“We’ll be joined by a guest speaker for an introduction to the French Quarter. We’ll learn about history, culture, traditions, celebrations, people. The entertaining class is taught by a humorist who has lived here all her life. She exudes the “joie de vivre” that makes New Orleanians distinctly memorable”
Monday
Monday Lecture:
“We’ll begin with a lecture on the history of New Orleans, a virtual walk from the founding of the city in 1718 to the present day. Our instructor is a native New Orleanian who knows its past and present inside and out.”
Afternoon:
“We’ll take a field trip via motor coach with expert commentary for an overview of the city. We’ll make stops at highlights such as Lake Pontchartrain, Bayou St John, City Park with its magnificent oak trees and Sculpture Garden and one of the famed and mysterious above-ground cemeteries where the departed — from pirates to voodoo queens — are interred.”
Evening:
“During a presentation by our educator, we’ll learn about antics and incidents involving some of the most famous and infamous characters associated with New Orleans”
Tuesday
Tuesday Lecture:
“We’ll have a presentation on authors from and of New Orleans, past and present, who wrote about the fictional and non-fictional city. We’ll get the scoop on their personal lives, where they gathered, what they ate and drank, as well as their literary personas — which were often one and the same”
Afternoon:
“A local professor who is also a musician will use vintage clips and soundtracks to introduce the music of New Orleans. We’ll learn about the many cultural influences that have gone into music that spread worldwide, including the roots of Jazz and its evolution.”
“We’ll then go to experience a Southern musical history performance at the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. Hear local musicians doing what they do best. “
“The remainder of the afternoon is for your personal independent exploration.”
“”
Voucher provided for Cabildo and Presbytere Flanking St Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square.
Evening: free time
“At leisure, if you’re a music aficionado, there are lots of options. We have provided a voucher for Frizzles European Jazz Club, or go on your own to any of the other great choices. You might like to take a stroll along Bourbon Street to see some of the colorful locals and occasionally even more exotic tourists. Or just relax at the hotel. The French Quarter has something to offer for almost every interest and taste”
Wednesday
Wednesday Lecture:
“We’ll have an introduction to the architecture and diversity of New Orleans. Architecture is an expression of culture. We’ll learn how different nationalities and ethnicities – such as immigrants from Europe and the West Indies – influenced local architecture and contributed to the “gumbo” of our society.”
Afternoon:
“Next, we’ll set ou on a walking field trip with a local architect in the aptly named Garden District, one of the loveliest neighborhoods in the country. It was laid out in 1832 for incoming, well-to-do Americans who were not interested in mingling with native New Orleanians. The feeling was mutual! Grand housed were built on large lots that encouraged the development of beautiful gardens.”
“After the Field trip, you can retire to the hotel by motor coach to freshen up and relax or stay out and explore on your own. There will be a pickup in the French Quarter before dinner.”
Evening:
Local restaurant buffet, then musical surprise back at hotel
Thursday
Thursday Lecture:
“”
Afternoon:
“Free Time. You may spend as much time at WW2 Museum as you wish or you may return to the hotel to freshen up or return to the French Quarter for more exploration on your own. You can also use your vouchers to the Cabildo and Mardi Gras section in the Presbytere”
Dinner:
“At the world renowned New Orleans School of Cooking, an expert local chef will teach us hoe to cook Creole and Cajun, and explain the difference. We’ll see the preparation of a traditional dish, then have it for dinner. Recipes will be supplied so that you can take some New Orleans cuisine “home” with you.”
Evening: free
Friday
Friday Lecture:
“For our closing session, we’ll have a presentation on the “real” Mardi Gras by a native New Orleanian who will dispel the myths and misconceptions you’ve read and heard about.”
