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By Charyn Pfeuffer

There's no better time to celebrate the spirit and support the ongoing rebuilding efforts New Orleans than now - and not just for Jazz Fest and Mardi Gras. Historic Spanish-style architecture, famous drinking establishments with storied pasts, colorful casts of street musicians and characters, and narrow brick-lined streets makes for one of the country's most dynamic cities. For budget-minded travelers, it's an easy destination for soaking up true Southern hospitality and having fun without spending a fortune.

Best taste of Creole Country
For a slice of pork paradise with a down home vibe head to Cochon in the Warehouse District. Southwestern Louisiana native Chef/owner Donald Link's marries minimalist, but warm environs, with feel-good food including fried boudin with pickled peppers, crawfish pie and roast suckling pig. Carnivore-phobes, don't fear: half of the menu features locally-fished seafood.

By Charyn Pfeuffer

Although my name isn't Paris, Nicole or Lindsay, it's still possible to shop, play and stay in La-La Land like a star.

In this image-centric city, looking like a million bucks -- and like you belong -- is your fast track ticket to gaining access to the exclusive world of the famous and fortunate.

It's simple: Accessorize yourself with as much bling as your body weight can handle. Even Tarina Tarantino pink plastic is okay. Next, outfit yourself with an energy drink or bottle of designer water, a grossly overpriced handbag, oversized sunglasses, a small dog and a vice.

Men, you too can be cool, even if you don't have talent, a big bank account or are in a band. Here's how: act confident, but not conceited. It's not about having a killer pick up line. Dress the part. Designer duds aren't a necessity, but style and good grooming habits are. Adopt a nickname. Ho-hum names like Johnny don't get noticed (unless it's followed by Depp), but nicknames like Tank or Rocket do.

Last tip: never ever hire a limo - it screams prom or Aunt Pearl's funeral. Car service is always the way to arrive in style.

Now you're ready to see and be seen. Here are the hottest spots in L.A. to get ready for your close-up:

By Charyn Pfeuffer

I'm always looking for ideas for healthy travel snacks.  On a recent visit to the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade (NASFT) Winter Fancy, I spent three days scouring more than 1,300 food vendors to figure out different snacks for trips ideas.

After scouring close to 200,000-square-feet, here is my top ten healthy travel snacks on my "must pack" travel list. Whether you're hitting the road or flying the friendly skies, these ten healthy travel snacks are easy to transport and far tastier than your usual mini-market or airport sundry store snack suspects. Keep an eye out for these snacks and give 'em a try.

Cat Cora's Kitchen by Gaea Olive Snack Packs. These straight-from-Greece Kalamata olives come in convenient, resealable TSA-friendly sized packages and fun flavors like oregano and lemon. Hello, in-flight happy hour accompaniment!

By Charyn Pfeuffer

I'd hardly consider myself a clotheshorse, but I like to pack items that make sense and look stylish when I'm on the road. I want shoes that multi-task, dresses that won't wrinkle, and socks that will keep me feet dry and warm. Above all, I want to be comfortable, while looking like I didn't just roll out of bed (even if I did, which of course, I probably did).