A Girls’ Trip to New Orleans: On Points
Exploring the city without breaking the bank!
Recently, I took an unforgettable girls' trip to New Orleans with my daughter, niece, and my incredible 72-year-old mother. This vibrant city, known for its rich culture and haunting history, offered us an experience filled with adventure, laughter, and a touch of the macabre.
Booking the Adventure
To kick off our journey, we used Viator to book the Vampire, Ghost, and Voodoo Tour. This experience was heavy, but in the best way possible. Our knowledgeable guide shared captivating tales of New Orleans’ dark history, from the notorious voodoo queens to the ghosts that reportedly roam the streets. It was fascinating to learn how these stories shape the city’s unique character.
Exploring the French Quarter
After our ghostly adventure, we took a relaxing carriage ride through Jackson Square. As we clopped along, we soaked in the beautiful architecture and vibrant street performances, all while listening to the best jazz we’d ever heard. The melodies wrapped around us, making it impossible not to tap our feet.
Swamp Tour Excitement
One of the highlights was our swamp tour, where we encountered dozens of alligators! I was both thrilled and terrified to see people paddleboarding in the same waters. I couldn’t help but think, “I’d die if I fell in!” Our guide shared stories of the local wildlife and the delicate ecosystem, making the experience educational as well as exhilarating.
Culinary Delights
No trip to New Orleans is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. We feasted on gumbo and enjoyed a delightful fish boil, savoring every bite. One of our stops was Cafe du Monde for their legendary beignets, but remember, they only accept cash—so be sure to bring some!
A Taste of Bourbon Street
We strolled down Bourbon Street, soaking in the lively atmosphere. While we knew crime could be a concern, we stayed in well-populated areas, which made us feel safer. We walked miles, and to my amazement, my mother kept pace with us, logging over seven miles on our first day!
Accommodations and Travel Tips
For our stay, we began at the Hyatt Place before moving to the Hyatt Centric, which was beautiful and mysterious, perfectly capturing the essence of New Orleans. I paid for our hotels using by transfer Ultimate Rewards points to hyatt and covered our rental car with Capital One Venture miles, making our trip even more budget-friendly.
Parking was a bit pricey, averaging around $40-50 at hotels and parking areas, so plan ahead for that!
Flight Savings
We flew American Airlines but saved significantly by purchasing our tickets through Qantas. This smart move made our trip even sweeter!
Exploring History
As we explored the city, we couldn't resist visiting the famous cemeteries, which are both eerie and beautiful. Learning about the history of flooding, disease, and death in New Orleans gave us a deeper appreciation for its resilience. The stories of American Horror Stories and the House of Hell added an intriguing layer to our adventure.
A Memorable Trip
Overall, this girls' trip to New Orleans was a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and family bonding. From the ghost stories to the alligators, and the incredible music to the delicious food, we created memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re considering a trip, pack your bags and dive into the mystery and magic of New Orleans—you won’t regret it!
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