My friends and I visited New Orleans days after Mardi Gras was over. Here are a couple of things you need to try out and make sure to do on your next trip south.

1. Try the beignets. I never knew what this delicacy was until I visited the city and was recommended by multiple sources to try out this special pastry.

2. Go on a crocodile tour. We had to drive out far north, to find an accommodation that fit within our schedule but seeing wild crocodiles and being in the middle of a swamp was definitely one of the highlights of my trip. There are tours out there that let you hold crocodiles, so if that is on your bucket list, seek it out!

3. Celebrate Mardi Gras. My friends and I went to New Orleans right after Mardi Gras was finished but the festivities were still happening! Highly recommend checking it out....maybe not on Mardi Gras but the days before and after as the city is still bustling.

4. Po-boys and jambalaya - more food and well worth the money and time.

5. Bananas foster - one of the best deserts I have had... but the real treat was watching the chef prepare the desert.

6. Head to the voodoo shops and learn more about the history of the city. Also check out the cemetery. In addition, the 'free' tours offered are a great way to explore the city and understand the cultural, historical, and social importance of the landmarks that make up New Orleans.