Hawaii, LA, New Orleans in second part of 2016

[FFGrey]

Hello there

My wife and I are planning to go to Hawaii and USA later in this year (anytime after July really).
We would probably want to spend around two weeks in total, so we would go Hawaii > LA > New Orleans.

I was wondering a couple of things:

What would be the best time between July-Nov 2016 to fly?
What would be the best route and airline to fly? We usually fly Qantas economy class but would be happy with any reputable airline (for example domestic USA)

Any tips, or ideas welcome!

Thanks in advance.

Graeme.:mrgreen:

 

[Ralphie]

I'm not sure about Hawaii, but I'd lean towards mid September/October for LA and New Orleans, it'll be quieter, as summer school holidays will be over and the weather will be more pleasant. New Orleans can be hot and humid in July/August.

I've flown with United, American (and what was US), Delta and Virgin America. They are all pretty much all the same, but I have a preference for Delta, because of their FF links to Virgin Australia. I admit, I'm not sure which ones, if any, link to QANTAS but that could be something to consider in making your internal flight choices.

 

[eric2011]

I'm not sure about Hawaii, but I'd lean towards mid September/October for LA and New Orleans, it'll be quieter, as summer school holidays will be over and the weather will be more pleasant. New Orleans can be hot and humid in July/August.

I've flown with United, American (and what was US), Delta and Virgin America. They are all pretty much all the same, but I have a preference for Delta, because of their FF links to Virgin Australia. I admit, I'm not sure which ones, if any, link to QANTAS but that could be something to consider in making your internal flight choices.

I have just returned (end November) from LA and New Orleans. November in both places had a very cold snap (NOL) was down to 14C during the day. This was unusual but expect around 22-26C during the day. LA was cool as well but I was wearing shorts and shirt during the day and light coat in the evening. QF is my choice of airline with AA on the side. If you had time (48hrs) I can really, really recommend AMTRAC sleeper for the trip between the 2 cities.

 

[hm520]

Like the above, I was in NOLA in early/mid November. It was quite pleasant weather (I was getting around in casual pants and a t-shirt on a push bike), although the locals were complaining about how cold it was. It's a great place and I can recommend a few things if you'd like.

Regarding travel, AA is linked with qantas and delta with VA. I flew both. They were the same in regards to quality but compared to Qantas they were lacking.

NOLA has a flat rate of $35 + tips for a taxi from the airport to anywhere locally. I caught an uber back to the airport when I left and it was $32, but saving about $8 when you factor in tipping in a taxi.

 

[tania73]

Would highly recommend a tour of the plantations from New Orleans. I would factor in plenty of time on public transport too in NO - the trams are very slow to get around, buses are better for places like Magazine Street. I have a great air bnb recommendation if you want it - PM me

 

[eric2011]

As you only have 2 weeks in total in the states, you don't have a lot of time. In NOL
i recommend:
1. get a hotel in the CBD, French Quarter, there are heaps, both budget and 5*.
2. Do a steamboat tour up and down the Mississippi river (2-3 hours is usual)
3. Walking is the best way to get around Bourbon St and surrounds, (walking distance to your hotel in CBD or french Quarter),
4. Get a all day pass on the trams (cheap, 3-4 dollars IIRC).
5. Bourbon st can be a bit trashy late at night but bars and music and bands are great around 7-10 pm at night.
6. Do a half day city tour on Gray lines (book thru Viator before leaving aussie) Great for getting your bearings
7. If time permits an half day airboat tour thru the everglades is also a great experience

 

[robd]

I haven't been to New Orleans, so can't comment on that, but have been to Hawaii, LA and other US states in 2012 & 2014, both times in the month of September and had fantastic weather. It was hot and I don't recall having to wear a jacket at all.

Next time I head to the US, I would definitely plan to stop in Hawaii on the way there and again on the way back. Jetstar have direct flights from MEL so you could snaffle some really good fares (Y class) if you keep alert to their sales.

You haven't said what you plan to do on your holiday, so if you can give us an idea of the kind of things you're interested in, I am sure our members will be happy to advise further.