• Relax in New Orleans

    7 Cool Ways To Relax Your Mind And Body In New Orleans

    4 Min Read

    it’s been a long workweek and the stress got to you, but not to worry: You can find a relaxing time at home.

    No need to go out to a noisy restaurant or bustling downtown area. You can relax your mind and body right there in your own home.

    How To Relax Your Mind

    In this article, we’ll show you how to take a moment for yourself away from the outside world. Here’s how to chill.

    Here’s how to relax in your New Orleans home one room at a time:

    1. Sit Down

    One of the most important things you need to do when you get home is to pop a squat: Sit your butt down. It’s been a long day and the body needs rest. 

    One of the most practical ways to save energy after a long day at work is to grab a relaxing seat in your home and pause.

    2. Put On Some Music

    We don’t know why, but when you put on some music, no matter if it’s Satchmo jazz or some TriggaMan, it allows you to decompress much easier. It takes the mind to a place that is relaxing and fun. Stream your favorite music or dust off that old CD you like.

    If you don’t have a streaming service or music system, go to YouTube:

    3. Close Your Eyes

    best mattresses online for good sleep
    Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

    Much of our stimuli comes from what we see. Take a moment and close your eyes. Reflect on not the type of day you had, but the type of day you’re going to have tomorrow.

    Your goal is to come back better and stronger.

    Here are some of the best mattresses for a good night’s rest.

    4. Read The Bible

    5 Bible Verses That Soothe The Soul
    Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

    If you’re a spiritual person, it will do you some good to open the Good Book and read a chapter or two. You can start wherever you want. Or you can take a systematic approach and read a topic that strikes your curiosity.

    You can also read the Bible online. Some good translations are:

    5. Try Some Aromatherapy

    Aromatherapy can really calm you down. It uses natural plant extracts to emit  aromas that promote welling and healthiness.

    6. Clean Up

    If your house has a junky room smaller than the others, that’s the room that you should clean first. Look to get rid of smaller items and rearrange things so that the room is orderly.

    You don’t want to perform a major cleaning, but your goal is to do a small amount of incremental cleaning in your home.

    7. Smell The Flowers

    How to relax in your Atlanta home
    Nellia Kurme / Unsplash

    Smell the flowers, literally. Go outside and check out plants, shrubs and flowers that have fragrances. It can make a difference when you inhale the wonderful smells and see the brilliant colors just outside your home.

    8. Take A Bath

    Few things on Earth are as soothing as taking a bubble bath. Take it up a notch by buying some bath bombs and candles that set the mood for a relaxing hot soak.

    Here are some bath bombs you’ll love:

    Here are some candles you’ll love as well:

    Final Word

    In these moments, you’ll do well to declutter your mind and relax when you get home. Sad to say, many people don’t even know how to take it easy.

    There’s nothing wrong with just taking some time to practice on your self-care. The fancy restaurants and other spots will be waiting on your return, but don’t rush it if you can help it.

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  • Fried Chicken Festival

    Fried Chicken Festival: Dates, Times, Info

    2 Min Read

    You doesn’t love fried chicken? If you do, you surely won’t want to miss the Fried Chicken Festival set for New Orleans, Louisiana the first weekend of October 2022.

    This article will tell you everything you need to know about the Fried Chicken Festival, which will take place on Lakeshore Drive in New Orleans.

    Fried Chicken Festival: What You Need To Know

    The Fried Chicken Festival is back after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, you can expect some finger-licking goodness like never before.

    This year, attendees can expect vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options for those who aren’t into the traditional yard bird with all the fixings.

    Also, on the menu: boudin stuffed fried chicken, bang bang chicken bao, deep-fried buffalo chicken egg rolls, fried jalapeño drummers, and more.

    Where Will The Fried Chicken Festival Take Place?

    The Fried Chicken Festival will take place along the New Orleans Lakefront not far from the city’s downtown and the famous Bourbon Street.

    When Will The Fried Chicken Festival Take Place?

    The Fried Chicken Festival will take place on Saturday, Oct. 1 and Sunday, Oct. 2, 2022.

    Fried Chicken Festival Participants

    • Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
    • Southerns
    • We Dat’s Chicken & Shrimp
    • Ma Momma’s House of Cornbread, Chicken & Waffles
    • Soule’ Cafe
    • Afrodisiac
    • Josephine’s Kitchen
    • Pollo
    • Stuff’d (Texas)
    • KOK Wings & Things (Lafayette)

    Final Word

    The Fried Chicken Festival is one of many New Orleans outdoor festivals. Here are some other New Orleans festivals you don’t want to miss.

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  • what credit score is needed to be a house?

    What Is A Good Credit Score To Buy A House?

    2 Min Read

    If you’re trying to buy a house, one of the most important determining factors is your creditworthiness.

    This article will show you what credit score you need to have to buy a home.

    What Is Considered A Good Credit Score?

    A good credit score ranges between 600-730. The three-digit FICO credit score can go all the way up to 850, which is elite credit.

    Most Americans fall within the lower 700s when it comes to their credit scores, but there are millions of people who are way below that. If you’re part of that group, first, you need to understand how you may be hurting your credit score. For instance, are you carrying a balance from one month to the next? That’s the #1 credit-hindering mistake many consumers make.

    Pay your credit card bill in full to raise your credit score. That’s the key. Once you’re out of debt, you can begin saving for a house.

    What Credit Score Do I Need To Buy A House?

    To buy a house, your credit score needs to be at least 600, according to mortgage lenders. Anything below that and you’re in the sub-par category, which greatly restricts your purchasing power.

    Buying a home is one of the largest purchases you’ll ever make. Typically, you’ll have to borrow enough money for a 15- year or 30-year loan. What usually determines which loan you choose is the amount of income you bring in and your credit score.

    Final Word

    Your credit score is an integral piece of your financial well-being. If you want to purchase a home. To stay on top of your credit score, you can get a free credit report delivered to you online.

    You can buy a house with without a credit score as well: By paying all cash, which is something investors do all the time.

    Are you looking into becoming a landlord? Here’s how to buy rental property in Louisiana.

    More From NolaFi.com:

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  • cheapest rents in Baton Rouge and New Orleans, Louisiana

    Baton Rouge Among U.S. Cities With The Cheap Rents

    2 Min Read

    A recent report lists New Orleans neighbor Baton Rouge as one of the cities with the cheapest rents in the United States.

    The report from Rent.com looked at the average rental rates for every large city in America, including those with populations over 50,000 and ample rental inventory.

    Baton Rouge comes in No. 3 on the list, with rents averaging between $586 for a one-bedroom apartment to $1,088 for a three-bedroom.

    Apartments with common layouts — studios, one-bedrooms and two-bedrooms — are included in the list.

    Cities With The Cheapest Rents In America

    10. Des Moines, Iowa

    • Population: 214,237
    • Studio Rent: $904
    • 1-BR Rent: $1,221
    • 2-BR Rent: $1,393

    9. Albuquerque, New Mexico

    • Population: 214,237
    • Studio Rent: $904
    • 1-BR Rent: $1,221
    • 2-BR Rent: $1,393

    8. (Tie) Winston Salem, North Carolina

    • Population: 247,945
    • Studio Rent: $1,026
    • 1-BR Rent: $1,123
    • 2-BR Rent: $1,373

    8. (Tie) Louisville, Kentucky

    • Population: 617,638
    • Studio Rent: $1,011
    • 1-BR Rent: $1,179
    • 2-BR Rent: $1,324

    7. (Tie) Memphis, Tennessee

    • Population: 651,073
    • Studio Rent: $1,016
    • 1-BR Rent: $1,138
    • 2-BR Rent: $1,201

    6. Indianapolis, Indiana

    • Population: 876,384
    • Studio Rent: $1,063
    • 1-BR Rent: $1,072
    • 2-BR Rent: $1,298

    4. (Tie) San Antonio, Texas

    • Population: 1,547,253
    • Studio Rent: $750
    • 1-BR Rent: $1,078
    • 2-BR Rent: $1,304

    4. (Tie) Omaha, Nebraska

    • Population: 478,192
    • Studio Rent: $827
    • 1-BR Rent: $983
    • 2-BR Rent: $1,343

    3. Baton Rouge

    • Population: 220,236
    • Studio Rent: $586
    • 1-BR Rent: $1,056
    • 2-BR Rent: $1,088

    2. Fargo, North Dakota

    • Population: 124,662
    • Studio Rent: $626
    • 1-BR Rent: $826
    • 2-BR Rent: $936

    1. Grand Forks, North Dakota

    • Population: 55,839
    • Studio Rent: $676
    • 1-BR Rent: $800
    • 2-BR Rent: $890

    Final Word

    Finding cheap rent is a job unto itself, but it can be done. Strangely enough, one major factor keeping rents high is the U.S. housing market, which continues to put stress on Americans.

    While New Orleans is not one of the most expensive rental markets, but down I-10 it’s a different story. Here are some cheap apartments in Baton Rouge.

    Here’s The New Orleans Housing Forecast

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  • How to rent a home on Airbnb in New Orleans

    How To Rent An Airbnb In New Orleans

    4 Min Read

    Airbnb has made it super-easy to rent out your home. If you’re in New Orleans homeowner thinking about making some extra cash, read on.

    You may be wondering how to go about renting your home on Airbnb. This guide breaks the process down step by step.

    Here’s How To Rent Your Home On Airbnb

    In New Orleans, hotels can charge high rates, not to mention a pricey parking fee if you have a vehicle. For many people, it makes sense to rent a home on Airbnb instead.

    All you have to do is be willing to rent your property for a few days to make some good money. But before you do, make sure that you reside in an area / neighborhood where new faces are welcome and guests feel safe.

    It’s also a good idea to to make sure your neighbors are aware of what’s going on to a reasonable degree. You might also want to check to see if your homeowners association forbids it.

    If you’re all clear, then you just need to prepare to rent your home.

    How Old Do You Have To Be To Rent On Airbnb?

    Airbnb’s terms of use indicate, guests and hosts must be 18 years or older. No children are allowed to create an account.

    That means you won’t have to worry about young kids renting out your home for a Sweet 16 party. College students, however, are generally old enough to use the platform.

    What Percentage Of Rent Does Airbnb Take?

    iAirbnb charges a service fee of 3% for hosts with a residential listing. If you have a Super Strict cancellation policy, you  may be charged more based on other factors.

    Now let’s go over how to set up your Airbnb account.

    List Your Home In 6 Steps

    1. Set up an account and log onto Airbnb.com, click on “Add a listing.”

    2. Once you go through the prompts, you’ll choose whether this is a guest house or one where you “keep your personal belongings.”

    You’ll also need to disclose whether you’re listing on behalf of a company or just yourself.

    3. Under “Sleeping Arrangements,” add how many beds are in the bedroom(s) as well as if you have a sofa bed.

    4. Once you add your address, you’ll need to confirm on a Google Map embedded in the page. Next, list any amenities like Wi-Fi, heat, AC (yes, those are all amenities) so that guests know what to expect.

    5. Next list all the “Spaces” that guests can use (pool, washing machine, dryer, etc.).

    6. Upload pictures of your home then describe your place, neighborhood and surrounding features to really sell it to would-be guests.

    Once you do that, you’re ready to press the button to list your home.

    3 Tips & Tricks When Renting Your Home On Airbnb

    • Remember, all transactions should be handled by Airbnb. Do not accept cash payment outside of the online system, that’s how trouble and discrepancies can arise.
    • Always draft some house rules: Let your guests know that this is not an anything-goes residence and that big parties are a no-no.
    • Before you accept a guest, make sure they have great reviews. If you read their ratings on Airbnb, that will give you the greatest indication of what type of guest they are.

    Final Word

    Renting your home out on Airbnb can be an easy way to make some extra cash. If you live in New Orleans, the city has so many visitors that renting a home instead of a hotel is a viable option.

    As you can see, there is some money to be made from renting your home out on Airbnb. To make the most of your home, always communicate your house rules to your guests ahead of time so there’s no misunderstanding.

    Also, we can’t stress it enough: Let your close neighbors know that you’re listing your home on Airbnb.

    There’s nothing worse than you renting out your home only to get a call from the cops hours later, saying that your neighbor reported a suspicious person on your property.

    New Orleans has one of the best real estate markets in the South, with affordable housing in large swaths of the city. Large backyards and strong, vibrant neighborhoods with ample dining amenities make it one of the top places for transplants looking for a new home.
    Keep up with what’s going on in New Orleans’ real estate scene here.

    More Articles From NolaFi:

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  • 4th of July celebrations in New Orleans

    Where Will The Fireworks Be? July 4th Celebrations In New Orleans

    2 Min Read

    Our nation’s celebration of Independence is Monday, July 4, 2022 and New Orleans, Louisiana will be red, white and blue for the holiday. You don’t have to be in Atlanta proper to enjoy the festivities; surrounding cities will also be getting in on the fireworks!

    Greater New Orleans July 4 Celebrations

    Here are some of the metro Atlanta Fourth of July events you may want to check out.

    4th On The River

    Celebrate America’s birthday along the historic New Orleans Riverfront with the FREE  Go 4th on the River Fireworks Show at 9:00 p.m. on July 4th! This spectacular fireworks display can be seen  from the East and West Banks of the River from the Outlet Collection at Riverwalk to  Crescent Park at French Market District. 

    Slidell Heritage Festival

    The Slidell Heritage Festival takes place 4 p.m. Saturday, July 2, 2022. The event is hosted by the Rotary Club of Slidell, the Rotary Club of Slidell Northshore in conjunction with the City of Slidell. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m.

    Mandeville Fireworks On The Lake

    In Mandeville, Fireworks on the Lake is happening at 5 p.m. Sunday, July 3, 2022. Come to the Lakefront at 2623 Lakeshore Drive, Mandeville, La.

    St. Bernard Salutes America

    St. Bernard Salutes America’s Annual Celebration is set for Sunday, July 3, 2022 from 5:30 to 10:00 pm.

    The St. Bernard Salutes America Celebration and Fireworks Display takes place on the Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center Grounds located at 8245 W. Judge Perez Drive, Chalmette. Admission is free.

    Uncle Sam Jam

    Uncle Sam Jam is happening 3 p.m. Sunday, July 3, 2022 at beautiful Lafreniere Park. Each year, festival goers look forward to live music, delicious food and great company. Uncle Sam Jam is a FREE festival featuring top local and national acts and a fireworks show to close out the night. 

    Final Word

    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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  • best books to read about New Orleans

    6 Books You Should Read About New Orleans

    2 Min Read

    If you want to learn about New Orleans, the most knowledge can be found between the pages of a good book. While that’s true of many things, it’s absolutely on point when referring to New Orleans.

    The Crescent City has been immortalized in tomes since its creation. This article will show you some great books to increase your knowledge about Louisiana’s largest city and its culture.

    What Are Some Good Books About New Orleans?

    New Orleans is one of the most renown destinations in books, from the settings in Agatha Christie novels to major poems, movies like A Streetcar Named Desire and countless historical books.

    Let’s get into some great Nola-centric books for you to check out.

    Frommer’s Easyguide To New Orleans

    Written by travel experts Diana K. Schwam and Lavinia Spalding, Frommer’s EasyGuide to New Orleans gives readers a glimpse of the city in a way that the everyday tourist would never see.

    Little Maid of New Orleans

    Originally published in 1930, this historical novel for girls aged 7 to 12 is set in New Orleans at the time of the War of 1812

    Obituary Cocktail: The Great Saloons Of New Orleans

    Lavishly illustrated with more than 200 photographs, Obituary Cocktail’s pictorial history provides a look into the architectural and cultural treasures of the city’s great watering holes.

    New Orleans Trumpet: A Down Home Conservatory Method

    If you’re an aspiring musician or even a well-seasoned one, this book gives an in-depth view of playing New Orleans-style trumpet.

    The New Orleans Kitchen

    Looking to cook New Orleans-style? This book offers instructional guide for 120 recipes for classic New Orleans cooking, from James Beard Award-winning chef and restaurateur Justin Devillier.

    Mob Rule In New Orleans

    This account from none other than freedom rights activist Ida Bell Wells-Barnett (1862–1931) tells of the atmosphere during one of the most tumultuous times in the nation’s and city’s history.

    Final Word

    Reading is fundamental in the big city. Not only does reading strengthen your comprehension, but it expands your mind and improves your memory.

    Educate yourself on what it takes to eat and drink like a local when you come to New Orleans.

    More From NolaFi.com:
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  • best places for photography in New Orleans

    8 Places Around New Orleans To Take Instagram-Worthy Photos

    3 Min Read

    New Orleans is a very photogenic city, from the skyscrapers to the renovated shotgun houses in the neighborhoods. It’s clear that New Orleans is one of the most instagrammable cities in America. 

    Want to know what places make for the best Instagram-worthy photos around the Crescent City? We’re going to show you.

    Bourbon Street

    If you can avoid the overzealous reveler, Bourbon Street is a must-visit to document the colorful charm of one of America’s oldest cities.

    Preservation Hall

    726 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116

    One of the most musically important sites in New Orleans, Preservation Hall seems to play a tune when you look at each wall.

    Lafayette Square

    S Maestri Pl, New Orleans, LA 70130

    One of New Orleans’ best parks, Lafayette Square is located in the heart of the city’s business district, but it’s also close to some great dining spots.

    St. Louis Cathedral

    615 Pere Antoine Alley, New Orleans, LA 70116

    The St. Louis Cathedral is actually on Jackson Square, so you can photograph two birds with one stone, as they say. The cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans and is the oldest active cathedral in America.

    Jackson Square

    701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116

    The Garden District

    Known for its many stately homes, the Garden District is labeled as such because after its incorporation into the city, the houses, many times only two structures were built on one city block, typically were surrounded by large gardens.

    Steamboat Natchez

    If you really want to enjoy the breeze on the lakefront, there’s no better view than the Steamboat Natchez, which has daily voyages for super-cheap.

    New Orleans Museum Of Art

    Along with the beautiful views, you can learn some history at the New Orleans Museum of Art. Pictured here is the museum’s Besthoff Sculpture Garden.

    Final Word

    If you’re thinking about visiting New Orleans, you should definitely put these places on your must-visit list. Not only will it deepen your appreciation for the city’s many sights, but you’ll capture some of the most beautiful photos of New Orleans.

    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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  • Restaurant Week New Orleans

    New Orleans Restaurant Week: Here’s What To Know & Where To Go

    2 Min Read

    it’s New Orleans Restaurant Week! That means your favorite eatery may have a food special or deal waiting for you — along with a table.

    If you’re not familiar with the weeklong celebration, it’s a time to cheer on the Crescent City’s best dining spots and show them a little love as they fill up your bottle and your tummy.

    When Is New Orleans Restaurant Week?

    New Orleans Restaurant Week runs from June 20-26, 2022.

    New Orleans Restaurant Week: Participating Restaurants

    Here are the restaurants participating in New Orleans Restaurant Week.

    • ACME Oyster House (New Orleans and Metairie)
    • Andrea’s Restaurant
    • Anna’s
    • Antoine’s Restaurant
    • Arnaud’s Restaurant
    • The Blue Crab
    • Boucherie
    • Bourbon House
    • Brasa Churresqueria
    • Brennan’s
    • Briquitte
    • Broussard’s Restaurant
    • Brown Butter Southern Kitchen
    • Cafe Degas
    • Cafe Maspero
    • Cho Thai
    • Commander’s Palace
    • Commons Club
    • Copper Vine
    • Costera
    • The Country Club
    • Creole House
    • Criollo Restaurant & Lounge
    • Curio
    • Desire Oyster Bar
    • Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse
    • Dickie Brennan’s Tableau
    • Domenica Restaurant
    • Ernst Cafe
    • Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar
    • Flamingo-a-Go-Go
    • Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
    • Gabrielle Restaurant
    • Galatoire’s
    • GW Fins
    • Jack Rose
    • Johnny Sanchez
    • Katie’s Restaurant & Bar
    • La Petite Grocery
    • Luke Restaurant
    • Mother’s Restaurant/Mother’s Next Door
    • Mr. B’s Bistro
    • Muriel’s Jackson Square
    • Palace Cafe
    • Patios
    • The Pelican Club
    • Pier 424
    • Pizza Domenica
    • Ralph’s On the Park
    • Red Fish Grill
    • Restaurant August
    • Restaurant R’evolution
    • Rib Room
    • Royal House
    • Sala
    • Silk Road Restaurant
    • Suis Generis
    • Sylvain
    • The Bower
    • The Chloe Restaurant
    • The Commissary
    • Tito’s Ceviche & Pisco
    • Tony Mandina’s
    • Tujague’s Restaurant
    • Ugly Dog Saloon & Bar-B-Que
    • Trenasse
    • Willa Jean

    Final Thought

    New Orleans is second to none when it comes to culinary greatness in the Southeast, but the city has much more 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.

    More From NolaFi.com:

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  • Popeyes fried chicken 59 cents New Orleans

    Popeyes Fried Chicken Offers 59 Cents Deal At New Orleans Locations

    2 Min Read

    Popeyes is celebrating its 50th anniversary by giving its customers a great deal nationwide, including in New Orleans, Louisiana.

    Popeyes holds a special place in the hearts of New Orleans residents. It all started here.

    The popular fried chicken restaurant began in the New Orleans suburb of Arabi, Louisiana on June 12, 1972. That’s when owner Alvin C. Copeland Sr., opened his “Chicken on the Run” eatery.

    After months of unimpressive sales, Copeland renamed the restaurant “Popeyes” after Popeye Doyle of The French Connection and the eatery took off.

    Get This Week-Long 59 Cents Deal At Popeyes In Atlanta

    For a whole month, Popeyes will offer two pieces of chicken (bone-in) for just 59 cents, the same price the restaurant sold it for in 1972.

    The week-long promotion starts June 12, Popeyes’ 50th anniversary, and runs until June 19.

    To qualify for the 59 cents deal, you have to order a $5 order minimum and it has to be a mobile order or done through the Popeyes app.

    New Orleans cuisine stands atop the heap when it comes to great cuisine, service and a memorable dining experience.

    Remember that waiters and waitresses across the industry make less than $3 a day unless they receive tips, so please show your gratitude for your service.

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

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