Experience Canada Like A Local: Insider Tips You Can’t Miss

BY  Sibashree Jan 8, 2025

Tourism in New Orleans, Louisiana, is growing. We have the latest data from the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism. The data says that in September 2024, the hotel occupancy in Louisiana was 2.1% more than in September 2023.  Now, the places to visit and activities here have always helped tourism to this part of the world. If you are aware, New Orleans is a melting pot of jazz music, historic architecture, Cajun cuisine, brass bands, and so much more! However, traveling to New Orleans has always been a little expensive, and we often overlook it as a tourist destination for kids. So, when someone thinks of a kid-friendly destination or traveling on a budget, New Orleans is probably not the first choice. So, with this Tour and Travel guide of free things to do in New Orleans with kids, we want to bridge that gap. Here, you will discover New Orleans as a budget-friendly tourist destination for kids. Free Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids | Traveling On A Shoestring | Traveling Like A Local January to March is the best time if you want to explore the free things to do in New Orleans with kids. The average temperature in these months ranges between 45-70 degrees F. Further, these months are the season of festivity in New Orleans.  Of course, you have the New Year celebrations. However, a friend of mine there says that Tet is the festival you must attend in New Orleans. An important festival for the Vietnamese population in the city, it demonstrates the perfect fusion of Eastern and Western cultures.  Furthermore, the Carnival Season in New Orleans begins on 6th January. The last day of the festival, Mardi Gras is in mid-February or early March. Moreover, the city celebrates Black History Month with great sincerity. The Black History Month will be celebrated from 1st February to 1st March 2025.  So, if you explore the free things to do in New Orleans with kids during this time, they will learn about the history and culture of the city from these festivities.  The Economic Modeling Specialist International or EMSI data shows how inclusive New Orleans is as a city. According to the 2021 data from EMSI, 59% of the population in the city is black. In the other 41%, the city has white Latinos, non-white Latinos and Asians. So, visiting New Orleans can be a great thing to learn about inclusivity for a child with a sensitive heart and an impressionable mind.  Let’s check out what more the city has in store for them. 1. Visit The Audubon Nature Center https://www.instagram.com/p/DCW-62VRd5M/?hl=en Location: 11000 Lake Forest Blvd. New Orleans Contact Number: (504) 861-2537 Hours Open: 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM (Sunday Closed) Entry Fees: Free Entrance to the Interpretative Center and Nature Center Walking Trails (Tickets Needed For Entry to the Zoo and Aquarium) Your to-do list of the free things to do in New Orleans with kids starts with a visit to the Audubon Nature Center. The aquarium, insectarium, and zoo are the prime attractions here. However, these three attractions do not allow free entry.  It is smart if you opt for a combo ticket. The combo ticket costs “$49.95 Adult / $44.95 Youth​ / $44.95 Seniors.”  Moreover, if your little one is interested in stargazing or astrotourism, you must visit the Audubon Louisiana Nature Center Planetarium and Nature Dome Theater. It is temporarily closed. However, it will resume its operations from February with new films and content.  2. Visit A New Orleans Public Library Branch | Best Free Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids https://www.instagram.com/p/DAZrMeGpt1L/?img_index=1 Main Library Location: 219 Loyola Avenue. New Orleans Contact Number: (504) 596-2610 Hours Open: 10 AM to 7 PM If your little one loves to read, a visit to any branch of the New Orleans Public Library will be fulfilling to them. However, I especially recommend visiting the Children's Resource Center Library.  The Children's Resource Center Library is located at 913 Napoleon Avenue. You can reach out to them at (504) 596-2628. The library remains open from 10 AM  to 7 PM. Further, it hosts regular events like Storytime, Craft and Lit, and Tween Chess Club.  I was exploring their Instagram page, and it’s so much fun! Particularly, one post drew my attention. It was a poster from a 2019 event where drag Queen Ariel Androgyny had a story-reading session. Further, the poster said that the event was about celebrating diversity.  Events like these are great for teaching diversity and inclusivity to the children.  3. Explore Arnaud’s Mardi Gras Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/DEVONpWRDC9/ Location: 813 Bienville Street, New Orleans Contact Number:  (504) 523-5433 And Toll Free: (866) 230-8895 If your kid is eager to know about the history and true spirit of New Orleans, a visit to the Mardi Gras Museum at Arnaud's Restaurant will be great.  It has two dozen Mardi Gras costume collections of Germaine Cazanave Wells. These are the costumes worn by queens during this high society extravaganza.  So, take your kids to the Arnaud’s Mardi Gras Museum and let them cherish their moments of fantasy and wonder.  4. Plan A Tour Of The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve https://www.instagram.com/p/DCHMeMbO72W/?img_index=1 Location: 419 Decatur Street, New Orleans Contact Number: (504) 589-3882 Hours Open: 24 Hours  Do your little ones want some adventure, and you are looking for free things to do in New Orleans with kids? Take them to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve. At this historical park, they will meet the native snakes and alligators.  Further, the Barataria Preserve is at the epicenter of a visit to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve. This preserve consists of  26,000 acres of Louisiana Wetlands.  Other points of attraction in the park are Chalmette Battlefield, French Quarter Visitor Center, Prairie Acadian Cultural Center, etc.  5. A Visit To The LA Children’s Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/DD2KljRieGh/?img_index=1 Address: 15 Henry Thomas Dr., City Park, New Orleans Contact Number: (504) 523-1357 Entry Fee: Free Entry On The Second Sunday Every Other Month (11 AM to 4:30 PM) Hours Open: Wednesday to Saturday (9:30 AM to 4:30 PM), Sunday (11:30 AM - 4:30 PM), Monday and Tuesday Closed The Louisiana Children’s Museum has fun programs to boost the creativity of your children. Your little one can be a part of the camps. These camps offer interactive learning experiences in math, science, and nature.  Living with Water is another great program to learn about the survival and evolution in wetlands and wet environments.  Moreover, the museum hosts Sensory-friendly Playtime. If your child has sensory-specific needs, they can explore the museum at their own pace without noise and crowd.  Reaching New Orleans | Know This Travel Details Before Exploring The Free Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids  New Orleans is well connected to the other states of the USA and the rest of the world thanks to the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport and New Orleans Lakefront Airport. Further, you can take the service of the Airport Shuttle New Orleans to reach your hotel or destination from the airport. Airport Shuttle New Orleans is located at 4220 Howard Avenue and you can reach out to them at +1 504-522-3500.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Sibashree Jan 30, 2025

The food scenario in New Orleans is vibrant and from Paris to Congo, the influence on New Orleans food is eclectic.  Further, New Orleans offers the best southern hospitality. Moreover, Louisiana's tourism and economy depend majorly on the hotel and hospitality industry.  So, the city has many luxurious hotels and accommodations for the tourists.  Here, I have curated the most popular hotels which are ideal for family vacations. Top Luxury New Orleans Family Hotels | A Brief Guide The hospitality industry of New Orleans had some of the biggest highlights in 2024. Moreover, it hosted the Pastry World Cup and Bocuse d’Or for the first time in New Orleans in 2024. Moreover, the New Orleans & Company hosted the continental selections of North and South America.  So, this time, you visit New Orleans, make it a point to stay at any of these New Orleans family hotels and indulge in the most luxurious experience. The names enlisted are approved by Yelp rating and recommendations of the local experts. 1. The Celestine Address: 727 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States Contact No: +1 504-332-2200 You ask me about the New Orleans family hotels and I recommend The Celestine. It has been hailed as one of "The Best New Hotels in the World" in Condé Nast Travelers' 2024 Hot List.  Today, The Celestine has ten European-style luxury rooms, and with eclectic influences, the overall interior of the hotel will take you back to the 1950s.   2. Hyatt Centric French Quarter https://www.instagram.com/p/C7XEkakMwUb/?img_index=3 Address: 800 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70112 Contact No: +1 504-586-0800 As one of the topmost New orleans family hotels, Hyatt Centric French Quarter offers you the ultimate luxury and the chance to soak in the vibrancy of French Quarters.  The hotel has classic architecture and its location is convenient for exploring the city hotspots like Art District, Garden District, jazz clubs, and historical monuments. 3. Hotel Saint Vincent https://www.instagram.com/p/DAT2GTVJY9b/?img_index=4 Address: 1507 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 Contact Number: +1 504-350-2450 Hotel Saint Vincent, as its name suggests, stands with historic architecture. However, it has all the modern amenities and luxurious experiences like the multiple dining venues and the heated pool.  Further, you can enjoy your favorite drink at San Lorenzo and Paradise Lounge of Hotel Saint Vincent. So, you can have the best Italian cuisine with a New Orleans twist at the San Lorenzo Restaurant. 4. The Roosevelt https://www.instagram.com/p/Cx8WU9LLRVc/ Address: 130 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans, LA 70112 Contact No: (504) 648-1200 If you want to soak in the vibrance of Jackson Square in New Orleans, you must plan a stay at The Roosevelt. Moreover, it is just 15 minutes away from Jackson Square, and it epitomizes timeless elegance.  In addition, it is close to the Louisiana Superdome, the French Quarter, and the Mississippi River Cruises. 5. Hotel Peter & Paul https://www.instagram.com/p/C6EPtzgOSRX/?img_index=3 Address: 2317 Burgundy St, New Orleans, LA 70117 Contact No: +1 504-356-5200 Hotel Peter & Paul, near the French Market and the Historic Voodoo Museum, is a luxury family hotel with 71 guest rooms.  If you are especially planning a trip with your pets, Hotel Peter & Paul will be your go-to destination. Here, the pet fee is $25 per accommodation per stay. However, the fees for service animals are exempted.  6. Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans https://www.instagram.com/p/DBM1MobN-KE/?hl=en&img_index=3 Address: 820 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70112 Contact Number: (504) 529-7800 The Cumberland Phone Building was transformed into the Drury Plaza Hotel, and today, it is one of the best luxury New Orleans family hotels. Moreover, all the rooms in the hotel have amenities like a microwave, free Wi-Fi, a hair dryer, an ironing board, etc.  Further, you cannot miss the free 5:30 Kickback® and breakfast at Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans.  7. Inn At The Old Jail https://www.instagram.com/p/Ckdy0OCrPUm/?hl=en Address: 2552 St Philip St, New Orleans, LA Contact No: (504) 301-5743 So, are you looking for New Orleans family hotels with a touch of history? You must plan a stay at the Inn At The Old Jail.  This luxury hotel was formerly the NOPD police jail & patrol station. Then, it became a library and community center after Hurricane Katrina turned it into ruins.  Finally, it was restored and transformed into a historic boutique hotel in New Orleans. 8. Grenoble House Address: 323 Dauphine St New Orleans, LA Contact Number: (504) 325-2271 “The Charm of the Past with the conveniences of today.” This is what defines Grenoble House in New Orleans. Moreover, this luxury accommodation gets its name from the French City where the Dauphine family lived.  Furthermore, this hotel exudes quintessential New Orleans charm in its architecture.  9. Pelham Hotel https://www.instagram.com/p/DBPAqwdvzsK/ Address: 444 Common St, New Orleans, LA Contact: (504) 522-4444 A stone’s throw away from the French Quarter district and Harrah’s Casino, Pelham Hotel exudes quintessential European charm in its architecture.  Further, the Ruby Slipper restaurant of the hotel offers you the best breakfast and dining experiences in a casual ambiance.  10. The Haunted Hotel Address: 623 Ursulines Avenue, New Orleans Contact: (504) 373-9319 Unless you have toddlers with you, and if you are a family that loves to watch spooky movies together, The Haunted Hotel will be your go-to place.  So, the chances of eerie encounters at this hotel are high, and it has been associated with high-profile murder cases for centuries. After your booking confirmation at the Haunted Hotel, you will also receive the details of  Ghost City Tour tickets via email.  11. Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans Address: 2 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA Contact: (504) 434-5100 World-class luxury meets quintessential southern hospitality at Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans. Further, located on Canal Street, Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans allows you to experience the palpable energy of the city life of New Orleans.  Further, the Heritage Icon Hotel looks over the Mississippi River. So, you can enjoy the best views of the river. Moreover, you can indulge in experiences like snorkeling at Audubon Aquarium and attending a Preservation Hall Jazz Band concert.  13. Lamothe House Hotel Address: 621 Esplanade Ave New Orleans, LA Contact: (504) 947-1161 Lamothe House Hotel infuses luxury with intimate experiences in the beautiful Faubourg Neighborhood. Moreover, the fact that it’s a boutique hotel ensures a more personalized experience here.  The luxurious antique suites in the hotel will cost you between $150-180. You can also opt for the luxury deluxe rooms at reasonable rates.  Overall, it is the opposite experience to the luxury hotel experiences at French Quarters.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Shahnawaz Sep 6, 2022

Despite the “Mind Your Own Business” video going viral and the debate between tourists and locals about using trash bins becoming the latest buzz, Nainital remains one of the most popular hill stations in India.  While overtourism can be a concern in this hill station or the state of Uttarakhand, you cannot ignore the fact that Taluka in Nainital introduced astrology tourism with the Nakshatra Sabha event in December 2024.  It was the fourth chapter of the first-ever astroturism campaign in India, organized by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board and Starscapes, a leading astrotourism company in the country.  Thanks to clear weather conditions, December is the best time to visit Nainital for stargazing. However, is it the best time to visit Nainital for a family trip? In this Tour and Travel blog, we will discuss the ideal time for a Nainital trip with family and the places to visit every season.  Before that, let’s briefly overview Nainital as a travel destination.  Why Visit Nainital: Know The Lake District Of India Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (Distance: 40 Km) Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (Distance: 35 Km) Nestled in the Kumaon Himalayas, Nainital is surrounded by Sapta-Shring or Seven Hills. The seven hills around this Lake District are: Sher-Ka-Danda Lariya-Kanta Handi-Bandi Naina Alma Deopata Ayarpata Further, this hill station, at an elevation of 2000 meters, is associated with the stories of Lord Shiva and Mata Sati.  It is said that the Lake was formed when Mata Sati's eyes fell during the Tandava Nritya, or the Dance of Destruction of Lord Mahadeva. The Naina Devi temple at the lake's edge is a popular religious site.  Also, the city has buildings and bungalows, a telltale of British colonial architecture. It was the summer capital of the United Provinces during the British Rule in India.  Moreover, the attractions in Nainital are endless. So, from a church in the wilderness to a bird-watching haven, you will find everything in Nainital. What Is The Best Time To Visit Nainital? Nainital is a year-round destination. However, April to June is the best time to visit Nainital while traveling with your family.  Further, if you want to see snowfall in Nainital, the best time to plan a visit is December to January. In 2025, Nainital had its first snowfall on 11th January, resulting in a tourist boost to areas like Pangot Marg, Himalaya Darshan, Kilbury and China Peak.  Nevertheless, I have shared a table below with the month-wise temperature and precipitation possibilities in Nainital.  You can check that out to decide the best time to visit Nainital. Then, I will discuss the best attractions and places to visit in each season. MonthsMaximum TemperatureDegree/Celsius) Lowest TemperatureDegree/Celsius)Rainfall/Precipitation (MM)January15448February17665March21950April 261340May271660June2819255July2520569August2419490September2417266October221348November2098December17620 So, as you can see, July, August, and September are the months with the highest rainfall in Nainital.  Heavy rainfall may cause landslides, road blockages, and many outdoor attractions or activities may not be operational in the monsoon season.  However, the monsoon is the best time to visit Nainital if you want to explore the quiet beauty of the hill station and its decor with shades of lush green. What's So Attractive About Summer In Nainital? I could give you more than one reason why you should visit between March to June. Nainital is like a pure place on earth wrapped around by gorgeous mountains and lakes. The time between march to June is mostly spring and summer, and it is doubtlessly the best time to visit Nainital. The mountains are always awake, watching and talking to you. Although the streets don't stay up so late, the clear night sky at Nainital makes up for the best place to watch stars at night. The months from March to June are the ideal time for that. There are lakes so pristine and the pine tree so pretty waiting to welcome you. 1. Temperature Between March To June Here, the summer temperature fluctuates between 11°C to 28°C in Nainital if you are visiting from March to June. 2. Warm Weather In the summer, the town remains so warm and bright. You can take plenty of good photos. The sun wakes up the town with a good morning kiss, and the mountains are always awake and smiling. Mornings are warm, with the cool wind blowing every now and then. The evening and the nights are slightly chilly.  3. Events To Take Part In Yes, you can go paddling in the lake and do lots of other activities as well. However, the main reason for choosing summer is because of the events. Ever heard of the Phool Dei? It is an event in Uttarakhand to celebrate a good harvest expecting a good harvest. Little children decorate the thresholds of their homes with freshly plucked flowers. Locals, at this time, stay in a festive mood. You can taste the ceremonial pudding which is very famous at this point in time in Nainital. People go out on the street and perform their local folk songs and dance in Joy. 4. Places To Visit The festive mood here will keep you cheered up. However, summer also makes up for the best time to visit the tourist spots here. You can go to Naini Lake, Land's End, Caves Garden and.  Tiffin Top can be a great location if you want a recreational moment with your loved one or your family. You can enjoy the fresh look of the mountainscape and enjoy the sunrise there. Just four kilometers away from the main town, Tiffin Top can also be a good opportunity if you are up for trekking.  Can You Visit Nainital In The Monsoon? Yes, you obviously can. I told you that it is a year-round travel destination. The months from July to September mark the stay of the monsoon. If you want to see the green mountains drenched in rain and clouds swirling up from deep within the mountains, then this is the best time to visit Nainital. Although you can choose whether in Nainital and make your visit, the summer, according to most visitors, is the best time. But, my personal preference is monsoon. Moreover, Nainital celebrates the Nanda Devi Festival in September. King Kalyan Chand of Chand Dynasty started this fair in the 16th century.  Further, Khatarua is another monsoon festival in Nainital, which is celebrated in mid-September. On this day, children dance and throw cucumbers to the fire to celebrate the destruction of evil spirits.  Moreover, Gheeya Sankranti, or Olgia, is celebrated in Nainital in mid-August. It is a festival to exchange gratitude between landowners and farmers.  5. Is Winter The Best Time To Visit Nainital?  Winter is the best time to visit Nainital if you are looking for adventures in the snow-covered hills.  Further, during the winter months, the Naini Lake promenade becomes a bustling hub for ice skating, scenic walks, and snow trekking. Also, during winter, you can visit places like Bhimtal Lake, Kainchi Dham, Snow View Point, and China Peak. Moreover, Nainital celebrates Sharadotsav in October and the Uttrayani Festival in mid-January.  Both festivals have distinct rituals and many visitors, including foreigners. Further, they are great to experience the local culture.  In addition, Christmas is the most happening event in Nainital, with many outdoor activities, such as paragliding, camping, horse riding, and zoo visits. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Most of your questions are answered through the sections above. However, I have offered some additional questions and answers just to make sure that you get clean and complete information. 1. Which Weather Is Best For Nainital? From March to June is a long span. But, if you want me to specify the best months to visit Nainital, I will suggest a time between May to June. The temperature is pleasant, and the weather is clean and simple for a good tour. 2. How Many Days In Nainital Is Enough? You will need three minimum days to explore and relax in the beautiful hill destination known as Nainital. If you want to visit all the popular locations here, then a three days trip would be enough. 3. How Much Does A Nainital Trip Cost? If you are planning a short trip of four days and three nights, then you can expect your budget to be around 14,799. Bottom Line! If you want to experience Snowfall in Nainital, I will suggest you go there during the winter. January will be the best time. The monsoon makes the place look green, saturated, and fresh, and the summer is all about vibrance and joy. So, if you are looking for the best time to visit Nainital, then I will suggest you go wherever your heart wants. Did you find the answer you were looking for? Tell us what you think about it. We are also open to questions.