New Awhleans!!

New Orleans seems to offer whatever it is that you need. I needed visual stimulation. I got it big time. The food, the music, the architecture, the people, all so freakin' great. This is not a normal travel blog so I won't go on and on...but the signage was just one of the outstanding things I saw. The best music I heard was on the street, and wafting out from the clubs...The best food well that is hard to say. I never had raw oysters before, and the experience was wonderful. I loved the buffet at Lil Dizzy's Cafe, I inhaled the Burger at Port of Call. The barbecued shrimp at Deanie's was worth the work...so yummy.

My friend Ken took me to the lower Ninth Ward where Katrina hit the hardest. I think I only saw a tiny fraction of what destruction was wrought. I was however bowled over by the innovative house designs I saw, with extensive solar panels and thoroughly modern facades.
He told me that Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie wereinstrumental in helping to rebuild the area.
It was hopeful and inspiring.

Another Hollywood connection, although less uplifting is the future tomb of Nicholas Cage. I guess the pyramid refers to the Masonic imagery in National Treasure but Nick, c'mon. You're in with the New Orleans Hoi Polloi for eternity, a little nod to your surroundings might be more appropriate.
I know I only experienced a taste of this complex and wonderful city. It seems there are many many layers yet to explore. But I know it is a visit I will never forget.