5 Decadent Luxury Experiences in New Orleans

From music and food to hotels and shopping, New Orleans never strays from its mantra – “If it's worth doing, it's worth overdoing.” In fact, the streets of New Orleans mimic a heartbeat as they vibrate to the sounds of jazz, and the air swirls about filled with scents of Creole dishes now so widely popular they are as familiar as the city itself.
When you combine the culture and storied restaurants with the modern amenities of luxury hotels, it is easy to see why New Orleans sets the standard for decadent hospitality that the rest of the world scurries to match.

So, here are five experiences that will have you overdoing it in a city that celebrates life to the fullest.

1. Outrageously Expensive Dessert

Arnaud's restaurant

The rich, vibrant blend of Italian, Spanish, African, German, Caribbean, Native American, and Portuguese cultures can be credited for the Creole dishes that are a mainstay at Arnaud's, a “grande dame” of New Orleans' culinary scene since 1918. But dessert should be the crowning moment of any meal, and nobody does dessert as grand as Arnaud's when you order their “amplified” Strawberries Arnaud. Arnaud's partnered with M.S. Rau Antiques to provide a 10.06 carat natural fancy royal blue diamond that is nestled into the dish of strawberries served in a marinade of rare port, Ceylon cinnamon and Tahitian vanilla. As lagniappe, the decadent dessert is accompanied by an ultra-luxe version of Arnaud's signature French 75 cocktail. In this instance, the recipe changes to include Hennessy Paradis, Grand Marnier 100, freshly squeezed lemon juice, sugar, Cristal Champagne and edible 24kt gold leaf flakes. With a price tag of $9.85 million, this is sure to be the dessert of a lifetime. Guests can also enjoy the scaled down version of Strawberries Arnaud for $9.00. www.arnaudsrestaurant.com

2. Ethereal or Seductive – What's your suite?

Archangel Michael Suite

Define your New Orleans stay as you select one of two mega suites to dwell in at The Saint Hotel. The Archangel Lucifer Suite or the Archangel Michael Suite are startlingly different atmospheres. The 2,000-square-foot Lucifer Suite is full of luxurious red velvet, black marble and Victorian antiques. But, if you want to be center stage, that's no problem as the suite features a private stage with dance pole, lighting and sound system. Completely opposite is the Michael Suite which is equally as spacious, but gives you the ultimate “heaven on earth” experience. Full of natural light with 10 floor-to-ceiling windows, the blues, whites and contemporary finishes make you feel as if you've ascended into the sky. www.thesainthotelneworleans.com

3. Look the part, make a statement

Photo credit: NewOrleansOnline.com

Style resonates amongst New Orleanians. But here, ladies won't need the excuse of a horse race or special event to perch a daytime or cocktail hat from custom millinery Fleur de Paris atop her head. Artisans craft each hat by hand using antique Austrian crystals, jewelry and luxurious fabrics. Each hat is nestled into one of the highly coveted pink and black lace Fleur de Paris hatboxes so your original creation is kept safe and sound between each wearing. When visiting, you can work with a stylist to select from hats made and featured inside the Royal Street boutique and have the stylist pair it with an entire ensemble. www.fdphats.com

4. Wicked fun in an exclusive musical lair

Fountain Room at House of Blues New Orleans

Imagine exclusive parties and lush social rooms, The Foundation Room, a private liar tucked inside the House of Blues New Orleans, offers members the finest in Southern hospitality. Beyond the access to meet-and-greets with artists, you can schedule private lessons or concerts with the House of Blues most exclusive artists. Not only will the music awaken your soul, but the James Beard recognized chef will fuel it with his upscale creations in a fine dining setting. There is simply no better way to experience New Orleans' musical scene than at The Foundation Room. https://www.houseofblues.com/neworleans/fr

5. Playground of fun in private spa

The Spa at Windsor Court

You no longer have to dream about what it would be like to enjoy a Sommelier's selection of sparkling wine or champagne inside of a 6,500 square-foot private spa, the Spa at Windsor Court can deliver this experience for a mere $12,500. You don't have to worry about being pampered alone, you can invite 8-10 of your friends as well. The expansive space includes two relaxation rooms to sip on hot tea and cucumber water, seven service rooms with your choice of New Orleans best esthetic treatments, body treatments, massage, and nail services. Also, don't forget the heated outdoor salt water pool where pool attendants will wait on you hand & foot.

So stop looking for a destination that sets the standard for luxury travel and look to New Orleans who has redefined luxury travel. Somehow, just like the cultures that blend together creating the city's vibrant atmosphere, New Orleans combines its history and modern amenities to create a one-of-a-kind hedonistic experience you won't soon forget.

Top photo: Windsor Court Hotel afternoon tea