New Orleans: Plantation Fever

Fabulous. Just Fabulous. This morning the air was rich in humidity and so sunny. After collecting the third member of the museum geek squad, the car pointed itself in the direction of the local plantations. After having an argument with the google Iphone app., which the driver eventually lost, we found ourselves on the way to Oak Alley Plantation. On arrival to the plantation, you see these magnificent oak trees that line the walkway. On the right is a levee that blocks the surge of the Mississippi River that seems to meander its way through. In reality, it is hurtling by. The trees are lining a brick walkway that leads to the Antebellum Mansion that is Oak Alley.

First, we had to sample the wares of the restaurant. I sampled the chicken gumbo and discovered that it was really savory. Sausage, chicken and rice in a broth that was simple yet delicious. Yum! I can see that this trip might become all about the food very quickly. In the gift shop, there are spices and sauces galore. I might be tempted yet into bring back some cane syrup. For these are the worlds of creole, sugar cane plantations, slavery stories and clashing cultures. Back to Oak Alley. We were met by a costumed tour guide who mumbled her way through the history of the families that had lived in the home. The history was fascinating but not much of the furntiture was original to the house so it lost a bit in translation. There were some beautiful antique cars and gardens but really, the food stole the show.

By contrast, we went to the Laura Plantation and got a wonderful tour guide. He was able to spin the trials and tribulations of Laura's family tree with flavour, humor and spice. He threaded his way through the rooms and really made sure that we understood the cultural differences of the creole way of life. He was also more open and honest about the slaving roots and the overall experiences of the people. This tour should be a must on everyone's list. The gift shop prowl was well met so now, we are booking our dinner reservations for tomorrow.

Tonight? Well, it might just have to be Bourbon Street. Look out New Orleans.

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