GREATER NEW ORLEANS
This magnificent city otherwise known as The Big Easy was built in the 1700s and represents more than 250 years of French, Spanish and American culture. Fascinating, mysterious, opulent, historical and indulgent are all words that can be used to describe New Orleans. This magnificent city offers visitors a unique urban experience with a great diversity of architecture, culture and cuisine.
World renowned for fabulous cuisine, your taste buds will dance to our Cajun, Creole and classic French recipies. Whilst your mouth enjoys the wonderful food let your ears delight to the sound of Jazz, Rhythm & Blues, Gospel, Dixieland and Zydeco whilst relaxing in one of New Orleans fabulous courtyards dating back to a bygone age of elegant and gentle living.
Museums, natural history, street cars, historic districts, theme parks, shopping, riverboats and Mardi Gras are some of the many things the Big Easy has to offer. The city that never sleeps, New Orleans is a 24 hour city, one of the only two American cities without a closing law.
Pick up 'a cup to go' and enjoying your cocktail, walk through the historic French Quarter sampling the different sounds of Louisiana. 'Laissez les bon temps rouler', or let the good times roll, is the New Orleans battle cry that echoes through the city from dusk til dawn.
For those looking for relaxation, hunt for souvenirs in the French Market, relax in Jackson Square, stroll the Moon Walk promenade, shop at Riverwalk, enjoy a café au lait, savour a bowl of gumbo, take in some jazz, and have a quiet moment in St. Louis Cathedral. Cruise on the river aboard an authentic Mississippi River paddlewheel steamboat and enjoy a wildlife adventure into the bayous on a swamp tour.
Beyond the city, on lake Pontchartrain's north shore, are antique shops, mysterious swamps and historic towns set amongst tranquil countryside. Travel just a few minutes south of the city, and you can hike or canoe along the bayous in the Jean Lafitte National Historic Park, diversity really is the key to New Orleans.
Be part of one of the biggest street parties in the world. New Orleans famed Mardi Gras is held annually in Spring, for details of dates and parades go to www.mardigras.com
