New Orleans is famous for its jazz music, great food, voodoo and, of course, many things that are famous for Bourbon Street. Hedonistic, busy, bustling roads are known for their many bars, clubs and loud music.
But this street is not for everyone – and when I visited New Orleans in May I most certainly knew it wasn't for me. I'm 30 years old and still enjoying my drinks, but the idea of crowding with thousands of other tourists to get blind drunk and trip down this singular street was not exactly appealing to me. We gave up and checked out for our second evening in the city and at 8pm on Monday, Bourbon Street was already in full swing.
The atmosphere was chaotic, music was on the streets, every corner of the promoters were trying to invite you to the club and people were trying to lure you to the main streets carrying drinks (and spilling them).
I was overwhelmed, but not impressed at all, but fortunately I had local insider information.
I was informed that there was an adult version of this. If you drink until you get sick, drinking more is not appealing, abandon Bourbon Street and head to Frenchman Street instead.
This charming stretch is located just outside the French Quarter and is known for its music and art.
Unlike Bourbon Street, it has a bigger atmosphere than alcohol, but there are some great bars.
We started off with Spotted Cat, with really tasty cocktails in a cool little bar with live music every night. It was on shoulders with people, but despite the crowd, I didn't feel as overwhelming as bourbon.
After a drink we returned to the street and found a brass band playing with the waiting crowd.
In Louisiana's enthusiastic heat, people were patiently waiting for the crowd to leave the road, so people were dancing, singing, clapping for the music – the joys of the scene were contagious, and I was smiling from ear to ear.
Frenchman Street also boasts an incredible market of artists selling everything from crocodile thorns to gorgeous oil paintings, jewelry and puzzles. The market is perfect for wandering and is open from 7pm until midnight. It's plenty of time to browse.
For me, French Street was a great place to spend the night. You can enjoy everything New Orleans is famous for without sacrificing your dignity.
