Jo's place is on one of the most beautiful corners of this historic neighborhood. Not only is the interior spacious, clean, very comfortable and quiet, the focal point of the space, the blue balcony, is unbeatable. So many of New Orleans' streets lack big, beautiful trees. Not this one. The balcony is shielded from the Louisiana heat by an enormous, leafy tree. From up high, you can see everything. Across the street is the notable St. Augustine Church (just look up the wikipedia entry to hear a good story). The community on this block is present and incredibly friendly. Life happens outside here. Up the street, about 2 minutes away, is the Backstreet Cultural Museum which houses the elaborate Mardi Gras Indian costumes. These pieces are works of art in terms of their creativity, their symbolism, and the craftsmanship that went into producing them. I have not been, but I hear that during Mardi Gras, everyone congregates below the balcony, all up and down the block, and celebrates in the costumes. There is no need to wander into the French Quarter. Still, I was visiting the area for a wedding held on Royal and Conti and I would walk back and forth, both day and night, in less than ten minutes. No Uber necesary! Finally, I want to mention that Jo was very present even though she was not in New Orleans the days I was staying at her house. We texted frequently about some changes in my itinerary and she was very amenable to my needs. I really appreciated her help and hospitality.