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An arctic blast is sending freezing temperatures throughout the Southeast, including New Orleans and other parts of Louisiana.
One of the worst feelings a homeowner can have is when their pipes freeze due to cold weather. That’s why it’s super important to not let it get to that point if you can help it.
And regardless of the weather, you can help it. But you’re going to need to take some precautions.
How To Prevent Frozen Pipes At Your Home
You’ve probably heard the old saying that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Well, that’s certainly the case when it comes to preventing frozen pipes at your residence.
When doing these steps, if you don’t feel comfortable, make sure to contact a licensed plumber for your needs. On the other hand, if you can handle these simple tasks, you will be able to keep your home safe and dry and your bank account intact.
Let’s get started with the first of many steps:
1. Find Out Where Your Shutoff Values Are
Just in case you need to turn off your water, you should know where all your shutoff values are adjacent to your plumbing pipes. Look under the sinks and go outside next to the spigots and check out your shutoff values.
The reason this is so important is because in case of a burst pipe, you’ll need to quickly shut off water to that pipe.
2. Disconnect Your Garden Hose From The Spigots
While you’re at your spigots outside, go ahead and tighten them and disconnect them from any garden hoses so that any trapped water can’t expand and burst the piping.
Many homeowners skip this step, but if you leave a garden hose attached, there’s the possibility that water could be trapped between the spigot and the water house connector, which could freeze and create an issue. Be safe, not sorry!
3. Adjust Your Thermostat
The second thing you should do is look to get your home suitable to withstand the inclement weather outside. To do this, make sure your thermostat is set to at least 55 degrees. That way, you won’t have to worry about any interior freezing.
4. Open Your Sink Cabinet Doors
Another thing that many homeowners neglect to do is open their cupboards and sink cabinet doors. You want to encourage the free flow of warm air throughout your home. Opening the cabinet doors under your sink will help keep them warm and stave off the chill from outside.
5. Let Your Faucets Drip
For any faucets inside your home, turn them on so that they can drip throughout the night. This will allow water to continuously flow through the pipe and stop it from freezing.
You’ll want to make sure you check for any frozen pipes in your home. If you notice that a pipe is frozen, you’ll want to warm it with a hair dryer or by wrapping a warm towel around it that has been heated in hot water on the stove.
If you’re uncomfortable with doing any of these steps, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with a licensed plumber.
Looking to visit the Crescent City? Here’s the cheapest time to travel to New Orleans.
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Congratulations. You’ve bought some Beats earbuds, the ones you really wanted. The funny thing is, you don’t know how to turn them on. No matter if you plan to travel with them or exercise, you need them working and functioning properly.
It could be an easy thing that you’re overlooking, which is why your earbuds won’t turn on. Or it could be something a bit more complex.
This article, we will show you how to turn on your Beats Earbuds.
How To Turn On Your Beats Earbuds
- Check the Power Status: Ensure that your Beats earbuds have sufficient battery charge. If they are low on battery, you may need to charge them using the included charging cable and a power source.
- Turn On the Earbuds: Most Beats earbuds have a power button or a multifunction button that you need to press and hold to turn them on. Look for a button on the earbuds—this could be a physical button or a touch-sensitive area.
- Wait for the Indicator: After pressing the power button, wait for a few seconds and look for an indicator light or sound that confirms the earbuds are powered on. This light or sound varies depending on the specific model of Beats earbuds you have.
- Pairing Mode (if applicable): If your Beats earbuds have Bluetooth connectivity, turning them on may also put them into pairing mode automatically. In this case, you can proceed to pair them with your Bluetooth-enabled device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, computer) by following the device’s instructions for Bluetooth pairing.
- Adjust Settings (if needed): Once your Beats earbuds are turned on and paired with your device, you can adjust their settings using the controls on the earbuds or through the settings menu on your device.
Final Word
If you encounter any issues or if your Beats earbuds have specific features or instructions unique to their model, it’s best to refer to the user manual or support documentation provided by Beats or the manufacturer.
Flying in and out of New Orleans is easier than ever after the Louis Armstrong Airport remodel.
New Orleans is a top destination for air travelers the world over. The reason? The city’s vibrant culture, top-notch cuisine and its many things to do and see.Looking to visit the Crescent City? Here’s the cheapest time to travel to New Orleans.
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Owning land in Louisiana land can be a rewarding and profitable experience if you know the process. And if you don’t, keep reading!
In this article, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about purchasing a piece of land in Louisiana.
How Do I Get Started Buying Land In Louisiana?
In this article, we’ll show you step by step how to buy a plot of land in Louisiana.
My family owns several plots of real estate around New Orleans and Baton Rouge and because I’m constantly looking for real estate, I’ve also researched the process thoroughly.
First things first, you need to get pre-approved for a loan.
1. Get Pre-Approved
Getting pre-approved for a loan to buy land is exactly like getting pre-approved for a mortgage. The reason why this initial step is so important is because Realtors will have an incentive to work with and for you.
Once you’re pre-qualified for a loan, the real estate professionals you’re dealing with will take you more seriously because they want your business.
If you apply and are not approved, take these steps to improve your credit fast.
2. Search For Land
It’s time to begin your search for affordable land for sale.
In a large metropolitan area like New Orleans, parcels of land sell at a premium. If you want several acres, you’ll have to expand your search to cities around Orleans Parish.
How Much Does An Acre Of Land Cost In Louisiana?
The price of an acre of land in Louisiana depends on where it’s located and whether it is improved or unimproved.
Last year, the average price per acre in Louisiana averaged about $3,100 per acre. For pastureland, you can expect to pay around $1,400 per acre.
If you’re looking for farmland or just some acreage, if you don’t know a Realtor, then you can begin your search online.Some websites you can look for parcels of land on are:
Know The Zoning Laws
Once you’ve found a piece of land you like, familiarize yourself with the local zoning laws. Some areas won’t let you build wooden structures. Other areas won’t let you build with stone. Others won’t allow livestock. Research what’s allowed where you want to live. The typical zoning regulations govern such things as:
- Building specifications of the type of buildings allowed.
- Where utility lines must be located.
- Restrictions on accessory buildings, building setbacks from the streets and other boundaries.
- Size and height of buildings.
- Number of rooms in a structure.
In addition to knowing what type of structures are allowed to be built, you’ll need to know land use rules as well. Here are some common land-use zones that could apply to the area you’re interested in:
- Agricultural Zoning
- Commercial Zoning
- Combination Zoning
- Historic Zoning
- Industrial Zoning
- Residential Zoning
- Rural Zoning
You may be saying to yourself, “How do I find out about zoning laws?” The best place to start is with the locality’s department of city planning, or similar office. They’ll tell you all you need to know about the zoning laws in that area.
3. Compare Your Land Choices
Photo credit: Observer.globe.gov Once you’ve done all your zoning research, it’s time to whittle down your list of land parcels you like and choose one.
Some things you may want to consider are:
- Access: How far is the property from the interstate or major highway?
- Privacy: How close are you to the neighbors and nearby noise?
- Terrain: Are there hundreds of trees, woods or just undeveloped land, dirt or grass?
- Irrigation: Is there a water source nearby? A lake or creek that runs through the property?
All of these things may increase or decrease the value of the land depending on your intentions for it.
In any event, once you’ve made your decision to buy the land, it’s time to put it in writing.4. Make An Offer On The Land
To make a formal offer on a piece of land you’ll need a real estate agent’s Bid Offer form. You can find samples of a Bid Offer form online.
When making an offer, you don’t want to go too high in price. Let your offer be based not on the property’s asking price, but on the amount you’ve been pre-approved for.
Should You Offer Over The Asking Price?
If you offer over the asking price, you’ll have to go back to your lender to make sure you can get financing to cover it.
You’ll also want to know if the appraisal of the land justifies the asking price.
If you make an offer too low, it may not attract the seller because they may get higher offers from others looking to buy the property.
Bottom line: Your offer will have to be higher than the others if you want the land.
Let’s say the seller accepts your offer. What now?5. Sign The Land Sale Contract And Purchase Agreement
Once the offer is accepted, the buyer and seller typically sign a Land Sale Contract / Purchase Agreement.
This is a legal document that solidifies the intentions of both parties to make a real estate transaction.
Here are some terms typically found in a Land Sale Contract / Purchase Agreement:- Price
- Property size, boundaries and description
- Title
- Seller disclosures
Typically, the buyer’s agent will have the purchase agreement written up by a practicing real estate attorney.
The Land Sale and Purchase Agreement becomes binding when all signatures have been obtained.
6. Prepare For Closing
Unlike a home closing, when you’re buying land you don’t have to worry about such things as an inspection and making some demands for last-minute repairs and replacements.
As a buyer, you will typically be expected to provide for anywhere between 2% to 5% of the closing costs. However, depending on other concessions you make, it’s possible that you may not pay any money at all at closing.
One thing you don’t want to skip is a soil test. A soil test also indicates which elements are missing from your soil and how much to add them if you plan on growing fruits, vegetables and other crops.
A soil test will also tell you:
- The pH level in the soil.
- What nutrients and minerals are in the soil such as nitrogen and phosphorus.
You can buy a soil kit from various retailers such as Lowes and Home Depot. You can also order a soil test kit online. Here’s a comprehensive one that I like:
Once you sign all the appropriate documents at closing, the land will be yours! Some real estate lawyers may break out a bottle of Champagne to celebrate, but that’s optional:)
Final Words
Are in interested in buying land in Louisiana? The Pelican State has a lot to offer for land owners who want nutrient-rich land that is naturally moisturized by the swampy wetlands along the state’s coastal region.
Buying a piece of land is a great investment and something that can stay in your family for generations. If you do it right — following all the steps from zoning laws and getting a soil test, etc. — it can be a smooth process.
Because of the many parts involved in buying land, it’s highly advisable that you use the services of a professional real estate agent. A Realtor can walk you through the land-buying process more easily. Also, many of them have the professionals you need already in their network.
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Your face is your best investment, especially if you’re on camera. That’s why you need a good face cream to care for your pores.
This article will show you the best face creams to use on a regular basis.
What’s The Difference Between A Face Cream And A Moisturizer?
Face creams are typically thicker than moisturizers because they are made up of so much more oil. Because of that, creams are generally used less frequently than moisturizers. With that being said, many retailers use the terms “face cream” and “moisturizer” interchangeably.
Make sure you read the label to find out if you’re allergic or sensitive to any of the ingredients listed on the product.
Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s talk about face creams!
What Face Creams Are Good For Daily Use?
When it comes to daily use, we’ve gathered up some stellar creams that you can try immediately.
Olay Regenerist Vitamin C + Peptide 24 Brightening Face Moisturizer
L’Oreal Paris Skincare Collagen Face Moisturizer
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Face Cream
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Nourishing Lip Balm
Olay Regenerist Mineral Sunscreen Face Moisturizer
Pond’s Dark Spot Corrector Clarant B3
Eucerin Q10 Anti Wrinkle Face Cream Bundle
Final Word
No matter if you’re trying to reduce wrinkles or just smooth out your skin, cream is a good thing.
Now that you’ve seen some of the best face creams on the market, you may be thinking about which one is best for you. Obviously, each brand has its good points and otherwise.
When deciding to buy a face cream, think about how it can promote skin hydration for your particular type of skin.
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Flying the friendly skies is one of the most liberating feelings you can have when traveling. To experience it, you have to fly on a good airline.
Much of the last year has been marked by big troubles in the airline industry, from frequent flight delays, cancellations and even pilot strikes. With all that going on, you may wonder what airlines are the best in the world?
The site AirlineRatings.com listed the best airlines in the world.
- Qantaslink came in first as Best Regional Airline for its efforts promoting the remote Australian outback.
- JetBlue received the Excellence in Long Haul travel award, along with Turkish Airlines (Europe), Qatar Airways (Middle-East/Africa), Korean Air (Asia) and Air New Zealand (Pacific).
- Best Low-Cost Airlines were: Southwest (Americas), easyjet (Europe) and Jetstar (Asia/Pacific) and Fly Dubai (Middle-East).
The World’s Top 20 Airlines For 2022
1. Qatar Airways
2. Air New Zealand
3. Etihad Airways
4. Korean Air
5. Singapore Airlines
6. Qantas
7. Virgin Australia
8. EVA Air
9. Turkish Airlines
10. All Nippon Airways
11. Cathay Pacific Airways
12. Virgin Atlantic
13. Japan Air Lines
14. JetBlue
15. Finnair
16. Emirates
17. Hawaiian
18. Air France/KLM
19. Alaska Airlines
20. British Airways
How To Travel Cheap
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
Final Word
Because travel has roared back since the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Airlines are having sales, but you have to know how to find them. 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.
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Houston not only has some of the best food in Texas, but the city has plenty of things to get into and see week in and week out.
This article will go over some of the best things to do in Houston.
Fun Things To Do In Houston, Texas
Houston is a vibrant city with a diverse range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. One thing we recommend is that you take some time to really explore the Houston dining scene: Houston is known for its diverse and delicious food scene. From Tex-Mex to Vietnamese to BBQ, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Here are some cool things to do in Houston:
Visit the Space Center Houston
As the home of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Houston offers an opportunity to explore the history and future of space exploration. Visitors can see real spacecraft, take a tram tour, and even meet astronauts.
Explore the Houston Museum of Natural Science
The museum boasts an extensive collection of fossils, gems, and minerals, as well as a butterfly exhibit and a planetarium.
Visit The Houston Zoo
The zoo is home to over 6,000 animals and features exhibits such as the Kipp Aquarium, the McNair Asian Elephant Habitat, and the African Forest.
Go Shopping and Dining in the Houston Heights
The Houston Heights neighborhood offers a variety of independent shops, restaurants, and bars that reflect the city’s diverse culture.
Visit the Buffalo Bayou Park
The park features hiking and biking trails, a skate park, a dog park, and paddleboarding opportunities. There are also public art installations and a historic cemetery to explore.
See a show at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts
The Hobby Center hosts a variety of musicals, plays, and concerts throughout the year.
Final Word
There is so much to do in Houston. One thing we didn’t even put in the lineup is to tour the Menil Collection: This art museum features works by Picasso, Matisse, and other modern masters, as well as a large collection of African art and artifacts.
These are just a few of the many cool things to do in Houston. With its rich history, diverse culture, and exciting attractions, Houston offers something for everyone..
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Houston is known for a lot of cool things, but it’s black-owned restaurants might be its best kept secret. Pulling from the diverse cultures of the city, Houston’s black restaurants offer a rich stew of inspired cuisines and dishes to love.
Houston’s Best Black Restaurants: A Culinary Guide
Houston’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself! To offer the best recommendations, I need some more information about your preferences.
Kulture
701 Avenida De Las Americas Suite A, Houston, TX 77010 | (713) 357-9697
Check out what one reviewer says about Kulture. “What a breath of fresh air! A black owned restaurant experience that was upscale, sophisticated and served up a damn good bird with the trimmings. As someone who dines a bunch in major cities like New York, this was a knock out of the park. Keep this up and let this be the standard for black dining.”
Mikki’s Soul Food Restaurant
10500 W Bellfort Ave. #100, Houston, TX 77031 | (281) 568-5115
Mikki’s is known for their crispy fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, and melt-in-your-mouth collard greens, all cooked with love and soul.
Here’s what one customer says about Mikki’s Soul Food. “My family was in town and wanted soul food and they enjoyed every bit.”
Lucille’s
5512 La Branch St, Houston, TX 77004 | (713) 568-2505
Here’s what one reviewer says about Lucille’s. “Let’s start off that this is a Black owned business. Loved everything about it from the ambiance to the lay out. Beautiful indoor and out door setting. Very laid back place perfect for enjoying one of their many mismosas. Food presentations was on point and the flavor was just as satisfying.”
Larry & Laney’s Soul Food
5015 Westheimer Rd M, Houston, TX 77082 | (281) 752-7106
Here’s what one reviewer says about Larry & Laney’s. “Came for honey glazed wings but stayed for the home style meatballs and pudding. I’ve been looking for a truly great soul food joint around me for what feels like years now. I think I finally found it.”
Soul Food by Catherine
4202 W Fuqua St, Houston, TX 77045 | (713) 434-3334
Owner Chef Catherine Simon from St. Charles, Louisiana, has done a masterful job of serving soulful food in a modest place. Here’s what one guest says. “”Love their fried pork chops, greens, mashed potatoes & gravy, and Mac & Cheese.”
Just Oxtails Soul Food
4207 Reed Rd, Houston, TX 77051 | (713) 733-8111
Here’s what one customer says about Just Oxtails. “The food was outstanding!!! The oxtails over rice and gravy was seasoned to perfection. The greens tasted like they were cooked by somebody grandma and the cornbread muffins ain’t no Jiffy Mix. The Mac-n-Cheese delicious! I normally can drive and eat but that was not possible with this meal. The restaurant looks beat down but the food superior soul food. I will definitely be going back soon!”
Craving an epic weekend brunch? The Breakfast Klub’s line is often out the door, but the wait is worth it for their fluffy pancakes, decadent shrimp and grits, and creative takes on classic breakfast dishes.
Black Walnut Kitchen & Bar
5510 Morningside Dr Suite #150, Houston, TX 77005 | (713) 526-5551
Chef Chris Williams’ acclaimed Black Walnut offers a sophisticated menu of Southern-inspired dishes with contemporary twists. Expect seasonal ingredients, bold flavors, and an elegant setting.
ChòpnBlọk
401 Franklin St Suite A, Houston, TX 77201 | 281-631-5009
Here’s what one reviewer says about ChòpnBlọk. “This black owned, west African inspired restaurant is so nice everything from the decor, black merch (books, apparel, etc) and most importantly the food. The food and service are amazing here!!! I ordered the trad which was the sample and it came with jollof rice, curry, Brussel sprouts, cauliflower, chicken and plantain.”
Final Word
Houston’s black restaurant scene does the diaspora proud on any side of town. Remember, this is just a glimpse into the abundance of incredible Black-owned restaurants in Houston.
So, grab your adventurous spirit and explore the diverse culinary landscape that Houston has to offer!
When New Orleans’ food is mentioned on a national level, it somehow always reverts back to gumbo, which is the best around, although the city’s eateries certainly represent those dishes well, there’s so much more.
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This year, Christmas and Christmas Eve fall on a Sunday and Monday, which means people will be out shopping until the last minute at grocery stores in New Orleans, Louisiana and elsewhere.
If you need to go pickup an item or two, you may be wondering what the operating hours are for local stores. For instance, is Kroger open today? How long will Publix close? You’ve got questions and we’ve got answers.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about the grocery store hours for the major supermarket chains around New Orleans.
Is Kroger, Walmart, Whole Foods And More Open For Christmas And Christmas Eve?
On holidays we know that grocery store hours tend to change. Some stores are closed, while some adjust their hours to remain open just a while.
For the latest information, you should call your local grocery store to see if they have changed their hours on any particular day.
Quick Links: Grocery Store Holiday Hours
Is Albertson’s Open For Christmas Eve And Christmas Day?
Albertson’s is abiding by modified holiday hours for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. On Christmas Eve, Albertson’s will close early. On Christmas Day, the supermarket and pharmacy will be closed.
Albertson’s Holiday Hours:
- Christmas Eve — 6:00 AM-4:00 PM
- Christmas Day — Closed
What Are Costco’s Holiday Hours?
Costco usually stays open from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily. For Christmas and Christmas Eve, things will be a bit different.
Costco Holiday Hours:
- Dec 24: 10 am – 8:30 pm (Christmas Eve)
- Dec 25: Closed (Christmas Day
Rouses Market Holiday Hours
At Rouses stores, metro New Orleans locations will be closed for Christmas Day so that team members can enjoy it with their families. Stores will reopen as usual on Sunday, December 26.
Here are Rouses Market holiday hours:
- Christmas Eve — 8 p.m. close
- Christmas Day — closed
Sam’s Club Holiday Hours
Sam’s Club has altered its operating hours during the holidays, including on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Years Eve and New Years Day. Whole Foods is closed on Christmas Day.
Here are Sam’s Club’s holiday hours in New Orleans:
- Dec 24: 10 am – 10 pm (Christmas Eve)
- Dec 25: Closed (Christmas Day)
Is Walmart Open On Christmas Or Christmas Eve?
Walmart will be closed on Christmas Day. It’s the only day of the year when Walmarts all over are shut down. On the day after Christmas, December 26th, Walmart will resume regular hours.
Walmart Holiday Hours:
- Dec 24: 7 am – 10 pm (Christmas Eve)
- Dec 25: Closed (Christmas Day
Whole Foods Holiday Hours
Whole Foods is operating on modified hours during the holidays, including on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Years Eve and New Years Day. Whole Foods is closed on Christmas Day.
Here are Whole Foods holiday hours in New Orleans:
- Dec 24: 8 am – 7 pm (Christmas Eve)
- Dec 25: Closed (Christmas Day)
Winn-Dixie Holiday Hours
Winn-Dixie is open on Christmas Eve and closed on Christmas Day. The following day, the grocery store will resume regular store hours.
Winn-Dixie Holiday Hours:
- Dec 24: 7 am – 10 pm (Christmas Eve)
- Dec 25: Closed (Christmas Day
What’s Open On Christmas?
If you need any last-minute items, you can rest assured that gas stations will be open. But many drug stores, including CVS, Rite-Aid and Walgreens will all be open on Christmas Day.
Again, for specific stores near you, it is best to give them a call before you get in your car and drive there.
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TV producer Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson is moving into a colossal movie studio to create his content.
The deal for Jackson to lease Millennium Studios in Caddo Parish was unanimously approved by the Shreveport City Council on Dec. 12, 2023.
The move makes 50 Cent’s G-Unit Film & Television Louisiana LLC official.The mogul announced the news on his social media accounts. “All Roads lead to Shreveport if you ready to work in 🎥film and television. G-unit studios Is officially in Louisiana. 💣BOOM💨 GLG🚦GREENLIGHTGANG.”
Where Is Millennium Studios in Shreveport?
Millennium Studios is located at 300 Douglas St, Ste 243 Shreveport, La. 71101.
Final Act
Louisiana’s film industry is growing by leaps and bounds. The Crescent City is the fourth-largest moviemaking mecca in the United States, behind Los Angeles, New York and Atlanta.
Film production in New Orleans has created a huge demand for jobs in the film industry from crew to actors and producers. Stay with NolaFi.com for the latest casting calls and casting news in the industry.
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Starbucks has a December offer to all New Orleans customers naughty or nice: free hot chocolate.
The deal is good through the end of the month.
To get a free cup of hot chocolate, you must purchase one of Starbucks’ handcrafted beverages in at least the grande size.
Starbucks introduced the freebie deal on Instagram with the headline, “Hot Chocolate Cheer Weekends are here!”
Where To Find Starbucks in New Orleans
To find a Starbucks near you in New Orleans, use this Store Locator.
Final Word
If you plan on visiting the city for New Orleans, you should know that the area you’re staying in is safe.
Expect to indulge in many foods that New Orleans is known For, including Gumbo, Beignets and more.
Read about things to see and do in New Orleans.
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