American Rhythms - 11 day Self Drive with flights

Arrive in the enchanting city of New Orleans, renowned globally for its riverboats, jazz, Creole cuisine, and a vibrant array of festivals. Upon arrival, collect your car and proceed to your hotel. The rest of the evening is yours to savour at your own pace. Seize this opportunity to enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the renowned Cajun or Creole restaurants that grace the city.

Dedicate an entire day to leisure, allowing you to explore the captivating charms of New Orleans on your own. Embark on a walking tour of the Vieux Carre, also known as the French Quarter, with its narrow streets, historic buildings, and picturesque courtyards. Discover the allure of Jackson Square, Royal Street, Bourbon Street, and numerous museums. Alternatively, opt for a full-day bayou and swamp tour or indulge in a riverboat cruise along the iconic Mississippi River.

This morning, immerse yourself in the relaxed and sandy ambiance of Mississippi's Coastal region. Traverse through its scenic landscapes and, in Biloxi, seafood enthusiasts can embrace the opportunity to partake in a shrimping excursion. This distinctive and engaging cruise provides a glimpse into the captivating world of marine life, offering a firsthand experience of a genuine shrimping expedition. Journey onward to Mobile, the grand dame of Alabama's Gulf Coast. Established in 1702 as the original capital of the Louisiana Territory, Mobile graces the picturesque Gulf of Mexico with its enduring charm, modern architecture, impressive museums, and renowned seafood. Moving forward, your next destination is Montgomery, a city integral to the history of Alabama. From the Civil War to the civil rights movement, Montgomery is steeped in historical significance.

Travel northward through the fertile highlands of Alabama to reach Birmingham. A must-visit attraction in the city is the Vulcan. Soaring 56 feet in height from toe to spear point, the Vulcan holds the distinction of being the world's largest cast iron statue and is recognized as one of the most remarkable pieces of civic art in the United States. Crafted from local iron in 1904, this iconic statue has gracefully watched over the urban landscape of Alabama's largest city since the 1930s. Continue your journey north to Nashville, a city that pulsates with American music, Southern hospitality, extraordinary cuisine, and an expansive array of nightlife.

Dedicate an entire day to exploring the diverse array of attractions that Nashville boasts, including the Country Music Hall of Fame, the iconic Grand Ole Opry, Opryland U.S.A., and the renowned Printer's Alley.

Leave the capital of country and western music behind and head towards the birthplace of the blues in Memphis. This city seamlessly blends the charm of the Old South with the dynamic energy of a modern metropolis. Consider exploring downtown Memphis, renowned for its iconic Beale Street, and then venture to the opulent residence of Elvis Presley, Graceland.

Explore the Vicksburg National Military Park today, dedicated to commemorating the campaign, siege, and defence of Vicksburg in 1863. The park features an impressive collection of over 1,300 monuments, markers, and plaques, along with a 16-mile tour road and a national cemetery. This cemetery stands as the largest burial site of Civil War Union soldiers and sailors in the nation, with a total of over 17,000 graves.

Today, journey South along the Natchez Trace Parkway, a route that has transformed from an Indian trail to a post road and pioneer highway. Continue to Natchez, the oldest settlement in Mississippi. While there, consider exploring one of the plantations in the area, such as Burn, Dunleith, Melrose, Monmouth, or Longwood. Notably, Longwood is recognised as the largest octagonal house in the country.

Continue southward, and return to Louisiana through Alexandria, Ville Platte, and Opelousas, eventually reaching Lafayette—the heart of Cajun Country. This region became the starting point for the Acadians, or Cajuns, who began arriving in 1765. Today, these French Americans are renowned for their vibrant joie de vivre, evident in their lively dance, music, and flavourful cuisine. Upon reaching Lafayette, consider indulging in a walking tour downtown to explore landmark buildings. Alternatively, take a brief drive to Acadian Village, perched overlooking the bayou, where authentically restored Cajun homes and churches immerse you in the rich cultural heritage of the area.

A brief journey from Lafayette brings you to New Iberia and Avery Island, renowned as the birthplace of Tabasco sauce. Explore attractions such as Jungle Garden, teeming with tropical plants, and Bird City, a sanctuary hosting flocks of snow-white egrets. Continue your travels to Morgan City, hailed as the "Shrimp Capital of the World," and then to Houma, where you may opt for a boat tour into the deep swamp and bayou to encounter alligators and other wildlife. Follow the scenic route, with the possibility of stopping at Terre Bonne or Southdown Plantation, before reaching your final destination, New Orleans.

Your time in the south has come to an end. Return your rental car to the airport and embark on your flight back to the UK.