My New Orleans: Where Fine Art, Green Travel & Wellness Converge

Featuring The Mary Beth Hotel & Gallery, Green Light NOLA, Spyre Center, and More

Every time I visit New Orleans, I am continually inspired by the new places I discover and the remarkable individuals I meet. This month, I had the pleasure of staying at The Mary Beth Hotel & Gallery in the Central Business District. Immersing myself in the vibrant art culture of New Orleans through the works of Robert X Fogarty, known as Son of a Ghost, along with talented artists like Basqo Bim, Alia Fawaz, Karla Rosas, and Dear World, created an unforgettable experience.

The artwork by Karla Rosas, titled “Coyolxāuhqui encontrando la gloria entre la caña de azúcar”, Son of a Ghost, titled "I Want to Tell You," and Alia Fawaz, titled "Alsham (Sun) God," are currently on display at the Mary Beth Hotel & Gallery.

The Mary Beth Hotel features a charming townhouse or condo-style design, comprising multiple units that include two or more bedrooms and bathrooms. This layout offers guests a true home-away-from-home experience, enabling them to engage with the artistic ambiance while enjoying a warm and welcoming environment. I found comfort in the plush mattress, soft pillows, and comforter set, all contributing to a serene atmosphere conducive to relaxation and inspiration. Unlike many other accommodations in the city, the Mary Beth Hotel provides a sanctuary for artists and enthusiasts alike to not only admire the artwork but to also engage in everyday pleasures such as cooking, resting, and socializing with loved ones. The space is thoughtfully equipped with essentials, including a Bluetooth speaker in the kitchen, perfect for setting the mood while enjoying breakfast or a glass of wine.

Conveniently located, the hotel is just a short stroll from grocery markets, restaurants, shops, and local attractions. Culinary delights abound in this vibrant neighborhood. Notably, a mere five-minute walk leads to Chef Dook Chase’s Chapter IV Restaurant and Bar, featuring an impressive breakfast, brunch, and lunch menu. Be sure to try the citrus-glazed salmon with Brabant potatoes and the shrimp and grits—both are exceptional!

Photographs showcasing the Citrus Glazed Salmon and Shrimp & Grits served at Chef Dook Chase’s Chapter IV, located in Downtown New Orleans.

For those craving the best tacos and oysters in the city, Rikiville in St. Claude is a must-visit, especially on Taco Tuesday for their $2 tacos, $2 Riki Punch, and $1 oysters by the dozen. Enjoy a laid-back Caribbean vibe with great music and delightful dishes inspired by family recipes passed down through generations.

Here are photographs of me at Rikiville in St. Claude, alongside the owner and head chef, Cerrisa, as we savor the grilled oysters.

When it comes to green travel, New Orleans offers numerous engaging activities. One standout initiative is Green Light New Orleans. At Green Light, you can sip filtered water while painting rain barrels for the community. Your artwork will be displayed at the homes of local residents, contributing to sustainability efforts by capturing rainwater to reduce flooding and conserve municipal water for gardens. Supporting this program during your visit is a rewarding way to give back to the community.

Here are photographs of my two painted rain barrels, featuring Annie Nowak, Volunteer Coordinator at Green Light New Orleans.

For those interested in wellness, the Spyre Center offers a variety of classes, including Afro Beats Sculpt + Yoga, where you can move to Caribbean rhythms while enjoying a full-body workout. More gentle options, such as guided meditation, Vinyasa yoga, and water aerobics, are also available, making it easy to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine. Spyre is just a 30-minute walk from the Mary Beth Hotel or a quick ride on the #12 Streetcar line for only $1.25. As you ride, take in the beautiful homes and neighborhoods along St. Charles Avenue.

Here are some pictures of me dancing during the Afro Beats Sculpt and Yoga class led by instructor Kim Curtis at the Spyre Center in New Orleans.

The iconic neighborhoods of Storyville, bustling Canal Street, lively Bourbon Street, and the historic French Quarter are all mere steps away from the Mary Beth Hotel, allowing for deeper immersion in the authentic culture of New Orleans. Additionally, the hotel is conveniently located just a couple of blocks from the Regional Transit Authority (RTA) Airport Express #202 Bus Stop on Loyola Avenue, providing a quick and affordable 30-minute ride to and from the airport for only $1.50, traffic permitting.

While words can convey much, nothing compares to experiencing it firsthand. I highly recommend booking a stay at The Mary Beth Hotel & Gallery on your next visit to New Orleans. The value and experiences offered during your stay are truly unparalleled.