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Best New Orleans Bars and Restaurants

There’s so many amazing places to eat and drink in New Orleans. You really can’t have a bad meal in the Big Easy, but to help narrow down your search on where to go here’s a list of the best New Orleans bars and restaurants. New places are constantly opening, so we will update accordingly.

New Orleans is a city known for its vibrant history, friendly locals, fun festivals and of course amazing food and music. NOLA draws in millions of people every year to enjoy the sites and culture, so whether you’re looking for a night out on the town, a quick bite or an unforgettable romantic meal, we’ve got you covered. From the French Quarter to the Bywater, there’s so many mouth-watering places to eat and drink, so live it up and enjoy. Here’s a list of must see places to check out before you leave the Big Easy.

BYWATER RESTAURANTS–Best New Orleans Bars and Restaurants

Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits

600 Poland Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70117-4722
(504)948-9111

Photos from the restaurant/wine shop Bacchanals in the Bywater taken Saturday, October 18, 2014.

Bacchanal is a place I go every time I’m in NOLA. It’s open for lunch and dinner, but it’s more lively and festive in the evening. It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but its simple looks are deceiving. Inside is a cute wine and cheese shop. You pick out a bottle of wine and cheese and head outside, which looks like you’re in someone’s backyard. There is patio furniture set up and beautiful lights strung across the grass area. There is always a good live music and a great menu with vegetarian options. This place used to be a cool local hangout, but it’s grown so much and now it’s packed with tourists. But it’s still totally worth going and still has a cool vibe and atmosphere.

**Must be 21 or over. No babies, no kids under age.

Jack Dempsey
738 Poland Ave.
New Orleans, LA 70117
504-943-9914

If you’re looking for great seafood, this is it. But make sure to have a dinner reservation well in advance. This family owned eatery can be hard to get into without one.

N7
1117 Montegut Street
New Orleans, Louisiana 70117

The French restaurant and wine bar was founded by Aaron Walker and chef Yuki Yamaguchi, N7 specializes in French cuisine, often infused with a Japanese touch.

The Country Club
634 Louisa Street
New Orleans, LA, 70117

Beautiful, poolside bar, outdoor kitchen and Saturday Drag Brunch. What more can you ask for?

**Must be 21 or over. No babies, no kids under age.

Sneaky Pickle
4017 St Claude Street
New Orleans, LA 70117

Great vegetarian restaurant where everything is made from scratch using local ingredients.

Who Dat Coffee Cafe
2401 Burgundy St
70117 New Orleans, Louisiana

Who Dat Coffee Cafe

Cool local spot with delicious food and vegetarian options.

BYWATER BARS–Best New Orleans Bars and Restaurants

The Allways Lounge & Cabaret
2240 St. Claude Ave.
New Orleans, LA 70117

This bar scene isn’t for everyone, but if you’re into cabaret shows and dingy bars, this this your spot.

Hi-Ho
2239 Saint Claude Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70117-8441
(504)945-4446

Hi-Ho Lounge

Hi-Ho is the place to be on Monday nights from 8:00pm to 10:00pm. It’s bluegrass night and locals come to play together in a large group. If you have an instrument you’re welcome to join along but only if you can keep up. They don’t like people that think they can play but really can’t. It’s free to get in and there’s a cute restaurant hidden in the back courtyard.

Siberia Lounge
2227 St Claude Ave
New Orleans, LA 70117

The Siberia also has cabaret shows, as well as standup comics, trivia and live music. In the back there’s a restaurant that offers vegan and gluten free options. It’s good and really cheap!

FRENCHMAN ST. RESTAURANTS–Best New Orleans Bars and Restaurants

Adolfo’s
611 Frenchmen St.
New Orleans, LA 70116
(504) 948-3800

Inside Adolfo’s Photo by: Neworleansonline.com

Upstairs from the popular Apple Barrel dive bar is a charming and causal restaurant with only 11 tables called Adolfo’s, which is known for their amazing Italian and seafood dishes. It’s a local favorite, but they don’t take reservations so you have to get there around 5:30pm in order to get a seat. It’s also cash only, but there is an ATM.

Thirteen
517 Frenchmen St,
New Orleans, LA 70116-2023

You can’t leave Frenchmen St., until you stop by Thirteen for their tater tots. Open until 4a.m. this is the perfect place to stop in after a night of partying. There’s vegan/vegetarian/gluten free options.

Three Muses
536 Frenchmen St.
New Orleans, LA 70116-2024
504-252-4801

Three Muses is a fun restaurant for dinner and live music. It’s small and cozy, but offers great service and a chill atmosphere. Not many vegetarian or gluten free options, but a good place for drinks. So if you’re vegan/veg/gluten free, come here for cocktails then head somewhere else for dinner.

FRENCHMEN ST BARS–Best New Orleans Bars and Restaurants

Apple Barrel
609 Frenchmen St
New Orleans, LA 70116
(504) 949-9399

Inside is very small, but it’s a great gritty dive bar and there are people dancing on the street to the live music, which is fun and worth the hassle of the crowd. It’s cash only and a couple doors down from The Spotted Cat. The drinks are strong and cheap and the bartenders are cool. Be sure to bring extra cash to tip the band!

Cafe Negril
606 Frenchmen St,
New Orleans, LA 70116-2002
504-229-4236

Loud, fun bar where you’ll have a good time dancing and listening to live music. They also serve tacos, burritos, pizza and po-boys.

d.b.a
618 Frenchmen Street
New Orleans, LA 70116-2002
(504) 942-3731

Little Freddie King at dba, Jazz Fest Tuesday Night shows…..Enjoy the pix!! Jerry 😉 All Rights Reserved ©2005-2014 Jerry Moran Native Orleanian LLC Many more pics and a musical slideshow can be seen at http://www.nativeorleanian.org/dragon_smoke_oej_little_freddie_king_treme_brass_band_dba_4_29_14

Itʼs literally across the street from The Spotted Cat and has a $5-10 cover. Always good live music and they accept credit cards. Itʼs You can only buy tickets at the door for the shows and it’s also 21 and over. And bring extra cash to tip the band.

1. The Spotted Cat
623 Frenchmen Street
New Orleans, LA 70116
(206) 337-3273

Inside The Spotted Cat
Photo by: Heather Newgen

Itʼs one of my favorite places to hang out. Itʼs a small space, but with a big personality. Itʼs always a cool crowd and when a great band is playing, the bar is packed. There is usually no cover, but there is one drink minimum. There’s always a long line to get in, you must be 21–a bouncer checks IDs and be sure to bring cash because they donʼt take cards. And bring extra cash to tip the band.

FRENCH QUARTER RESTAURANTS–Best New Orleans Bars and Restaurants

Arnaud’s
813 Rue Bienville, New Orleans, LA 70112
504-523-5433

Known for its 100 years of New Orleans’ history and traditions, romantic charm and southern hospitality, Arnaud’s is an unforgettable fine dining experience. The service is impeccable, the food is good and a live jazz band plays while you dine. They will even come around to your table, take requests and serenade you. This isn’t a casual restaurant so adhere to their dress code–men must wear collard shirts and jackets. No flip flops, shorts or t-shirts allowed. Reservations are recommended. If you can’t make dinner, try their four-course Sunday jazz brunch.

Bennachin
1212 Royal St,
New Orleans, LA 70116
French Quarter

African cuisine with New Orleans vibe. Anyone from meat eaters to vegans can find something mouthwatering here.

Cafe Du Monde
800 Decatur St
New Orleans, LA 70116
(504)525-4544

An order of fresh beignets Photo by: Heather Newgen

If there’s one thing you have to do in NOLA it’s go to Cafe Du Monde. They’re world famous for their beignets. An order of the fried dough smothered in powered sugar is only a couple of dollars and they live up to the hype. The cafe is open 24 hours a day so you can satisfy your craving for the delicious pastry any time of the day!

Coop’s Place
1109 Decatur St
New Orleans, LA 70116

Known for their fried chicken and no frills decor, Coop’s Place is authentic New Orleans cuisine at affordable prices.

The Gumbo Shop
630 Saint Peter Street
New Orleans LA, 70116
(504) 525-1486

I absolutely love the food in New Orleans but being a vegetarian makes your options very somewhat in this city. However, the good news is more and more vegan eateries are popping up. Red beans and rice is something I must have in NOLA but it’s hard to find without meat or meat flavoring until I finally stumbled upon the Gumbo Shop in the French Quarter. It’s great Cajun food and offers a few good veggie entrées, as well so meat and seafood dishes.

Irene’s
529 Bineville St.
New Orleans, LA

Photo by: Irene’s

The chic family owned eatery is known for attracting a very Hollywood celebrity type crowd with its cool ambiance and irresistible Italian and seafood cuisine. This is a place you should go for at least a drink because it’s such a happening spot. Note, if you’re a vegetarian it’s very challenging to eat here. Make a reservation well in advance–and I mean like weeks ahead of time. Otherwise you’ll be waiting hours to dine.

K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen
416 Chartres St
New Orleans, LA 70130
(504)524-7394

You can definitely do New Orleans on a budget and can have great food on a shoe string, but you should absolutely treat yourself to at least one nice sit down meal at K-Paul’s if you can. Wear business casual attire and make a reservation . Since Paul Prudhomme is one of the most famous chefs in the city, tables go quick.

FRENCH QUARTER BARS–Best New Orleans Bars and Restaurants

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop
941 Bourbon St.
New Orleans, LA 70116

Considered to be the oldest bar in the U.S. and has a deeply historic and haunting vibe. It’s the only bar on Bourbon most locals will hang out.

GARDEN DISTRICT/MAGAZINE ST RESTAURANTS–Best New Orleans Bars and Restaurants

Coquette
2800 Magazine ST.
New Orleans, LA 70115

Neighborhood spot that also serves as a great place for special occasions. Coquette has contemporary locally southern cuisine with two dining rooms and a small 12 seat bar.

La Petite Grocery

Upscale James Beard Award winning restaurant. 5-star food and service. Try their crab beignets. Not many vegetarian/vegan/gluten free options. La Petite Grocery is worthy of the buzz and excellent reputation.

Mona’s Cafe
4126 Magazine Street
New Orleans, LA 70115

This casual Middle Eastern eatery has the best falafel and vegetable entree! Meat eaters there’s also plenty for you to choose from as well.

The Rum House
3128 Magazine St.
New Orleans, LA

In the mood for Caribbean? No problem. Head to the Rum House for their incredible tacos and rum cocktails.

Stein’s Market & Deli
2207 Magazine Street
in the Lower Garden District

Stein’s is a local favorite for bagels, Philly cheesesteak and just about any type of sandwich you’re in the mood for.

Surrey’s Cafe and Juice Bar
1418 Magazine St.
New Orleans

Another local favorite for breakfast, which is served all day, and healthy juices.

Turkey and the Wolf
739 Jackson Ave
New Orleans, LA 70130
Lower Garden District

Famous for their collard greens, sandwiches and cocktails

MARIGNY RESTAURANTS–Best New Orleans Bars and Restaurants

Love Lost Lounge
2529 Dauphine St
New Orleans, LA 70117
(504) 400-6145

This is one of my new hangouts when I’m in NOLA. It’s another cool dive bar, but in the back is a kitchen where they serve Pho and other Vietnamese food. There’s free pool and great drink specials.

Silk Road
2483 Royal Street
New Orleans, Louisiana 70116
(504) 944-6666

Delicious Indian food, affordable prices and cool vibe. Several vegan/vegetarian/gluten free options

MARIGNY BARS–Best New Orleans Bars and Restaurants

The R Bar
1431 Royal St
New Orleans, LA 70116

PO-BOYS

Gene’s Po-Boys
1040 Elysian Fields Ave
New Orleans, LA 70117

Johnny’s Po-Boys
511 St. Louis St.
New Orleans, LA

Sammy’s Food Service & Deli
3000 Elysian Fields Ave
New Orleans, LA 70122

Siberia Lounge
2227 St Claude Ave
New Orleans, LA 70117

***vegan po-boys made with asparagus.

TREME BARS

Candlelight Lounge
925 N Robertson St
New Orleans, LA 70116
(504)581-6689

If you’re looking for an authentic New Orleans experience then go to Candlelight Lounge in the Treme on Wednesday nights. The Treme Brass Band plays and it’s a hot sweaty good time. Everyone dances and gets into the music. It’s a $5 cover and a one drink minimum, but there’s free red beans & rice. On Monday nights starting at 6:00pm, there’s free boiled seafood that’s served until they run out, and there’s super cheap beer and well drink specials throughout the week. This is one of those hidden spots where locals hang out and tourists wish they knew about. The neighborhood can be rough, but it is safe. Be aware of your surroundings and you’ll be fine. I’ve been a couple of times and have not had any problems.

VEGAN/VEGETARIAN

1000 Figs
3141 Ponce de Leon
New Orleans

Good Karma Cafe
2940 Canal St
New Orleans, LA 70119

Meals from the Heart
1100 N. Peters St. Bay #13
New Orleans, LA 70116
Inside the Historic French Market

Seed
1330 Prytania St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Sweet Soulfood
1016 N. Broad St.
New Orleans, LA 70119

UPTOWN RESTAURANTS–Best New Orleans Bars and Restaurants

Cure
4905 Freret St, New Orleans, LA 70115
(504) 302-2357

This firehouse turned stylish, dimly lit cocktail lounge with creative drinks and eclectic array of dishes has landed on countless lists as one of New Orleans’ best cocktail bars.

Frankie and Johnny’s
321 Arabella St
New Orleans, LA 70115

Their goal: to the “best neighborhood restaurant” in New Orleans. The casual seafood eatery has good food, prices and happy hour specials. Not too vegan/vegetarian/gluten free friendly.

Jacques-Imos
8324 Oak St, New Orleans, LA 70118
(504) 861-0886

Famous for their fried chicken, complimentary corn muffins and signature alligator cheesecake, this quirky, mural-lined hot spot has been luring locals and tourists with their creatively delicious Creole soul food for years. But arrive early and expect a wait. It’s first come first serve for parties of four or less. Reservations are required for parties of five or more.

Upperline
1413 Upperline Street
New Orleans, LA 70115

Classic New Orleans dishes, great decor, service and food. Not too vegan/vegetarian/gluten free friendly.

Other great places: Stop Jockin for the best snowballs, Mother’s is a favorite for breakfast, which is served all day, Cafè Amelie ,Commander’s Palace, Brennan’s, The Carousel Bar & Lounge, The Avenue Pub, Public Service, Central City BBQ, G’s Pizza and for coffee Mammoth Expresso is highly recommended.

July 18, 2019 admin Leave a comment

Start with one Kenya

CLEAN & SAFE WATER CHANGES EVERYTHING

In the US, a water crisis is a major news story. In many other parts of the world, it would be daily life. Every year more than 2 million people, mostly children, die from waterborne disease. Fifty percent of all the illness in the world is caused by unsafe water. Globally, unsafe water kills more people every year than violence, including war. Children are the worst affected because they don’t have the resilience to fight water borne illness. As if the numbers on death and disease weren’t sufficiently compelling, many people in developed nations are shocked when they begin to comprehend the vast number of people in the world who have no access to any water at all. Clean water is at the root of many challenges that face most of the world. Some eye opening data points:

663 million people live without clean water (That’s twice the US population!)
Diseases from dirty water kill more people every year than all forms of violence, including war.
43% of those deaths are children under the age of 5.
Access to clean water and basic sanitation can save 16,000 lives each week.
Clean water helps keep kids in school, particularly girls.

According to the World Health Organization, safe water supplies, hygienic sanitation and good water management are fundamental to global health. Almost one tenth of the global disease burden could be prevented by:

increasing access to safe drinking water;
improving sanitation and hygiene; and
improving water management to reduce risks of water-borne infectious diseases.

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July 18, 2019 admin Leave a comment

Volunteering at Chimes with Special Needs Adults in Israel “Video”

If you have a passion for volunteering, check out the Chimes organization in Tel Aviv, Israel. It’s an amazing nonprofit that is committed to helping those with special needs live enriched and independent lives.

Take a look at the adult program I worked with. They need volunteers, so consider Chimes as your next voluntourism trip!

Produced by: Heather Newgen

Videographer/Editor-Carolyn Eastman

July 18, 2019 admin Leave a comment

American Church Berlin

Established in the 19th century, the American Church in Berlin (ACB) is an ecumenical, international church located in Luther Church on Dennewitplatz in the Schoeneberg district of Berlin, Germany  (U2 – Bülowstrasse or S Bahn – Yorckstrasse).

The church is known for its warmth and welcomes newcomers and visitors to Berlin.

ACB offers a wide range of religious, cultural and social programs.
ACB’s members come from more than 17 Christian denominations and from more than 30 different nations.
ACB is united by Christian faith, the English language and a spirit of generosity that appreciates and rejoices in differences.

July 18, 2019 admin Leave a comment

User Review: Habitat for Humanity China-Great Experience!

My husband and I recently wrapped up a build with Habitat Global Village near Yangshuo in southern China, just outside of Guilin. I had never done a Habitat build before so wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but we were both ready to get our hands dirty and make a contribution! We had been traveling in China for six weeks, which had been an amazing adventure, but being immersed in this community was something we were really looking forward to and the experience was more than we could’ve hoped for.

Kip Pastor volunteering in China
Photo by: Samantha Shuman Pastor

We wanted to work with an organization we could trust, and Habitat for Humanity had a long history, great reputation and fantastic infrastructure so we felt confident in the organization. Getting involved was actually quite easy! We applied online and shortly thereafter set up a call with the group leader. He told us a little bit more about his experience leading trips in China and after a few minutes determined he would love to have us join the team. Hooray!

With Habitat builds, there is a fee of somewhere around $1800 per person but setting up a fundraising page is very simple and you’ll find that many friends and family are eager to donate which can help offset the cost. The money will go towards your accommodations, meals, local transport, cultural activities with approximately 60% going to the build itself. You’ll need to purchase your own flight.

Photo by: Kip Pastor

Our Habitat for Humanity leader was fantastic – he would send regular updates about the trip, getting visas, and the family we’d be building with. He was also very quick to reply to any questions we had and connected us with other team members for those that wanted to try to travel together before or after the build. Logistics in terms of meeting up in Guilin for transport to Yangshuo were also very easy. We met other team members and checked into the hotel. I was very surprised by the lovely accommodations though I imagine they vary from city to city.

The next morning we met our Habitat for Humanity Chinese leader who gave a presentation about the family, Habitat’s history and most importantly – safety instructions! She explained we’d be outfitted with hard hats, gloves, and face masks but that we should look out for each other and said “don’t try to be Superman.” I really appreciated this and felt like we were in good hands.

We took a bus to the build site and spent five days working alongside local laborers and family members of the future resident, a 65 -year- old man who had suffered a stroke and was restricted to a wheelchair. He and his wife were currently living in a crumbling mud house on the property and we were working on providing them with a safe home with a solid roof, plumbing and a real kitchen.

Photo by: Kip Pastor

The first day on the site, I was surprised that the walls of the house were already up! I think I assumed that we’d be building a house from scratch and would complete it in our time there. Not sure what I was thinking… this isn’t HGTV! Our role would be to build the brick walls for the septic tank & secure the roof.

I spent a lot of time laying bricks for the future septic tank (spreading cement is a lot Iike icing a cake!), while my husband used his muscle to hand mix cement, dig a trench, and secure roof infrastructure. We joined forces with other team members to hoist rebar onto the roof using a rope and pure strength, then tied pieces together with metal wire. We also moved piles of bricks and hoed in the Mandarin fields on the property. Volunteers ranged in age from 25 to 83 and bottom line is that there was something for everyone to do, no matter their strength or skill level. Our Chinese leader was there to translate with the handful of local laborers who were amazing. I couldn’t believe that they were working in flip flops but they really took us all under their wings and demonstrated what we needed to do, hopping in when needed for parts that required more attention or skill. I felt very confident that I was doing the work properly and that we were truly making great progress on the home.

Photo by: Samantha Shuman Pastor

That being said, I think our team of 21 volunteers was probably too big. We finished daily tasks quite quickly and sometimes ran out of things to do since we had used all the materials that had been delivered to the site that morning.

Aside from the build itself, I really enjoyed getting to know like-minded volunteers from around the US and Canada. We had all our meals together and many of us would hang out after dinner for a night cap. Again I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of what we were served — breakfast buffet at the hotel, family style lunch at a restaurant near the home, and family style dinners at a variety of restaurants in the vibrant area near our hotel. We also spent our final day together exploring some of the tourist attractions nearby which I think further connected us to the location and overall experience.

Dinner with fellow volunteers
Photo by: Samantha Shuman Pastor

It was hot, there were bees, and the squat toilet was a 10 minute walk down the road. While we didn’t physically do as much as I expected we would, we felt like we were in good hands with Habitat for Humanity and that we made a significant contribution to the project. It was such a fulfilling and emotional experience (for us and for the future resident) so we are currently looking into where we can do another Global Village build again soon!

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July 18, 2019 admin Leave a comment

VoRTCS

The VoRTCS Program (pronounced ‘vortex’) assists refugee families to take up the educational, vocational and social opportunities that exist in Australian society. Each week, VoRTCS volunteer teams visit families from refugee backgrounds in their homes to provide community support and enhance English language skills. We believe that refugees have a lot to contribute to Australian society and should be assisted and encouraged to reach their full potential

July 18, 2019 admin Leave a comment

Raise Foundation

Raise Foundation is a registered Australian charity which provides mentoring programs for young people in high schools and in the community. Our mentoring programs provide a community of support around young people. Mentoring from a positive role model during the critical teenage years provides a nurturing pathway for young people to feel supported.

July 18, 2019 admin Leave a comment

Mentor

Aunties and uncles are volunteers over 18 years of age who may be married or single, with or without children of their own. They have a caring, non-judgmental attitude, a genuine liking for children and the time and willingness to develop a long term relationship with their niece/nephew which encourages them in a positive way.Once a volunteer auntie/uncle is screened and accepted into the program, the Coordinator reviews the children on our waiting list to identify the best possible match taking into account your residential location, your interests and lifestyle.

July 18, 2019 admin Leave a comment

26 Tips for Staying Safe in India as a Female Traveler

After highly publicized reports of female sexual assaults in India, some are rethinking their travel plans, and even bowing out of their scheduled trips altogether in favor of less worrisome destinations.

Traveling in India, like most developing countries, requires an increased sense of awareness and discretion. Women especially need to exercise caution, since it’s a common practice for men to engage in annoying and offensive behavior such as staring, groping and stalking.

Eve-teasing (public molestation of women by men) can happen quite frequently, and should never be chalked up to “just part of the travel experience.” Be assertive, and protect yourself at all times.

Local women typically do not travel alone, so if you’re solo, you will attract more attention since it’s not a cultural norm.

Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Be careful of who you trust, but don’t be paranoid. Not all men will gawk at you, harass you or attempt to cop a feel when you’re distracted, so while it’s important to constantly be on guard, it’s also important to be open to positive new adventures and people you’ll encounter throughout your journey.

India can be overwhelming, exhausting and challenging, but if you research and go prepared, it can be enchanting and exciting. There are many wonderful reasons to visit the country, but staying safe needs to be a priority, so here are a few things to keep in mind:

TRANSPORTATION

1. Personal space on trains is nonexistent, so make sure you have a good grasp on your belongings at all times. If you take an overnight train, wrap your purse around your arm in a way that’s safely guarded while sleeping. You don’t want to be robbed.

2. Don’t take a sleep aid while on a train or bus because there’s no one announcing the stops, so you want to be alert enough to know where to get off, and also, you don’t want to wake up without your luggage.

3. Get an upper berth if traveling overnight to avoid potential issues with men.

4. Dress conservatively. You don’t want someone staring at you for hours because of what you’re wearing. Or at least cover up with a sleeping bag or blanket.

5. Sit next to other women if possible, and always ride in women’s cars on the train when the option is available.

6. Splurge for first class if you can.

7. Don’t take public transportation at night alone. Try to only go by yourself from 6am-6pm.

8. Don’t get off at a station at night if you don’t know exactly where you’re going.

9. If you get off a train or bus to use the restroom, take your things with you.

10. It’s common to be swarmed by vendors and drivers when getting off at your stop. Ignoring them doesn’t always work, so be firm and tell them NO! Walk with your elbows out if you have to get through the crowd and always be on guard with your belongings and who is around you.

11. Text the auto-rickshaw or taxi number you’re in to someone and make sure the driver sees you. If you don’t see it, ask for it. The driver may not speak your language, but it doesn’t hurt to try. Also, either call someone or pretend to talk to someone while you’re in route to your destination.

12. Don’t let a taxi or rickshaw driver let someone else into the car with them like a friend of theirs. You don’t know what they’re intentions are. Tell them not to bring a companion along for the ride. If they insist get out. Open the car door even if you’re moving to show them you’re serious. It’s not worth the risk.

13. Hire a prepaid taxi or auto-rickshaw whenever possible instead of flagging one down. This can prevent bothersome drivers trying to get your business, outrageous fees and misbehaved drivers— but not always—you have to still be cautious.

14. When walking, keep your purse close to you at all times so passing motorcyclists can’t snatch your bags.

THE LOCAL MEN

15. Men are not shy in India. They can be very aggressive and will approach you sometimes. Don’t be too friendly, watch your body language, and don’t make eye contact or smile at them. I know that probably seems rude, but many will take it the wrong way and think you’re coming on to them. Be assertive when telling someone you’re not interested. Demand the respect that you deserve, and don’t be afraid to show some attitude.

16. If eve-teasing does occur, don’t be afraid to make a scene and scream. It is not acceptable for men to behave in this manner at all. Also look for other females who will hopefully come to your aid. Indian women unfortunately endure this type of harassment and know what it’s like, so often times they will help.

17. Try to steer clear of groups of men. Cross the street if need be. Don’t be paranoid, just be smart.

18. Lie and say you have a boyfriend/husband that you’re meeting soon or wear a fake wedding ring. You need to protect yourself, and if you have to be a little harsh, then so be it. But, not every man is like this so don’t worry. It’s not considered impolite to walk away. Don’t think twice about it, just do it.

19. Locals will want to take pictures of you, and with you, because as tourists, we look much differently than them. Beware, though. Once one person asks, there will be a long line of others wanting to snap a selfie with you. However, if groups of teenage boys or men approach you and you’re alone, politely decline. Sometimes they can be a little too grabby and try to touch you inappropriately, so be cautious. Use your best judgment.

20. Street kids will swarm you begging for money, and it can be a little overwhelming, so be prepared. Also be careful in this situation, because while most of the time they do just want your spare change, sometimes they will surround you as a distraction to steal your belongings.

21. Vendors can be very intense and lively when persuading you into their store, so only go in if you want to. Don’t go just to be polite, and don’t ever let them corner you. Just keep walking and ignore them.

DRESS CONSERVATIVE

22. It’s incredibly important to wear conservative clothing, which means no shorts in public, ladies—no matter how hot it is (long skirts or dresses are acceptable). Don’t reveal any cleavage or your shoulders. Wear a scarf if you’re wearing a tank top. For one, you don’t want to draw any more attention to yourself and two; you don’t want to be disrespectful of the culture. However, in Goa, it’s much more acceptable to dress westernized, so bust out that bikini and hit the beach! You’ll still, however, get a lot of looks, so be mindful of that.

23. When deciding what to wear in India, weather can play a huge role into your choices. The country can have crazy monsoons or drastic heat waves that are suffocating. It can be difficult to breathe because of the humidity, so always be aware of what season you’re going and pack accordingly. During this time, dress in loose clothing and colors that won’t show you sweating or that will be see through when damp. You’ll get enough stares, so don’t attract more.

24. It’s not necessary wear traditional Indian women’s clothing, but if you’re interested in doing so, you can find this type of wardrobe at the local markets, or you can shop online ahead time at places like fabindia, although it may be more expensive.

25. If you’re a blonde or redhead, sometimes you can attract more attention, so wear a hat or scarf if this becomes the case.

26. Wear closed-toed shoes. The streets can be filled with debris and trash, so you want to protect your feet. However, if you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation and want to get away fast, it’s more challenging to do so in flip- flops.

July 17, 2019 admin Leave a comment

Donkeys in Greece-Why You Shouldn’t Ride Them!

Donkeys in Greece, specifically Santorini, which is known for its steep hilly terrain, are used to transport tourists and their belongings up an average of 500 stairs at least three to four times a day in extreme conditions. They’re grossly mistreated and without regulations in place, animal abuse is literally crippling and killing the donkeys.

For those who have been to Greece, you know what I’m talking about when I say it’s literally one of the most beautiful places in the world. Its natural beauty, food, locals and culture make Greece one of the most visited tourist destinations.

But there’s an ugly side to the country—animal abuse. There’s a lot of mistreatment of donkeys. I understand on certain islands like Santorini, it seems like a fun, touristy thing to ride a donkey packed with your luggage up hundreds—literally hundreds—of steep windy stairs to get to your hotel, or just for fun. But for the donkey, it’s not fun.

Sad donkeys in Firá
Photo By: Angela Dawson

Donkeys are forced to stand in the beating sun without shade, rest, water or food. They’re whipped and yelled at constantly, and while there’s finally been a ban on overweight tourists riding them, their work conditions are still unacceptable.

When I was in Santorini, I told a guy trying to sell rides to tourists that I didn’t appreciate the treatment of the donkeys. He told me, “donkeys been doing this for years.” Well that doesn’t make it right.

Unhappy Donkey in Firá
Photo By: Angela Dawson

And sadly, when the donkeys are injured or too old to work, many owners will abandoned them in a field to die alone, or push them off a cliff because they’re no longer profitable or useful.

I learned this when I volunteered at the Corfu Donkey Rescue on Corfu. You can see my experience at the donkey sanctuary here.

Heather Newgen volunteering at the Corfu Donkey Rescue

So please think twice about riding the donkeys and don’t be a part of the problem. If people stopped riding them, this service wouldn’t be offered. A touristy thing to do in Santorini is watch the sunset in Firá or Oia, not ride donkeys. That’s just what people want you to think so they can make money literally off the backs of these animals.

There are other ways to get to your hotel or where you need to go.

Thanks for traveling responsibly and not contributing to animal abuse!

July 17, 2019 admin Leave a comment

CLEAN & SAFE WATER CHANGES EVERYTHING

Just voluntourist