Welcome to New Orleans:
This is not really a story about what to see and do in New Orleans. It is an attempt at getting you around this captivating city without destroying your budget. As with most tourist meccas, New Orleans offers plenty of easy ways to pay big money for things that won't really enhance your experience. Get a National Geographic Destination map for New Orleans.When to Visit:
Spring and fall are great choices for a New Orleans visit, although early fall can bring the threat of hurricanes and tropical storms. Summers tend to be very hot and muggy. Dress accordingly if you'll be spending your summer days outside. Most visitors here would find winters rather mild, but you'll need some cold-weather gear for many days in January-March. Busy times of year are Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday), spring break, summer and the days prior the Sugar Bowl football game.Where to Eat:
A po'boy shrimp sandwich, a bowl of seafood gumbo, a muffuletta sub, red beans and rice or a breakfast beignet are all part of the eating experience. As a rule, restaurants in touristed areas offer these delicacies at higher prices than you'll find elsewhere, but sometimes you're paying for quality ingredients and convenience. World-famous restaurants such as Brennan's, New Orleans Grill and Emeril's are big splurges for budget travelers. There are other places that are memorable and cheap. You can find local specialties at your price by consulting New Orleans Dining Guide from the Times-Picayune.Where to Stay:
More than 20 months after Hurricane Katrina struck the region, many hotels were still closed or offering limited services. Properties in the French Quarter and Central Business District (downtown) recovered fastest. Priceline can help in those areas, but parking is costly. City parking garages can save money on expensive valet services. Metarie and the area near the International Airport (MSY) offer budget lodgings. Expect to pay top dollar in most areas during Mardi Gras, when rooms often come with a five-night minimum stay. Some veterans of the celebration advise getting room reservations eight months in advance!Getting Around:
Katrina did extensive damage to New Orleans' famous streetcar system, but in late 2006, cars started running again on the Central Business District loop of the St. Charles Line. It's a great New Orleans experience for $1.25, the same cost as a bus ride. Check in with the Regional Transit Authority for updates on rebuilding the system. Cabs are a good idea after dark. You'll pay a minimum $3.50 for two passengers, plus $2 per mile.New Orleans Area Attractions:
The French Quarter ranks among America's best-known tourist areas. Damage from Katrina was relatively limited, and Bourbon Street was back in business far earlier than other parts of the city. There are other areas of New Orleans that deserve attention: the Garden District between St. Charles Avenue and Magazine Street features antebellum homes and lush landscaping. The Warehouse District just outside downtown features fine dining, museums and Riverwalk, a half-mile stretch of more than 200 shops.Voluntourism:
Many visitors choose to combine sightseeing with voluntourism efforts designed to aid in the region's recovery. There are plenty of agencies in the area who will give you an assignment, even if you only have a few hours available. There are also bus tours of the ravaged areas. Be aware that these have been the source of much controversy, and some people here find the concept offensive. Others say it is important to understand the remaining devastation, and that the companies conducting the tours are donating some of the proceeds to reconstruction.More New Orleans Tips:
