Southern Hospitality (2017).

What everyone knows about New Orleans is that the food is a delightful, mouth-watering event of its own. I remember my first taste of the butterscotch pralines, the sweetness melting in my mouth, or the garlic butterfly shrimp, the saltiness making my taste buds dance. And who can forget the savory lobster soup, a warm and comforting delight. Known as the home of dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, and shrimp etouffée, it helps if you love seafood and spices. Every bite is filled with rich flavour and culture passed down through many generations. Everyone knows that Louisiana weather fluctuates from extremely hot, almost desert-like heat to rich, moist, and humid temperatures where you can practically grab water droplets from the air.

Something that I was not expecting was evidence that Hurricane Katrina still demonstrated that some things in New Orleans were still are not the same. Many buildings have been abandoned, and many areas remain “uninhabitable,” as our tour guide said, pointing to an area that had been abandoned. Another thing our tour guide taught us was “It’s pronounced ‘new-orlins’ and not ‘new-orleans,’ ” as many Creole natives will tell you, “there’s nothin’ lean about New Orleans. Especially the food”. This emphasis on local pronunciation and cultural nuances is a key part of understanding and appreciating New Orleans. I am happy to say, I learned the true definition of Southern Hospitality through interactions with the people. Everyone greets you with a good morning and a good night. I also know the difference between what it means to be “Creole” and “Cajun”, and how the definition of Creole has changed over the years. Most importantly, I now know the profound importance of Jazz music in New Orleans. It’s not just a genre, it’s a way of life that makes the area come to life at night without warning. Jazz is the heartbeat of the city, infusing it with a vibrant energy that you can feel in every note. The talent, passion, and creativity of the musicians thump within every song, creating a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone who visits.