Each of us has access to the Spirit. What better place to contact the Spirit than at The Island of Salvation Botanica, a store and gallery specializing in Vodou religious supply, medicinal herbs, and Haitian and local artwork. The shop was awarded the "Best of City" award by National Geographic Traveler in 2004. A visit to the Botanica will educate and enlighten you in the rich blend of cultures and spiritual tradition that is New Orleans. The Botanica is a favorite of locals who rely on it for religious supplies. The shop's owner, Sallie Ann Glassman, is an initiated Vodou priestess who calls up and mediates the power of the Spirit. Sallie Ann is internationally recognized for her lectures, art, readings, and healing ceremonies. Visitors may want to commission a visionary painting from Sallie Ann, or may want to have a custom gris-gris bag a magical power talisman made. The truly intrepid and sincerely interested may arrange to attend a Saturday night Vodou ceremony in Sallie Ann's Vodou temple, Achade Meadows. The ceremonies are performed by Sallie Ann and her full ensemble of initiated drummers, singers, and dancers. They are not performers, but actual Vodou practitioners - the real deal.
