Enjoy the joie de vivre New Orleans is so well known for by focusing on the sinfully, decadent aspects of New Orleans that are as excessive and exotic as the melting pot of cultures that fuel the city’s eclectic mythos.
From music and food to hotels and shopping, New Orleans never strays from its mantra – “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth overdoing.” In fact, the streets of New Orleans mimic a heartbeat as they vibrate to the sounds of jazz, and the air swirls about filled with scents of Creole dishes now so widely popular they are as familiar as the city itself.
Define your New Orleans stay as you select one of two mega suites to dwell in at The Saint Hotel. The Archangel Lucifer Suite or the Archangel Michael Suite are startlingly different atmospheres. The 2,000-square-foot Lucifer Suite is full of luxurious red velvet, black marble and Victorian antiques. But, if you want to be center stage, that’s no problem as the suite features a private stage with dance pole, lighting and sound system. Completely opposite is the Michael Suite which is equally as spacious, but gives you the ultimate “heaven on earth” experience. Full of natural light with 10 floor-to-ceiling windows, the blues, whites and contemporary finishes make you feel as if you’ve ascended into the sky.
www.thesainthotelneworleans.com
Even music in New Orleans has its unique way of warming your soul and inspiring decadent experiences. Sure the French Quarter is full of great places to hear music, but don’t overlook Frenchman Street. Iconic jazz clubs such as Snug Harbor, The Spotted Cat and The Maison feature both emerging and notable jazz artists. Take some Louisiana music home with you and plan a stop to the Louisiana Music Factory, an independent music store specializing in local music.
But, don’t forget to relax in true New Orleans’ style. You no longer have to dream about what it would be like to enjoy a Sommelier’s selection of sparkling wine or champagne inside of a 6,500 square-foot private spa, the Spa at Windsor Court can deliver this experience for a mere $12,500. You don’t have to worry about being pampered alone; you can invite 8-10 of your friends as well. The expansive space includes two relaxation rooms to sip on hot tea and cucumber water, seven service rooms with your choice of New Orleans best esthetic treatments, body treatments, massage, and nail services. Also, don’t forget the heated outdoor salt water pool where pool attendants will wait on you hand & foot.
No matter how you experience New Orleans, you must indulge in the city’s Creole cuisine. Since 1918, Arnaud’s is one of New Orleans’ most historic restaurants serving Creole creations such as their signature dish, Shrimp Arnaud, and their original Oysters Bienville, prepared with fresh gulf oysters, shrimp, mushrooms, green onions, herbs and seasonings in a white wine sauce. While there, be sure to slip upstairs for a glimpse into Mardi Gras history at Germaine Cazenave Wells Mardi Gras Museum. Wells reigned as queen of more Mardi Gras balls than anyone in history, and the display of opulent gowns and memorabilia showcase a unique sliver of local history.
So stop looking for a destination that sets the standard for luxury travel and look to New Orleans who has redefined luxury travel. Somehow, just like the cultures that blend together creating the city’s vibrant atmosphere, New Orleans combines its history and modern amenities to create a one-of-a-kind hedonistic experience you won’t soon forget.
JAUNT MAGAZINE 