Like the Mississippi River it overlooks, Memphis is constantly evolving and changing pace. It is the city of Graceland, Elvis Presley's over-the-top mansion, but it's also the birthplace of blues, rock 'n' roll and soul. Here, W. C. Handy put the first written blues music down on paper, Elvis made his first recording at Sun Studios, and Otis Redding and Al Green expressed the music in their souls, vividly documented at the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Slip on your blue suede shoes and hit the laid-back streets.

Elvis Presley sites are a must-see in Memphis, and if a home is a man's castle, Graceland was The King's. Glimpse the graceful charm of pre-Civil War society at the Hunt-Phelan mansion, and ponder the slave trade at the Auction Square monument. The lush oasis of Overton Park, where the city picnics and plays, is also home to the Memphis Zoo, the Memphis College of Art, and the Brooks Museum of Art.

Smoky jazz, blues and country bars line famous Beale Street, the home of the blues, especially at B.B. King's, where the legendary guitarist plays several times each year. Away from Beale Street, sip a cocktail and watch the sunset over the Mississippi from the rooftop garden of the Madison Hotel, or take in an opera or Broadway musical at the Orpheum Theatre. Don't overlook the surprisingly lively bar scene in East Memphis steakhouses.

Amtrak rail from Memphis to New Orleans

There’s no doubt that The Big Easy (New Orleans) is the jewel in Louisiana's crown thanks to special spots like the lively historic French Quarter where you will find the buzzing Bourbon Street, perfect for the ultimate night out, and the charming Garden District with its boutiques, cafes and fine dining restaurants.  Situated alongside North America's greatest river, the Mississippi gives you the opportunity to take an authentic steamboat cruise, checking out the cities shoreline whilst listening to a live Jazz band.

This is a city that bleeds music, loves food and demands everyone have a good time.  In fairness, it’s hard not to have a good time in New Orleans, and that’s largely thanks to the friendly folks who live here. The food in particular is incredibly delicious, filling and cheap, and the balmy subtropical climate ensures that conditions are pleasant to be outside all year round.

We have some amazing deals to this incredible city, which we share with you below.  Call or enquire via the website today and you could soon be on your way to experiencing 'Southern Hospitality' at its finest!

Fly from New Orleans to the UK