Tales from the road: Deep South USA

Which country and region did you visit?

I toured the Deep South of the USA – Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee and Alabama.

How did you get to the deep south usa?

I flew from London Heathrow to Nashville, and returned from New Orleans. BA are the only carrier with direct flights into this region otherwise it’s a slight detour into Atlanta.

Where did you go in the deep south?

Starting in Nashville, I worked my way South through Muscle Shoals, Memphis, Clarksdale, Natchez, Jackson, Coastal Mississippi, Coastal Alabama and Montgomery before finishing in New Orleans & Plantation Country.

When did you go and how long for?

This was a longer trip in order to fit it all in. I went in April & early May, for 19 days.

Have you visited the Deep South before?

I have not! All new areas for me and the one I’d been looking forward to the most for a long time!

Which was your favourite…?

Place:

Clarksdale. It’s difficult to describe to someone who hasn’t experienced this quirky town before. On the surface, it looks run down and neglected. However once you meet the people and experience the music, it leaves a lasting impression. The authenticity of the juke joints and warmth of the people is like nowhere I’ve been before, and the music attracts people from all over the world. It’s a must-do off the beaten path destination for anyone visiting this region.

Hotel:

Houmas House Plantation & Gardens, just outside New Orleans. A short drive from the hustle & noise of New Orleans, this restored plantation offers tours of the extensive grounds along with the house itself and can be used as a fantastic base from which to explore the surrounding plantation homes (they’re all different!) and the famed Bayou’s & swamps of Southern Louisiana.

Excursion:

Shrimping from Biloxi, Mississippi. I was taken out on a real shrimping boat & channelled my inner Forrest Gump when trying to catch the local staple food. A fascinating trip learning about all the effects of weather, government initiatives and other marine life on this important trade.

What was your most memorable moment in the deep south usa?

A Grand Ole Opry concert in Nashville had been on my ‘To do’ list for a long time, so getting to see some amazing Country Music artists in this world-famous venue was a fantastic experience.

Were there any surprises along the way?

The coastline of Mississippi & Alabama are surprisingly beautiful. These two states are not generally associated with white sandy beaches, but being so close to Florida and on the Gulf of Mexico, means that for those wanting a bit of a beach break after going heavy on the music, you don’t have to go far at all to experience some stunning, laid-back small town beaches.

What tips do you have for travellers planning to visit the deep south?

Nashville, Memphis & New Orleans are the main attraction to this area, but the lesser-trodden path through places like Vicksburg, Clarksdale and Mobile are equally as worthwhile investing time into. Get out of the big cities and experience the local people, local music & some stunning driving too!

Is there anything indispensable to pack or prepare for?

Tissues for the incredibly moving & extensive Civil Rights sites. Gym wear to work off all the fried food!

Any local snacks, dishes or drinks that should be sampled in the deep south?

Oysters are wonderful & fresh in this region. I personally prefer them baked, but raw ones are good too! When in New Orleans, try their famous Sazerac cocktail, or a ‘Hurricane’. On the coast there are also Alligator Bites!

Any restaurant or bar recommendations in the deep south?

Restaurant – A Memphis secret; Itta Bena is fantastic. It’s above B.B. King’s Blues club and offers a secret back route into the club from upstairs.

Bar – Spotted Cat in New Orleans. Away from the more famous (and way busier) Bourbon Street, Spotted Cat is on local hangout, Frenchmen Street. Expect a very mixed crowd and some amazing local Jazz music.

Sum up your deep south trip in a sentence?

Southern Hospitality is renowned for a reason; get out and meet the people!

LOOKING FOR MORE INSPIRATION FOR YOUR DEEP SOUTH HOLIDAY?

 

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You can speak to Rob Holmes today about his Deep South road trip and discover the places he explored, or browse our inspiring itineraries online to plan your own journey.

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