I’m a stranger here myself

Greetings from America! No matter how many times I come back to the US, there are some things that always confuse the crap out of me for the first couple days, leaving me wondering if I really am from here. Depending on how long you are away and how much you integrate into your host … Read more

Nudity season

[Warning: this post may not be suitable for Americans.] Spring has sprung here in Old Europe, and that means the naked people have come out to play. Old and young alike are sunbathing naked in the parks, enjoying a nice naked sauna, or looking forward to that first trip to the beach where the can … Read more

Grub in New Orleans

I was lucky enough to be accompanied by a native Louisianian, Jami, on my journey to New Orleans. I hit her up for recommendations on everything from bars to local delicacies, and her knowledge did not disappoint. My only regret is that we didn’t have time for the drag queen brunch in the quarter. A … Read more

Gutting New Orleans

During my recent trip I had the privilege of spending an afternoon working on a service project with Hands On New Orleans. This amazing group organizes volunteers day in and day out to help rebuild a city which seems to have been forgotten by almost everyone. Volunteers (and voluntourists) from around the country and beyond … Read more

St. Patrick’s Day in the Quarter

My trip to New Orleans happened to coincide with St. Patrick’s Day, and thus the St. Patrick’s Day parade. This holiday in the French Quarter is much like it is in other cities in the US, with green beer, green clothing, green kilts, and green drunks. The parade is nowhere near the grand scale of … Read more

A few more New Orleans neighborhoods

The Garden District I hear that Brad and Angelina recently purchased a house in this area (which, like the French Quarter, stands on high ground and wasn’t flooded). ————– This picture is of a relatively new neighborhood. Designed by FEMA. Edgewater Park Those aren’t out-of-town guests living in those trailers. Some of the many blue … Read more

A stroll through the French Quarter

The heart of New Orleans is still alive, populated with more drunken tourists than you can shake a stick at, although I can’t really compare it with what it was like before. There are several places that have closed down, and many beautiful old buildings for sale.