NEW ORLEANS

OMG!!! Can you say amazing? My Husband took me on an awesome weekend trip for 4th of July!! New Orleans was amazing!!! We went there for the Essence (magazine) Festival. We had a great time.

We stayed in an "ok" hotel called Chateau DePre. The hotel was cute, affordable, great location, but very small. It was perfect for us though because we barely stayed in the hotel.

The first day, we walked to the Harris Casino, checked that out and then made are way to the Convention Center where we experienced all the Essence activities. They had fun DJ/Dance areas, all different vendors to shop, and great southern food. I had met a lot of entertainers ---I got an autographed CD from Chris Brown and took a picture with Master P and Lil Romeo, and see Chilli from TLC along with other entertainers.

Later that night we attended the concert. J Holiday started the show where Rihanna and Chris Brown performed and Kayne West closed the show with a Bang!! After the concert, we went back to the French Quarters and cruised down (walking of course) the all famous Bourbon St. What can I say? Crowded, Hot, Humid, & Dirty! I couldn't wait to leave. I am glad I experienced it, but didn't really enjoy this part. LOL

The next day we took a tour of New Orleans. We saw some historical parts, lovely expensive homes, but most important... and sadly, the Katrina damage. I know it sounds rude to "tour" an area of devastation, however, it was an experience that truly humbles you. The devastation was so sad to see. Not just the homes that alot of people lost, but after 3 years, how it's like a ghost town there. How sad to see how high the River is and how low the homes where... to see how rusted the levees in those areas where and the information that the tour guy gave us, really was a sad moment.

So after that, we went back to the French Quarters had an awesome meal at the Acme Restaurant and later went to the 2nd concert. That night we saw Musiq Soulchild, LL Cool J, & Jill Scott. Again, another awesome show.... and can I just say how fine LL is? :)

Well that was our busy weekend. We left the next day but i will always remember this wonderful weekend. Be sure to check back her for layouts of my trip!