Beyond Bourbon St.: An Insider's Guide to New Orleans

A came across this wonderful book via Mark's Bologna's equally terrific and informative Beyond Bourbon Street podcast. A standard guidebook is packed full of technical details; how-to's that might be relevant, event important, but also commonly found just about in any book (or online). This is different; a volume packed full of carefully researched information about New Orlean's rich cultural, musical, historical, culinary, celebratory - you name it - heritage and language, generously shared by a local who seems to sincerely want you to know the city wth the richness and detail that he does.

I have nothing against Bourbon Street but am WAY beyond my partying years. This book was in and AirBNB we rented in New Orleans in January and found it very useful if you want to do other things than party. ( Like EAT !!! ). I ordered my own copy as soon as we got home. Highly recommendTo

This book is so much better than your typical guidebook, because the entire thing is written by a local who knows the city very well and has been discussing it on his podcast for years. So it's like having a really good friend from New Orleans who can tell you just where to go and what to see and eat. And as someone who has been to the city at least twenty times, I can tell you that he didn't miss a single good place. He's got this city covered.

Can't wait for the trip to use it on

The media could not be loaded.  I love New Orleans—Bourbon Street, not so much. Of course, everyone should visit Bourbon at least once, and sadly many people only go to Bourbon Street on their visit to NOLA—and then they say they were not a fan of New Orleans or that they will never go back. I joined the FB group and listened to some of the podcasts, so naturally, I was excited about the book. I keep a running list of things I want to do when I visit—all of which I have learned through Mark Bologna. He is a treasure trove of information on all the neighborhoods and areas—you will know where to stay, eat, learn, and play. Each visit I mark off several things on my NOLA BUCKET LIST and add some more. I love the city and its people and its culture. There is no place like it on earth…if you get off Bourbon Street!! Order this book and get a highlighter, because there will be so much you want to remember. Then, do like me, and take it on your trip with you. That’s why I call it my bible:)

I started reading and immediately knew I needed a highlighter as well (as pictured!)! And some sticky notes to mark pages. My first trip to New Orleans, besides going to a Saints game, everything I did was on Bourbon Street. I’ve been many times since, and eventually realized there is in fact, a lot, A LOT, beyond Bourbon. But it can be overwhelming. I wish I had this book that first trip and every trip afterwards.. Great maps. Discussion of the neighborhoods, information on the Street Cars, where to stay, where to eat, information on events and places. And the history! Mark Bologna grew up in New Orleans, and it shows. Mark loves New Orleans, and it shows. His narrative and descriptions bring New Orleans to life in my mind’s eye. Awesome pictures by Mark and James Cullen. I cannot wait for my next trip. So many places I want to go - events, festivals, parks, eating, drinking - not necessarily in that order… Definitely worth the read. And have a feeling the second and third read as well.

I first came across the Beyond Bourbon Street podcast years ago while doing research for a writing project. I was hoping to find an insider's perspective, and the podcast provides it for sure! After being a loyal listener for years (seriously, go find it, it's a great pod), I was thrilled when I got my hands on his book! It's exactly like being given a tour of the city by a friend who lives there, with all the wit and warmth of the author himself. This book is meant to be different from "traditional" guidebooks like DK Eyewitness, so even if you have those guides, you won't be sorry adding this to your stack! This guide provides a real local perspective of New Orleans, and is a must-have for anyone wishing to explore the city a bit deeper.

We stopped in New Orleans briefly, having lunch at Joey K's (oh, can they please, oh please ship some of that red beans and rice to my home?), and poked around on Magazine Street. We will be returning at the end of the week. I've not seen a guide book that was so much fun to read before this one. Truly, the author has been to, and lived around all of the places he mentions. What a labor of love this book is! No, this won't be a series of guides for different cities, sadly, but if you're headed for the Crescent City, give it a read, and listen to the author 's podcast. You'll be glad you did!

I've been to New Orleans several times, so I thought I was well versed in the things to do there but NO, this book gives you a real insider's look at things to do. I purchased this book for my last trip and thoroughly enjoyed some of the hidden gems and handy tips the local author shares.It's a wonderful accompaniment to the Beyond Bourbon Street podcast. Highly recommend both the podcast and book for anyone who plans to visit New Orleans.

If you want to visit New Orleans or just learn more about the most amazing city in the world, that's the book!

This book is very well thought out. A wealth of great info for either a person planning a trip to New Orleans or a veteran traveller to this very special place.