Rhythms of the South

Fly from the UK to New Orleans, USA.

Welcome to New Orleans, the heart and soul of Louisiana! Since 1718, this lively port city has welcomed travellers from all corners of the globe, blending French, Spanish, African, Caribbean and Anglo influences into a culture all its own. From the vibrant architecture and tantalising cuisine to the world-famous music spilling from every corner, New Orleans is alive with energy. This evening, your Tour Director will be on hand to help you plan your stay—whether you want to explore the buzzing French Quarter or discover a hidden jazz club, adventure awaits.

Today is all yours to dive into the irresistible charm of New Orleans. Start your day with an optional visit to a historic plantation and step back into the Deep South’s past. Then wander the French Quarter, where wrought-iron balconies overlook cobblestone streets and every corner seems to hum with music and stories. Don’t forget to stop at a local café for beignets and café au lait—because here, even breakfast has rhythm. Whether you stroll, shop, or listen to live jazz, the city’s unique beat will capture your heart.

This morning, head to Baton Rouge, Louisiana’s bustling capital, for a brief city tour showcasing its distinctive charm. From there, the journey follows the historic Natchez Trace Parkway, a scenic 444-mile drive steeped in Native American and European history. Arriving in Natchez, the oldest European settlement on the Mississippi, you’ll glimpse the grandeur of antebellum life. Wealthy planters once built stunning homes here, safe from the river’s floods. This afternoon, step inside one of these elegant estates to imagine the lavish lifestyle of 19th-century millionaires and see how history lives on along the Mississippi.

Leave Natchez and travel to Memphis, a city where the blues were born and Elvis made history. As a vital river port, Memphis played a huge role in the cotton trade before the Civil War. Enjoy a brief city tour, including the legendary Beale Street, alive with music in nearly a dozen clubs nightly. Cruise along historic Front Street, once bustling with cotton traders. And for music fans, a visit to Graceland is an optional must—walk in the footsteps of the King himself and soak up the magic of Memphis.

Next stop: Nashville, the undeniable capital of country music. This city earned its crown with the first WSM Barn Dance broadcast, the precursor to the iconic Grand Ole Opry. Today, you’ll see why Nashville is the heartbeat of country music with visits to the newly renovated Ryman Auditorium, historic studios along Music Row and even Opryland. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just here for the atmosphere, Nashville’s energy, tunes and storytelling will sweep you along in its rhythm. Every street and sound tells a story worth hearing.

Spend the day exploring Music City, where the spirit of country music echoes from every corner. Begin with a morning city tour, taking in Nashville’s landmarks and discovering its vibrant culture. For music lovers, a behind-the-scenes visit to one of the many recording studios might even reveal the next big hit before it charts. In the evening, consider an optional dinner and show to cap off your Nashville experience—where else can you enjoy a meal while tapping your toes to live music that feels like it was made just for you?

Leaving Nashville, make your way to Chattanooga, famous for the historic Choo Choo and a downtown renaissance that has earned national acclaim. Stroll the revitalised riverfront and take in the city’s charm before continuing to Atlanta. In Georgia’s capital, there’s still time to explore—maybe the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, or the iconic CNN Center. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for fun, Atlanta’s eclectic energy ensures your last full day on the tour is just as vibrant as the journey itself.

Fly from Atlanta to the UK.