Traveling to Pittsburg PA

Nestled in the heart of the Allegheny Mountains, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a city that combines industrial grit with modern innovation, creating a vibrant and unique travel destination.

Often referred to as the “Steel City,” Pittsburgh has a rich history rooted in manufacturing and steel production. However, over the past few decades, it has transformed into a hub of education, technology, and culture.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an art enthusiast, Pittsburgh has something to offer every type of traveler. In this article, we will take you on a journey through Pittsburgh, exploring its history, culture, culinary scene, and more.

A Glimpse of Pittsburgh’s History

To truly understand Pittsburgh, it’s essential to delve into its history. The city’s roots are deeply intertwined with the steel industry, which played a pivotal role in its growth during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The sight of massive steel mills and factories once defined Pittsburgh’s skyline, earning it the nickname “Steel City.”

While many of these industrial giants have disappeared, remnants of this era can still be found in places like the Carrie Blast Furnaces, now a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the city’s industrial heritage and the people who built it.

Modern Pittsburgh: A Tech Hub

In recent years, Pittsburgh has undergone a remarkable transformation. It has evolved from a steel-centric city to a technology and education powerhouse. Home to renowned universities like Carnegie Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh, the city has become a hotbed for innovation and research.

Pittsburgh’s burgeoning tech scene has attracted major companies and startups alike, making it a hub for cutting-edge technologies like self-driving cars and artificial intelligence. A visit to the Carnegie Science Center or the Robotics Institute can provide insights into the city’s technological prowess.

Exploring Pittsburgh’s Neighborhoods

Pittsburgh’s diverse neighborhoods each offer a unique atmosphere and cultural experience. Here are some must-visit neighborhoods:

Downtown: The heart of Pittsburgh, downtown is a bustling business district with iconic skyscrapers like the U.S. Steel Tower. Stroll through Market Square for shopping and dining options or catch a game at PNC Park, home to the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Strip District: This vibrant district is a food lover’s paradise, featuring numerous ethnic markets, delis, and restaurants. Don’t miss a visit to Primanti Brothers for their famous sandwiches.

Shadyside: Known for its upscale boutiques, art galleries, and tree-lined streets, Shadyside is the perfect place for a leisurely day of shopping and exploration.

Lawrenceville: A trendy neighborhood that has undergone a renaissance, Lawrenceville boasts hip bars, art studios, and eclectic shops. It’s a great place to experience Pittsburgh’s thriving arts scene.

South Side: If you’re looking for nightlife, head to the South Side, where you’ll find an array of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

The Suburbs: The Pittsburgh suburbs are a great alternative for those residents who want to be close to the city to enjoy all the benefits, but would also like a quieter neighborhood. So make sure to explore the best suburbs in Pittsburg.

carrie blast furnaces

Art and Culture

Pittsburgh is a city that celebrates art and culture in various forms. The Carnegie Museum of Art and the Andy Warhol Museum are must-visit destinations for art enthusiasts. The latter pays homage to the pop art icon and Pittsburgh native, Andy Warhol, housing the largest collection of his works. Additionally, the city hosts numerous cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Three Rivers Arts Festival, which features live music, art exhibitions, and food vendors.

Parks and Outdoor Activities

For those seeking outdoor adventures, Pittsburgh offers plenty of green spaces and recreational opportunities. Point State Park, located at the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers, provides a scenic backdrop for picnics and relaxation. You can also explore the city’s extensive network of trails, such as the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, ideal for biking and walking.

Sports Enthusiasts Rejoice

Pittsburgh is a sports-loving city with passionate fans. If you’re in town during the right season, catch a Pittsburgh Steelers NFL game at Heinz Field or a Pittsburgh Penguins NHL game at PPG Paints Arena. The city’s sports venues are known for their electric atmosphere and provide an unforgettable experience for sports enthusiasts.

Culinary Delights

Pittsburgh’s culinary scene is as diverse as its neighborhoods. The city is famous for its pierogies, a Polish dumpling, and no visit would be complete without trying them at a local restaurant. Moreover, Pittsburgh is known for its sandwiches topped with coleslaw and French fries—a unique culinary tradition you can experience at Primanti Brothers. The city also offers a wide range of dining options, from fine dining to food trucks, showcasing its evolving gastronomic landscape.

Conclusion

While not as unique a place as New Orleans, Pittsburgh, PA, is a city that beautifully blends its industrial past with a vibrant and forward-thinking present. Whether you’re interested in history, technology, art, or simply enjoying good food, Pittsburgh has something to offer every traveler.

With its diverse neighborhoods, cultural attractions, and culinary delights, a visit to the Steel City promises a memorable experience that captures the essence of this remarkable American city. So, pack your bags and prepare to explore the many facets of Pittsburgh’s charm and character.

6 Countries Where Americans Like to Buy Property

Think of anywhere in the world where American homeowners like to buy property, and it comes as little surprise that the answer is almost anywhere. From beachside resorts to ski resorts, lakeside getaways to urban apartments; there doesn’t seem to be much that appeals less to U.S. buyers than remote hilltop farms or desert wasteland communes. 

In fact, there are now so many overseas properties where Americans have chosen to reside that entire agencies have emerged specifically catering to them. Here, we look at 6 countries where Americans like to buy property.

Mexico

Like Florida, Mexico is defined by its tropical climate and its beaches, which makes it a natural fit for American residency seekers. Indeed, the popular resort town of Cabo San Lucas has long been a favorite for U.S. buyers, thanks to its excellent climate and its abundance of spas and golf courses. 

The fortunes of Mexican real estate have waxed and waned over the years but it looks as though it may now be getting back on its feet again, making it a very interesting place to retire in Mexico.

The Bahamas

With its almost cliched tropical dreaminess, it’s no surprise that the Bahamas has been a favorite for American buyers for decades. Indeed, the U.S. Virgin Islands are a part of the Bahamas, and so are the Florida keys, which means that much of what is appealing about the Bahamas is also true of Florida. 

Moreover, the Bahamas has a long-established legal framework that makes it relatively easy to buy property there. What’s more, it’s easy to fly there from the U.S., and it’s also a very affordable place to buy property, given its tropical location.

spain

Spain

Given its status as a world-class tourist destination, it should come as no surprise that Spain is a place where many Americans like to buy property. Indeed, many have long been drawn to the Spanish lifestyle and to the idea of buying property and taking up a “retire in Spain” lifestyle. 

In recent years, Spain has enjoyed a resurgence, thanks in part to the popularity of its cuisine and also due to the fact that it is a relatively cheap place to live. What’s more, it’s easy to buy property in Spain, and the legal framework is well established and relatively straightforward.

Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos, a developing country, can have some differences from other countries. It is located North of the Dominican Republic and boasts stunning beaches and breathtaking ocean views.

Its stunning beauty, warm climate, and marine environment are all compelling. The majority of the development has been made on Providenciales. Here you will find most of the infrastructure, utilities, stores, and accommodations. Although the smaller islands are beautiful, they can be a bit limited in terms of amenities and other services.

There are very few properties available, but those that do exist offer breathtaking views – provided you are able to afford the price. Non-residents can get loans from banks in Turks and Caicos. You should be cautious about any mortgage you take out due to the high price of luxury rentals in this area.

Real estate price varies considerably based on the island and location. Beachfront properties command a premium, as is to be expected. You can make unforgettable memories by purchasing a property here.

France

For millennia, France has been a place where many Americans have liked to buy property, thanks to its culture and its cuisine. 

Indeed, many have been drawn by the almost cliched “French life”, which is to say the idea of retiring to a small French village, sipping wine, and eating French bread. What’s more, France has a relatively low cost of living, and much of the lifestyle that has drawn people to France is also available in the more affordable French provinces. 

Moreover, France has a legal framework that makes it relatively easy to buy property there.

Thailand

Thailand

Thailand’s popularity among American property buyers has waxed and waned over the years, thanks to the fact that Thailand is a place that has been particularly affected by the rise and fall of global economies. 

What’s more, Thailand’s tropical climate has long been a draw for people looking to buy property abroad. What’s more, Thailand has long been a very affordable place to buy property; its main cities have even been home to a large ex-pat community of Western retirees. The legal framework in Thailand makes it relatively easy to buy property there.

Conclusion

All in all, there are many places where Americans like to buy property; indeed, there are many places where Americans like to live full stop. What’s more, there are many different types of properties that appeal to Americans, from beachside condos to mountain cabins. 

Indeed, the only thing that unites these places is the fact that they have attracted large numbers of Americans looking to buy a place to call home. People are increasingly looking for a new home, either for work or for retirement, and that often means leaving the country. 

With so many choices, it can be hard to decide where to go. Luckily, there are many factors that can help you decide where to go.

Things to do in New Orleans – Other than Bourbon Street!

New Orleans is an international tourist city. As the second most flown into city in the US (only behind Las Vegas) there are many people who come to the Big Easy for a weekend or short vacation. Although most people come to the Crescent City to party, there are many reasons to visit.

Although the famous French Quarter is still the epicenter of New Orleans tourism, there are many unique activities and locations that only the Crescent City can offer.

new orleans french quarter

Cool Activities in Downtown New Orleans

Most people traveling to New Orleans will be staying in a hotel (or more recently a AirBnB) in the Downtown area. Downtown contains the word famous French Quarter but also has the lions share of the luxury hotels and the most popular restaurants.

With all of that being said, most tourists find that after a hard fought night on Bourbon, they wake up Downtown looking for something a little lighter.

Take a Ferry or Steamboat Ride

Most people are not aware, but NOLA has a set of Ferries that travel across the mighty Mississippi on the hour. The ferry brings cars, bikes and people alike from the Downtown area of New Orleans to the Westbank of New Orleans. It’s a great little ride and lets you experience some of the local flavor such as Algiers Point.

Experience some jazz and great food while cruising down the mighty Mississippi River

The Big Easy also has the famous Steamboat Natchez parked right there on the Mississippi River. The steamboat is more of a tourist attraction than the ferry, but offers photos, a gift shop, food and music.

Take a Bike Tour

Since much of NOLA tourism is focused on Downtown, you can take a bike tour to see all of the sites. There are multiple types of New Orleans bike tours available, including guided bike tours, self-guided tours and even private bike tours.

Tourists enjoying a bike tour of New Orleans

These will let you experience some of the lesser traveled areas of New Orleans that truly encompases the history and culture of the city.

Take a Haunted Tour

New Orleans has a deep history of Voodoo and with the city being over 300 years old, has a ton of supernatural stories. There are many haunted tours of the city, most include visiting the above-ground cemeteries as well as some of the places Anne Rice has written about.

Peripheral Tourist Attractions

In addition to Downtown New Orleans, there many other areas of the city with the same charm. You can visit Uptown New Orleans to tour the Garden District, which has tons of 19th century mansions which by-the-way is where many celebrities choose to own a home in New Orleans.

Snowballs

Get a snowball at Williams Plum Street Snowballs. If you think that the “snow cone” you have gotten at a fair is the same thing, you are dead wrong. For 100 years, since an invention by Snow Wizard, New Orleans has created a unique and delicious version that you cannot get anywere else. Although there are hundreds (maybe even thousands) of snowball stands sprinkled around the city, Uptown has more than their share of some of the top stands in the city.

Head to the Northshore

The Northshore of New Orleans is right across the famous Causeway bridge and is where many New Orleanians choose to move, while being close to the city. There are tons of things to and places to visit on the Northshore – and it shows the polar opposite of Bourbon Street.

Head To Venice for Some Fishing

Louisiana is known as a fisherman’s paradise. Literally some of the best fishing in the world is in Venice LA. If you are interested in a guided fishing charter to catch some huge yellowfin tuna or do some spearfishing it is worth the short trip from New Orleans to the Southernmost tip of Louisiana.

Activities in Boston MA

Moving to Boston? Must Do Activities for You and Your Family

Boston MA is one of America’s oldest and most popular cities.  There is always something to do in Boston.  With the real estate booming and properties that are being sold dealing with bidding wars – finding the right property may be a little bit of a challenge.  But once you get settled you will want to take advantage of everything Boston has to offer. We wanted to provide a handful of activities that you and your family may want to do.

Activities in Boston MA

 

Fenway Park

Heard of the Red Sox? This is their home, and it is a must-see for anyone who is coming to Boston for the first time. Built in 1912, it has been home to many a home run, stolen bases and grounders. Make sure that you visit Pesky’s Pole, named after Red Sox player Johnny Pesky, as well as the Green Wall Monster. If you are a baseball fan go between the months of April and October.

Boston Common

The Boston Common has a long history. It started off as grazing grounds in the 1600s, but overgrazing became a problem and the area was transformed into a camp for British soldiers. After the Revolutionary war the camp was used to give addresses to the public. Today, it is reputed to be the oldest public park in the United States which hosts a variety of activities and events throughout the year. It is a great place to take your family for a picnic or a day of play and relaxation.

Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail is a two and a half mile trail that threads through the city’s historical buildings such as Faneuil Hall Marketplace, the Paul Revere House and Old North Church. Don’t be deceived by the length of the trail – it takes a whole day to make it through all the attractions. You will learn a lot about Boston’s history by taking this tour.

Boston Public Garden

This one is next to the Boston Common so you can plan to tour both sites on the same day. It was established in 1837 and it is America’s first botanical garden. There are beautiful arrangements of trees and flowers, as well as a lagoon that is navigated on a Swan Boat. It is a great place to relax after a long day exploring the city.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

When her husband died in 1898, Isabella Stewart Gardner bought a piece of land in the Fenway area and built a museum so that she could display her collection of Italian art. It was designed just like the Palazzo Barbaro in Venice and it is home to famous works of artists like Raphael and Titian. You will also see lots of photos, furniture, sculpture and rare art.

Boston Museum of Fine Arts

This one is one of the oldest art installations in the country and if you are an art enthusiast you should set aside a whole day for it because there is a lot to see. It is one of the biggest and best art collections in the world, with 53 galleries showcasing different kinds of spectacular art.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

This one is comprised of four buildings – Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market and South Market. Built in 1742 and now located on the Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall has had a long and important history in Massachusetts politics. Samuel Adams once stood here to push for resistance against the British, and abolitionists and suffragists have stood on their soapboxes here.”  Today it is home to more than 100 stores and restaurants.

There is Something for Everyone in Boston For the Holidays

There is Something for Everyone in Boston 

 

There are so many things to do and see in Boston for the entire family. In fact, there is nothing like celebrating the holidays in Bean Town with your friends and loved ones. From holiday shopping and sightseeing to enjoying gourmet meals and desserts, there are so many ways to enjoy the Christmas holidays. In fact, the city also features horse carriage rides for one and all. This is truly an amazing way to experience the true allure and essence of the holidays.  After visiting, you will get an idea why the Boston real estate market is booming!  Here are some of the top things to do in Boston during the Christmas season.

 

Ice Skating

 

Nothing says the holidays more than ice skating at a local rink. From Boston to Cambridge, there are several ice-skating venues for the whole family. These rinks feature indoor and outdoor venues, along with hot chocolate stands and other kiosks. Enjoy the spirit of Christmas with your family and friends as you skate the day away with carols and great music. You and your loved ones are guaranteed hours of non-stop fun and entertainment. There are also hot roasted peanut vendors, along with hot dog stands and so much more. Here are some of the top rinks for tourists and locals alike:

 

  • Frog Pond
  • Boston Common – Frog Pond and pee wee rinks available.
  • City Hall Plaza
  • Beacon Hill rinks

 

Ice skating is a great way to have fun and relax after a day of holiday shopping. In fact, these rinks offer perfect views of Beacon Hill and the Boston Harbor. They are also situated within festive lights and decorations as far as the eye can see!

Boston City Lighting Ceremonies

 

The annual holiday lighting ceremony at Boston Common is also a must. In fact, this is what officially kicks off the holiday season in Boston, with many Boston brands represented. This year will be no different when Mayor Marty Walsh flips the switch on the city’s amazing Christmas tree. This will result in over 80 trees being illuminated with festive and sparkling lights. The Christmas tree is an annual gift given to Boston by the Nova Scotia and supported by local Boston businesses. This tradition dates back to 1961 – which commemorates the help given by Boston citizens after the 1917 explosion of a ship in Halifax Harbor.

 

The tree-lighting ceremony will occur at the start of December. However, check Google to find out the exact date of the event. You can also visit the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremonies schedule at the Boston City Government website online. Expect to have fun and party with over 1 million people that will attend the lighting ceremony this year.

 

Boston Ballet Shows and Festivals

 

The Boston Ballet is another great place for the entire family. In fact, this warm and entertaining refuge hosts a myriad of sports events, shows, and festivals each year. The Boston Ballet is proud to feature the following holiday events for all tourists and locals alike:

 

  • The Nutcracker
  • Holiday Pops
  • Disney on Ice

 

Simply check the Boston Ballet website for showtimes and tickets. They also offer great deals for seniors and kids, along with substantial discounts for military veterans. Similarly, you can access a range of group and holiday ticket specials at their site as well. If you love live entertainment and music with a touch of class, go no further than the Boston Ballet.

 

Bus – Carriage – Trolley Tours

 

How about a fun-filled and exciting tour of Old Boston? There are several bus, carriage and trolley tours for the entire family. In fact, this is truly the best way to explore the city like a Boston Realtor with all your friends and families. These tours can be booked online – including charter bus group tours, along with trolley tours which are educational and entertaining. Here are some of the top sights and points of interest these tours guarantee:

 

  • Downtown Boston
  • Beacon Hill
  • Boston Bay Harbor
  • Museum of Fine Arts
  • Fenway Park
  • Newbury Street
  • Old North Church
  • Paul Revere House
  • New England Aquarium
  • Back Bay
  • And much more.

 

These tours also feature complimentary beverages and snacks for patrons. All units are handicap accessible with multiple tours running daily. From the Boston Public Library to the Children’s Museum, there are so many holiday events planned this year.  As always, you will find Santa Claus on practically every corner of the city collecting toys and funds for the Salvation Army.

 

Holiday Cruises from Boston Harbor

 

The Boston Harbor features several holiday cruises for the whole family. In fact, the popular Northern Lights yacht is the perfect way to sail the harbor and enjoy Christmas. This fully-enclosed, 1920s-style luxury yacht features a full range of amenities. You and yours will love exploring the harbor, while taking in all the amazing skyline views and picturesque backdrops. These scenic tours include the following:

 

  •    Irish Christmas Carols Cruise – enjoy the Boston Harbor while singing famous Christmas carols from the Old Country.
  •    Holiday Jazz Cruise – from Louis Armstrong to Count Basie, enjoy all your favorite jazz classics and live music. All cruises feature tasty beverages and snacks, along with sparkling and festive holiday lights and décor.
  •    Cocoa & Carols Holiday Cruise – live music, fun, and entertainment for all families and corporate guests.
  •    1- Hour Inner Harbor Cruise – explore the Boston Harbor and Bay like no other.  See the charter fisherman and take in all the sights and sounds of the holidays!
  •    Breakfast Pastries Cruise – how about enjoying your favorite holiday pastries and treats while touring the Harbor by day or night? This cruise has received stellar reviews and is simply a must!

Boston Holidays

 

There are so many things to do in Boston for everyone. No truer is this than when it comes to the holidays with seasonal celebrations that rival even New York! Whether you are a local or are planning to visit, or looking to purchase a luxury home in Boston, you can browse online for all the Christmas and other Holiday events going on in and around the city. You can also contact the city tourism board to get a full listing of all holiday events in Greater Boston!

 

Traveling to Wilmington NC?

Traveling to Wilmington NC?

 

If you are looking to visit a city that not only has a ton of history – but some of the coolest suburbs in the country, you need to visit Wilmington NC.  Wilmington has everything from history to beaches to some of the newest, most advanced new businesses in the country.

Wilmington is surrounded by water – with a variety of unique areas, all within driving distance of the Historical Downtown area.  Starting with the famous Cape Fear River running through the center of Wilmington, to the sandy beaches of Carolina Beach to the natural waterfront of Kure Beach and Hampstead, there is something for everyone in Wilmington.

Places To See On Your Trip To Wilmington NC

Although Wilmington itself has a ton to see, there has been quite a bit written on visiting Wilmington.  Our goal here it to point out some of the places that are easy to get to, while visiting Wilmington NC, that you may not otherwise hear of.  All of the cities below are easy to get to and not a far drive in a rental car to visit.  Each has its own character and style and reason to visit.

Carolina Beach

With their famous boardwalk, which commonly has has music, fishing, festivals and a multitude of events, Carolina Beach is a “must visit” if traveling to Wilmington.  Don’t forget the beaches!  With scenic white sand beaches as far as the eye can see sporting mulitple public piers and walking trails.

The bar scene in Carolina Beach is lively.  With tiki bars to blues clubs, if you are looking for a great night out, they have you covered.  Great restaurants with a focus, you guessed it, on sea food.  For a place to sleep, you should be able to find a waterfront home in Carolina Beach with no problem for a reasonable rate.

Kure Beach

Kure Beach is another place to stop by if you are in Wilmington.  Kure Beach has many site seeing attractions such as the NC Aquarium and the Fort Fisher Civil War Museum.  The city has a multitude of shops and restaurants.  With a number of white sand beaches to choose from, you can experience them via bike or car.  Kure Beach also sports its own popular boardwalk for just another way to enjoy the sunset while gazing over the Atlantic Ocean.

Kure Beach is a very family oriented city with multiple bed and breakfasts as well as family owned shops and restaurants.  This makes it easy to find a short term, daily rental home.  Many people choose Kure Beach for a second home or vacation home because of its family oriented, slow atmosphere.

Leland NC

leland ncIf after all of the beaches, are ready to visit more of a “country setting” Leland is your spot.  With multiple parks and a thriving recreational department, Leland is a great place to sit back and enjoy nature.  One of the parks even features an extremely popular Movies in the Park experience. Technically part of the Myrtle Beach Metropolitan area, it is still not a bad drive from Wilmington.  Featuring a small town charm, many people choose to make Leland their home base when traveling – because of its location.  Being centrally located between the two tourist areas of Myrtle Beach and Wilmington makes it a great place to book a home and travel out to the more touristy destinations.

Wrightsville Beach

wrightsville beach ncWe have traveled to the white sand beaches, boardwalks and the slow town, now lets move to an island!  Wrightsville Beach is one of the endured islands along the Carolina coastline.  With its location being only a hop, skip and a jump from Wilmington, its another must see location.  On your way there, make sure to have your camera ready since to get there from Wilmington, you get to cross a draw bridge.  With tons of music, a great public pier, many watersports and awesome food, its worth the short drive.  Because you are on an island, with scarcity of land, the homes for sale in Wrightsville Beach are some of the most expensive in the area with prices exceeding $500 per square foot!

Hampstead NC

Hampstead is the last place you need to visit if you find yourself in Wilmington NC.  Located between Wilmington and Jacksonville its worth the trip.  Hampstead is considered part of the Wilmington and has a population of less than 5,000.

For many people trying to visit the greater Wilmington area on the cheap, getting a house in Hampstead may be your best bet because of its proximity to Wilmington and plethora of vacation rentals on AirBNB – having Hampstead as your home base can substantially reduce your travel spend as opposed to one of the upscale hotels in Downtown Wilmington.

 

 

 

Traveling to Venice La

Traveling to Venice

Venice La is one of those little treasures that most people never think of visiting.  Venice is located at the very tip of Louisiana and is a town of approximately 200 people.  Although one of the smaller towns in Louisiana, everyone in the state has heard of Venice.

venice fishing

Located in Plaquemines Parish, Venice La is known as one of the best charter fishing destinations in the United States.  People travel from all over the Southern states and some even father to charter an offshore fishing trip and have the time of their lives.  With charter boats going out of Venice daily, traveling out to the oil rigs to catch huge tuna.

 

Close to New Orleans

Many people who travel to New Orleans – as part of their vacation, want to take advantage of the offshore fishing experience.  With Venice only being a short trip away – almost every offshore fishing trip is chartered out of Venice.  Because some of the the fishing excursions don’t get back to shore until late, there are a handful of fishing camps and other lodges in Venice.

Venice La fishing

Venice After Hurricane Katrina

Hurricane Katrina was a devastating event for all of Southern Louisiana.  Although the devastation of New Orleans made nationwide news, very little was said about Venice.  With the location of the small fishing town being at the Southernmost tip of the state – the entire area was decimated.  Since Katrina, the area has recovered quite well with the fishing industry leading the way.

Venice After The Oil Spill

Venice charter fishingYou would think that Hurricane Katrina was enough for the small town but it wasn’t long thereafter that Venice was once again hit with another disaster.  This one was not a natural disaster such as Katrina, but a man-made disaster.  On April 20th, 2010 The Deepwater Horizon exploded causing the BP Oil spill.  With fishing being the economic engine of Southern Louisiana, especially Venice, many feared the worse. Although all of the indirect consequences of the oil spill are still not known, the fishing has returned to Venice LA in full force.

Cooking in Venice LA

 

Because of the massive fishing industry out of Venice, just as you would expect, you get some of the best seafood in the world right there.  The freshest seafood, coming right off of the fishing boats – coupled with the Creole/Cajun cooking of Southern Louisiana, comes together to simply have some of the best food imaginable.

Visit Venice

With New Orleans being one of the most flown into cities in the United States, if you make your way down to the Big Easy, you really need to take a quick trip to Venice.  Make sure to book your charter before you go as many of the fisherman are booked weeks or months in advance.

Map of Venice Fishing


 

 

 

 

Traveling to New Orleans

New Orleans LA is one of the most traveled to cities in the country and for good reason.  There is something about the Big Easy that, once you experience, you have to come back to.

New Orleans History

As one of the oldest cities in the Untied States, New Orleans has a long history of decadence.  As one of the major ports in the the US, the Port of New Orleans has seen its fair share of pirates, explorers, criminals and visitors.  New Orleans has always been a location that bent the rules and seemed to attract people who enjoyed a lively lifestyle.

Initially settled by the French, New Orleans was named after The Duke of New Orleans – Philippe Charles.   New Orleans is well known for its distinct French and Spanish architecture.  The famous French Quarter, oddly enough has predominately Spanish homes and architecture since most of the French buildings were burned to the ground in the Great New Orleans fire in 1788.   Being one of the most culturally diverse cities in the US, New Orleans is well known for its music, food and of course its world famous Mardi Gras.

Places To Stay In The Big Easy

new orleans french quarterNew Orleans, like many other metropolitan areas, have numerous five star hotels to choose from.  Many people, when traveling to the city, want to stay in a luxury home in the French Quarter, but there are many other, more cost effective places that a cost saving traveler may choose to lay their head.  Lakeview New Orleans, although one of the cities oldest areas, became world famous after many pictures and videos were circulated after Hurricane Katrina.  Although Lakeview doesn’t have hotels, there are multiple homes that be be acquired as a short term rental.  If you want to get a little further away from downtown, but still have access to New Orleans culture, we have found a little jewel of a city just across the world famous Causeway Bridge.  The city of Covington is just on the Northshore of New Orleans and has many of the attributes of the city without the wild and crazy aspects.  The homes of Covington sport much of the same architecture as the homes located downtown, but you wont even need to lock your door.  With many of the signature Live Oak Trees that has made New Orleans famous, you get the “clean version” of the big easy.

Life After Katrina

hurricane katrinaHurricane Katrina changed New Orleans dramatically.  Although the devastation has been named the worst man made disaster in US history, many positive things have come out of the devastation.  Prior to the hurricane, the city of New Orleans had some of the worst schools in the country.  Since Katrina, the school systems have been totally overhauled and have seen very promising results.  The healthcare system of New Orleans was in desperate need of an overall and with the influx of federal funds, they received it.  Prior to the storm, Charity Hospital had made national news and even featured in some reality shows because of the chaos.  Since the closing of Charity, some would like to reopen the famous hospital even starting the Save Charity movement.  Since the storm, although many hospitals have not returned, the city has seen new medical options such as new Urgent Care facilities in New Orleans as well as home healthcare facilities, that have since shot up all over the city.  We have also seen the creation of University Hospital, which is a 1.1 billion dollar medical center in downtown New Orleans.

Great Place To Visit

With the immense culture, incredible food, unique people now coupled with the resurgence of the city after its devastation after Hurricane Katrina, its no wonder people love to travel to New Orleans.  Although the city gets a tremendous influx of visitors for Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest and other conventions, you can save quite a bit of money and still get the full effect of New Orleans traveling any time of the year.  Don’t be confused, there are tons of things to do in New Orleans outside of Bourbon street.  With festivals running just about year round, you will have many fun things to do in and around the city regardless of when you visit.