• Things to do in New Orleans

    What Should First-Time Visitors Do In New Orleans?

    6 Min Read

    The best ways to get around New Orleans are on foot and by public transportation. The city’s neighborhoods are very compact, making them perfect for strolling sightseers.

    If this is your first visit to New Orleans, what you need to know is a guide on what you can do each day. So , as a helpful resource, we’re going to lay out a plan for you to see what you what to see.

    Food

    Here are some of the must-visit food spots in New Orleans:

    Dooky Chase

    2301 Orleans Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119 | (504) 821-0600

    Dooky Chase has the best fried chicken in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one customer says about Dooky Chase:”The very best spot for fried chicken in town! The atmosphere and service make this place much better than Willie Maes. Good enough for 2 presidents! The lunch buffet is a must..”

    Ray’s On The Ave

     2005 N Broad St, New Orleans, LA 70119 |  (504) 766-6404

    Ray's on the Ave has some of the best fried chicken in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one customer says about Ray’s on the Ave: “This place was Great. There was a live band and they were Amazing. The music , WOW, it was such a joy. The Owner Mr. Ray was very gracious to us. And the food, Fried Fish Plate and Fried Chicken was Delicious. What a great evening.”

    L’il Dizzy’s Cafe

    1500 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116 |  (504) 766-8687

    L'il Dizzy's Cafe is the best black restaurant in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one patron says about L’il Dizzy’s Cafe: “Lil Dizzy’s serves up some of the best soul food New Orleans has to offer. In addition to classics like po’boys and fried chicken, you can choose from daily specials like fried Catfish and grits or smothered pork chops.”

    M&J Soul Food Restaurant

    9301 Lake Forest Blvd #107, New Orleans, LA 70127 |  (504) 304-2703

    M&J Soul Food Restaurant is the best black eatery in New Orleans

    Here’s what one person says about M&J Soul Food Restaurant. “Saw this place on Uber Eats, wanted to support local and glad I did!! Food arrived quickly and still was piping hot. We had two orders of the White Beans (one with mac/yams, one with mac/cabbage). Food was awesome with great flavor! Super glad we gave this place a try, and will definitely be ordering again!”

    Seed

    1330 Prytania St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 417-7333

    Seed is the best vegan restaurant in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one customer says about seed: “So yummy, we enjoyed it all but my favorite was the Thai noodle salad, my kids favorite was the fried tofu. A pretty atmosphere and very good service. We will be back.”

    Sweet Soul Food

    1025 N Broad St, New Orleans, LA 70119 |  (504) 821-2669

    Sweet Soul Food has the best vegan fare in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one customer says about Sweet Soul Food. “About 7 years ago I was laughed out of room after suggesting a vegan restaurant concept serving classic southern food and other typical New Orleans cuisine. Well, Sweet Soulfood is who’s laughing now. Every dish from their cafeteria style serving line is not only a staple, soul food item like collard greens, red beans & rice, cornbread dressing and shepherds pie. Rather, they’re as rich, decadent and flavorful as their Animalia cousins. And that, is where the real praise is given because that’s where the doubt and criticism always lurked.”

    Recreation

    Here are some great things to do recreationally in New Orleans:

    The Chloe

    4125 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 541-5500

    The Chloe hotel and restaurant in New Orleans

    The Chloe is a historic 14-room hotel, restaurant, bar in a New Orleans mansion. Come for the history, stay for the pool and patio.

    Here’s what one observer says about The Chloe: “Amazing staff. Phenomenal food. Delicious drinks. Beautiful interior design. Lovely rooms. Great frozen ritas by the pool. I could not love this place more. 10/10 would live there if I could.”

    Pitot House

    1440 Moss St, New Orleans, LA 70119 | (504) 482-0312

    Pitot House in New Orleans

    If you want a dose of antebellum history, the Pitot House in New Orleans fits the bill. The historic landmark is an 18th-century Creole colonial country home and makes for a great weekend stop.

    Jackson Square

    701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 658-3200

    Jackson Square in New Orleans

    Jackson Square is a historic landmark in the heart of New Orleans. The site is the centerpiece is a beautiful park and holds unparalleled historic significance: It’s the site where the Louisiana Purchase was made official.

    Here’s what one visitor says about Jackson Square: “Jackson’s square was beautiful. There wasn’t many people at 11:30 when we went but it was also about to storm. There is a farmers market a couple blocks away that is a must to go through. If you time it right you can watch the riverboat take off for a tour. Very pleased with how clean the park was and the music playing by live performers.”

    Take A Swamp Tour

    Best New Orleans swamp tours

    When you come to Nola, there are few things as bayou-authentic as a swamp tour. You’ll enjoy the time outdoors, get a real taste of the bayou and even get to see some alligators.

    Family Fun

    Here are some great things you can do in New Orleans as a family:

    Woldenberg Park

    1 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130 |  (504) 861-2537

    Woldenberg Park in New Orleans is great for picnics.

    Here’s what one visitor says about Woldenberg Park. “Best view. I love water. And it’s very peaceful. People running pass. Kids running having fun. Watching the sunrise and sunset right here amazing.”

    Marsalis Harmony Park

    8211 S Claiborne Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118 | (504) 658-3200

    Marsalis Harmony Park is the best in New Orleans for picnics and playgrounds.

    Here’s what one park lover says about Marsalis Harmony Park. “Wonderful atmosphere with occasional festivals and art markets! Hands down one of the best shaded playgrounds in the city.”

    Mississippi River Heritage Park

    John Churchill Chase St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 658-3200

    Mississippi River Heritage Park in New Orleans is the best for picnics and playgrounds.

    Here’s what one visitor says about Mississippi River Heritage Park. “The park has the cool artwork thru its entrance path and is a nice simple green space with benches to enjoy your stroll. Plus, its next to several of the hotels and across from the convention center.”

    Final Word

    New Orleans is such a great place with so much to do that you will likely not be able to do everything you have in mind.

    Here’s what you do: Write down a list of must-visits that you can check out while in New Orleans. If you can’t do everything you want to do, you may need to plan another trip.

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  • Where to get free COVID tests near youPhoto by Sora Shimazaki from Pexels

    How To Get Free COVID-19 Tests From COVIDTests.gov

    2 Min Read

    The U.S. government has announced that Americans will be able to order free COVID-19 tests from COVIDTests.gov starting on Wednesday, January 19, 2022.

    The program is part of a public safety initiative ramped up by the Biden Administration to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. The program is result of a partnership with the U.S. Postal Service.

    Here’s How To Get Your Free COVID Tests Mailed To You

    According to the White House, here are the details of the COVID test program:

    • The tests are free and you don’t have to enter your personal information except for your name and address.
    • Orders will typically take between seven and 12 days to ship.
    • Your order includes four individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests.
    • You get one order per residential address.

    Click here to order your free COVID test kits.

    U.S. health officials continue to push prevention as the #1 to ward off COVID among all age groups. Remember to wear a masks in public indoor spaces, social distance and wash your hands regularly.

    If you’re looking for the booster shot near you, here’s where to get one at.

    What COVID phase in New Orleans in?

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  • Best pet-friendly restaurants in New Orleans

    Best Pet-Friendly Restaurants In New Orleans

    4 Min Read

    If you enjoy grabbing something to eat with your dog in tow on the Beltline or another part of New Orleans, there are some great restaurants you should check out.

    It’s no shame when your animal is your right-hand man and you take them everywhere, including to restaurants.

    Are Dogs Allowed In New Orleans Restaurants?

    The City of New Orleans doesn’t have a specific ordinance against pets in restaurants. There are hundreds of eateries in the city that allow pets.

    If you’re unsure whether a local eatery allows pets, you should call them on the phone first before you drive there. With that said, you shouldn’t have a problem as far as options.

    I’m Hungry. Where Can I Take My Dog In New Orleans?

    Are you hungry? Here are some places you can take your pet in New Orleans.

    Bearcat Cafe Uptown

    2521 Jena St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | : (504) 309-9011

    Bearcat Cafe is the best dog-friendly restaurants in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one patron says about Bearcat Cafe: “The options for EVERYONE is my favorite aspect. I also enjoy how they propagate their own catci and plants. Aside from the killer atmosphere and quick service, the food is AMAZING. The kombucha brewed in house, dreamy. The orange cocoa latte, scrumptious. You truly cannot go wrong with anything you order.”

    The Bulldog – Uptown

    3236 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115 |  (504) 891-1516

    Bulldog's is one of the best pet-friendly restaurants in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one customer say about The Bulldog – Uptown: “Pet friendly, huge selection of beers, great patio… Love it! Make sure you make a wish and throw that loose change in the fountain, everything goes to animal charities!”

    Café Navarre

    800 Navarre Ave, New Orleans, LA 70124 | (504) 483-8828

    Cafe Navarre is the best pet-friendly restaurants in New Orleans.

    Here is what one reviewer says about Café Navarre: “I love this restaurant! I found it several years ago on a trip through New Orleans. I now stop there every chance I get. Great food ,friendly people and a fantastic atmosphere. And for people in and around Nola lots of outdoor seating. So less Restrictive.”

    The Backyard

    244 W Harrison Ave, New Orleans, LA 70124 |  (504) 309-8767

    The Backyard is the best pet-friendly restaurant in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one reviewer says about The Backyard: “Friendly service. Got the brisket on the bun, deviled eggs, and pimento cheese dip. Super good food, ice cold beer! Dog friendly! We will be returning.”

    Dat Dog

     5030 Freret St, New Orleans, LA 70115 |  (504) 899-6883

    Dat Dog is the best pet-friendly restaurant in New Orleans

    Here’s what one customer says of Dat Dog: “Best ‘hot dog’ ever! Actually had the Irish brat with Andoille sauce, bacon, cheddar cheese and it was so fresh & tasty! Great atmosphere. Dog friendLucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurantly…lol. Will return again and again!”

    Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant

    701 Tchoupitoulas St, 701 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 523-8995

    Lucy's is the best pet-friendly restaurants in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one patron says about Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant: “Super friendly to me and my dogs. Wonderful wait staff. Brought a bowl of water out for my dogs immediately. They even have their own pet menu!! Prices are very reasonable as well. I was very impressed with the service and how wonderful they were with my dogs!”

    The Joint

    701 Mazant St, New Orleans, LA 70117 |  (504) 949-3232

    The Joint is one of the best pet-friendly in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one customer says about The Joint: “Great atmosphere, super friendly, welcoming of all dogs.”Great atmosphere, super friendly, welcoming of all dogs.”

    Final Word

    There’s nothing like having your furry friends with you when you’re enjoying yourself, be it for entertainment or for a meal. If you’re unsure that a particular restaurant not on our list is pet-friendly, give them a call. That way, you’ll know before you go.

    We know that it’s a dog-eat-dog world, but there are other restaurants you should know about. Here are the foods New Orleans is known for.

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  • When is Mardi Gras in New Orleans

    Mardi Gras 2022 Is Happening: Here’s What To Know

    2 Min Read

    New Orleans is planning for Mardi Gras in 2022, the mayor recently announced. That means the Southeast’s largest party is back on, despite the threat of the omicron variant of coronavirus.

    The celebration will be curtailed compared to Mardi Gras in the past, she said. For instance, parade routes will be shorter and the number of first responders and police officers needed will be reduced as well.

    “The big news and the best news is that Mardi Gras is returning to the city of New Orleans and to the world in 2022,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell.

    She also tweeted: “No krewe is being moved from their traditional day. Every parade will be asked to make SLIGHT accommodations No one is being singled out! No one is being given special treatment!”

    When Is Mardi Gras 2022?

    Mardi Gras is Tuesday, March 1, 2022. Parades route adjustments will be make by all krewes, according to Cantrell.

    During the pandemic, New Orleans residents pivoted to “house floats” to keep the spirit alive. This year, the city will continue house floats along with the actual revelry of Mardi Gras.

    Final Word

    If you plan to visit New Orleans during Mardi Gras, you are in for the time of your life. You’ll love it. At the same time, no matter what city you visit, always be mindful of your environment. There are pickpockets and scammers in every big cities in the world.   If you plan to walk down Bourbon Street, you especially need to be careful.

    Travel to New Orleans can be really fun is you plan accordingly. You’ll love the laid back vibes of the people and the instant parties in the streets.

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  • New Orleans short sales: What to know

    What To Know About A Short Sale In Real Estate

    3 Min Read

    Buying and selling a home is not as easy as it sounds, but it can be done. One way to do so quickly is to take part in a short sale, which is a very valuable transaction in real estate.

    A lot of people confuse a short sale, with a foreclosure sale, but they are very different.

    In this article, we’re going to tell you what you need to know about a short sale in real estate.

    What Is A Short Sale?

    A short sale is one in which a motivated seller, typically someone in financial trouble, sells their home for less than what it’s worth.

    Because of the complexities involved, a short sale will typically involve a lender who approves the transaction. Another difference from a traditional real estate transaction is that in a short sale, the seller doesn’t pay for closing costs. Those fees are split between the lender and buyer.

    As you can imagine, a short sale is a good deal for the buyer, but can be a terrible thing for the seller, at least in one sense.

    Is A Short Sale Good Or Bad?

    A short sale is good for the buyer because they get to buy a home for far cheaper than it normally would be listed for.

    On the other hand, for the seller, a short sale may get them out of a mortgage, but their credit will take a major hit in the process.The seller will typically look to do a short sale of a home as a way to avoid a foreclosure, which would hurt their credit even more.

    Is It A Good Idea To Buy A Short Sale House?

    You may be weighing whether buying a short sale house is a good idea. While the price will likely be reduced, you should know that there may be some issues with the home that require quite a lot of time or money. For that reason, short sales are usually purchased by seasoned real estate investors, who have the time and money to invest. Let’s talk about what’s required.

    The Time

    The time you be spent not only repairing the home and getting it into shape for someone to live there, but securing the necessary paperwork and permits from the appropriate government agencies.

    The Money

    You can bet that it’s going to also cost you a pretty penny to turn the home into something that attracts a buyer. Let’s just not hope that there’s no foundation or roof problems, which will be quite expensive.

    Where Can I Find Short Sales In Louisiana?

    You can get a list of short sales in your area by reaching out to your local Realtor, who would be familiar with the process as well.

    You can also find short sales on the following real estate websites:

    Final Word

    Real estate prices are on the rise around the state, but you can find a good deal if you’re patient.

    Contrary to its name, a short sale may take several months before it is finally approved. You can use that time to secure a contractor to do some of the jobs that need to be completed once the home becomes yours.

    You may need a plumber, electrician and carpenter for starters.

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  • How to stop porch pirates

    How To Stop A Porch Pirate From Stealing Your Packages

    2 Min Read

    When you order a package via mail, there’s always the threat that a thief will steal it before you can get to it. What can you do to stop these “porch pirates” so that you don’t lose what you’ve bought?

    This article will show you how to handle porch pirates that have nothing better to do than steal from your doorstep.

    What Is A Porch Pirate?

    Perhaps you’ve heard of the term “porch pirate,” but are not really sure what it refers to. Porch pirates is a moniker that is used to describe thieves who are bold enough to come on private property to take boxes and other merchanise that doesn’t below to them.

    Although the term porch pirate is almost whimsical when you stay it, the theft of your property is a serious crime.

    A porch pirate can face several charges when they are caught:

    • Trespassing
    • Theft by taking
    • Burglary
    • Invasion of privacy

    With that being said, more than 15 million people have been victimized by porch pirates, according to one report. But what can you do about them?

    How To Stop Porch Pirates

    Some ways you can stop porch pirates include taking advantage of options to secure your packages. Here are some of the best choices.

    Final Word

    To minimize the threat of porch pirates, explore your options with the major shipping companies like Amazon, FedEx and UPS and the U.S. Postal Service.

    More Food Coverage:

    Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta

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  • best dog friendly cities

    New Orleans One Of The Top Dog-Friendly Cities

    2 Min Read

    Being a dog in the big city can be kind of woof, if you understand. That’s why a metropolitan area that makes it easy for a canine is a great city to be in.

    New Orleans makes the top 10 of cities that are dog-friendly, according to a recent report from Zillow and Rover.com.

    In considering the report’s results, Zillow looked at dog-friendly rentals and listings and Rover looked at new dog accounts on their platform. What emerged was a clear picture of cities that allow dogs (and their owners) to thrive.

    Let’s look at the top cities, according to Zillow and Rover.

    Top Dog-Friendly Cities In America

    1. Denver, CO
    2. Orlando, FL
    3. Anaheim, CA
    4. Charlotte, NC
    5. Birmingham, AL
    6. Atlanta, GA
    7. Boston, MA
    8. Glendale, AZ
    9. New Orleans, LA
    10. Tampa, FL
    11. Fayetteville, NC
    12. Fort Worth, TX
    13. Miami, FL
    14. Nashville, TN
    15. Saint Petersburg, FL

    What Does Dog-Friendly Mean?

    Dog-friendly is a term that has come to mean something that has a liberal policy toward canines. It can refer to an apartment complex, restaurant or a park. It means that the event or facility is friendly and pet-specific.

    If you’re ever unsure about an establishment’s dog policy, call them or visit their website, where it will typically be listed.

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  • Here are the best international places to visit during the pandemic.

    Best Places To Travel During COVID

    3 Min Read

    The COVID-10 pandemic has changed the way we do just about everything, but of the biggest adjustments has been travel.

    If you like to do things like kayaking, canoeing and swimming in blue waters, you’ll love this.

    There are some international destinations that you may want to visit, but are unable to because they are not open to Americans right now. But thankfully, none of the countries are on our list are like that. So that makes them the best places to go right now!

    Continue Reading…

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