HOT PICKS
With bands including Dave Matthews Band, Maroon 5, Willie Nelson, The Black Keys and BB King, the festival draws tens of thousands and generates more than $300 million in sales.
the many culinary influences of the region – notably Creole and Cajun, French, African and Southern American flavors. In combination with thousands of enthusiastic music lovThe New Orleans Jazz & Heriers, terrific tage Festival honors all facets of performances southern Louisiana culture. and a host of entertainment and recreation options, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is
Plan: It’s a good idea to plan your accommodations with consideration of pickup locations for the Jazz Fest Express sites – it is the easiest way to access the Festival. Protect: Spring under the open sun in New Orleans can be rough, so come prepared with sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat and comfortable shoes. Ingest: Make sure to enjoy prototypical New Orleans dishes such as crawfish, gumbo, alligator, a po-boy, jambalaya, muffuletta and beignets to name but a few essentials.
sure to make for a quintessential immersive travel experience.
S TAY I N S T Y L E Sheraton New Orleans Hotel is the official host hotel of the Jazz Festival and centrally located for convenience. Some 1,100 nonsmoking guest rooms include 53 suites, and many have views of the Mississippi River or French Quarter. The Sheraton Fitness club lets guests stay in shape while enjoying local cuisine and libations, and the Club Lounge permits busy professionals to stay firmly linked in. Comfort and service are excellent, and the concierge service is sure to be well prepared for the occasion. www. starwoodhotels.com Astor Crowne Plaza is a Four Diamond hotel located at the corner of Canal and Bourbon streets in the midst of the vaunted
BIENVILLE HOUSE HOTEL
Bienville House Hotel
A Second Line Parade – the parade that follows the parade – is a New Orleans tradition.
French Quarter. Amenities include a rooftop pool, fitness center, concierge, 24-hour room service and wireless high speed internet. Classic Southern hospitality blends with French-inspired flourishes for a comfortable and convenient stay in the Crescent City. www.ichotelsgroup.com Bienville House Hotel is a historic boutique hotel in the French Quarter for those looking for a quieter experience away from the festival. A romantic tropical courtyard and pool, four landscaped terraces and wrought-iron balconies set a distinct New Orleans tone carried on by warm, personalized service. www.bienvillehouse.com MICHAEL W. SASSER
VISIT ONLINE www.nojazzfest.com APRIL 2013 | WWW.OKMAG.COM
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