Saturday 30 July 2011

New Orleans - Jambalaya, Jazz and an Airboat Ride!

We drove into New Orleans along a highway raised up out of the swamp. It was exciting to be travelling over the murky waste at such a high speed. It was easy to see how the area can be subjected to devastating flooding.

My knowledge of the city was limited to films and news clippings which gave a certain aspect of what to expect. On arrival we were unprepared for the immense ambiance and vibe the city was emanating.

The first night I was introduced the local delicacy, Jambalaya. The taste explosion was a rare treat. A mixture of sorts that somehow fitted together. Perhaps the southern version of the Spanish Paella? It was something that instantly made it to my top 10 dishes.

The streets are lined with musicians. Particularly good ones. All playing their own unique style of a southern favourite - Jazz. The jam sessions became less structured as the night wore on as random locals joined in the performance.

Towards the end of our stay the girl arranged us a local tour in an airboat. I was in high spirits to be traversing the swampy canals that once set the scene to the bond movie, Live and Let Die. Unfortunately there was no sign of Solitaire - my second favourite bond girl. But the speed of the craft complimented the relaxing spectacle that nature provided.

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