New Orleans

The infamous city of New Orleans and its wonderful French Quarter, Arts District, Faubourg Marigny, Garden District, Audubon Park and Zoo and St. Charles Avenue are as fabulous as ever. Tens of thousands of visitors come to the "Big Easy" every year and return with great stories and memories.

With a diverse cultural background, New Orleans was settled in 1718 by the French near the delta of the Mississippi River. The heavy French influence is still evident, along with the culture of other settlers: the Spanish and the Creole Indians. Everywhere you turn in the downtown area today you will see these cultures still controlling the food, architecture and more.

New Orleans became part of the United States with the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. It is known for its fabulous food, great music, cultural diversity and now for surviving one of the worst storms in history. Today one can enjoy Bourbon Street, visit the many museums, take a river boat cruise on the Mississippi, and so much more. For more than 150 years, the biggest event in New Orleans has been the Mardi Gras held each February. You should book early for next year's event.

Visit New Orleans this year and savor the history, the culture, the food and enjoy the abundant entertainment options.

BIENVILLE HOUSE 320 Decatur Street European ambience and southern hospitality are combined in this charming inn. Tropical courtyard with pool. Dine at the Louisiana Heritage Café & School of Cooking. 83 luxurious guest rooms and suites, with coffee maker, hairdryer, newspaper and free use of nearby health facility. Continental breakfast. Walk to shopping, dining, art galleries and sightseeing.

MONTELEONE 214 Royal Street 568 comfortable guest rooms and suites. A perfect place to rejuvenate from a busy day or night exploring New Orleans. The elegance of old New Orleans with the modern conveniences of today. Rooftop pool, fitness area, room service, business center, and multi-lingual concierge. Near many art galleries and great restaurants.

MAISON DUPUY 1001 Toulouse Street Recently chosen as one of the top 172 hotels in the entire nation - and one of just four Louisiana hotels selected. Located only two blocks from the heart of Bourbon Street on the city's geographical center, this luxurious hotel beckons you to relax and escape the hustle of modern life. As one of the few hotels set inside the city's historic Vieux Carré district, this hotel offers guests a distinct mixture of historical and luxury unlike any other. First-class dining at Le Meritage or more casual dining at the French Quarter Bistreaux and Bar.

SHERATON NEW ORLEANS 500 Canal Street This deluxe hotel is across from the French Quarter. Convenient to the Superdome, Earnest Morial Convention Center, and the downtown business district. The hotel recently completed a 25 million dollar renovation, infusing the hotel with graciousness and luxury. Guests will find themselves surrounded by comfort, served with Southern charm and hospitality.