I’m way out of my comfort zone! I landed at half past nine in the morning, too early to check in, so I left my bags and went wandering the streets of New Orleans on my own – busy, noisy, and a little nerve-racking.
On the off chance, I’d messaged Emma and David, a couple I met on the train who’d mentioned they were from New Orleans – and we’ve arranged to meet for drinks tonight. I even did a dry run to the bar, just a couple of blocks from my hotel. Lunch was at a spot with a lady downstairs ushering people in from the street, and that was just a weekday lunchtime!
Sitting in Louis Armstrong Park, I reflected on the trip. My advice? Cultivate friendships with the people you meet. Until I stepped off the plane, I’d never met Ron in person – I’ve relied on the kindness of strangers, and now they’re not strangers at all. I’m saving the rest of New Orleans to explore with Roxy.