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Playing the blues, New Orleans

American South travel guides

Playing the blues, New Orleans

Our specialists return often to the American South on trips to discover more of the region’s hidden corners and to find new and different ways to explore. The travel guides they write are designed to help you get the most from your trip, whether you want to hear more about American musical culture in the cities along the Mississippi, try local food or wander through the backstreets of Charleston.

We’ll tell you where to go and what you can see once you’re there, based on our own experiences. Along the way, we offer hints on where to find the best food and music in New Orleans, the finest plantations in the Carolinas and the most scenic stretches of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

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Audley Travel specialist Carla

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Ideas for how to explore the American South

Our travel guides share our specialists' passion and knowledge for the American South. We travel here regularly to discover new experiences, explore untried areas and dig deeper into the better-known places and attractions. At the same time, we gather advice and up-to-date information on the best-quality guides, new hotels and restaurants, and the most memorable forms of transportation.

  • Music culture of the American South
    Beale Street, Memphis

    Music culture of the American South

    Music culture of the American South

    Jazz in New Orleans, soul in Memphis, and country in Nashville — USA specialist Carl takes you on a musical journey through the American South. En route, he delves into some of the best music tours and experiences you can enjoy during your own trip.

    14 min read

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  • Exploring the American South: Georgia and the Carolinas
    Charleston, South Carolina

    Exploring the American South: Georgia and the Carolinas

    Exploring the American South: Georgia and the Carolinas

    There’s more to the American South than the food, music and culture of Louisiana and Tennessee. USA specialist Molly ventured farther east to the less-visited states of Georgia, and North and South Carolina. Here, you can balance historical cities with beach relaxation and mountain scenery.

    11 min read

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  • Exploring the American South: Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee
    Balcony, New Orleans

    Exploring the American South: Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee

    Exploring the American South: Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee

    Your guide to exploring the American South along the Mississippi River. Sample gumbo in New Orleans, examine the history of slavery at plantations, pay tribute to the King in Memphis and get a behind-the-scenes look at country music’s most storied stage.

    9 min read

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  • Plantation homes of the American South
    Monmouth Plantation Inn, Natchez

    Plantation homes of the American South

    Plantation homes of the American South

    Juxtaposing extreme wealth and stark poverty, the American South’s plantations shine a light on the region’s past. USA specialist Carla shares her recommendations on which plantations to visit for a thorough grounding in the American South’s history.

    5 min read

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  • Luxury holidays in the American South
    French Quarter, New Orleans

    Luxury holidays in the American South

    Luxury holidays in the American South

    Different to anywhere else in America, the American South offers a varied trip focused around music, food, history and a mix of cultures. Specialist Alice shares experiences that can uncover a little more of the region and elevate your trip.

    7 min read

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  • A New Orleans food guide
    Spicy Homemade Cajun Jambalaya

    A New Orleans food guide

    A New Orleans food guide

    From a steaming bowl of belly-warming seafood gumbo to a creamy-sweet praline studded with pecans to a plate of oyster Rockefeller at Antoine’s — USA specialist Natalie introduces you to the distinctive culinary pleasures of New Orleans.

    8 min read

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  • Lobster rolls to mooncakes — eating in the United States
    Shrimp Po Boy, New Orleans

    Lobster rolls to mooncakes — eating in the United States

    Lobster rolls to mooncakes — eating in the United States

    The fastest way to a country’s heart is through your stomach. Our specialists suggest the best ways to discover regional specialties across the United States, from creole cuisine in New Orleans to a lobster roll on Cape Cod.

    8 min read

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  • 5 under-the-radar USA destinations to inspire your next trip
    Haystack Rock and Cannon Beach, Oregon

    5 under-the-radar USA destinations to inspire your next trip

    5 under-the-radar USA destinations to inspire your next trip

    Rainforests in the Pacific Northwest, a history-steeped town in the American South, and an art community in the Southwest. Our specialists share five less-visited destinations across the USA, helping you delve deeper into the country’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

    8 min read

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  • A guide to Southern food
    Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo

    A guide to Southern food

    A guide to Southern food

    Whether you’re eating po’boy sandwiches in New Orleans or diving into a plate of barbecue in South Carolina, a visit to the American South is a culinary odyssey. Here’s an introduction to some of the dishes you’re likely to encounter.

    8 min read

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  • Exploring the great outdoors in the American South
    Waterfall at Lover's Leap, Rock City, Chattanooga

    Exploring the great outdoors in the American South

    Exploring the great outdoors in the American South

    From fog-blanketed mountains to wildlife-rich marshlands, the American South abounds in opportunities for adventure. Here, USA specialist Shannon highlights how you can make the most of the region’s great outdoors, while also enjoying its music, food, and history.

    6 min read

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