Official Language:
English
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Currency:
US Dollar
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Population:
1,305,479 people call New Orleans home.
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for New Orleans: The best months to visit are March and April or October and November. Winter will seem mild to visitors from colder climes, though January temperatures have been known to drop below freezing. For Mardi Gras (February/March), expect temperatures of 46-65°F/7-18°C. Winter can be rainy. If you overnite before your cruise you can find best hotel bargains in June, July and August, but be prepared for temperatures at or above 90°F/32°C and humidity of 66% or higher. Pace your sightseeing if you go at that time, and dress appropriately the humidity can be exhausting. Frequent afternoon thunderstorms help cool things down.Between October and March the temperatures usually reach into the 60°F/15°C or higher.
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New Orleans is the country’s most fabulous city. There are distinct remnants of the city’s French Colonial past. St. Charles Avenue is the direct link between
the French Quarter, the Garden District and Uptown. It is home to the country’s oldest running streetcar. It provided the setting for the famous "A Streetcar Named Desire.”
The city is best known for Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday. During Mardi Gras beads become more valuable than the most precious gems. You will find Bourbon lined with bars and clubs.
In 1717, the French decided to sell Louisiana to Spain because New Orleans, or Nouvelle Orléans, was basically an unsuccessful venture. In 1800, Napoleon negotiated its sale to the United States for $15 million dollars. The mid 19th century saw an economic boom resulting from the cotton trade and its prime location along the Mississippi River. With the strong French, Spanish and American influences, the New Orleans Creole/Cajun culture flourished as well. To this day those influences are evidenced in the local art, architecture, cuisine, language, and most of all, the people. This culture and the laid back attitude have produced some of the best music, tastiest food, and wildest parties the world has ever known. New Orleans was the birthplace of Jazz. Not to be forgotten is the flavorful (cajun/creole cuisine) side of New Orleans. Local delicacies include, jambalaya, gumbo, crawfish, king cake, beignet, red beans and rice and cafe au lait.
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Attractions |
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The French Quarter: Architecture is prevalent in this historic region. It combines French colonial traditions with West Indian Spanish colonial styles. The beautiful grillwork on the balconies that overlook the street is remarkable.
Jackson Square: This square was named after Andrew Jackson after he led the city in its defense against the British in 1812. Here you will find museums, antique collectors, art galleries, perfume shops, sidewalk cafes, and tearooms.
French Market: Here you will find a 24-hour Farmer’s Market with fresh produce, the Flea Market, or enjoy a café au lait at one of the street cafes while listening to jazz music wafting down the street.
Bourbon Street: This street got its name from the French Bourbon family. This street is a non-stop party. Enjoy yourself night or day here.
The New Orleans Museum of Art: This museum features American artists and sculptors, cut glass exhibitions, and a variety of international exhibitions.
The Garden District/Uptown: There are numerous elegant homes in this 19th century neighborhood. It is home to Ann Rice, author of Interview with a Vampire. Close by you will find the Audubon Zoo. This zoo is set apart from others as it feautures a modern day safari featuring simulations of environments such as an African Savanna, Australian Outback, and Louisiana Swamp.
The National D-Day Museum: Here you will find a remarkable display reflecting World War II in Europe and the Pacific.
Shopping:
Royal Street in the French Quarter is the best spot for shopping. You will find a wide variety of shops selling antiques, candy, voodoo supplies, vintage clothing, and of course, Mardi Gras souvenirs.
Sports: If you are looking for sports you can enjoy steamboating in the French Quarter, golf at the Lakewood Country Club, boating, fishing, hiking, at Lake Pontchartrain or walking in the New Orleans city park.
Mardi Gras: Don't forget if you happen to visit during Mardi Gras be sure to enjoy and acquire as many beads as possible. Mardi Gras actually begins every year after Christmas with local carnival organizations holding balls nearly every night leading up to Mardi Gras.Then on “Fat Tuesday” before Ash Wednesday the parade is held, marking the beginning of Lent. Keep in mind that to enjoy Mardi Gras it is highly recommended that you leave your inhibitions behind.
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More Information |
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Port of New Orleans
980 Port of New Orleans Place
New Orleans, LA 70130
Web: www.portno.com
Phone: 504 528-3222
Fax: 504 524-4156
Port Parking: $7 per day
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