For those of you who think I’m trying to be cute with the title, I am not.  That’s actually the title of a song from the Muppet Babies cartoon.  Anyway, this past weekend I dared to venture out on my own to the city of New Orleans. I had such a good time, that I have declared it the city for me time. I never want to travel there with anyone else; except maybe a boyfriend bc it is super romantic.  Makes sense why you see so many wedding taking place in the French Quarter. 

I can’t take credit for all the pictures but I swear the stories are all true. So I began with a extremely comfortable GreyHound bus trip at 12:01 in the morning. Why the bus? Well parking in New Orleans averages about 25 dollars per day and most hotels don’t offer free parking. Between the price of gas and 75 dollars just to park, an $80 bus ticket seemed like a real bargain. Plus, since we left at midnight I literally went to sleep in Houston and woke up in New Orleans.

For some very strange reason I was inspired to go bike riding.  New Orleans is actually a very nice city for biking and the drivers are very friendly. I took a wonderful bike tour called “The Original Creole Tour.” We went through the surrounding areas of the French Quarter. It was so cool and I recommend anyone to do it. The guides were fun and very knowledgable. If you are a history buff like me then New Orleans is the perfect city to visit.  And yes, I was drinking and biking!

I met two really nice women on the tour so we decided to have lunch when we were finished. The pic of them got erased but it was a lovely lunch and conversation. Not to mention, one the ladies was determined to set me up with her son. We were supposed to meet up later that night but unfortunately it didn’t happen. So I ventured out into the night solo. One of my favorite parts about New Orleans is their laid back approach to fashion. This has alot to do with the fact that people walk so much and its rediculously hot.  So sandals and sundress are always my choice.

My activities were a combination of jazz clubs, flirting, walking, people watching, and eating great food. However, there were two highlights from my trip that I must share in more detail. 

#1-Wedding Reception – As I was walking back to my hotel and I came across a wedding party dancing down the street to the music of a live brass band.  As I was watching from the sidewalk I was grabbed into the middle of the party and invited to join the reception. It was one of the most random and exciting experiences.  I even think theres a picture of me kissing the bride on the cheek.  This pic below is not the actual wedding but I wanted you to get an idea of what happens in the street when a couple says I do.

#2- The 2nd Line Parade – Imagine an entire community dancing in the streets to a brass band for about 5 hours led by members of the neighborhood social club. This particular parade was held in the 7th ward and was led by the men and women of The Original Big 7 social club. 

Since this parade was held on Sunday, I assumed it was in aid of Mother’s Day.  To my amazement, I was informed that this happens every Sunday in different sections of the city. For no reason, just because they want to celebrate life in New Orleans. I was already a big fan of the city, but after dancing in the streets for 5 hours with the locals; I completely fell in love.  This is what this city is really about. Not the flashing on Bourbon or excess drinking, but the communities and the spirit of the people. 

All in all my lone trip to New Orleans was better than I expected. And I will always go alone.  It’s been branded as my place for me time.

New Orleans you are officially my little slice of heaven on Earth. I’ll see you in August!!!