Jef and I went on a mini-vacation to New Orleans last weekend. The best part, and the whole reason for going, was seeing our close friends, Kevin and Karen. We moved to Austin, they moved to Maine and all the sudden FIVE years goes by. The weekend was very relaxing, with absolutely no agenda. We walked all over the French Quarter and ATE… and ate… and ate. I’ve never had such amazing food.

New Orleans itself has a beauty and charm that pulls you in, and for that you forgive it’s cracks and flaws. The French Quarter has small, quaint streets, well-manicured balconies with vines and iron works. You can’t help looking up at it all, a dead giveaway you’re a tourist.

In the middle of it all is Bourbon Street, a bright, dizzing display of a tourist-party culture that never ends. The bars hang fresh beads from the balconies each night, urging the patrons to cling to Mardi Gras, no matter what time of year. It’s something everyone should experience, but I was happy not to linger. It’s a relief that just a block away, it’s a completely different city. Quiet courtyards, street performers, cafes.

Some of my favorite photos from the trip.