New Orleans: Before the Storm
I remember New Orleans, as it was. After all, I visited only last November, and I loved the pulse of city life. Don't get me wrong, I could see that the city was not perfect. But then no city is, and therefore on this occasion I suspended indiscreet judgements.
I took the streetcar on many occasions because it was the last thing you expect to find this side of the USA. In many ways, it was the best way to travel especially on holiday, as it took its time, always cruising at its own speed. Many a time I headed up St. Charles street, studying the avenues, the grand houses, the commercial options for eating, and the large overflowing trees which lined some of the roadways. Life was easy, and enjoyable. I remember making my way to the zoo after a walk across a park, happy to see the animals, definitely not the kind of activity that I would contemplate while at home.
But it was the nightlife that made New Orleans different. Bourbon Street and its surroundings beckoned with an attitude that made us all comfortable, and yet excited. There were drinks to have, daiquiris were everywhere. And there was music, lots of music, blaring from every corner. If you cared to dance, you could easily dance till morning. And some people did.
Of course, you could not stay in New Orleans, and not try their Jambayla. I did, and in more than one occasion. But there were many other options for eating. There were enough restaurants to cater for every differing tastes. And I could see after visiting a few that people enjoyed their food.
But it was the good time buzz, and the risque groove, that did it for me. The ambience always offered the perfect vehicle to be merry, and spread joy. The carnival spirit was yours to claim. And I certainly did. Long after I had said goodbye, the music was still playing in my ears, and the neon lights were still flashing. Even now, these memories are with me to cherish forever.
I remember New Orleans, as it was. After all, I visited only last November, and I loved the pulse of city life. Don't get me wrong, I could see that the city was not perfect. But then no city is, and therefore on this occasion I suspended indiscreet judgements.
I took the streetcar on many occasions because it was the last thing you expect to find this side of the USA. In many ways, it was the best way to travel especially on holiday, as it took its time, always cruising at its own speed. Many a time I headed up St. Charles street, studying the avenues, the grand houses, the commercial options for eating, and the large overflowing trees which lined some of the roadways. Life was easy, and enjoyable. I remember making my way to the zoo after a walk across a park, happy to see the animals, definitely not the kind of activity that I would contemplate while at home.
But it was the nightlife that made New Orleans different. Bourbon Street and its surroundings beckoned with an attitude that made us all comfortable, and yet excited. There were drinks to have, daiquiris were everywhere. And there was music, lots of music, blaring from every corner. If you cared to dance, you could easily dance till morning. And some people did.
Of course, you could not stay in New Orleans, and not try their Jambayla. I did, and in more than one occasion. But there were many other options for eating. There were enough restaurants to cater for every differing tastes. And I could see after visiting a few that people enjoyed their food.
But it was the good time buzz, and the risque groove, that did it for me. The ambience always offered the perfect vehicle to be merry, and spread joy. The carnival spirit was yours to claim. And I certainly did. Long after I had said goodbye, the music was still playing in my ears, and the neon lights were still flashing. Even now, these memories are with me to cherish forever.
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