New Orleans

Day 12

Destination: New Orleans, Louisiana

Route: Highway 10 through Baton Rouge

Miles Ridden: 405    Total Miles: 3,420

Points of Interest:

• Breaux Bridge
• Henderson Swamp
• Lake Pontchartair
• French Quarter

Our ride began early- 7:30, in an effort to avoid the heat of the afternoon sun. Near record temperatures were expected today, and there was no longer a cloud cover, just beautiful blue skies and scattered white clouds. We made our way through Lafayette, then to Baton Rouge for a brief stop over to replace one of our donations made to the ride god. Our list of sacrifices continues to increase as our ride continues, but the sacrifices seem to be working. Nothing major has happened...yet.

On Highway 10, we came across a true gem for bikers. We began to cross the Beaux Bridge about 45 miles from Baton Rouge. We soon realized that we were about to experience the highlight of the day. The bridge is a two lane road going east, with a westbound bridge about 100 feet to your left. It is built about 15 feet above the water. Facing a beautiful blue sky with white and silver clouds, we crossed through Henderson Swamp. Everything was green and lush with trees and vines. Sometimes that was all you could see, then you'd break through and see massive lakes with hundreds of trees standing alone in the water, green moss covering the water, a bayou, or a small river with small boats. The bridge was 25 miles long, the best 25 minute ride of the day. Although there is a similar bridge outside New Orleans, the view was not as good.

We arrived in New Orleans a little after 1:00 p.m,., and found rooms at a very reasonable rate. Despite the crowds, with many of the hotels near Canal Street wanting $250 or more a night, we found rooms at the Doubletree for $119. It doesn't hurt pushing for a lower rate. Since the area doesn't have a lot of room, parking is always difficult to find. The Doubletree let us park out front, and without any parking charge.

We walked to the French Quarter, and found little evidence of damage from Katrina. The music was outstanding, with live bands everywhere. We had a traditional hurricane drink, and then searched for a restaurant. The food is always outstanding. We ate at the Oceana off Bourbon Street, where Joe took excellent care of us. Another great day!

California Dreaming from New Orleans

(As Ralph's daughter editing this blog, I hereby state that the addition of this photo is posted under duress-

in other words... IT'S ALL BOB'S FAULT!)