Underwater Photos from Belize, Honduras and Mexico circa 1989

12 March 201431 August 2024

Some of the best scuba diving takes place in the countries of Belize, Honduras and Mexico. Here are just a few photos of the underwater sea life I encountered on several dives.

The Wrasse is a fish with over 600 species. It is a brightly colored fish that is a popular choice for saltwater aquariums as they help to keep the tank clean.

A spotted moray eel snatching up a fish for lunch. They are usually hiding in reef crevices, but once in awhile can be found near the bottom of the ocean feeding on fish or crustaceans.

Up close, the Squirrelfish have big dark eyes, which helps them to see at night. These fish are more prevalent during night dives, but can also be seen during the day hanging around in dark areas.

The lobster is one of many crustaceans found in the Caribbean. They have a hard exoskeleton which provides protection from predators. They can live up to 70 years of age.

It is not uncommon to find large Angelfish on reef dives in the Caribbean. They can be found in various colors with a wide arrange of names, i.e., Gray Angelfish or Queen Angelfish.

Some new divers and snorkelers may become frightened when coming in contact with the barracuda. They are an intimidating fish with sharp teeth, but they are not considered a threat. Some divers agree that these fish are attracted to shiny objects and suggest water lovers to not wear bright, metallic jewelry.

The Blue Tang is a popular Caribbean fish and was made popular by the movie “Finding Nemo.” Depending on where they are swimming, they can camouflage themselves by changing various shades of blue. Here one can see the yellow spike towards the back of its body where the tail meets the body.

French Grunts and Blue-Striped Grunts are very common in the Caribbean and Florida. They swim in large numbers and are usually spotted on shallow reef dives. Pictured here are the Blue-Striped Grunts.

The Yellowtail Snapper can easily be confused with the Goatfish, but there are a couple of differences. The Yellow Goatfish have barbels, also described as whiskers, that can be found under their chins. The Yellowtail Snapper may be found within schools of Yellow Goatfish and vice versa.

Herring fish travel in schools and are a popular meal for the larger fish as well as seabirds.

The Tiger Grouper is a beautiful fish that lives in sheltered reef areas. They usually hang out in shallow waters and can grow up to 35 inches, weighing around 10 pounds.

There are over 200 species of Moray Eel found in both saltwater and freshwater environments. They look like a sea snake but do not belong to the reptile family. They prefer warm temperatures and like to eat meat, such as other fish and crustaceans.

Whether you plan to scuba dive or snorkel the waters of the Caribbean, you may come into contact with one or more of these animals. There are so many beautiful creatures of the sea where you can feel as though you are in a world all its own.

Do you like to snorkel and/or scuba dive? What is one of your favorite experiences under water? I would love to hear your story in the comments below! Many thanks for checking out some of the fish you will find in Central America and wishing you many Happy Travels!

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Freeport, Bahamas: A Welcome Change in Itinerary

5 March 201431 August 2024

Updated December 24, 2019

Hurricane Gilbert stunned the port towns of Cozumel and Playa del Carmen in 1988. Due to the devastating damage, our ship’s itinerary quickly changed to include the Bahamian ports of Nassau and Freeport over the next couple of months.

Our first stop was Freeport, located on Grand Bahama Island. This port offered many of the same amenities as our Yucatan Peninsula ports, so it was a perfect choice. It was such a great stop for visitors who were interested in watersports, sightseeing, shopping and dining.

Recent Hurricane Dorian, touching down in the Bahamas on August 24, 2019, was one of the most powerful hurricanes to hit the Bahamas in over 65 years. Information provided throughout this post may require updating due to the recent event, so check for updated information online.

Since the early days of cruise vacations, the islands of the Bahamas have been a popular destination. During my days of working with the cruise lines, Freeport was a shopper’s paradise and offered a variety of activities in addition to its international restaurants.

One of Freeport’s most popular shopping plazas was the International Bazaar consistently bustling with tourists. I was surprised to learn that today, the Bazaar has become a ghost town, with limited shopping and dining, quite different than my past experience. Much of the change has been attributed to a history of hurricanes that have left the island in need of repair. A new shopping area has been developed near downtown Freeport and is much more visitor-friendly. For shoppers who are into haggling for a deal, check out the straw market to practice your bartering skills for souvenirs and merchandise.

UPDATE: The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.

The bazaar, in keeping with the international theme, was divided into sections based on countries of the world. The architecture of each designated location included France, America, the Orient and Scandinavia. It remains one of the oldest shopping regions on the island.

UPDATE: The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.

In front of the International Bazaar was the Bavarian Beer Garden which provided a wide range of lunch and dinner items. Continuing the tradition today, the menu highlights the following options: Conch salad, crab salad, fried chicken, lobster and French fries. With the best prices in the Bazaar, they also offer deals on tropical cocktails. Outdoor seating is perfect for people watching and enjoying the sunshine.

UPDATE: The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.

Outside of the International Bazaar is a brightly colored directional sign that shows the distance from Freeport to popular worldwide destinations. It was the first time I had ever seen anything like it, so I thought it clever to know how far I was from some of the other islands as well as major cities including, New York: 1015 miles, Bimini: 53 miles, Montreal: 1323 miles and San Salvador: 285 miles.

UPDATE: The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.

A nearby attraction to the International Bazaar and Straw Market was the Bahamas Princess Resort and Casino. Built in the 1970’s the resort was later named the Bahamia Royal Oasis Resort. Sitting on close to 1,000 acres, which included a hotel with pools and casino, the property eventually closed due to hurricane and tropical storm damage.

The most recent information regarding the property came from a 2010 news story which reported that there was a fire at the Princess Towers, which started on the 7^th floor.

Another shopping area is the Port Lucaya marketplace and seems today to be much more popular than the International Bazaar. Activities from this port include scuba and snorkeling, boat tours and rentals, as well as an opportunity to swim with dolphins There is a shopping mall nearby which includes a drugstore and offers duty free deals on perfume and watches. If you are searching for cheaper prices for alcohol, your best bet is to head downtown.

UPDATE: Port Lucaya reopened on October 18, 2019 after closing due to Hurricane Dorian.

In the Port Lucaya shopping area, you can also find restaurants, but downtown is where you will find Bahamian local dishes and fast food restaurants such as Burger King and Pizza Hut.

UPDATE: Port Lucaya reopened on October 18, 2019 after closing due to Hurricane Dorian.

While in Port Lucaya, stop by to see the lighthouse. It has since been painted with red and white stripes and visible from the shopping area.

The town of Freeport has not been without its own natural disasters over the years. And although they have faced many challenges, they have worked together to make a huge comeback in the tourism industry. It was just a matter of time. I look forward to returning again soon to see how things have changed since my last visit to the beautiful islands of the Bahamas.

UPDATE: Port Lucaya reopened on October 18, 2019 after closing due to Hurricane Dorian.

Have you visited a port that has been affected by tropical storms and hurricanes? Have you since had an opportunity to see its restoration? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the Comments Section below and wishing you many Happy Travels!

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Belize City, Belize: The Perfect Resort for Scuba Divers

26 February 201431 August 2024

Back in the early 1990’s not many people had heard of Belize, unless you were an avid scuba diver exploring the Barrier Reef and the Blue Hole.

Working on cruise ships throughout Central America, I began to develop a deep love for the Mayan culture and its people, so weekly visits to Belize would allow me to research the country’s strong Mayan influence and architecture. There are close to 30 additional Mayan ruin sites in the country, such as Caracol, Lamanai, Cerros and Xunantunich but the most visited archaeological site is Altun Ha. For more information about the Mayan Ruins in Belize, check out the website of Belize’s National Institute of Culture and History (NICH).

In addition to my fascination with the Mayans, I am also an animal lover and the wildlife in Central America is spectacular. It is not surprising that Jaguars make their home in this beautiful country and even less surprising that these animals were once hunted to the brink of extinction. To learn more about the Belizean Jaguars, you can visit the Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary and Preserve, where there are approximately 200 of these amazing felines. Unfortunately, the chance of a visitor seeing one in the preserve is 17,000 to 1. Other animals protected in the sanctuary include the armadillo, the scarlet macaw, the keel-billed toucan, the Baird’s tapir and various species of monkeys.

With a diverse population comes a wide variety of options when it comes to cuisine. Of course there are the foods that are influenced by Belize’s neighboring Central American countries, but there are also dishes that have a more “Jamaican/Anglo-Caribbean” influence. And if this does not suit you, there are also a number of fast-food restaurants from which to choose as well.

Today Belize continues to draw divers to its fascinating underwater world and the area has become a port for major cruise lines, so things have drastically changed in many ways. But this does not seem to change the hospitality of the local Belizeans and their generous disposition. So take a moment to immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine of Belize and you will be pleasantly rewarded.

Fun Facts About Belize
• It is the only country in Central America where the official language is English.
• Its population in 2014 was 340,844 & continues to grow annually at approximately 2%
• It has the lowest population density in Central America
• It is considered both Central American and Caribbean
• It was previously named British Honduras until its name changed in 1973

Is Belize on your bucket list or have you already had the opportunity to visit this amazing country? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for going down memory lane as I share my experience of visiting Belize and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Altun Ha Mayan Ruins: I would suggest contacting a local tour guide for this trip who will provide transportation as well as a guide to walk you through the site.

Belize Exotic Adventures or Belize Fun Tours

Where to Stay:

Chateau de Pradines
Rock, Stone Pond, Belize
Telephone: 501 623 8656

Where to Eat:

Mayan Crystal Skull Mampi Diner
Rock Stone Pond, Belize
Telephone: 501 600 344

What to Eat:

Ceviche is a seafood dish made from raw fish cooked by the use of citrus juice.
Papusas are a popular street food also known as stuffed corn pancakes. Usually comes with hot sauce and a side of coleslaw.
Tamales are a traditional Mayan food and wrapped in plantain leaves instead of corn husks
Rice and Beans: made in coconut milk and pinto beans
Conch Fritters: Conch is a staple in Belize and this is their most popular appetizer
Chimole is a Creole stew made from local spices such as garlic, cumin and oregano.
Seafood which includes white fish, shrimp and lobster

What to Read:

Ping Wing Juk Mo, by various writers
Maya Cities and Sacred Caves: A Guide to the Maya Sites in Belize, by Dr. Jaime Awe
Tropical Nature by Adrian Forsyth
Maya Art and Architecture by Mary Ellen Miller

Photo Guide for Belize:

Baron Bliss Lighthouse is located at the mouth of Haulover Creek in Belize City
Barrier Reef
Beaches
Belize and Orange Walk Clock Tower
Belize Sign
Corozal Bay and its teal waters
Hawkesworth Bridge in San Ignacio
Hummingbird Highway connects Western Belize and the South
Mayan Temples
Mountain Pine Ridge which is the home to 1000 foot falls, Rio On Pools, Big Rock Falls, and Caracol
San Ignacio Murals‘ colorful artwork
Tropic Air flights for amazing views of Belize’s Barrier Reef.

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A Cruise Ship Drydocks in Galveston

19 February 201431 August 2024

Have you ever wondered what happens to a cruise ship when it needs major maintenance or a much-needed remodeling? While working for the cruise lines, our ship’s Chief Purser explained that I would be traveling with the ship to Galveston, Texas for dry dock after returning from vacation. Over the next few weeks, the ship would undergo updates in the engine room, new carpet throughout and the installation of updated technology. Our ship left Tampa en route to Texas and we arrived at Todd Shipyards in less than six hours. I stood on the bridge as the captain entered the designated slip where the Vera Cruz would be dry-docked and met the local ship’s agent for instructions. Of course there were no passengers during this time, but a skeleton crew was required to carry out a number of shipboard activities, including customs and immigration.

Once the ship entered the slip and was securely tied, the water was drained from the basin, leaving the bottom of the ship exposed. I finally saw the ship’s hull from beneath the waterline, which ended my curiosity as to how far the ship extended below the water.

Additional bodywork was scheduled for the exterior of the ship to include the removal of barnacles and the repainting of the hull. During the drydock period, the water was shut off and electricity was only supplied to designated areas. The schedule to finalize the updates and maintenance was tight with not much margin for error.

I remember the first time I approached the gangway while in dry dock. It was the first time I realized I had a small fear of heights. The narrow bridge that connected the dock to the ship was much longer than what passengers experienced in port. Concrete replaced the usual water, so it made me weak in the knees when I looked down. The drop seemed so far that I held on for dear life to the railing and slowly walked toward the entrance.

During my experience in dry dock, many of the deck hands and ship’s officers provided oversight for the changes scheduled for the Vera Cruz. They worked long hours to ensure that the dry dock activities ran smoothly and that the ship would return to its regular sailing schedule.

Because of the limited electrical and water resources, the working crew and officers stayed at a local hotel so we could sleep comfortably at night and make it to work on time each day. Although ship life is hard work at times, our dry dock schedule was like working a REAL job….or at least we were able to experience what it was like to work “on land” for a few weeks putting in only eight hours a day. And while spending time on the ship during dry dock was an interesting experience, I was more than happy to return to sea.

Have you worked on a ship before and experienced dry dock? I would love to hear your story if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading my post about my shipyard experience and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Bishop’s Palace
1402 Broadway Avenue J
Galveston, TX 77550
Telephone: 409 762 2475

Historic mansion with public tours

Admission Fee: $12 for adults, Youth (ages 6 – 18): $9; Children 5 and under are free; Adult pre-arranged group tours are $9 per person; NOTE: The venue is not wheelchair nor walker accessible. The admission fee includes a self-guided audio tour (7 days per week). Additional fees charged for the Basement to Attic Tours ($30), Private Tour ($50) and a Private Behind the Scenes Tour ($80). Order online and SAVE!
Hours: Open daily from 10AM to 5PM
Amenities: Audio guides and shop,
Length of the Tour: 2 hours, tour of the house and gift shop
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes, purchase your tickets in advance for a discount,

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
2501 Seawall Blvd.
Galveston, TX 77550
Telephone: 855 789 7437

Old-fashioned waterfront amusement park

Admission Fee: Add day ride pass for visitors 48” and up: $26.99; All day ride pass for visitors 47” and under: $19.99.
Hours: Ride hours are seasonal and are subject to change without notice. The website suggests that you select a date on the calendar to view the hours for that day. http://www.pleasurepier.com/info.html
Amenities: Rides and Amusements, Midway Games, Restaurants and Shopping, Shuttle Buses, Lockers, Wheelchairs and Stroller rentals, ATM, nearby Hotels
Length of the Tour: All day
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes Parking is limited but there are several options from which to choose. Review the “Know Before You Go” section of the website to ensure adherence to the pier’s policies.

Moody Gardens
1 Hope Blvd.
Galveston, TX 77554
Telephone: 800 582 4673

242-acre amusement park with aquarium

Admission Fee: Value Passes can be purchased for one day ($69.95) or two days ($89.95). Save $5 when you purchase the Value Passes online. These passes include ONE admission into the Aquarium Pyramid, Rainforest Pyramid, MG 3D Theater, 4D Special FX Theater, Discovery Museum, Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, SpongeBob SubPants Adventure, Ropes Course, Palm Beach (seasonal), Band on the Seal (seasonal), Festival of Lights (seasonal) and ICE LAND Ice Sculptures (seasonal); Receive 25% discount on Zip Line admission with day passes. Per Attraction Prices are also available for those guests who have limited time or are only interested in certain attractions. Select which ones you want to visit and purchase your individual attraction tickets upon arrival or online.
Animal Experiences include: Public Giant Otter Encounter ($75 per person) offered on Saturdays and Sundays only at 1:30PM. Public Penguin Encounter ($55 per person – Monday through Friday and $75 per person on Saturday and Sunday). NOTE: Price does not include Aquarium Pyramid admission. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Free for children ages 3 and under. Tickets must be purchased 20 minutes prior to the encounter. Penguin and Seal Experience: $250 per person and must be scheduled in advance. All participants must be at least 16 years of age. Private Otter Encounter: Monday through Friday for $375 per group; Saturday and Sunday for $475 for group. Each additional person is $65. Must schedule an appointment in advance. The Private Penguin Encounter: Monday through Friday for $375 per group; Saturday and Sunday for $425 per group. Each additional person is $65. Must schedule an appointment in advance. Visit Moody’s website for the most up to date information regarding hours, prices and restrictions. http://www.moodygardens.com/visitor_info/
Hours: Open daily from 10AM to 8PM (Hours of Operation vary Seasonally & Per Individual Attraction, so check out Moody’s website.
Amenities: Special encounters programs (additional fees), discounts for Good Grades Program, Military Mondays, Senior Tuesdays and Mommy Wednesdays (visit the website for more information). Garden restaurant, Aquarium Pyramid food court, Rainforest concessions, Palm Beach concessions, Café in the Park, Moody Brews, Shearn’s Seafood & Prime Steaks, handicap accessibility; nearby hotel, spa and convention center.
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes, download the map on Moody’s website and plan to make a day of it!

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island
2109 Lockheed Rd.
Galveston, TX 77554
Telephone: 409 770 9283

Water amusement park open year around

Admission Fee: One day Tickets: General Admission ages 12 – 54 for $50.99 and 38.99 for children ages 3 – 11 and seniors 55+ Packages: General Admission, Towel, Souvenir Bottle, & Free Refills (Ages 12 – 54) for $76.97; Child/Senior Admission, Towel, Souvenir Bottle & Free Refills (Ages 3 – 11 and 55+) for $64.97;
Hours: The Park is open daily in the months of June, July and most of August. The Indoor Water Park is open weekends and selected holidays from March to April and October to December. Check the website www.schlitterbahn.com for a calendar of hours.
Amenities: Cabanas and Loungers (additional fee), waterslides, heated pool, restaurants, snack bars, beaches, kiddy pools. Towels and water shoes for an additional fee.
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes and plan a full day for your visit!

Where to Stay:

Hotel Galvez & Spa
2024 Seawall Blvd.
Galveston, TX 77550
Toll Free Number: 866 209 9122

Where to Eat:

Olympia Grill at Pier 21 – this restaurant is permanently closed (Updated 2019)
100 21st Street
Galveston, TX 77550
Phone Number: 409 765 0021

For a small bite to eat, I ordered the Crab Finger Trio: sauteed crab finger santorini, fried crab fingers and crab au gratin. Served with rice and vegetables. Delicious!

Benno’s Cajun Seafood
1212 Seawall Blvd.
Galveston, TX 77550
Phone Number: 409 762 4621

A great restaurant for cajun dishes, especially the local crawfish.

What to Eat:

Crawfish: Crawfish season in Texas runs from January to July. While the most popular way to eat this local seafood is in a crawfish boil, other options include etoufee and fried tails.
Texas BBQ: One of my favorite meals when I visit Texas, I can’t get enough of beef brisket slowly cooked in a BBQ pit. A tomato based sauce seasoned with spices, onions, and garlic, the amazing flavors bring out the smoky taste of the beef.
Tex-Mex cuisine: In addition to nachos, guacamole, burritos and tacos, there are several dishes that have evolved from the traditional Mexican offerings, such as:
- King Ranch Chicken: a dish made of shredded chicken, canned diced tomatoes and green chiles, cream of mushroom soup and cream of chicken soup, diced bell peppers and onion.
- Pan de campo is the official state bread of Texas which a type of flatbread used as the base for a variety of breakfast meals and meats often served with refried beans and rice.
- Frito Pie: With Fritos as its base, seasoned beef or chili, cheese and onion are piled on one another to make a hearty meal. Some people like to include salsa, sour cream and jalapenos for additional heat and flavor.

What to Read:

Galveston’s Red Light District: A History of the Line, by Kimber Fountain
The Galveston That Was, by Howard Barnstone
Galveston Architecture: A Visual Journey
Galveston, by Nic Pizzolatto
Galveston: A Novel, by Suzanne E. Morris
Isaac’s Storm, by Erik Larson
The Alleys and Back Buildings of Galveston: An Architectural and Social History, by Ellen Beasleyx`
Galveston’s Maceo Family Empire, by Nicole Boatman & Richard B. McCaslin

Photo Guide for New Orleans:

24th and Strand Mural
Beachtown Community
Bishop’s Palace
Galveston Kindness Project
Galveston Railroad Museum
LaKing’s Confectionary
Moody Gardens
Moody Mansion
Maceo Spice and Import Company
Pleasure Pier
Powell Arch
Saengerfest Park
Seawall Mural
Tall Ship ELISSA

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My Favorite Black and White Photos of NOLA, 1998

12 February 201431 August 2024

Jackson Square

New Orleans Streetcar

The French Market

The Big Easy

The Blue Dog Gallery

The Old Absinthe House Bar

The Street of New Orleans

Panoramic Pic of New Orleans from Algiers

Thank you for viewing my past photos of New Orleans. If you have a gallery of older photos of this magnificent city, let me know and I will provide a link. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Bermuda’s Hamilton Parish

5 February 201431 August 2024

During my second contract as a purser on the SS Queen of Bermuda, I met with the ship’s agent at the JFK Airport who took me to the port of New York. Another six month contract with a weekly itinerary from New York City to the ports of Hamilton, Bermuda and then on St. George, I knew this was going to be an exciting summer.

A postcard map of Bermuda

Bermuda is one of my favorite islands, not just because I spent the whole summer exploring it, but for its sophistication, laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty. It’s easy to see most of the highlights of Bermuda in one day, but there are so many hidden gems throughout the island. I was excited to discover all of the parishes and learn about the history and people that make Bermuda such a magical place.

A view from the ship in downtown Hamilton

As the ship docked in downtown Hamilton, I cleared customs and headed out with a group of friends to wander the pastel colored streets of Pembroke Parish. I loved coming into Hamilton because of its main street, lined with restaurants, shops and the local grocery.

With the ship docked in Hamilton for three of our four days, I became accustomed to the local hangouts and experienced life as if this island was my home. Of course I enjoyed visiting the local sites, but oftentimes I would make plans to take in a movie at the cinema, or enjoy a fast food dinner at the local KFC.

The ports of call that I often visited during my contract were no longer able to support the large megaships that were built in the 1990s. To accommodate the size of the new cruise liners, Bermuda built a new dock at King’s Wharf Dockyard, located on the west end of the island. Very few ships, if any, dock in the port towns of Hamilton and St. George now that the dockyard is operational.

Regardless of where one’s ship is docked, passengers can easily explore the island of Bermuda during their stay. With a length of 22 miles, it is easy to visit both ends of the island by bus, ferry or scooter. I miss those days of hopping on my weekly scooter rental at Oleander Cycles, but I’m sure I could acclimate to driving on the left side of the road should I return to Bermy.

A few of the port of St. George from the cruise ship

Our last stop on the cruise ship itinerary was St. George. This charming town is located on the more quiet side of Bermuda with its strong history and fabulous selection of tourist attractions. It is here that I was able to sample the island flavor, see its natural beauty and be captivated by spectacular views of the coral colored seashore. If we decided to stay in for the night, we would visit the video store to rent a movie but most of the time we checked into our favorite place, The White Horse Tavern. Located across from the cruise ship’s dock, the restaurant had an outside deck that would accommodate the large crowd of us that were up for a night on the town. Late nights would be spent at Reflections, a dance club just around the corner.

UPDATE: Reflections is no longer in St. George.

Hamilton Parish – Abbot’s Cliff

For the officers and crew, cruise ship life isn’t all about restaurants, shopping and clubs. I learned about Abbot’s Cliff from one of the customs agents that mentioned it had an amazing view of Bermuda once I reached the top. Finding the unmarked dirt path, I battled the tall grass on my moped and managed to avoid some of the big rocks. I was rewarded with one of Bermuda’s best kept secrets with spectacular views of the island.

Located in Hamilton Parish, I was able to access the cliff from Abbot’s Cliff Road at the northern side of Harrington Sound. This is the only marker for the dirt trail that leads to the top, but after witnessing the breathtaking views of the island and surrounding areas, I agreed the trouble to reach the top was well worth the effort.

One of the highlights of my weekly visit to Bermuda was a trip to either Bailey’s Ice Cream & D’Lites or the Swizzle Inn for my favorite Bermuda drink, the Rum Swizzle.

For the best homemade ice cream on the island, I made it a priority to visit Bailey’s Ice Cream as much as possible. I found a wide variety of flavors that included those unique to Bermuda like the “Dark and Stormy” or “Rum and Ginger”. It was never difficult for us to find the beautifully painted, light green cottage located across the street of another Bermuda icon, “The Swizzle Inn Pub and Restaurant”.

Bailey’s Ice Cream and Parlour is located at 2 Blue Hole Hill (in Bailey’s Bay), Hamilton Parish. Hours of operation are from 12:00PM to 6:00PM daily during the summer, closed in the winter.

Close to the Ice Cream Parlour, I could take the footpath access over to the Crystal Caves for a time to cool down. Tourists can swim in the cool water down in the caves for a bit of refreshment from the hot summer sun.

Descending 120 feet below ground, Crystal Caves, one of the largest cave systems in Bermuda. Pontoon-style walkways are provided to access this amazing underground attraction. We walked among the limestone rock stalagmites and stalactites for a surreal experience with a tour guide providing us with a geological overview of the cave. I loved to see the crystal clear waters of Cahow Lake below that reflected the beauty of these spectacular formations.

During the tour I learned that the caves were discovered by two teenage boys in the early 1900’s. The caves were once the property of the Wilkinson family. Further exploration led the family to a fantastical world that would one day become one of Bermuda’s favorite attractions.

There are so many attractions and natural sites to see throughout the island, so I took the time to visit them to enjoy the splendid views, explore Bermuda’s beauty and soak in the beautiful flavors of the island.

I will never forget the summer I spent in Bermuda. I keep in touch with friends there and dream about returning someday soon. Is there a place that brings back fond memories for you? Have you had a chance to return? I would love to know what sites, cities or countries that have made the most impact on you, so please leave a comment below! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Abbot’s Cliff
Abbot’s Cliff Road
Hamilton, Bermuda

Crystal Caves
8 Crystal Caves Road
Hamilton Parish, Bermuda Blue Hole Hill
441 293 0640

Admission Fee: Crystal Caves (along with Fantasy Caves) will cost $22 per adult, children 12 and under, $10 and children under 5 are free. Credit cards are accepted.
Hours: The caves are open daily from 9AM to 5PM with tours leaving every 20 minutes. Allocate about 75 minutes to explore both of the caves.
Scenic View: The stalagmites and stalactites of the cave are fantastic.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes and a swimsuit beneath your clothes to enter the underground lake.

Where to Stay:

The Saint George’s Club
6 Rose Hill
St. George’s Parish, Saint George, Bermuda
Telephone: 877 734 3180

Where to Eat:

Bailey’s Ice Cream & D’Lites
2 Blue Hole Hill
Bailey’s Bay, Hamilton Parish, Bermuda
Telephone: 441 293 8605

NOTE: Bring cash because Bailey’s does not accept credit cards.

Where to Drink:

Swizzle Inn
3 Blue Hole Hill
Bailey’s Bay, Hamilton Parish
Telephone: 441 293 1854

The local drink is the rum swizzle made from Gosling’s Black Seal Rum, Gosling’s Gold Seal Rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, grenadine and angostura bitters.

What to Eat:

Bermudian Gumbo: a type of fish chowder, this soup includes a mix of spices, vegetables and a blend of seafood
Black Rum Cake: Check out Bermuda Black Rum Cake at the Royal Naval Dockyard. This local favorite is made with dark molasses, dried fruit and walnuts and of course, Gosling’s Black Seal Rum.
The Codfish Breakfast: boiled or steamed salt cod with potatoes, onions, sliced bananas and a hard boiled egg: Can also be cooked as a patty called a Fish Cake
Fish Sandwich: fried cod on wheat or raisin bread
Hoppin’ John: rice and peas

What to Read:

The Story of Bermuda and Her People, by W. S. Zulli
Under the Moon Gate, by Marilyn Baron
A Home with no Roof, by Wayne Whicher
Captain Devlin’s Captive, by Susanne Saville

Photo Guide for Bermuda:

Crystal Caves: A visit to this unique location is absolutely breathtaking.
Front Street Hamilton is one of my favorite places to visit and photograph because of its colorful buildings
Gibb’s Lighthouse: Climb to the top for spectacular views
Horseshoe Bay: explore the gorgeous pink coral sands and beautiful blue waters
Jobson’s Cove: This secluded cove is absolutely romantic.
Royal Naval Dockyard: With its historical clock tower and stone structure, there are several photos that can be shot from this location
The Unfinished Church in St. George’s: A Catholic church that has been damaged over time stands without its roof.
Warwick Long Bay: This beach is the perfect spot for stunning sunrises
Water Street in St. George for colorful homes showing Bermuda’s Old World Charm

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Florida’s Cypress Gardens Theme Park

29 January 201431 August 2024

Cypress Gardens closed in 2009 but the gardens have been preserved in today’s LegoLand.

My parents were coming to Florida to board the SS Veracruz where I was working as the crew purser. The ship went out of Tampa, so my boss, Chief Purser Sylvia, let me have the weekend off so I could spend time with my Mom and Dad. We would all be coming back to the ship to set sail for Mexico on Monday.

It was a beautiful Florida afternoon for visiting Cypress Gardens in Winter Haven. Their first time visiting the Sunshine State, we headed east on I-4 to explore this beautiful theme park, considered the first theme park in Florida.

Created by Dick and Julie Pope in 1936, the couple set out to update the canals and lakes in central Florida, opening Cypress Gardens Theme Park. The hanging gardens of Lake Eloise were the main attraction of the estate’s prized blossoms and blooms.

From duck topiaries to Southern Belles, the park represented 90 countries by showcasing over 8,000 types of flowers. The tropical weather was perfect for displaying thousands of exotic blooms. With gorgeous warm temperatures all year around, this was the perfect location.

In addition to the spectacular gardens, the Popes would draw visitors with their water shows where skiers would entertain the guests with their dangerous stunts. From slalom jumps to barefoot skiing, onlookers were entertained with such athletic feats of skill.

One of the attractions that we enjoyed was the boat ride along the canals. Passing colorful floral arrangements and large cypress trees with their hanging moss, we spotted a few heron and storks along the way.

Cypress Gardens grew in popularity between the 1940’s and 60’s and would eventually be sold to a large publisher. The park struggled to keep up with the technology of other attractions but resurrected once more when purchased by Merlin Entertainment Group combining Cypress Gardens, a local botanical garden and splash park, reopening in the fall of 2009.

The property is now a part of Legoland Florida Resort and the owners continue the traditional ski shows on Lake Silver that were once a part of the success of the Cypress Gardens Theme Park. The gardens have also remained with displays of exotic plants from all over the world and the original Banyan Tree, planted in 1939 is one of the main attractions.

Did you visit the Cypress Gardens Theme Park before it became Legoland? What did you think of the gardens and attractions provided by the park? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for exploring Florida’s Cypress Gardens Theme Park through my post and I wish you many happy travels!

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What to See and What to Do:

Legoland Florida Resort, formerly Cypress Gardens Theme Park
One LEGOLAND Way
Winter Haven, FL 33884
Telephone: 888 690 5346
Website: www.legoland,com

Admission Fee: $99.99 per day for one day; 72.50 per day for two day entrance to the park and waterpark; $60 per day for a two day entrance into the park only.
Hours: Refer to the website’s calendar as the hours of operation change based on season.
Amenities: waterpark, restaurants, group rates, handicap accessible, annual passes, discounts and promotions, attractions, live shows, rides, lego minilands, movies, gardens,
Length of Visit: all day
Tips for Your Visit: Be prepared to stand in long lines in peak season. Wear plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated. Wear comfortable shoes.

Where to Stay:

Legoland Florida Resort, formerly Cypress Gardens Theme Park
One LEGOLAND Way
Winter Haven, FL 33884
Telephone: 888 690 5346
Website: www.legoland,com

Where to Eat:

Legoland Florida Resort, formerly Cypress Gardens Theme Park
One LEGOLAND Way
Winter Haven, FL 33884
Telephone: 888 690 5346
Website: www.legoland,com

Dragon’s Den, Panini Grill and Funnel Cake Factory

What to Eat:

Granny’s Apple Fries
Pizza and Pasta
Tacos
Panini’s
Funnel Cake
Chicken
Ice Cream Cones

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Hurricane Gilbert 1988: The Aftermath in Photos

22 January 201431 August 2024

Hurricane Gilbert made landfall on the Yucatan Peninsula on September 14th, 1988 after destroying the island of Jamaica just a couple of days prior. It would go down in history as one of the worst hurricanes to hit the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico.

The beaches of Playa del Carmen following Hurricane Gilbert in 1988

During this time, I was working as a Purser on the SS VeraCruz and based out of Tampa, Florida. The cruise ship was scheduled to leave port with an itinerary to include Cozumel and Playa del Carmen for a five day voyage. It was determined that the hurricane would most likely continue its path heading west with a slight direction towards the north, but the Captain decided to set sail. In hopes that we would miss the hurricane, the ship headed north towards New Orleans with the possibility of docking in Progresso.

As you can imagine, our ship did not make it to Cozumel that week and no sooner did the ship depart out of the Port of Tampa, it was determined that the ship needed to head north towards New Orleans to avoid the hurricane. With swells reaching over 30 feet in height, we waited out the storm only to return back to Tampa. Gilbert would eventually hit the Yucatan Peninsula resulting in massive damage and destruction.

According to the website Hurricanes: Science and Society, there was $1 – 2 billion dollars worth of damage to Mexico alone. Ships were tossed ashore and 341 people lost their lives.

Hurricane Gilbert was documented as a category 5 hurricane that resulted in 83 ships sinking, 60,000 homes destroyed and 35,000 people left homeless.

It was later learned that the aftermath of the hurricane had an impact on Mexico again in 1989 when wildfires went out of control as a result of the debris left by the hurricane, burning 460 square miles.

According to the website source, there were storm surges that reached heights of 20 feet causing ships to be washed ashore.

Some of the ships were literally tossed out of the water, making contact with the buildings ashore. This created additional destruction to hotels, homes, and other coastal establishments.

I visited the ports of Cozumel and Playa del Carmen weeks after Hurricane Gilbert touched down. In addition to damaging the coral reefs and buildings, we couldn’t believe the condition of the beaches which looked as though they were under demolition.

The island of Cozumel and resort town of Playa del Carmen have long since recuperated from the destruction of the hurricane, but for those who were there or visited the Yucatan shortly thereafter, it will forever have a long lasting impact on their lives.

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Key West, Florida – Looking Back on My First Visit in 1989

15 January 201431 August 2024

What is the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions Key West? The gorgeous sunsets at Mallory Square? The tenacious pub crawlers along Duval Street or the eclectic festivities that give the island its signature flair?

I didn’t know what to expect on my first visit to Key West. I was only 19 years old working on a cruise ship and it was the first stop on our itinerary before traveling to Cozumel. My fellow pursers guaranteed that I would love Key West, but I could not have imagined how many memories I would make here. This magical place seemed more like a Caribbean island than a Florida port of call.

There was so much to learn about Key West that summer. I booked a lobster dive, visited the Treasures of the Atocha museum and watched Jimmy Buffett perform at a local bar. Rich with history and a unique culture unto its own, it is no doubt, Key West is unlike any other place I have ever visited in the US.

Originally given the Spanish name Cayo Hueso (Bone Cay), Key West was once a settlement of the Calusa people, an Indian tribe known for their fierce, war-like disposition. The English, mispronouncing the name, would later call it “Key West”.

The island was also a popular hideout for pirates who attacked Spanish treasure ships sailing from the Caribbean to Spain.

By 1912, the coral islands of the Keys would become accessible by rail with the completion of Henry Flagler’s railroad. Damaged by hurricane winds in 1935, the rail line was abandoned and replaced by the 123-mile Overseas Highway.
Touring the island by trolley was my favorite way to explore the island. The open-air tram made its way through town, stopping at several historical landmarks.

I remember how excited I was to reach one of Key West’s most popular sites, the Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S. Standing at the corner of South and Whitehead Streets, I was surprised to learn I was closer to Cuba than Miami. This cute little bouy-like structure attracted visitors from all over the world and the line for a photo was worth the wait.

At the top of the monument, there is a reference to Key West as “The Conch Republic.” The trolley guide explained that on April 23rd, 1982, the island seceded from the mainland with the desire to establish itself as its own country. The events leading to this decision began when US border patrol set up a checkpoint at the entrance to Key West. This border stop infuriated residents when a 17-mile traffic jam occurred and began to interrupt Key West’s tourism industry. When the government refused to listen, Mayor Wardlow decided to declare war on the United States. Within one minute, he quickly surrendered and applied for foreign aid in the amount of one billion dollars. This publicity stunt resulted in the US government agreeing to remove the inspection station and life in Key West went back to normal.

For the conchs of Key West, the 1982 Conch Republic secession is celebrated each year with a ten-day festival taking place around April 23rd. Among the festivities are a Pirate’s Ball, the Conch Crawl and a Musical that reenacts the events of the secession.

I caught the next trolley from the Southernmost Point and disembarked at the Ernest Hemingway Home. The beautifully restored two-story home is located at 907 Whitehead, across from the Key West Lighthouse. Hemingway wrote many of his great novels here from 1931 to 1939 including “The Snows of Kilimanjaro”, “The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber”, “Green Hills of Africa” and “To Have and Have Not”.

I enjoyed a tour of Hemingway’s home, the property and his inspirational studio overlooking the pool. Following the guided tour, I opted to take a second stroll of the home to explore the gardens of hibiscus, jasmine and gardenias.

One of the highlights of my visit was watching the Hemingway’s cats lounging among the lush tropical plants outside. Descendants of Hemingway’s beloved polydactyl (many toes) cat Snowball, the nearly fifty felines have taken up residence in this luxurious estate.

My final ride on the trolley returned me to Duval Street. A popular hub of restaurants, bars, shops and museums, cruise ship passengers could participate in the “Duval Pub Crawl” with a stop at the Bull and Whistle. Known as the “oldest Open Air Bar in Old Town Key West”, it is located on the corner of Duval and Caroline Street. The Bull, located on the ground level, showcases a beautifully hand-painted mural, paying homage to a number of the island’s influencers. Yankee Jack has been entertaining patrons of the Bull with his performance of “On the Walls of the Bull”.

The Whistle is the bar upstairs providing great views of Duval Street and the opportunity to shoot a few games of pool. The Garden of Eden is the bar located on the third floor for visitors interested in a clothes optional environment.

Before leaving the Bull and Whistle, I begged one of my colleagues to pose next to “The Bull” on Caroline Street.

Duval Street is just over a mile long running north and south of the island. The most well-known bars of Key West include Sloppy Joe’s, Rick’s Bar Key West, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Cafe, Irish Kevin’s, Captain Tony’s and Hog’s Breath Saloon.

Each year, Sloppy Joe’s pays homage to famous author Ernest Hemingway by staging its annual Ernest Hemingway look-alike contest.

My day in Key West had come to a close but I had one more attraction to experience. I had arrived at Mallory Square with plenty of time to enjoy the live entertainment and secure a pier-side seat to watch the spectacular sunset. The plaza was bustling with arts and crafts stands, food carts and street performers. I waited in anticipation as sailboats glided by and catamarans drifted off into the horizon. I took several photos of this unforgettable moment and looked forward to experiencing it again on my return.

What is one of the most memorable sunsets that you have seen in your travels? I would love to hear about it! Tell me about your experience or recommendations for places to visit in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading my post about Key West and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Southernmost Point
At the corner of South and Whitehead Streets
Key West, FL 33040

Admission Fee: Free
Hours: Open 24/7
Tips for Your Visit: The trolleys drive by The Southernmost Point and a drop off location for the shuttle is nearby. There may be a line to wait to take your photo at the buoy.

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
907 Whitehead Street
Key West, FL 33040
Phone: 305 294 1136

Admission Fee: Adults, $13 and Children, $6, group rates may apply (12 or more)
Guided Tour: Admission includes a 30-minute guided tour
Hours: 9AM to 5PM, 365 days per year, including ALL holidays
Tips for Your Visit: The museum is home to many cats and may affect those with cat allergies.

Mallory Square
Address:
400 Wall Street
Key West, FL 33040

Cost: Free
Hours: Open 24/7; best time to visit is during sunset
Tips for Your Visit: Arrive early because the square fills up with spectators who are visiting to watch the sunset. Festivities begin 2 hours before sunset.

Where to Stay:

Heron House
512 Simonton Street
Key West, Florida 33040
Toll Free Number: 800 294 1644

I absolutely loved this property with the accommodations surrounding the pool. The plants and foliage are thick and provided much appreciated privacy during our visit! The rooms were spacious and there was a complimentary breakfast provided each morning!

Where to Eat:

There are so many colorful restaurants with a variety of cuisine in Key West that selecting one place is incredibly difficult. Because I have a love for Cuban Sandwiches and Oysters, here are my two recommendations:

Half Shell Raw Bar
Waterfront dining
231 Margaret Street – 305 294 7496

Oysters, oysters and more oysters! Food & Wine Magazine voted the restaurant “Best Local Oysters.” I ordered a half dozen lightly steamed oysters with hot sauce and crackers along with an order of the conch fritters appetizer which included six fritters served with cocktail sauce.

What to Eat:

Key West pink shrimp – said to be sweeter than other shrimp
Conch – a tough, hardy mollusk usually cooked as fritters
Seafood – snapper, grouper and lobster
Key Lime Pie – a tangy, creamy dessert made from key limes

Where to Drink:

The Bull and Whistle
On the corner of Duval and Caroline Streets
Key West, FL 33040
Phone: 305.296.4545

Hours: 10AM to 4PM, daily
Tips for Your Visit: Note that the rooftop bar, the Garden of Eden is clothing optional. Check out the website for coupons before you visit.

Cuban Coffee Queen (two locations)
284 Margaret Street – 305 292 4747
5 Key Lime Square – 305 294 7787

I started with a Cafe con Leche, the strong Bucci coffee with steamed milk. I loved the Cuban Mix sandwich because it was the closest to an authentic Cuban sandwich with a side of black beans. Save room for Key West’s famous Key Lime pie!

What to Read:

Ernest Hemingway books
Jimmy Buffet: The Key West Years, by Tom Corcoran
Hemingway’s Girl, by Erica Robuck
The Best Key West Trivia Book Ever! by David L. Sloan

Photo Guide for Key West:

801 Bourbon Bar (cabaret and karaoke) for interesting characters
Duval Street for the drinking crowds and colorful shops
Higgs Beach Pier, for amazing sunrises
Mallory Square, especially at sunset
San Carlos Institute for Cuban history
Smather’s Beach for long exposures during the day
The Strand, after dark for the neon lights
The Tropic Cinema, at night for the neon lights

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New Orleans, the Perfect City to Start Your Cruise

8 January 20148 August 2024

It took me by surprise when I learned that I would be transferring to another ship mid-cruise with Bermuda Star Lines. I had recently joined the Vera Cruz in Tampa when the Chief Purser explained that I would be signing on to the Queen of Bermuda later that week. The move would take place while both ships were anchored off of the port of Cozumel and my new port of origin would be New Orleans. Another port, another city to be explored.

Little did I know that the Crew Purser position would leave me with limited time to visit this amazing city. I was in charge of customs and immigration for the ship, so while we were docked, I was processing the paperwork and contracts for the officers and crew in preparation for sailing.

Close to the port was the Riverwalk Marketplace (now the Riverwalk Outlets), an elaborate shopping plaza and food court which was perfect for grabbing a quick bite to eat. The dining area was located upstairs and there were quite a few options for lunch, including some of the local Cajun and Creole cuisine.

On days where I had an extra hour or two, I would stroll away from the food court and enjoy my lunch at the Riverwalk Fountain, located in the Spanish Plaza nearby.

Each week I yearned to meet up with friends in the French Quarter. They told me about all of the shops and restaurants that they had visited which only made me want to jump ship and check them out for myself.

The time had finally come when I had completed my contract and I would be taking a six week break to visit family and friends. The ship’s agent knew how much I wanted to see New Orleans so he arranged my travel itinerary so that I would have a few hours to spend here before catching my flight. I was more than excited to finally venture out past the confines of the Riverwalk and to explore “The Big Easy” for myself.

With my long list of historical sites and points of interest in hand, what better way to start my exploration than to visit The Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis King of France? One of New Orleans’ oldest cathedrals and most notable landmarks, it is the perfect showcase of the city’s French architecture with its elegant spires, clock tower and extravagant courtyard.

Approaching the cathedral straight on was enough to take my breath away. Taking center stage in the square is a statue of General Andrew Jackson sitting atop his bronze horse. Beautifully designed after the spectacular Place des Vosges in Paris, I would have never guessed that public executions took place here in the 18^th and 19^th centuries. Today it is a popular location for artists, fortune tellers and tarot card readers.

Soon it was lunchtime and my shipmates highly recommended that I visit Pat O’Brien’s in the French Quarter. I was offered a lovely seat by the fountain in the courtyard and I placed an order for gator bites and the restaurant’s signature drink, the Hurricane. I was beginning to feel miles away from civilization. I wasn’t sure if it was the rum from the Hurricane or the relaxing atmosphere of the outdoor garden.

After paying my bill, I enjoyed strolling the streets of The French Quarter. I knew that Bourbon Street was close by and I couldn’t resist taking a few photos. During the daylight hours, New Orleans seems like a sweet, southern hospitality kind of town with a rich history and fabulous restaurants. It’s when the sun goes down that the French Quarter comes to life and continues on until the early hours of the morning. The streets are packed with tourists collecting beads and enjoying frozen drinks with names such as High Octane and Mind Eraser.

I had only a couple of hours until I needed to catch a taxi to the airport, so my final stop brought me back to The French Market. Our ship’s agent would bring us beignets and coffee from Café du Monde and it was that time in the afternoon when I was ready for a café au lait and a last stroll through the shops. I could smell the fresh seafood and the local Cajun and Creole spices for which New Orleans is known. I placed my order for some jambalaya and enjoyed every bite before saying goodbye to The Big Easy.

Is there a place where you have traveled that brings back fond memories? Maybe it was a childhood vacation spot a business trip that you frequented? I would love to hear about that special place if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading my post about New Orleans and wishing you many Happy travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Spanish Plaza
2 Canal Street
New Orleans, LA 70130

The Cathedral-Basilica of Saint Louis King of France (also known as St. Louis Cathedral)
615 Pere Antoine Alley
New Orleans, LA 70116
Telephone: 504 525 9585

Admission Fee: Free, with the option to leave a donation
Hours: Open daily from 8:30AM to 4PM with daily mass held at 12:05PM.
Amenities: Gift shop, can light candles for a charge of $2,
Guided Tours and Informational Booklets: Self-guided brochures are available for a $1 donation. Guides are available for groups with a prior reservation.
Length of Visit: 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: The cathedral may be closed on Saturdays due to weddings, so check their website to inquire if a wedding is on the schedule. Please respect fellow visitors who may be entering the cathedral for prayer and refrain from taking photos during mass.

Where to Shop:

The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk
500 Port of New Orleans
New Orleans, LA 70130
Telephone: 504 522 1555

Open: Monday – Saturday: 10AM – 9PM; Sunday: 10AM – 7PM

French Market
700 – 1010 Decatur Street
New Orleans, LA 70116
Telephone: 504 522 2621

Hours: The market is open daily from 9AM to 6PM. The Farmer’s Market is open from 10AM to 6PM on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Amenities: Shopping, food, crafts bazaar, flea market and live entertainment
Length of Time to Spend at The French Market: 2 – 3 hours

Where to Stay:

Omni Royal Orleans Hotel
621 Saint Louis St.
New Orleans, LA 70130
Toll Free Number: 866 538 9295

This hotel is located in the middle of all of the action in New Orleans! It is an absolutely beautiful property with a rooftop terrace, outdoor pool and balconies with a street view!

Where to Eat:

Acme Oyster Bar – affordable seafood!
735 Iberville Street
Telephone: 504 522 5973

Try the oysters or a local po-boy sandwich or if you have a bigger appetite, the New Orleans Medley allows you to try a sampling of gumbo, jambalaya, red beans & rice and grilled smoked sausage.

Brennan’s – upscale Creole cuisine since 1956
417 Royal Street
Telephone: 504 525 9711

This is one of my favorite restaurants in New Orleans not only because the food is so fabulous but its courtyard and patio are picturesque and remind me of dining at a southern plantation. During a recent visit, I ordered the Roasted Oysters prepared with smoked chili butter and a manchego cheese crust. For my entree, I decided to order a selection from the starters section and could not wait to try the New Orleans BBQ Lobster. The wine list is extensive with over 30,000 bottles on site! We ordered a bottle of Bartolo Mascarello. Save some room for their signature dessert which is the Bananas Foster and is world-renowned!

Court of Two Sisters – Jazz brunch buffet, expensive
613 Royal Street
Telephone: 504 522 7261

Once a home for a Louisiana governor, this restaurant is one of the most accommodating eateries in New Orleans with four dining rooms and a French menu to die for. David had been begging me to try the Turtle Soup and it seemed as though every restaurant we visited, it was on the menu. I started out with the Turtle Soup Au Sherry, which was actually quite good, but I will probably not order it again. At least I can say I tried it and I hope he doesn’t encourage me to try the Frog Legs! For my main entree, I could not pass up the Vegetarian Lasagna to save some room for the Creme Brulee!

Commander’s Palace, Creole and Jazz brunch buffet
1403 Washington Avenue
Telephone: 504 899 8221

A New Orleans landmark, this restaurant is the epitome of Creole and Louisiana cuisine! It is here that I first experienced Creole gumbo and Crawfish. Note that there is a dress code for Commander’s Palace.

Many people visit New Orleans to experience Emeril Lagasse’s restaurants and here are the links to these wonderful establishments as well! I have not had the pleasure of visiting his restaurants as they are usually booked far in advance! It is best to call ahead for reservations!

NOLA
534 St. Louis Street
Telephone: 504 522 6652

Meril
424 Girod Street
Telephone: 504 526 3745

Emeril’s New Orleans
800 Tchoupioulas Street
Telephone: 504 528 9393

Emeril’s Delmonico
1300 St. Charles Avenue
Telephone: 504 525 4937

What to Eat :

Crawfish Etoufee – shellfish over rice, using a technique called “smothering”
Andouille Gumbo – a stew consisting of a strong-flavored stock with meat or shellfish, a roux, celery, bell peppers and onions. Andouille is a type of spicy sausage usually included in gumbo.
Jambalaya– a dish of meat and vegetables mixed with rice
Beignets – fried fritters, sometimes filled with fruit and topped with confectioner’s sugar
Zapp’s Potato Chips!– a thick cut, kettle style potato chip that includes cajun and creole spices. My favorite flavor is the spicy cajun crawtators!

Where to Drink:

Pat O’Brien’s Bar
718 St. Peter Street
New Orleans, LA 70116
Telephone: 504 525 4823

Hours: The bar opens daily from noon; the piano lounge show typically begins at 6PM and the courtyard is available from 11AM; The kitchen is open until 10PM.
Amenities: Restaurant, bar and live entertainment
Tips for Your Visit: Try Pat O’Brien’s signature drink, The Hurricane. Additional specialty drinks on the menu include The Cyclone, Bloody Mary, Pat O’s Lemonade, Mint Julep, Skylab, Rainbow, Pat O’s Rainstorm, Category 5 Margarita, Fuzzy Leprechaun. For a small fee you can keep the souvenir cup, which your server will carefully wrap up for you. The piano bar is extremely fun to sing along with the dueling pianos and check out the flaming fountain at night, which is absolutely spectacular!

What to Read:

New Orleans, DK Eyewitness Travel, by Marilyn Wood
A Street Car Named Desire, by Tennessee Williams
Interview with the Vampire, by Anne Rice
The Axeman of New Orleans: The True Story, by Miriam C. Davis
Voodoo Dreams, by Jewell Parker Rhodes

Photo Guide for New Orleans:

French Quarter: The architecture is absolutely stunning, so look for the Creole houses with wrought-iron balconies. Some of the most beautiful buildings in the Quarter include St. Louis Cathedral, the Old Ursuline Convent, as well as the Cabildo.
Jackson Square: The square is located in front of St. Louis Cathedral and was once the location for public execution. Today, there are musicians and tarot card readers that provide local entertainment and are accustomed to photographers shooting their pics.
Food photos are a must in New Orleans, so order a muffaletta, beignet or plate of oysters and shoot away.
Garden District: With million dollar homes lining the street of St. Charles, you will want to hop on the streetcar to explore these amazing homes and their spectacular architecture.
Cemeteries of New Orleans: While St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is home to some of the most famous mausoleums and interesting history, there are several cemeteries which are also accessible by tour. These cemeteries include St. Louis Cemetery No. 2, Metairie Cemetery, Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, Charity Hospital and Katrina Memorial Cemetery and Greenwood Cemetery.
Frenchmen Street is the new Bourbon Street just across the esplanade from the French Quarter. A safe option for exploring New Orleans at night, visitors can browse a local art market, listen to local music at one of the amazing clubs and explore the fabulous street art throughout this district.

Disclosure: Please note that the information provided in this post was correct at the time of posting but is subject to change. Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.