New Orleans Vacations and Luxury Travel Packages
New Orleans is located in Louisiana at the southern end of the Mississippi River just before the river enters the Gulf of Mexico. The weather remains relatively warm all year. Snow and ice rarely travel that far south, but the middle of spring and fall are known for their rainy seasons. Summers can be extremely hot and humid even though the city benefits from coastal breezes.
Hurricanes can present hazardous weather conditions in New Orleans. Prime hurricane season along the Gulf Coast is from June until September. Originally built along canals (called bayous), the city is actually an island encompassing 363 miles, and it is the only major American city built below sea level (-4 to -6 feet). On August 29, 2005 New Orleans encountered Hurricane Katrina, the most devastating hurricane in its history. Towns in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama were all affected by Katrina. Over 1,836 lives were lost and there was billions of dollars worth of damage.
New Orleans' levee system (flood control) failed during the storm and subsequently flooded 80% of the city. Even today you can see water lines from the floods in parts of the city. The most popular tourism area, the French Quarter, was built on the city's highest ground and was not flooded, whereas, the lower Ninth Ward, the lowest section of the city, was the most devastated area and still in ruins.
Despite the destruction, the people of New Orleans are pushing forward and restoring the city. Many buildings have been repaired and repainted. As a tourist it is unlikely you will see any of the city's devastation unless you go searching for it. Nearly all attractions, shops, and restaurants are reopened. New Orleans' tourism is reviving and the wonderful culture is alive and well. |
