Some layovers are for catching up on sleep. This one was for making memories.
Visiting Yvonne LaFleur’s Boutique
My first stop was finally visiting Yvonne LaFleur, someone I’ve followed on Instagram for what feels like forever. Her boutique had been on my list for the longest time, so stepping through the front door felt like checking off a bucket-list item.
The experience was even more special than I expected. Yvonne welcomed me like an old friend, took me by the hand, and walked me through her beautiful boutique, sharing the stories behind the artwork she’d collected over the years. She told me how she got started, spoke about her family, and made me feel completely at home.
It felt less like shopping and more like being welcomed into someone’s story.
Lunch at Royal House Oyster Bar
Afterward, we headed to Royal House Oyster Bar for lunch. The food was incredible, the food quite literally touched my soul.
Everything was delicious, but the grilled oysters completely stole the show. I’ll definitely be thinking about those long after this trip.
Exploring Bourbon Street
With full stomachs, we wandered down Bourbon Street, where live music poured out of nearly every doorway and the whole street buzzed with energy.
We stopped to watch one of the street performers before continuing our afternoon through the French Quarter.
Beignets and Gator Nuggets at Rex House Kitchen & Courtyard
Our final stop was Rex House Kitchen & Courtyard, where we shared an order of gator nuggets and ended the afternoon with warm, powdered-sugar-covered beignets—
the perfect sweet finish to a quintessential New Orleans layover.
Why New Orleans Is Worth a Layover
One of my favorite parts of this job is that layovers give me the opportunity to experience places—and meet people—I may never have otherwise. This afternoon reminded me that sometimes the most memorable part of a destination isn’t the sights at all. It’s the people who make you feel welcome.
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