Page 10 - AAA Now! – AAA Shelby County – November/December 2022

TRAVE
L
The Southern Charm of
TNew Orleans
here’s no one-size-fits-all so Some cities are merely
collections of skyscrapers and concrete, while others dazzle us with their distinctive style, physical beauty and soul. Yet few cities rival the seductive charm of New Orleans. Founded in 1718 by French Canadian explorer Claude Trepagnier, it thrives today with a wonderful
mix of cultures, traditions, and interesting architecture, making it one of the most unique cities in North America.
The heart of New Orleans is, of course, the French Quarter, divided into Upper and Lower sections,
with Jackson Square at the midpoint. At Jackson Square, you’ll find historic buildings and a beautifully landscaped park. Be sure to also visit the City Park, filled with Art Deco-styled benches and fountains, artificial lagoons and ancient moss-draped oaks. Stroll down bawdy Bourbon Street with its eclectic street performers and pop into some of the many oyster bars, restaurants and novelty shops. You might also want to visit the New Orleans Museum of Art, which has one of the largest glass collections in the country.
New Orleans’ Garden District is lined with old Southern mansions. Take the streetcar from the French Quarter as a fun and inexpensive way to see the area. The above-ground St. Louis Cemetery no. 1 near the French Quarter is also a big tourist draw. Opened in 1789, it is the oldest cemetery in New Orleans. Though
most tombs have fallen into disrepair, it hasn’t lost much of its charm, and there are many interesting stories behind these tombs.
A trip to New
Orleans would not
be complete, of
course, without
partaking in two of its most famous attractions – food and music. Once a center of trade for Native Americans, the French Market has served as a place of commerce along the Mississippi River since 1791. Now an open-air market it spans five blocks, from the famed Café du Monde to Esplanade Avenue. At the French Market you can satisfy your taste buds with Creole tomatoes, jambalaya and gumbo, pralines
and muffulettas (sandwiches stuffed with ham, salami, mozzarella and green olives), as well as Cajun specialties. A café au lait and French beignet is a must from Café du Monde.
The best of New Orleans jazz can be enjoyed at Palm Court Jazz Café and the Preservation Hall. Not
only can you hear music from some of the best jazz musicians in the world, you also have the chance to rub elbows with them in-between sets.
Decorate Safe This Holiday Season
The holiday season is around the corner. Decorating your home indoors and out is a longstanding tradition – but it also comes with risks.
Here are some tips to help you prevent holiday mishaps:
1. Keep décor away from heat sources. Make sure indoor lights, candles and live trees are placed away from flammable items, fireplaces and heaters.
2. Take care of your tree. Buy live trees that are fresh and green, and water them regularly to keep them hydrated. If you choose an artificial tree, make sure it is labeled as “fire-resistant.”
3. Don’t throw wrapping paper in the fireplace.
Instead, recycle your wrapping paper or save it to be reused. Place a screen around your fireplace to prevent sparks from igniting flammable materials.
4. Double-check your lights. Check your lights for frays and cracks, and make sure there is a bulb in every socket. Discard or replace any damaged strands.
5. Power down before bedtime. Turn off all lights before you go to bed and set timers if you will be away from home, to prevent an electrical fire.
6. Opt for unbreakable ornaments. Choose bulbs and decorations that won’t shatter and create a hazard if broken.
7. Stay safe outside. Outside, keep ladders and decorations away from overhead powerlines, and avoid hammering tacks or nails into electrical cords.
8. Choose non-toxic plants. Keep poisonous plants like holly, mistletoe, and poinsettias out of reach of children and pets.
Having the right Insurance Company and the Home Insurance coverages that best meet your needs can give you the peace of mind to fully enjoy the holiday season. To find out more about AAA Home, Auto, and Life insurance, contact AAA Shelby County.
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022
Now!