Maria and Tom are absolutely wonderful! From the moment they accepted our reservation they were friendly, easy to communicate with, and eager to make sure we had the best possible time in their wonderful city! We were even able to go sailing with them on their boat (ask Tom to see his Sugar Bowl Regatta Championship Trophy!), and then enjoyed drinks and dinner with them at Mid City Yacht Club, one of their favorite local bars. Hosts like them are one of the biggest reasons I love airbnb. Connecting with locals like Tom and Maria really make you feel like you are experiencing everything the city has to offer. Maria sent me a list of her favorite places to go before we arrived, and once we were there, she was always ready to give us more suggestions. The house is immaculate, the streetcar is literally right out front, and the location is only 20 minutes from anywhere you want to go. The neighborhood is lovely, and I felt completely safe walking around both day and night. Not only would I stay here again when I go back to New Orleans, but I hope that Tom and Maria take us up on our offer to stay with us in Chicago!

I could go on and on with recommendations about what to do in New Orleans, but I don't feel like this is the right space for that. So all I'll say is: Go to Frenchman street any night of the week, and go to the Maple Leaf Cafe on Tuesday nights to see Rebirth Brass Band. They are my favorite =)