heart nola, vol.1

So today officially starts my vacation. I've been off all week, but it consisted mostly of sitting around and fulfilling my Bostonian friend with culinary treats, so I'm not really counting it. Now, we are in New Orleans- The Crescent City.

Some time around 4 AM we hit the road, full of McCafe Mocha's and very little sleep. Our first stop: Waffle House. This would end my buddy Mindi's need to satisfy her tummy of all things southern (which also included Jack in the Box, Chick-fil-a, tex-mex, and Sonic). I don't know what's going on in Shreveport, but the WH was full of airmen and ladies in their Sunday best. Shortly after leaving, I must have had a panic attack from the lack of sleep and coffee IV because I wasn't having any of it. We pulled over and switched drivers. I'm told I got 2 hours sleep, but it doesn't feel like it.

The weather is beautiful and cool. It's about 57 now and windy. I'm so glad we missed the humidity- that does not make for good pictures.

Finally, we made it! Yea! Our hotel is located right on the border of the French Quatre and downtown. My room has the most amazing view of the Mississippi. I can't wait to wake up to that tomorrow. Mindi and I immediately set off for food, landing at Cafe Maspero. Famous for po'boys and reasonable prices, they did not disappoint. I had the catfish and Mindi the shrimp. PS- they have $1 Daiquiris which you can take to-go. So nice. Next we walked along Bourbon St, Decatur, looked out on the river, Jefferson square. Daiquiri bars line both sides of the street and are not to be missed. Plus side: you can smoke in bars but not restaurants.

This is my first trip to the voodoo city, and I was surprised at the number of boutiques lining Bourbon. I don't know why this surprised me... I guess I figured that street was full of bars and porn, and the cool shops and sights were on other streets. Needless to say, I was in heaven. My idea of the perfect vacation consists of taking lots of pictures of buildings and cemeteries and I don't think I could have asked for a better city for both.

I didn't bring my camera cable so pics are forthcoming. Here's a little something I wrote while trying to nap in my room:

Even 25 floors above, the sounds of the city can still be heard: the acceleration of an engine, the police siren, music, boat horns. Each blends with the sounds of the hotel until they are unrecognizable from one another. The AC kicking on, the sound of a shower running, opening and closing of doors, laughter. They define the city while betraying her uniqueness. They are indistinguishable from any downtown, USA.

Daily Total (as of 9:22 PM)
Hours of sleep: 5 out of 32
Daiquiri's: 3
Po'boys: 1
Voodoo shops: 3
cigarettes indoors: 2