BY CARISSA RICHETTI
Figure 1: Hex Old World Witchery Shop Altar
New Orleans offers limitless exploring, from the many bars and jazz clubs on Frenchmen St. to the hedonistic Bourbon St. The whole attitude of the city is one of living for the day and I am convinced there’s not an unfriendly soul in the city. For witches: the appeal is even greater—see sights like the altar above (at Hex, the Old World Witchery shop) or learn to read tarots and palms.
The darker side of life is prominent here, and every shop window will show you fantastic artwork of skulls and Halloween-esque trinkets.
Indulge yourself in the unique culture of Lousiana Voudou, or learn how gris-gris bags are made. I picked up a Voudou doll of my own:
Figure 2: Authentic Voudou Doll Made of Spanish Moss and Stick
I recommend a trip to this city for as long as possible. All practicing witches are welcome with open arms—the whole drawl of the city is its occult appeal. While you’re out seeking the authentic witches’ experience, you may also want to enjoy a few of the tourist activities: a ghost tour, a tour of the Anne Rice house or Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. If you wander into these above-ground cemeteries after dark, you will witness Voudou rituals. It sounds pretty enticing to me. You wouldn’t want to miss the LaLaurie Mansion, site of American Horror Story’s Coven Season.
Figure 3: Entrance to the LaLaurie Mansion
The city is also incredibly sexual for those of you seeking a thrilling weekend away. Hustler magazine bought out Bourbon St. and the center of it is taken up by their adult store:
Figure 4: Hustler Hollywood Adult Store
Mardi Gras takes place here every year, and people flock from far and wide in celebration of sexual openness.
Whatever you are searching for in this city, you will leave it a sense of belonging (and even jealousy of those who live there). I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments.
Carissa Richetti is forever working on a book. Her favorite genres to write and read are horror speculative fiction, and supernatural. She wants to spread the love of books to future generations and help the illiterate learn to read. She also loves dogs.