Destination Guide
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Our favourite hotels
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Omni Royal Orleans
from £108.00
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Crowne Plaza Resort Ashveille
From £28.00
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Marriott Downtown
From £54.00
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Millennium Maxwell House
from £28.00
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Holiday Inn Resort, Pigeon Forge
from £20.00
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Maison Dupuy Hotel
From £36.00
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Chateau Le Moyne
from £100.00
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Maison St.Charles
From £33.00
New Orleans Guide
To book this destination call us on
0800 804 8911
About New Orleans
The Big Easy or the Crescent City, call it what you will; New Orleans is at once one of the US's most historical and hedonistic cities, an unlikely mixture that somehow sits well with this carefree place. It is fair to say of New Orleans nowadays that people come here to party. The most famous blow-out is of course Mardi Gras when the French Quarter and its surroundings play host to a massive costume parade, but in truth New Orleans is almost as lively the whole year round.
The main thoroughfare of Bourbon St boasts more bars than you could shake a chicken's foot at - this is the home of voodoo after all. But look behind the scenes and you'll find that there is more to the city than long nights and free flowing fun. A thriving art scene is represented in the city's many galleries and museums, where Cajun (the French Canadians who settled here in the 18th century) cultural influences can be seen blended with American forms to create a unique style that is all New Orleans's own.
The architecture is some of the most varied and interesting found anywhere in the US. From the French influenced elegance of the balustraded balconies and buildings of the French Quarter to the Gothic style of New Orleans's famous necropolis, the St Louis cemetery. And this is far from all there is to learn about here. The city's role in the War of Independence and the Civil War is well documented. The hero of the Battle of New Orleans, General Jackson, still sits atop his horse in the square named after him, against the backdrop of one of the finest cathedrals in the country.
Finally, spicy and fruity Creole cooking adds its own unique flavours to the mix, while everything is interwoven with the smoky sounds of jazz, the distinctive sound of New Orleans. Hurricane Katrina, which hit New Orleans and the surrounding area in August 2005, has caused widespread damage in the states of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. Most major services and amenities have been restored in New Orleans and it is possible to visit as a tourist. However, many areas of the city are still severely damaged and some hotels and attractions are still under reconstruction. You are advised to check on the situation prior to travel to avoid disappointment.
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Accommodation
If you're coming to New Orleans ideally you want to be as close to the action as possible, which means the French Quarter. The most beautiful inner city in the US you can get everything here, from historical elegance to bargain basement. Be warned though, if you're intending to come here for Mardi Gras then you'd better plan well in advance - rooms are booked years ahead right across the spectrum of accommodation.
Hotels throughout the city range from massive international chains to local resthouses and bed and breakfasts. Naturally Bourbon St, the Big Easy's epicentre, is where everybody wants to stay, and there are good and surprisingly refined hotels along this lively thoroughfare, but you shouldn't be blinkered to the possibility of getting a room elsewhere. Consider that Bourbon St is a 24hr a day party, and if you value a bit of peace you might not find it to be everything you want. Head south of Jackson Square to find many of the larger hotels, the Astor Crown Plaza on the intersection of Bourbon and Canal Streets is a massive grand hotel, offering the highest standards of service and facilities. With trams running along the street outside it's a great place to stay, near to, but not too near to the action.
The French Quarter is quite compact as is the city as a whole, and any hotel should be within easy walking distance of New Orleans's main attractions. Decatur St, exclusive Royal St and Bienville St all contain high quality hotels and aren't too far removed from Bourbon. Royal St is home to the Holiday Inn French Quarter, one of the international chain's fine hotels, offering a good standard of accommodation, including gym and pool.
Hit the link below for immediate access to our range of hotels available for booking online.
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Communications
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Entertainment
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Excursions
The Big Easy's laid-back attitude might tempt you to laziness, but there are several sites just outside the city that are worth making the effort to see.
For more information and the opportunity to book sightseeing tours online, visit the link below:
Fort Jackson
At the mouth of the Mississippi, Fort Jackson once formed the cornerstone of New Orleans's seaward defences against possible invasion. Andrew Jackson ordered its construction in 1822, to bolster the defences afforded by the nearby ageing Fort St Phillip. Not that it did much good when Union forces under Farragut sailed up the river on April 16, 1862 and pounded the fort with mortars for seven nights before bypassing its still defiant defences to sail upriver and claim New Orleans uncontested. The fort itself surrendered four days later.
The Fort was somewhat reinforced in the late 19th century, but it is basically still the same as when it was first completed in 1832. After falling into disrepair the site was acquired by the local council in 1960 and was declared a national historical monument. Having become silted up, it was much renovated and the interior was cleaned sufficiently to allow visitors.
On site there's a museum while you can walk the still rather formidable walls and see some of the intact gun placements and even the odd piece of ordnance found at the site and lovingly restored. Noticeboards located around the fort keep you informed about the history of the fort and how the battle for it unfolded.
Although a rather picturesque day out at any time of year, if you can swing a visit around the first weekend of April you might catch the annual Civil War re-enactment that takes place here on the anniversary of the fort's fall. Union and Confederates battle it out on the grassy sward around the fort, much to the delight of local onlookers. Tel: +1 (1)985-657-7083.Fontainebleau State Park
On the other side of Lake Pontchartrain from the city, Fontainebleau State Park is an expanse of protected land, with a variety of terrain ranging from beach to forest. Accessible enough to be a comfortable family outing, while large enough to feel that you've escaped the city the park offers attractions such as picnic areas and cycling and hiking trails.
The park was named by the erstwhile owner of the land, a French immigrant called Bernard de Marigny de Mandeville. This rather high-minded aspirant sugar magnate named his reserve after one of Louis XIV's favourite recreational hunting grounds, a park just outside Paris. He also established the nearby town of Mandeville in the mid-19th century. The remains of the sugar processing mill can still be seen right in the centre of Fontainebleau. South-east of the mill are hiking and biking trails and marshes, while to the north and west are picnic areas, a short stretch of beach and the main camping sites.
You can spend a pleasant afternoon here, being as active (cycling, windsurfing, canoeing) or lazy (barbecues and bird-watching) as you like. There is loads of wildlife to spot and the organised camping means that you could have a mini-adventure just a few kilometres from the city. Just off Highway 190.
Chalmette Battlefield and Cemetery
General Andrew Jackson is one of America's first national heroes, and is a familiar name to any school child in the country. In 1815 this native of New Orleans was at the head of the defensive forces in the city as a sizeable British invasion advanced in the last mainland offensive of the War of 1812. They met at Chalmette and Jackson's resounding victory as he repelled the invaders, which included a crack regiment of battle hardened Highlanders, went down in the annals of history as the last battle ever fought between American and British forces.
That Jackson was victorious is even more notable when you take into account that his force was outnumbered two to one and was made up in no small part of local militia, volunteers and a party of pirate Jean Lafitte's blood-thirsty "Baratarians". The site of what is now known as "The Battle of New Orleans" is today a popular place to visit both for casual tourists and those with an interest in military history from both sides of the Atlantic.
The visitors centre on the site will fill you in with the principal points of the battle while a short signed walk demonstrates how the exchange unfolded in just two short hours. You can still see the Rodriguez Canal that Jackson employed as part of his defensive line, and the earthern rampart and gun placements he bolstered it with have been reconstructed in part. The Malus-Beauregard House now stands in the middle of the battlefield. Built some 20 years after the battle, it served as a residence for local gentry for more than a hundred years. The Chalmette Memorial is a memorial to the battle, while the nearby Chalmette Cemetery is a vast graveyard containing war dead from several conflicts, although only one from the Battle of New Orleans.
Chalmette. 12km south-east of New Orleans on Highway 46. Tel: +1 (1)504-281-0510. -
Family
New Orleans has enough going on to fascinate kids without making special provision for them. The Six Flags adventure park is geared up to keep kids thrilled with the latest whiteknucklers and themed attractions, while the amount of voodoo, ghosts and graveyard related stuff is never going to go out of fashion. In the unlikely event that your children need even more to occupy themselves with then try these suggestions for further activities in the city, suitable for everyone.
Family Entertainment
Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
- waterworld
New Orleans's aquarium is one of the leading aquariums in the US with over 10,000 animals being housed in its massive tanks. Separated into different aquatic regions you can explore the Amazon Rainforest, the Mississippi River, the Gulf of Mexico and even walk through the coral rich waters of the Carribean via the 30 foot tunnel that runs through the 132,000 gallon tank. The alligators are the stars of the show in the Mississippi section; with their wild brethren inhabiting the swamps just outside the city here you can get close (but not too close) to the fearsome reptiles. In the touch pool you can get to grips with rays and even a baby shark. Open: daily 09h30-18h00 (until 19h00 Fri & Sat).
1 Canal St
Tel: +1 (1)800-774-7394
Admission: USD14, adults; USD6.50, children. * This attraction is currently closed. Due to re-open in July 2006.Entergy Imax Cinema
- surround sound and vision
Connected to the Aquarium complex, this huge IMAX cinema theatre boasts a screen over five storeys tall. The massive screen means you feel part of the action, while the incredible 3D vision completely immerses you in shows such as "Into the Deep" or "Bugs", which super-magnifies the world of insects. Shows daily from 10h00 onwards. Check listings for exact times.
1 Canal St
Tel: +1 (1)800-774-7394
Admission: USD8, adult; USD5, children. Double Feature tickets and combined admission tickets are also available. * This attraction is currently closed. Due to re-open in July 2006.Audubon Zoo
- all creatures great and small
Audubon Zoo is a lovely day out for the family. Admire the lush green gardens, and the amazing array of animals. Gaze at the white alligators, the Bengali tigers, gorillas and rattlesnakes. Watch out for the daily presentations by the zoo staff, and make sure to visit the Embraceable Zoo where visitors get the chance to touch endangered domestic animals in a harm free environment. Once you have wandered around the zoo, take the children to see the animal shows, featuring the sea lions and elephants. Open: daily 09h30-17h00 (until 18h00 Fri & Sat)
6500 Magazine St, approx 10km from the city centre
You can cruise from the Aquarium to the Zoo aboard the John James Audubon Riverboat
Tel: +1 (1)1-866-ITS-AZOO (487-2966)
Admission: USD12, adults; USD7, children. * This attraction is currently only opened Sat-Sun 10h00-16h00.
The "Passport to Adventure" pass costs USD23.95 and covers two IMAX movies, one IMAX "ridefilm", museum entrance and virtual reality roller coaster ride.
The Zoo, Aquarium and Entergy Imax Cinema are all part of the Audubon Nature Institute. You can pay separately for each attraction but if planning on visiting more than one you should consider buying one of the following combo tickets.
Aquarium + IMAX: USD18, adult; USD10.50, children.
Aquarium + Zoo: USD18, adult; USD9.25, children.
Aquarium + Zoo + IMAX: USD25, adult; USD13.75 children. -
Health and Safety
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Money
Currency
Currency: United States Dollars (USD). USD1=100 cents
Notes: USD1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100
Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents and USD1
Credit cards: American Express, Visa and MasterCard are accepted in major hotels and business establishments.Exchange
You can exchange currency at some but not all banks and dedicated bureaux de change. However, exchange facilities are not as widespread as in other major cities and carrying foreign currency isn't the best way to obtain cash in New Orleans. The most convenient option is to carry a debit or credit card and withdraw dollars direct from ATMs. Note that to do so will involve the payment of a fee per transaction, and you should ascertain what these charges will amount to before travelling. It is advisable to withdraw cash in substantial amounts to keep charges to a minimum.
Travellers cheques are accepted in hotels/stores/restaurants as long as they are in USD.
You can find bureaux de change, including a Travelex, at the airport. In the city centre bureaux de change are slightly harder to locate. Your best bet is one of the following banks which offer some exchange services:Whitney National Bank
228 St Charles Ave
Tel: +1 (1)504-586-7456
Hibernia National Bank
313 Carondelet St
Tel: +1 (1)504-533-5712Banks
Banks are generally open at least from 09h00-15h00 Mon-Fri. These are just a few main branches in the city:
Whitney National Bank
228 St Charles Ave
Tel: +1 (1)504-586-7168
Bank of Louisiana
300 St Charles Ave
Tel: +1 (1)504-592-0600
The following centrally located bank is open on a Saturday should you need banking services urgently. ATMs can be used 24hours a day.Hibernia National Bank
French Quarter branch
137 Royal St
Tel: +1 (1)504-533-3586 -
Phrase Book
English is spoken throughout the United States, although in cities such as Los Angeles, Miami and El Paso, Spanish is the majority language. American English itself does have its own peculiarities so the following guide may be useful:
American English ATM
Cash Machine Cab
Taxi Cop
Policeman Collect Call
Reverse charge call Penny, Nickel, Dime, Quarter
One cent coin, five cents, ten cents, twenty-five cents Buck/Greenback
Dollar Phone Booth
Public phone Freeway
Motorway Gas
Petrol Trunk
Boot Hood
Bonnet Hero/Hoagie
Sandwich Bummer
Disappointment Sidewalk
Pavement Can/John
Toilet Vacation
Holiday Holidays Christmas 
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Restaurants and Bars
Restaurants
New Orleans is a city where food is all important, and there are countless restaurants and cafés vying for your trade. Special deals can be found by simply walking through the French Quarter at night. Touts will try to get you into "their" restaurant, usually offering a very good meal deal, so don't necessarily be put off by them.
Of course Cajun cuisine is the distinctive taste of New Orleans, and you'll have no shortage of opportunity. Traditional gumbo has to be tried, as does the jambalaya, and you can never escape the vast amounts of seafood restaurants. If you'd like to try you hand at cooking as well as eating Cajun food try a visit to the Mardi Gras School of Cooking, run by chef Richard Bond. The organised classes teach you the ins and outs of cooking the Cajun way. Contact the school on Tel: +1 (1)504-362-5225.
PRICE GUIDE: (average cost of a main course):
= less than USD10 
= USD10-15 
= USD15+ Southern and Cajun
House of Blues
225 Decatur St
Tel: +1 (1)504-310-4999
Featuring such items as "Creole Jambalaya" and "Voodoo Shrimp" on the menu the House of Blues is a great place to dine, as well as one of the city's top live music venues. Go for the Gospel brunch on a Sunday, it's an all you can eat Southern style blow-out, complete with Gospel choir entertainment.NoLa
534 Saint Louis St
Tel: +1 (1)504-522-6652
Chef Emeril Lagasse is celebrated the world over for his innovative reworkings of Creole classic dishes, and his French Quarter home at NoLa certainly comes up to muster to rival his original restaurant (Emeril's, 800 Tchoupitoulas St) for the place to eat in the city. Reservations are a must, as is smart dress - but the to die for signature creations of the masterchef make a bit of effort more than worthwhile. If you need to stop to consider the cost, it means you probably can't afford to eat here.Commander's Palace
1403 Washington Ave
Tel: +1 (1)504-899-8221
First opened in 1880, Commanders Place is one of the city's most celebrated restaurants. The venerable old house it occupies is typical of the Garden District. Its neat corner turret gives it a rakish air, as does its less salubrious history as a house of doubtful if not ill-repute. Inside the is elegant and tasteful, modern but acknowledging of its period past. The menu is mainly Cajun although of a cut above the norm, with prices to match. It's worth it for the elegance however. * Restaurant currently closed. Due to re-open late spring or early summer.Brennan's
417 Royal St
Tel: +1 (1)504-525-9711
One of many French Quarter restaurants that has set up shop in a fine 18th-century building on Royal St, Brennan's is one of the largest restaurants of its type, boasting 12 equally elegant dining rooms and a beautiful courtyard for outdoor dining. French influenced Cajun cuisine is the order of the day. Brennan's is most famous for its breakfasts, make sure you try the house special - "eggs hussarde". * Restaurant currently closed. Due to re-open in April 2006.Patout's Cajun Cabin
503 Bourbon St
Tel: +1 (1)504-529-4256
In a traditionally styled Bourbon St building the Cajun Cabin offers up a whole range of fare featuring local ingredients such as fresh oysters and alligator.Petunia's Restaurant
817 St Louis St
Tel: +1 (1)504-522-6440
Located in an elegant three storey 19th-century Creole townhouse with coal burning fireplaces, Petunia's is home to the world's largest crepes (14" long), and stuffed with all manner of savoury Cajun fillings. Once you've polished off one of those you can start working your way through the sweet menu.
The Court of Two Sisters
613 Royal St
Tel: +1 (1)504-522-7261
Long regarded as one of the finest Creole restaurants in the city The Court of Two Sisters occupies one of the elegant townhouses known as Governor's Row. The Jazz brunch is famous all over the city, with entertainment and fine dining available in the courtyard. In the evening the fine dining rooms are the perfect place for an intimate meal.American
Dickie Brennan's Steakhouse
716 Iberville St
Tel: +1 (1)504-522-2467
Elegant but casual and cosy French Quarter restaurant serving prime beef steaks, seafood, game & poultry. Reservations are recommended but not always required. * Restaurant currently closed. Due to re-open in April 2006.Asian
Lemon Grass
International House Hotel, 221 Camp St
Tel: +1 (1)504-553-9550
There are a number of Vietnamese restaurants in the city but few come close to matching Chef Minh's distinctive creations that successfully blend Vietnamese style and Cajun seafood. Very popular with the trendy set, you'd better book in advance if you're planning on dining here.Seafood
Mike Anderson's Seafood Restaurant
215 Bourbon St
Tel: +1 (1)504-524-3884
Catfish, crawfish and crabs all go into the pot at Mike Anderson's well-established restaurant. The excellent seafood is all cooked creole style and served up in casual surroundings, with saltwater aquariums adding a bit of colour. The 25 cents salty oysters are always popular with a couple of beers at the bar.Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
429 Decatur St
Tel: +1 (1)504-522-5800
A Forrest Gump themed restaurant. No surprises that there are masses of shrimp to be eaten, prepared in all manner of different styles. Try the coconut shrimp for something completely different. If you don't fancy the shrimp there's loads of fishy alternatives, including crabs and oysters.Mexican
Country Flame
620 Iberville St
Tel: +1 (1)504-522-1138
A cheap and cheerful Mexican restaurant/take-out near to the market, Country Flame is popular with locals and tourists alike. Although Mexican is the dominant influence you can also sample some flavours from Cuba and the Carribean.European
Galatoire's
209 Bourbon St
Tel: +1 (1)504-525-2021
Perhaps the finest restaurant in the whole of New Orleans, Galatoire's has occupied the same spot for nearly a century. Tennessee Williams was one of its regular customers during his time in the city which adds to the draw, but in any case the French influenced cuisine, heavy on the fish, would be packing them in regardless. Jacket and tie required for dinner or Sunday eating, and at other times make sure you're not in your scruffs.
Totorici's
441 Royal St
Tel: +1 (1)504-522-4295
The oldest Italian restaurant in the French Quarter Tortorici's has been serving up a unique blend of Italian and Cajun cuisine for nearly a century. Elegant surroundings are more than matched with the excellent standard of cooking. The extensive wine list is designed to perfectly complement your choice of dish.Bars
The best area in New Orleans for bars is without question the world famous Bourbon Street, located in the heart of the French Quarter. Bars literally line the street and its tributaries, and the area comes alive at night as tourists and locals alike sample the various cocktails including the famous "Hurricane". There are so many bars in the city that an exhaustive list is impossible. What follows is merely the most well-known tip of a rather large iceberg.Lafitte's Blacksmith's Shop
941 Bourbon St
Tel: +1 (1)504-522-9377
Allegedly used by infamous pirate Jean Lafitte for his illicit deals. During the day artists, writers and locals occupy it. At night, Johnny Gordon belts out old time songs while the pub is lit only by candlelight, casting spectacular shadows on the dark stone walls. Quiet and ambient by day, and relaxing at night, this is the place to go if you want a quiet drink with some great piano music. It is supposed to be the most haunted (and oldest) bar in New Orleans...Pat O'Brien's
718 St Peters St
Tel: +1 (1)504-525-4823
Oriented around its central courtyard, complete with fountain O'Brien's boasts three bars, several function rooms and a restaurant. The Main Bar is the place to head to down a few beers with the locals, while the piano bar offers slightly more refinement, and is the place to enjoy a hurricane while listening to the duelling pianists who play nightly.Coyote Ugly Saloon
225 N Peters St
Tel: +1 (1)504-561-0003
If you've seen the movie you'll know what to expect from this franchise bar. It's a lively, crazy and fun, tongue in cheek bar with wild girls strutting their stuff on the bars. It's no surprise that the clientele are mainly young males, but the atmosphere is friendly enough, and being honest the behaviour isn't as wild as you'll find elsewhere on Bourbon.
Whiskey Blue
333 Poydras St
Tel: +1 (1)504-207-5016
New Orleans's bar to be seen in Whisky Blue is a laid back hangout strictly for the A-list crowd. If you want to get in make sure that you're dressed to impress, and play it cool. You'll still be counted among the hoi-polloi for this place though - movie actors and sports superstars head here when they're in town.d.b.a.
618 Frenchman St
Tel: +1 (1)504-942-3731
Predominantly a bar serving an absolutely vast range of drinks, d.b.a. is a spin-off from a New York bar of the same name. There's live music on occasion to keep the energy up, although by the 04h00 shutting time most people have had one too many from the beer menu. A locals' hangout a few minutes' walk from the French Quarter, if you're visiting late on make sure you take a cab.Maple Leaf
8316 Oak St
Tel: +1 (1)504-866-9359
One of the city's most highly respected jazz and blues joints. Very laid back with a local crowd, who start the party really rolling after midnight. -
See and Do
The ghost capital of the United States and the home of the continent's biggest annual street party, New Orleans has always been something of a place apart from the rest of the nation, and has long had an almost mythical status. Voodoo, jazz and a European ambience that you won't find anywhere else in the central United States all go to create a truly unique experience.
For more information and the opportunity to book sightseeing tours online, visit the link below:
Cemeteries, Ghosts and Voodoo
The most haunted city in the US - officially - organised tours offer the chance to explore the New Orleans's many cemeteries and old houses of the French Quarter.
Gray Line offers an extensive range of tours of this ilk, including the chance to take a morning visit to St Louis No.1, the most famous cemetery in the city. It contains the tomb of "Voodoo Queen" Marie Laveau. The evening "Ghost Tour" meanwhile visits the many haunted establishments of the French Quarter, including O'Flaherty's, and offers the chance to learn the secret of the "singing rain".
If you're feeling a bit more adventurous take the Bloody Mary Haunted Moonlight Cemetery tour, New Orleans's only after-dark graveyard tour. It is a fascinating walk around Oddfellows Rest, a secret society cemetery, under the guidance of local voodoo practitioner, "Bloody Mary" herself.
Gray Line Tours, ground floor of Jackson Brewery Mall, 2 Canal St. Tel: +1 (1)504-569-1401.
Haunted Moonlight Cemetery Tour, Bloody Mary Tours, Tel: +1 (1)504-915-7774.Jackson Square
Jackson Square is considered to be the very heart of New Orleans. At the centre of the historic French Quarter it is surrounded by the finest and most interesting buildings in the city, including the 1850 House and the Cabildo. The Cabildo dates from the late 18th century and was once the seat of the Spanish colonial governor. The signing of the Louisiana Purchase took place here in 1803. The 1850 house, it is no surprise to learn, was built in 1850 by a Spanish colonial family to a Parisian style that is typical of the elegant French Quarter. Both are now run by the Louisiana State Museum.
The St Louis Cathedral dominates the square. Built in the mid-19th century, on the site of several previous cathedral churches, it is a marvellous European style basilica.
The square itself is also worth exploring, with its central garden and statue of General Andrew Jackson - the hero of the Battle of New Orleans. The walkway and iron balustrade that encircles the garden is the home of many street artists, tarot readers, and New Orleans blues and jazz singers.Bourbon St and The French Quarter
The French Quarter is the most famous part of New Orleans, and what most people consider the "true" city. Oriented around elegant Jackson Square it is a maze of streets lined with colonial mansions and town houses. The much photographed iron balustrades that front the balconies are a defining image of the city, and plenty of people spend their time in New Orleans simply browsing the shops and bars here.
Bourbon St is the central thoroughfare. Although it can be a little bit tacky it is still worth wandering down its length to see the well-worn tourist spots such as Lafitte's Blacksmith's shop. Royal St is more elevated, with refined shops selling top-quality expensive jewellery and antiques. However, the more rewarding parts of the French Quarter are the numerous narrow streets and alleys, such as Pirates Alley north of Jackson Square near the cathedral, where you can still get the sense of discovering the city for yourself.
Besides the simple pleasures of wandering the quarter there are numerous museums and places to visit, including the Conti Wax Museum and the Napoleon House. Up in the north of the quarter the Voodoo Temple and the St Louis graveyards always draw those visitors fascinated with the city's ghoulish side.Louisiana Swamp Tour
The Louisiana swamps that surround New Orleans and the Mississippi are rich in wildlife, and offer some unique scenery that make a half-day trip out of the city well worthwhile.
Swamp boats offer floating tours of the area, starting only a short bus ride across the Mississippi River from the city centre. Tour guides on board tell you the history of the region, inlduing the incredible Cajun people who somehow settled this inhospitable terrain. The animals are generally used to the tour boats and it is usually easy to get some fabulous pictures of snakes, alligators and numerous wading birds as they bask in the sun.
Gray Line Tours, ground floor of Jackson Brewery Mall, 2 Canal St. Tickets: USD24, adults; USD15, children. Tours depart: 09h30, 12h00 & 14h10. Tel: +1 (1)504-689-3599.Blaine Kern's Mardi Gras World
Blaine Kern's Mardi Gras World is a museum/theme park dedicated to New Orleans's famous carnival. Kerns Studios here creates many of the fabulous floats and sculptures that makes the carnival day procession one of the world's most colourful events, and visitors can tour the "dens" where hundreds of talented artists create and decorate the sculptures that will adorn each "krewe's" float.
The subject matter runs the whole gamut, from fantasy monsters, to the latest stars of Hollywood blockbusters and classical stars of the silver screen. Life size models of cinema icons ranging from Marilyn Monroe to Mickey Mouse greet you, and creatures of myth and legend are on permanent display. Guests can enter into the spirit of carnival themselves by dipping into the Mardi Gras wardrobe and dressing up as colourful figures of history. Permanent exhibits include the largest float ever to take part in the Mardi Gras parade, the 240-foot "Captain Eddie's SS Endymion".
233 Newton St, New Orleans. Take the Canal St free ferry to Algiers, where Mardi Gras World provides free transportation from the ferry. Open: 09h30-16h30. Admission: USD15, adults; USD7.25, children. Tel: +1 (1)504-361-7821.Mississippi Steamboat Cruise
The Steamboat Natchez is New Orleans's only surviving steamboat from the 19th century, when these mighty paddlesteamers used to ply the Mississippi.
Much refurbished, the vessel is surprisingly large, measuring 265ft from its prow to the mighty paddle wheel that drives the Natchez up and down the river, and it is easy to imagine what a crowded place the docks would have been when these river leviathans were sailing through the city regularly.
All cruises last two hours and depart from the city dock, just south of the French Quarter. Although the scenery along the banks isn't always the best, being more 21st century than 19th, this is still an important slice of history. The harbour cruise departs twice daily at 11h30 and 14h30. You can take lunch on board if you book it in advance. The evening dinner cruise boards at 18h00, casting off at 19h00.
Ticket booth & Dock behind Jacksons Brewery on Mississippi River (bottom of Toulouse St). Tickets: Harbour Cruise: USD18.50 (USD26 with lunch). Dinner Cruise: USD31.50 (USD54 with dinner). Tel: +1 (1)504-586-8777.Six Flags New Orleans
Six Flags New Orleans is the premier theme park in Louisiana. Covering 140 acres there is more than enough for anyone here, with six themed areas, most of which take their cue from the famous "Crescent City" nearby. Cajun country and Jazz Plaza offer the cuisine and distinctive entertainment of the south Louisiana region, while "Mardi Gras" recreates the pomp and pageantry of the city's world famous carnival all year round.
Kids will want to head for the DC Comics Super Heroes Adventure section, for rides like Lex Luther's Invertatron and Batman. However, on the other side of the park the Jester ride or the traditional Mega-zeph 'coaster guarantee even more white knuckle thrills.
Junction of I-10 and I-510. 20 miles from central New Orleans. Admission: USD35.99, adults; USD25.99, anyone under 48 inches (limited access to rides). Tel: +1 (1)504-253-8100.
* Six Flags New Orleans is currently closed. No opening date has been confirmed yet.
New Orleans Museum of Art
The New Orleans Museum of Art (commonly shortened to NOMA) is the city's premier artistic institution. It has been present in the city since 1911, when it opened as the Isaac Delgado Museum of Art with a collection of 400 paintings and artefacts. It now boasts over 40,000 works, drawn from all over the world and reflecting New Orleans's cosmopolitan nature.
The French collection, unsurprisingly considering the city's heritage, is particularly noteworthy. Most famously there is a series of canvases by Edgar Degas, who visited New Orleans in 1871. The museum is also renowned for its Art of the Americas collection, which draws together works from North, South and Central America, including items from the ancient Mayan and Aztec civilisations. The latest addition to the institution's increasingly significant collection is the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, a five acre open-air park showcasing a large collection of sculptures from contemporary artists as well as 20th-century sculptors such as Henry Moore and George Segal.
Collins Diboll Circle, City Park. Open: Tue-Sun 10h00-17h00. Admission: free. Charges apply for special exhibitions. Tel: +1 (1)504-488-2631.
* This museum is currently closed. Due to re-open in March 2006.
Historic French Market
The Historic French Market just south-east of Jackson Square in the triangle formed by Dacatur and N Peters St isn't quite as historic as its name implies, but still remains an essential visit for any tourist. There is evidence that this was once the site of a bartering market for native Americans long before New Orleans was settled by colonials. By the early-19th century the French Market was a bustling hive of commercial activity.
In the decades through the mid-19th century the market moved down the social spectrum. Gallatin St that ran through here was one of the city's most notorious hangouts for sailors on shore leave, and associated illegal activities, such as prostitution, robbery and violence. Nowadays it's all a lot more gentrified and is a great place to browse for genuine Cajun food.
Most tourists will be keen to try the barbecued alligator or snake - more put on for visitors than for any noticeable culinary reason (it tastes, rather predictably, like chicken). The Flea Market isn't the eclectic collection of bric-a-brac and antiques that its name implies, but is rather a number of stalls predominantly selling borderline tacky souvenirs and gifts. East of the market is the Old US Mint building, which houses a variety of exhibits relating to the history and heritage of the city, including a display of the minting plates and coins struck in the city until the mint's closure in 1909.
Mardi Gras School of Cooking 
The Mardi Gras school of cooking teaches you the art of mixing the mouthwatering Cajun spices to deliver delicious flavoursome dishes such as blackened cod or jambala.
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Transport
New Orleans is fairly easy to get around, even more so as most people stick to the virtually pedestrianised French Quarter for most of their stay. For the rest buses and taxis get you round the city without a hitch - and there are still streetcars even if "Desire" has been replaced by a rather less interesting bus service.
To and From the Airport
Louis Armstrong International Airport
New Orleans's Louis Armstrong International Airport, named after one of jazz's biggest stars, is just 22km from downtown New Orleans, and is well connected to the city by shuttle bus, bus and taxi.
Buses
The Airport Shuttle is the official ground transportation provider for the airport. Tickets can be bought at the ticket desk in the baggage reclaim area on the ground level. Transport to French Quarter hotels USD26 (round trip). Call +1 (1)504-522-3500 for reservations. Shuttles depart every 15-20 minutes from the airport.
Alternatively you can take the Airport Downtown Express, which runs from the airport to the Central Business District. The fare is a lot more reasonable than the shuttle at just USD1.60, but the journey takes longer. Day ride tickets are available for USD5. Payment is via the automatic "paybox" machines. You tell the driver the ticket you want and then deposit your coins, notes or vouchers to the amount needed. Exact money is not necessary, but any change owing is dispensed in the form of a voucher redeemable against future travel. Tel: +1 (1)504-818-1077.
Taxis
Taxis to downtown cost a flat fare of USD28 for one or two people and USD12 each for three or more passengers. It is usually pretty easy to find a cab at all times of day.Public Transport
* Note that, due to the recent events, public transport in the city centre is currently free of charge.
Buses
RTA runs the public buses in the city centre, although Jefferson Transit is responsible for the transfer from the airport to the city. Bus fare in the city is USD1.25 plus 25 cents for transfers (ask the driver if you need a transfer ticket for your journey). The exact fare or an appropriate travel pass is required for each journey. The VisiTour Pass costs USD5 for one day or USD12 for three, and allows unlimited use of public transport. The pass can be bought in hotels, banks and stores.
The main intercity bus terminal can be found next to the train station at 1001 Loyola Ave. Greyhound National Coach runs services from here to cities across the United States. Tel: +1 (1)504-524-7571 for information on Greyhound buses.
Streetcars
The Riverfront Streetcar covers a 1.9-mile stretch along the Mississippi River from Thalia to Esplanade. Another line, the Charles St line, runs from the corner of St Charles and Canal Streets up to the intersection of Carrolton
Why pay to hear the best jazz and blues sounds in the world? Simply walk on down to Jackson Square or the banks of the Mississippi River and listen to the various musicians who play simply for the love of it. At Jackson Square, be sure to look out for "Doreen and her Band", and you will hear, perhaps, the most exquisite blues voice ever. Music clubs and halls such as Tipitina and the Bourbon Vieux Room offer blues and jazz, and every club and bar at some time or other seems to host a live performance of the sound of New Orleans.
There are several casinos and gambling haunts in New Orleans but the cream of the crop is undoubtedly Harrah's. In the gaudy ambience of this palace of gaming not only can you enjoy the gambling tables and machines (and there's plenty of both), but there's also live entertainment and delicious cuisine on offer. 
Mardi Gras - February/March
