The Grand Finale

We are so glad we left the Big Easy for last. We think we have been able to get a good taste of New Orleans. Most of us definitely want to come back (not all of us love the hustle and bustle of the big city). Our number one take-away ... the people of New Orleans are great people. Our measure of this remark lies in our dealings with the street car drivers. All three we had today were exceptionally polite and helpful to everyone; and when you have to deal with the general public, including tourists, and you do it with grace ... you do your city proud. 

We started our day with brunch at Brennan’s, a must if you are into good service and tasty gourmet cuisine. It was good ... but quite honestly we are accustomed to good ol’ home cooking and it was pretty ritzy. The Bloody Mary was awesome and the corn meal waffles were amazing, and we paid for it. We had a blast and so glad we had a luxury meal. 

After brunch we did some walking around the French quarter, shopping and enjoying some great music from street performers. 

After that we came back to the hotel for a little siesta. Then, we decided to take a ride on the green line street car which traverses a large part of the city, giving a glimpse of the garden district and some of the beautiful homes of New Orleans. We had the BEST street car driver who entertained us with his wit and good humor. Additionally, he pointed out a great place where we had an early dinner. We will never forget Douglas!

After dinner we jumped back on the green line and rode a little further to Loyola University and Audubon Park. 

After a short walk, as the sun quickly set, we hopped back on the street car bound for our hotel. We spent a couple more hours walking around the French Quarter, enjoying a drink, doing some last minute souvenir shopping, and relishing one more beignet. 

We have an early start tomorrow. While we are anxious to be home now, we wish we had a little more time in this great city. We shall have to return.