like the cole slaw you expect at a southern family reunion and that’s a good thing. The Red Beans & Rice was perfect.”

    Johnny’s Po-Boys

    511 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 524-8129

    johnny's Poboys has the best poboys in the French Quarter.

    A classic New Orleans po-boy shop, Johnny’s is known for its wide variety of po-boy sandwiches, including both traditional and creative options.

    Sylvain

     625 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 265-8123

    Sylvain is one of the best places to eat in the French Quarter

    Known for its upscale yet relaxed atmosphere, Sylvain offers a menu of modern American cuisine with a Southern twist, making it a popular choice for a special night out.

    Final Bite

    Where the locals eat is where the good food is at for sure. As a top-tier convention city, New Orleans is known for its many festivals, parties and events. Is the city safe? Of course. That also means that Nola is also a top travel destination.

    Want real-time tips on how to save when you’re on a trip? Read our Travel Savings Guide.

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