New Orleans
The City of New Orleans is the gateway to the Mississippi River. Undoubtedly this magnificent river flowing into the Gulf of Mexico, provided the major reason that New Orleans came into existence. For many of the Europeans as well as Africans brought in by slave traders is was an easy entrance to North America. The size of the Mississippi allowed for travel deep into the heart of the country. At a time when cross-country travel was difficult and slow this river provided a great alternative. The City of New Orleans is American, but unique. It's setting provides for a melting of many cultures, including the Europeans, Africans, and Indian. New Orleans was founded in 1718 by the French Mississippi Company and sold to the U.S. As the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. Originally, heavily engaged in the cotton and slave trade, New Orleans has transitioned into a major destination city and now specializes in a very lucrative tourist,convention and entertainment industry.
| THINGS TO DO | THINGS TO SEE |
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The City consists of several districts, the most frequented are the French Quarter/Bourbon Street District and the Central Business District. Much of the entertainment, lodging, and restaurants are on and around Bourbon Street. It is the focal point of much of what draws people to New Orleans. The visitor soon finds that music is pulsating from all directions and the businesses never seem to close. The food is full of flavor and the entrees have their own unique names not usually found elsewhere.
The music is Jazz, as performed by the likes of Louis Armstrong, in “Convention Hall” and Blue Grass which seems to come from everywhere. Mardi Gras is one of the most famous celebrations of New Orleans. Though celebrated for hundreds of years in France and other countries Mardi Gras has grown and taken on its own personality in New Orleans. It is now a major tourist attraction during the Carnival season.
Travel is convenient. Most of the hotels are located within walking distance of the Bourbon Street and the
French Quarter. There are excellent tour buses that provide educational tours of most of the sights and sounds of New Orleans and the surrounding area. A scenic trip on a paddle-wheeled river boat up the Mississippi is a must. Travel is convenient. Most of the hotels are located within walking distance of the Bourbon Street and the French Quarter. There are excellent tour buses that provide educational tours of most of the sights and sounds of New Orleans and the surrounding area. A scenic trip on a paddle-wheeled river boat up the Mississippi is a must.
