Welcome to New Orleans, a city of vibrant culture, rich history, and endless entertainment. Safety is likely on your mind as you plan your visit to the Big Easy. “Is New Orleans safe?” you might ask.
If you have read my blog on the best time to visit New Orleans, you must have noted how I have crafted this travel guide to ensure you have a delightful and secure experience in this iconic city. So, if THAT is something that you are wondering, I have you covered! Let’s dive into the safest spots and tips for a worry-free adventure.
Is New Orleans Safe to Visit!
New Orleans, like any major city, has areas that are safe and others that are less so. It’s generally safe for travelers, especially in well-trafficked regions like the French Quarter, Warehouse District, and Uptown.
However, the city does have a higher violent crime rate compared to the national average in the United States.
It’s important for visitors to stay aware of their surroundings, take common-sense precautions, and stay informed about the areas they plan to visit.
For a safe and enjoyable trip, consider exploring neighborhoods such as Uptown, including Audubon Park and Magazine Street, and Lakeview and Lakeshore. Though petty theft can occur, the French Quarter is bustling with tourists and generally considered safe.
Visiting the beautiful cemeteries with a tour guide is something that I would definitely recommend. This is due to occasional robberies and muggings.
Safest Places to Visit in New Orleans
Here are some of the safest places are discussed below where you can visit on your tour to New Orleans.
The French Quarter: The Heart of New Orleans is Your Safe Haven
At the center of the French Quarter is Jackson Square, a historic park that is a National Historic Landmark.
Significant structures like the St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in North America, and the historic Cabildo and PresbytĂšre buildings surround it.
Artists, musicians, and performers line the sidewalks, offering a glimpse into the city’s creative soul.
The square is a perfect starting point for any visitor, providing a snapshot of the city’s rich history and contemporary culture.
Bourbon Street: The Life of the Party
No visit to the French Quarter is complete without a stroll down Bourbon Street. Known for its lively bars and jazz clubs, it’s the epicenter of New Orleans’ nightlife. It is also one of the places that is great for couples visiting New Orleans.
Here, the sounds of jazz, blues, and zydeco music spill out onto the street, inviting passersby to join the dance and soak in the festive atmosphere.
Culinary Adventures
The French Quarter is a food lover’s paradise, offering a taste of authentic Creole and Cajun cuisines.
Parallel to Bourbon Street is Royal Street, a quieter but equally charming avenue known for its art galleries, antique shops, and boutiques.
It’s the perfect place to find unique treasures, from vintage jewelry to original artwork, and to experience the more refined side of New Orleans’ culture.
French Market: Shop and Savor
The French Market is America’s oldest public market and has been operating for over 200 years. Visitors can browse through various goods, from local crafts to fresh produce, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
The market also hosts a flea market, where you can find an eclectic mix of items and souvenirs to take home.
Cultural Museums
The French Quarter is home to several museums that delve into the city’s diverse heritage. The New Orleans Jazz Museum celebrates the birthplace of jazz.
At the same time, the Voodoo Museum offers insights into the mysterious and often misunderstood religion that has been a part of the city’s fabric for centuries.
Riverfront Relaxation
The Mississippi Riverfront is a stone’s throw away from the bustling streets of the French Quarter.
Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the Moonwalk, enjoy a steamboat cruise, or simply sit and watch the river flow by, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the excitement of the city.
Garden District: Strolling Through Elegance, Serenity, and Safety
The Garden District of New Orleans is a visual storybook of Southern charm. It is a neighborhood where the beauty of the past lingers amidst the vibrancy of the present.
With its lush greenery and grand antebellum mansions, the district invites visitors to step into a world of historical elegance and tranquility.
Strolling Through History
A walk through the Garden District is a journey back in time. The well-preserved mansions, each with its own story, are architectural gems ranging from Greek Revival to Victorian styles. The famous Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, the resting place of many notable figures, offers guided tours that reveal the history of the city through the lives of its past residents.
Magazine Street: Shopper’s Delight
Magazine Street, the district’s commercial heart, stretches six miles and is lined with boutiques, art galleries, and antique stores. It’s where you can find everything from high-end fashion to quirky souvenirs, making it a perfect spot for window shopping and finding that special keepsake.
Culinary Experiences
The Garden District’s dining scene is as diverse as its architecture. The area boasts some of the city’s best restaurants, from cozy cafes to fine dining establishments. Indulge in traditional Southern cuisine or explore contemporary dishes that tell the story of New Orleans’ culinary evolution.
Commander’s Palace: A Gastronomic Landmark
No culinary tour of the Garden District is complete without a visit to Commander’s Palace, a turquoise and white Victorian marvel known for its Creole cuisine and the birthplace of the jazz brunch. This iconic restaurant has been a local favorite since 1893 and continues to be a culinary beacon in the city.
Arts and Culture
The district is not just about historical sights; it’s also a hub for arts and culture. The Ogden Museum of Southern Art and the Contemporary Arts Center are nearby, showcasing the region’s art and offering a glimpse into the creative spirit of the South.
Relaxing in Audubon Park
The nearby Audubon Park offers a serene escape for those seeking a natural retreat with its ancient live oaks, tranquil lagoons, and the Audubon Zoo. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike come to unwind, picnic, and enjoy the outdoors.
Architectural Tours
Several companies offer architectural tours of the Garden District, providing insights into the history and design of the neighborhood’s most famous homes. These tours are a great way to learn about the district’s development and the stories behind its stately facades.
Mardi Gras World: Behind the Scenes
While not located within the Garden District, Mardi Gras World is just a short ride away and offers a unique experience. Here, visitors can see the artistry and craftsmanship that go into creating the floats and costumes for New Orleans’ most famous celebration.
City Park: Your Ultimate Family Place!
City Park in New Orleans is an expansive canvas of outdoor pleasures and cultural treasures, offering diverse activities for all ages. Spanning 1,300 acres, it’s one of the largest urban parks in the country, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in nature, art, and recreation.
Outdoor Adventures
Picturesque waterways, perfect for boating and kayaking, crisscross the park’s vast green spaces. With rentals available, you can paddle through the serene bayous or enjoy a romantic ride in an authentic Venetian gondola. For those who prefer land over water, the park’s biking trails offer a scenic route through its lush landscapes.
Botanical Beauty
The New Orleans Botanical Garden is a living exhibit of the city’s floral diversity, with over two thousand plants arranged in themed gardens. Visitors can wander through the English garden’s orderly beauty or find tranquility in the Japanese garden’s bamboo groves. The garden is a testament to New Orleans’ temperate climate, which keeps the city blooming year-round.
Artistic Encounters
The New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA), located within the park, houses an impressive collection of fine arts. The adjacent Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden features over 90 sculptures set against a backdrop of pines, magnolias, and live oaks, creating a harmonious blend of art and nature.
Family Fun
City Park is a haven for families, with attractions like Storyland, a fairytale-themed playground, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, home to a century-old carousel. The park also hosts the Train Garden, showcasing miniature trains amidst meticulously crafted cityscapes.
Recreational Activities
Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the park’s tennis courts, golf courses, and disc golf courses. Fishing is a popular pastime at the park’s Big Lake, where you can also find walking and jogging paths for a leisurely day out.
Couturie Forest
For a wilder experience, Couturie Forest offers a glimpse into the region’s natural state before urbanization. It’s a 60-acre woodland with trails leading to Laborde Mountain, the highest point in New Orleans, though only 43 feet high.
City Park is also a venue for seasonal events, from farmers’ markets to musical storytimes, ensuring there’s always something new to experience. The park’s event calendar is filled with activities that reflect the city’s vibrant culture and community spirit.
Staying Safe: Practical Tips to Have a Safe Stay at New Orleans!
When visiting New Orleans, or any new city, staying safe is paramount to ensure a positive experience. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the Big Easy with confidence.
Stay in Well-Lit Areas
New Orleans is a city that comes alive at night, but it’s important to stay in areas that are well-lit and populated. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the surroundings.
Keep Valuables Secure
Pickpocketing can happen in crowded places, so keep your valuables secure. Use a money belt or a cross-body bag that stays in front of you at all times. Be mindful of your belongings in busy tourist spots.
Travel in Groups
There’s truth to the saying “safety in numbers.” When exploring the city, especially at night, travel with friends or family. If you’re alone, consider joining a guided tour group.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. If you’re enjoying the nightlife, keep an eye on your drink and know your limits. It’s easy to get caught up in the fun, but staying aware can prevent unwanted situations.
Use Trusted Transportation
When getting around the city, use trusted transportation options. Rideshare apps are a safe bet, as are licensed taxis. If you’re using public transportation, plan your route ahead of time and avoid waiting alone at bus or streetcar stops late at night.
Respect Local Customs
New Orleans is rich in culture and tradition. Respect local customs and be mindful of your behavior, especially during festivals like Mardi Gras. Blending in and respecting the local way of life can go a long way in keeping you safe.
Know Emergency Contacts
Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and the locations of hospitals or police stations. In case of an emergency, knowing who to call and where to go can save valuable time.
Stay Hydrated and Protected from the Sun
New Orleans can get quite hot and humid. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade when necessary, especially during the summer months.
Check Weather Forecasts
The weather in New Orleans can be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers or intense heat. Check the forecast before heading out and be prepared with appropriate clothing and an umbrella if necessary.
Use Common Sense
Lastly, use common sense. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation. Don’t take unnecessary risks, like taking shortcuts through unfamiliar or secluded areas.
Wrapping It Up!
So, is New Orleans safe? The answer is both yes and no. The thing is it totally depends on the places that you visit.
By following the tips that I have mentioned above in this blog, you can focus on enjoying the rich experiences that New Orleans has to offer, knowing you’re taking the right steps to stay safe. Remember, preparation and awareness are your best tools for a safe and memorable trip.
New Orleans is a city with soul, and with these tips, you’ll navigate it safely and with ease. Remember, the key to a safe trip is awareness and preparation. So, pack your bags, bring this guide, and get ready to experience the Big Easy in all its glory!
Ankita Tripathy loves to write about food and the Hallyu Wave in particular. During her free time, she enjoys looking at the sky or reading books while sipping a cup of hot coffee. Her favourite niches are food, music, lifestyle, travel, and Korean Pop music and drama.
The travel scene in the world has not evolved since the Pandemic - people have now realized that countries around the world have their doors to tourists again in the absence of strict covid travel guidelines. In fact, the summer of 2022 has witnessed so many stories about overcrowding, travel mishaps, and even dangerous heat waves at major tourist destinations across the world, especially in Europe.
However, things in Asia have been a little different. As Asian countries are taking more time to open their doors to tourists with far lesser reports of flight cancellations or lost luggage, it has been seen tourists are not really coming back. One of the biggest examples of this strange travel phenomenon is Japan.
Japan Is Open To Tourists Now: So Why Arenât They Coming Back?
Japan opened its doors to tourists in the summer of 2022 to a whole lot of fanfare, and that too at a time which is generally considered to be peak tourist time for travellers in this country. However, according to the Japanese Immigration Services Agency, only a meagre 1,500 tourists visited the country between June 10th and July 10th.
The data points out how the numbers have gone down by a solid 95% as compared to data obtained during the same period of time before the Pandemic. Perhaps one of the possible reasons for the sharp decrease in tourists is because the country is only allowing leisure tourists and those too tourists who visit with âorganized groupsâ and not individually.
Melissa Musiker, a PR professional based in New York City, commented in this context, âWe don't need to be babysatâ - Melissa used to be one of the frequent travellers to Japan before the Pandemic.
So is Japan ruining its tourism industry because of its own rules, or is it because of some other strange reason nobody is aware of yet? Only time will tell us - till then, we can only speculate.
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The world heritage site of Machu Picchu, which is the main highlight of the Andean region, is a must-see attraction for tourists who come to South America. This Inca site has been closed for a while because of certain social and political situations. This has been done so to protect the safety of the local and international tourists.
Keep reading till the end to find out more information on is Machu Picchu closing!
The Official Statement Of Machu Picchu
The Cusco Ministry of Culture agency and headquarters of the historical sanctuary of Machu Picchu is also in coordination with the Protected National Areas agency. They announced that the current situation in their region and country had experienced led to the site closing down. They closed down the Inca sanctuary of Machu Picchu and the Inca Road Network. This was ordered on January 21st, 2023, and untill further notice, to safeguard the general population's and tourists' safety.
Similarly, it was also informed that all the facilities would be provided to the foreign and national tourists affected by Machu Picchu closing. This was effective from January 21st, 2023, and remained until one month after the social mobilizations or after the request to return the amount ticket.
Temporary Closing Of Inca Trail
Is Machu Picchu closing? Well, Machu Picchu got closed down on January 21st, 2023, because of the actions of the protestors. They were earlier also affected by an especially slow and low tourism season. The roads were blocked, and the supply chains were cut off.
According to various Machu Picchu news, here were protests, and due to that, the Ministry of Culture and the Headquarters of the Historic Sanctuary (of Machu Picchu) shut the place down. The whole of it was shut down - including the ancient city of Inca, the Inca trail. The whole of tourism went to sleep while the country tried to work out its problems.
Visiting Machu Picchu Post Protest
One thing to understand is that no one can guarantee that there won't be any interruptions on your visit to Peru. Whether you plan it this or in the next year! The month of February is when travel remains the most low. This is also the time when the Inca trail closes down for prevention work and maintenance.
The month of March, on the other hand, is when the tourists start re-opening for their new travel season. It is also considered to be one of the best places to travel to in September.
Due to Machu Picchu and Peru's busy tourist season in the month of March, travelers should always book in advance. There are timed entry tickets to this site. For the year 2023, tourists are limited to 4,500 per day. Hence, one needs to make advance purchases if one wants to visit this gorgeous attraction.
Tip: Is Machu Picchu open? Well, it is certainly open now and has been since the month of March.
Things To Remember Before Visiting
Here are a few things to remember before visiting Machu Picchu:
1. Select The Best Train Option
When you are heading towards the Aguas Calientes, you can choose from three trains - Vistadome, Expedition, and the Belmond Hiram Bingham train.
The Expedition train is the standard train that brings one to Machu Picchu and is known to be equipped with panoramic windows. The Expedition train is a standard type of train that features half-panoramic windows.
The Vistadome train is a more refined version and is known to be equipped with large panoramic windows so you can enjoy the scenic landscapes.
The Bingham train is the most luxurious and has facilities like brunch and lunch. They also have an open-air roof in their wagon.
2. Use Restrooms Before You Enter
One thing to know before visiting Machu Picchu is that there are actually no restrooms inside. This is why you should use the restrooms before entering the premises of Machu Picchu. After you have passed the entrance of the premises, you can no longer leave the premises and then re-enter.
3. Thereâs A Fixed Route
When on the guided route of the ruins of Machu Picchu, you will, by default, have to follow a fixed route. Which means that you can only walk in a single direction. It is certainly not possible to go back and visit one of the previously-visited spots. This regulation was actually introduced to bring more order to the Machu Picchu tours.
4. Remember To Carry The Correct Equipment
If you visit Machu Picchu, you need to make sure that you consider your backpack - it should be of regular size. There are certain measurements of backpacks up to which a backpack is allowed entry into the premises of Machu Picchu.
Keep reading till the end to find out about is Machu Picchu closing!
Exciting Facts About Machu Picchu
Here is a list of some of the exciting facts about Machu Picchu:
Most of the cities built by the Inca civilization were also destroyed during the event of the Spanish conquest. Machu Picchu is one such attraction that was in a hidden location. It was not found by the Spanish explorers at that time. This makes it one of the most best conserved Inca cities and a true archaeological gem.
Machu Picchu was originally an astronomical observatory. It has a sacred Intihuatana stone known to indicate the two equinoxes accurately. A total of twice a year - the sun hits the rock directly and casts no shadow.
Machu Picchu was only known in a local manner untill the professor of Yale - Hiram Bingham again discovered the site in year 1911. His book "The Lost City Of Incas" was actually based on his findings.
Situated more than 7000 ft. above sea level in the Andes. The wonder is known as Peru's most visited tourist destination. It also symbolizes the Incan Empire that was actually built around 1450 AD. The site was actually designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. It was also named one of the Modern 7 Wonders of The World in 2007.
To Wrap It Up!
That was all for information regarding is Machu Picchu closing and related information. Thank you for reading up till here. I hope you found the information useful. Let me know in the comments your thoughts on the same.
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The Everest Base Camp Trek is a gorgeous stroll that a trekker needs to cover. Indulging in this grandiose walk allows you to scrape out some of the nicest sights of your lifestyle. Along with the mouth-opening views of peaks including Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Pumori, and Lhotse, youâll be amazed by the images of the valleyâs lush woods, clean rivers, glaciers and quaint hamlets.
The trekking on Everest base is the third most famous trekking vacation spot in the world. Apart from nature, this trek also gets you pretty close to the dwelling locations of the Sherpas, who are the hardest human beings residing on earth.
It evokes everyone's emotions to a point where youâll get to examine a lot of the deep meanings associated with life.
Overall, the Everest Base Trek is well worth doing for many reasons. You may additionally not locate all the motives here. But we've woven together the 5 pleasant reasons that youâll enjoy doing a Camp Trek at the Everest Base.
Hillary Bridge (Nepalâs Highest Suspension Point):
Hillary Bridge is the easiest suspension bridge in the Khumbu area and expands on top of the Dudh Kosi River. Keep the final bridge for the second or third day of the Everest Trek rather than opting for an abrupt ascent to the Namche Bazaar street.
The non-secular prayer flags flying all across the bridge offer you spiritual and religious vibes, whereas the bridge gives you a distinctive vibe of freedom.
NamcheBazaar (Mountain Bazaar) (Sherpa People and their Mountain Lifestyle):
Namche Bazaar is widely regarded as the tourism capital and the biggest sherpa agreement in the Khumbu area. The city is actually stunning and offers various rejuvenating vacation spots near Everest. Tourism refers to the primary carrier for people residing in Namche Bazaar.
This city portrays a magnificent glimpse of mountain tops, including Kongde Ri, which is 6,187 m, Thamserku (6,623 m), and, additionally, the 8,848 m-high Everest. All across the town, you will find several restaurants, cafes, lodges, bakeries, Tibetan handicraft stores, and even museums.
Hence, all through your spoiled outdoors at Namche, visit these extraordinary locations and experience the day having scrumptious meals and drinks.
NangkarTshang Hill Standpoint (Hiking Place From Dingboche):
After Namche, Dingboche is the area where we take a relaxation and adaptation break. During the day, you can go to NangkarTshang Hillâs viewpoint. A 3-hour hike staring from the Dingboche village extending to the summit of NangkarTshang Hill presents a short and huge view of Makalu, Lhoste, Mera Peak(Island Peak), and Choopulu.
Unparalleled Scenery:
If you want to head over to an excellent scenery, this is where you reach. Along with Himalayan wasteland thrills, you will get to see dozens of mountains.
A lot of peaks can trip their base camps, too. Furthermore, the way offers picturesque destinations that allow you to take Instagram pictures.
Starting from the first day, trekkers are capable of witnessing colossal snowy peaks. Further, it is, in all likelihood, the sole trekking path where you get the mountain surroundings all through the trip.
Lhotse, Everest, Choyou, and Makalu peaks offer grandeur in the entire area. These peaks are in the top 10 absolute best mountains in the world.
Hometown Of Sherpa And Unique Culture:
This is the first reason the Everest base camp journey has become more popular: Everest Touring Trails are trails that are completely grounded in Tibetan Sherpa culture. Everest Camp Touring Camp Touring trails is only one touring stint in Nepal, where you'll enjoy the Tibetan Buddhism religion and culture. All the touring routes of the Everest region offer pedestrians the unique culture of the Tibetans, the Tibetan Sherpa culture of Nepal.
Tengboche Friary:
Tengboche Friary is another third magnet on the Everest hiking trip. It is located in a 3890-meter-high place where you'll enjoy a Tibetan Sherpa religious experience and a fantastic panoramic view of the whole Everest region of the Himalayas.
The fabulous Sherpa culture of Everest is a subject of important admiration and alleviation for most people around the world. Similarly, the Base Camp Trek at Everest presents a perfect occasion to enjoy the fabulous culture and tradition of the Sherpa people in close proximity. As a matter of fact, the Sherpa people are known worldwide for their nearly superhuman mountaineering chops.
Nearest Views Of Mt. Everest From Kala Pattar:
The view of Mt. Everest from Kala Patthar is a rallying point of the Himalayas, especially Mount Everest. Kala Pattar is only one stylish and closed viewpoint of Mt. Everest, which is really beyond the imagination and has superb views. The Himalayan lookouts of Nepal are the countryâs biggest draw points. The Everest Camp Trek also doesn't fail in this aspect; therefore, you should definitely consider visiting it once in your lifetime.
Religious And Cultural Prolificacy:
A lot of Sherpa agreements on the EBC route provide Mani buses, prayer flags, inscribed Mani boulders, Gompas, and Chortens. The inhabitants of this region are known to have migrated somewhere from Tibet 400 years ago.
Moreover, they still revive the conventional Tibetan language as well as culture. People belonging to this region are not only simple, gracious, and generous but also strict followers of Buddhism.
The Pangboche and Tengboche Gompas are two of the most primitive gompas, each with its own history and significance. The former bone belongs to the biggest gompa of the Khumbu region.
It is encompassed by Nuptse, Tawache, Lhotse, Thamserku, and Ama Dablam, all of which are joints for the Festival- Mani Rimdu. The festival is the longest and takes place from October to November.
The concept goes after the bone, which was said to have the genuine Yetiâs crown and hand. However, it just has a replica only. Furthermore, the Tengboche Gompa( friary), Pangboche Gompa, and multitudinous cloisters represent the artistic and architectural productivity of this region.
The Sagarmatha National Park:
This magnificent demesne, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979, is a biodiversity mecca. Rich in foliage and fauna, Sagarmatha National Park is home to rare species of creatures like snow leopards and lower pandas, amongst other innumerous common species that are set up in figures, like sharpers, hares, jackals, wolves, and numerous others.
It's also home to around 200 species of catcallsâsome rare, some commonâbut all call the thick timbers of this demesne home.
The demesne has numerous touring trails within it; it also introduces you to the unique culture of the mountain communities that live within its borders in complete harmony with their surroundings.
Everest Base Camp (The Ultimate Peak):
Letâs admit it: we have been waiting for this site for so long. 5300m is the elevation height of Everest, which is the closest to hiking. However, being closer to Mt. Everest, this camping point is prone to natural disasters.
Once you are done hiking at the base camp, you will see a magical kingdom full of pebbles, rocks, and snow. This gives trekkers a sigh of relief and success.
The entire Everest Camp location is full of colorful prayer flags, a never-ending valley, and skyscraping snow peaks. Also, how can we forget the stunning Khumbu Glacier Icefall, which is a popular touchdown spot for all camp helicopter tours?
Conclusion:
Beginning the epic journey to Mt. Everest is a once-in-a-lifetime memory and experience. So, every step leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those who dare to complete this extraordinary path, from the vistas of snow-capped peaks and cultural diversion in Sherpa Village to the accomplishment of reaching Everest Camp.
Apart from these reasons, there are several other factors that would compel you to do the trek. Other reasons that might captivate you are suspension bridges, waterfalls, moraines, glacial rivers, and glaciers.
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