New Orleans

New Orleans' reputation for Bourbon Street revelry and Mardi Gras masks a deeper cultural alchemy, forged from French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences.

This unique heritage is most alive in its food traditions and the spontaneous brass band music that spills from club doors onto the street, where second-line parades are still a community-led expression of joy.

Fly into:

• Louis Armstrong New Orleans International MSY

Walkable within districts; historic streetcars run on main avenues for a few dollars. Ride-shares connect wider areas. Day trips to the bayous or plantations require a tour bus or rental car.

Embrace the 'laissez les bons temps rouler' spirit; evenings are for live music, best found off Bourbon Street. Second-line parades can pop up spontaneously on Sundays in various neighborhoods, so keep an ear out for brass bands and dancing.

Best in Fall

Fall: warm and pleasant around 20-28C, with less humidity and clear skies, ideal for walking.

• light layers for warm days and cool evenings
• comfortable walking shoes for city streets
• a compact umbrella for sudden showers
• insect repellent for bayou tours
• sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat