New Orleans Louisiana Travel Guide

New Orleans, Louisiana is located at the base of the mighty Mississippi River. Long ago settled by a melding of American Indians, Africans, the Spanish and the French, this area has remained a literal melting pot of ethnicities. The Creole and Cajun populations have retained much of their culture, making New Orleans different than other U.S. cities, some calling it more European; many of the New Orleans, Louisiana hotels feature distinctive flairs.

More currently, New Orleans is known for its devastating Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Things have certainly changed, but the majority of New Orleans LA hotels, much of the history and many of the historical sites remain intact. The French Quarter and Garden District were virtually untouched. New Orleans is open for business and tourism! It also remains one of the busiest ports in the U.S. and the world.

Arrive in New Orleans either by auto or at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). The metro area with a population exceeding a million will be buzzing with excitement. First time visitors generally enjoy staying in or near the French Quarter as it gives one great walking access to many attractions. With a little planning ahead, you may be pleasantly surprised at the fair prices you can get on the many luxury hotels due to competition. Once settled in at one of these superb discount hotels, get outside and start walking!

Many visitors like to begin their exploration of New Orleans, known as The Big Easy, in the French Quarter. Eat at restaurants owned by well-known chefs, stroll along famous Avenues with unique shops and just breathe in the history and culture. Jackson Square is always lively with artists, musicians and street performers. There is no place on earth like New Orleans!

Bourbon Street is the place to party and people watch and it's Mardi Gras central. You must ride a streetcar, perhaps to the Garden District to tour historic Lafayette Cemetery. Plan to tour St. Louis Cathedral, oldest in the country. Visit the French Market, open since 1791, in the French Market District. You also might enjoy visiting the Audubon Nature Institute which features a Park, Zoo and Aquarium.

Sports fans, don’t miss a New Orleans Saints football game if you are in town – they are back! With Xavier University, Tulane University and Loyola University, you will have a plethora of sporting events from which to choose. After the game, try your luck at one of the non-stop gaming casinos. This OneTravelSource.com City Guide can help you find the perfect discount hotel close to the sporting venue of your choice. The blue Attractions tab at the top of the page will give you all the information you need on all the great things to do in New Orleans.

Considered the Birthplace of Jazz, you will always find great live music in New Orleans. During the summer you can attend the Essence Music Festival which is held here annually; the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is held the beginning of May at the Fair Grounds Race Course. For decadent dining, historic architecture and great music all in an amazing setting, New Orleans is one city in America that you simply can not miss visiting. Start your planning today!