Tours

CSIA_19_Asheville_Logo_DS.jpgMay 18-22


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Exclusive 17th Street Canal Pumping Station Tour
Friday, May 22 | 12:30 p.m.
$100 per person

Enjoy this unique opportunity get a firsthand look at new infrastructure that is part of the city’s goal
to increase resilience to hurricanes after the devastation of Katrina in 2005. In some parts of the city, the effects of Hurricane Katrina can still be seen. Though flooding is not uncommon in New Orleans, you will get to see and understand the new resilience-oriented initiatives to address the problem.

On your way out to visit the 17th Street Canal Pumping station, your private guide will explain the effects of Hurricane Katrina, how New Orleans has risen from that disaster and how as a city below sea level, residents live with water each day. Upon arrival at the 17th Street Canal, you will join the flood protection authority for a full one hour, in-depth tour of the largest pumping station in the New Orleans area.

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Louisiana Flatboat Swamp Tour
Friday, May 22 | 12:30 p.m.
$100 per person

Forget about the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter and experience another kind of “wildlife.”
Enter the land of swamps and marshes, home to hundreds of species of unique and interesting animals while discovering the land that gave birth to the Cajun culture and cuisine. Boarding a specially designed pontoon, this excursion starts on a bayou a local parlance for a small rivulet or stream. Gnarled and twisted cypress stumps and branches lushly draped with Spanish moss line the banks of this waterway.

On this meandering cruise, the captain (a native of the region) provides an interesting and entertaining narrative of the history of this massive swampland. Catch a glimpse of any number of animals that inhibit the area: bald eagles, alligators, blue herons, snappin' turtles and water snakes — the list goes on. You will even get a peek at an authentic Cajun "trapper's shack" nestled in this beautiful swampland. For a truly fun and fantastic visit outside of the city, visit Louisiana's other wildlife!



Spouse Tours

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A Taste of the Vieux Carre
Wednesday, May 20 | 10:30 a.m.
Cost is included in the Spouse/Guest Evening + Activities registration

Explore the heart of New Orleans! Indulge in and enjoy the flavor of Creole cuisine as you learn how
to recreate the magic of New Orleans cuisine. Discover the folklore, customs and unique
architecture of this European corner of America. Stand in Jackson Square and take in the sweep of
structures that comprise the largest concentration of historic buildings to be found in North America: St. Louis Cathedral, Cabildo, the Presbytere and Madame Pontalba's row houses. Madam Pontalba was responsible for placing the imposing equestrian statue of Andrew Jackson at the center of her French Strolling Park. Atop the levee, catch the breeze and learn why New Orleans is known as The Crescent City.

Next, enjoy a highly entertaining patter about life in New Orleans as the lively chef teaches you the steps in preparing Creole delicacies — a world-famous cuisine that combines the finest elements of French and Spanish cooking with rich indigenous seafood, spices and produce. Local specialty dishes such as gumbo, andouille jambalaya and bread pudding with whiskey sauce will be demonstrated. Sample some of these delicacies as you enjoy a relaxing lunch following the presentation. Pralines and recipe cards to take home are a perfect finish to this cooking delight.

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Behind-the-Scenes Antiquing With Lunch at Antoine's
Thursday, May 21 | 3 p.m.
Cost is included in the Spouse/Guest Evening + Activities registration

M.S. Rau Antiques has been a French Quarter landmark for over 100 years, earning the trust of discerning collectors worldwide. Its two galleries, totalling over 30,000 square feet, literally overflow with remarkable collections of fine art, exquisite jewelry and, of course, exceptional 18th and 19th century antiques. This exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour allows a view of it all!

Following this intriguing tour, relax for lunch at Antoine's. In the spring of 1840, Antoine Alciatore started what has become simply, Antoine's. Synonymous for fine food, Antoine's has delighted the palates of lower's of good food everywhere. Its unforgettable cuisine, friendly service and charm are world-renowned. Antoine's is noted for its excellent French cuisine. The century-and-a-half old restaurant has 15 intimate dining rooms with unique history and charm.



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