New Orleans is a fascinating city that has historical influences from Europe, the Caribbean and Africa. For nearly 300 years, New Orleans has been a thriving city nestled near the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico. Today, there are a number of exciting neighbourhoods to discover and explore.
Accommodation is available throughout the city and at a range of prices, from luxury hotels in the business district, bed and breakfast inns in the French Quarter and Garden District, to plantation accommodation further out of town. Additionally, there are “green" hotels for those travellers who are concerned about reducing their carbon footprint.
Top Things in New Orleans
Of course, no trip to New Orleans would be complete without spending some time in the French Quarter. Home to the world-famous Bourbon Street and the annual Mardi Gras, the French Quarter has some of the best nightlife in the world. But there is also much more to the French Quarter. It also features plenty of traditional New Orleans jazz music, gourmet restaurants, and even tours that will tell you all about the city's rich history. And if you want to be near the action, you're in luck. Many of the hotels in New Orleans can be found right in the heart of the French Quarter.
Visit the American Italian Cultural Centre located in the centre of New Orleans. Here you will find a collection of memorabilia from the sons and daughters of Italy.
Armstrong Park, located in the French quarter, is available for recreational use. The natural setting is something all visitors should experience.
Exploring the city by bike is a great adventure that will enable you to access some of the beautiful areas, such as the parks.
If you want a great view of the city, take a trip on the Algiers Ferry. Free to ride, the ferry will take you across the Mississippi River, showing off some of New Orleans' best sites along the way.
If you plan on taking in a show while you're in town, you will spend time in Kenner. The large suburb is home to the Pontchartrain Center - the area's convention centre. It's also where you can find Louis Armstrong International Airport.
For a quieter look at the area, head to Metairie. Dubbed New Orleans' “first suburb", Metairie lies on the southern shore of Lake Pontchartrain. While you're there you can book fishing and charter tours or take advantage of some great shopping in the area!
New Orleans Hotels
New Orleans accommodation comes in a variety of styles and at a range of prices. There are hotels, motels and bed and breakfasts available throughout the city. What's more there are “green" and eco-friendly hotels where they make a real effort to conserve water and save electricity.
Cheap New Orleans hotels are available for those who are travelling on a tight budget. Additionally, it is possible to book your hotel, air travel and car rental as one package as a way of saving money.
Restaurants
There is a huge range of dining options available in New Orleans. The majority of the restaurants are located in either the French quarter or the uptown/garden district. There are a number of restaurants that have a romantic theme, for if you are dining with that special person in your life.
Additionally, alfresco dining and places to eat brunch can also be found in the city of New Orleans.