NEW YORK: ART EN ESPANOL

The galleries at El Museo del Barrio have reopened after an 18-month renovation. The museum's facilities have been reconfigured to include a cafe, a new facade and a redesigned courtyard. The reopening coincides with the launch of an exhibition, Nexus New York: Latin/American Artists in the Modern Metropolis, exploring connections between Latino and non-Latino artists of the early 20th century, and how their exchanges and cross-influences impacted avant-garde art movements.

Details: www.elmuseo.org.

NEW ORLEANS: RETURN OF THE LEGEND

Since Antoine's opened its doors in 1840, it's been a New Orleans landmark, a bastion of French Creole food and an island of grand tradition. But times, the economy and renovations following Hurricane Katrina have brought changes. The traditional Creole menu now carries English translations, the once-voluminous listings have been pared down, and one dining room has been transformed into the Hermes Bar, the first bar in Antoine's 169-year history. Even the dress code has been relaxed. ``We still don't allow things like ripped jeans and flip-flops,'' says Yvonne Alciatore Blount, whose family has run Antoine's for five generations. ``And many of our diners, especially at dinner, do enjoy dressing up, but we no longer enforce the coat and tie rule.'

Details: www.antoines.com or 504-581-4422.

-- ASSOCIATED PRESS

MEXICO: JAZZ ON THE BEACH

Playa del Carmen's a pretty hip little town all year, but some real hep gatos -- including Herbie Hancock, above -- are expected this month for the seventh annual Riviera Maya Jazz Festival. Also performing will be Na'rimbo, Mark Aanderud, Jan Alzate, Sergio Mendes, Spyro Gyra, Al Jarreau, Pat Martino and others.

Details: The jazz fest runs Nov. 25-28, and performances are free. More info at www.rivieramayajazzfestival.com.

THE CARIBBEAN: SETTING SAIL -- AGAIN

Island Windjammers is set for its inaugural sailing Nov. 15 aboard the Diamant, a 101-foot brigantine schooner. The Diamant, which accommodates 12 passengers in six staterooms, will operate out of the new Port Louis Marina in St. George's, Grenada. Island Windjammers was founded by a group of former passengers of Windjammer Barefoot Cruises, which hit rough financial waters a few years ago and went out of business in 2007.

Details: The Diamant's six-day cruises will call on Carriacou, Mayreau, Bequia, Union Island, Tobago Cays and Palm Island. All-inclusive rates start at $1,599. More at 877-772-4549 or www.islandwindjammers.com.