Now that New Orleans is returning to regular party levels since the revelry known as Mardi Gras ended, it’s a good time to savor the experience and spend a couple of days reflecting while you pamper yourself after the pandemonium. 

Accommodations:  The Big Easy’s W Hotels are conveniently located in the Central Business District (one in the famed French Quarter), and both offer equally  dazzling digs with spectacular spaces to catch your breath in. 

Attraction; For a win-win situation stop in at Harrah’s Casino. You can actually get to the tables now that Fat Tuesday has passed and make your way around the Riverwalk for a unique shopping and dining experience.

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Once you’ve rested up, head on over to Houston (only 350 miles away or a little under an hour flying time) for a change of scenery and space to stretch out. 

Accommodations: The Hotel Indigo Houston at the Galleria is located in the trendy Houston Galleria area at the heart of the Uptown District. These trendy and stylish accommodations offer the ideal balance for weary travelers.

Attraction: Spend the day at the world-class Galleria Mall with its 375 shops and restaurants; and spend the evening hours in the Theater District enjoying dinner and a show.

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If you’re in the mood for a little more variety, move on to Dallas (driving distance is 240 miles), but culturally the two cities are worlds apart.

Accommodations: Four Seasons Dallas offers polished interiors, superb service and the finest sports club and spa in the DFW Metroplex.

Attractions: The Dallas African American Museum displays African American artistic, cultural and historical materials. Special exhibits for African American History month include civil rights era photographs and Vietnam era news footage.