New Orleans
Overview of New Orleans
New Orleans is a quirky city with a unique character quite incomparable to any other city in the US or the world. Situated on a swamp, surrounded by the sea, Lake Pontchartrain and the Mississippi River, the city chose to swim rather than sink by constructing levees, pumps and canals to protect the city. But this is an ongoing battle.
Despite hit by Hurricane Katrina in August 2005, a tragedy which left 75% of the city flooded, the proud residents of New Orleans rebuilt their one-of-a-kind home with determination. And for tourists, it’s once again the vibrant destination it was before the disaster.
The jazz, the extravagant celebrations and the Big Easy lifestyle once again make New Orleans one of the party capitals of the US. Nightlife options are burgeoning and strains of local jazz and blues rhythms are once again echoing through the streets of the atmospheric French Quarter.
Legendary Bourbon Street continues to host carnivals and parades, including the annual Mardi Gras, which has a reputation for being the most scandalous and sensational event on the world’s festival calendar.
Besides all the partying, New Orleans has still has serious opportunities for sightseeing. The city is full of picturesque buildings, lush parks, riverboats, vintage streetcars and museums displaying everything from voodoo culture to modern technology.
Key Facts
- Language:
- English is the most common language spoken but Spanish is often heard in the south-western states.
- Passport/Visa:
It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from them travel destination. A visa is required for short visits unless travellers qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables citizens of certain countries to travel to the US for a stay of up to 90 days without a visa. Visitors under the VWP need to register online three days before travel and have an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This allows the US government to screen all visitors before travel. Visitors entering the country under the VWP must have a machine-readable passport (MRP) that has a barcode on the photo page. Travellers under the VWP must have passports that include biometrics if they wish to enter the country without a visa, which means that passports must contain unique personal data such as fingerprints or iris details. All passports must contain a digital photo image in order to travel visa-free. All visitors to the USA have a photograph and two fingerprints taken by an inkless scanner on arrival, including those travelling visa-free under the VWP.
As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid passport is required by immigration authorities. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards are widely accepted. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are mainly the type with two flat pins, though three-pin plugs (two flat parallel pins and a rounded pin) are also widely used. European appliances without dual-voltage capabilities will require an adapter.
Travel to New Orleans
Climate for New Orleans
New Orleans has a humid subtropical climate with very hot and humid summers, and mild, short-lived winters. Summers in New Orleans are relatively long, with high temperatures hovering around 90F (32C) from May to September.
In winter, from December to February, temperatures average between 44F (7C) and a comfortable 62F (17C). New Orleans experiences high annual rainfall, most of it falling in mid-late summer, often as a spin-off from tropical storms.
Heavy rain during the June to September Gulf Coast hurricane season has occasionally caused flooding in the city. Snow and ice are rarities in New Orleans, but there have been incidences of light snowfall causing a ‘White Christmas’.
7 day forecast for New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
| Thursday Dec. 19, 2024 | Friday Dec. 20, 2024 | Saturday Dec. 21, 2024 | Sunday Dec. 22, 2024 | Monday Dec. 23, 2024 | Tuesday Dec. 24, 2024 | Wednesday Dec. 25, 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hi: 65°F Lo: 52°F  Breaks of sun late | Hi: 63°F Lo: 45°F  Sunny | Hi: 54°F Lo: 38°F Sunny | Hi: 59°F Lo: 41°F Sunny | Hi: 68°F Lo: 47°F Afternoon clouds | Hi: 74°F Lo: 59°F  Overcast | Hi: 76°F Lo: 61°F Cloudy |
Health Notes when travelling to United States of America
There are no specific health risks associated with travel within the USA. Medical facilities are excellent, but expensive. Only emergencies are treated without prior payment and treatment can be refused without evidence of insurance or proof of funds. Good medical insurance is essential. Visitors must be fully vaccinated with the primary series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to travel to the United States by plane if they are non-U.S. citizens.
Safety Notes when travelling to United States of America
Travel within the United States is generally trouble-free, though travellers should be aware that the US shares with the rest of the world, an increased threat from terrorist incidents. Security has been heightened, particularly at airports. Restrictions on hand luggage apply and travellers are advised to check on the latest situation with airlines in advance. Travellers should also be alert to the dangers of car and street crime in cities and should use common sense and take basic precautions. Hurricanes are common between June and November, putting the southern USA, including the Gulf Coast and the eastern US at risk. There is a risk of wildfires in many dry areas in the US, particularly on the West Coast from March to November.
Customs in United States of America
Laws vary from state to state, including speed limit, fines and punishment. The age at which alcohol may be legally bought and consumed is 21 years.
Duty Free in United States of America
Travellers to the United States who are returning residents of the country do not have to pay duty on articles purchased abroad to the value of $800 provided their stay was longer than 48 hours and their duty-free allowance was not used in the 30-day period prior. For passengers arriving from Samoa, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands, a duty-free allowance of $1,600 is allowed. The following items are included in this: 50 cigarettes and 10 cigars and 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of alcoholic beverages or 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of perfume containing alcohol. Restrictions may apply to goods from Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Burma (Myanmar), Angola, Liberia and Sudan. It is prohibited to import Cuban cigars from any country.
Travellers to the United States who are non-residents do not have to pay duty on the following items: 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes and gifts to the value of $100 provided their stay in the USA is not less than 72 hours and that the allowance has not been used in the preceding six-month period.
Prohibited items for residents and non-residents include meat or meat products, poultry, narcotics, absinthe, plants, seeds, vegetables, fruits, soil, live insects and other living plants or animal pests. Fish is prohibited unless it carries disease-free certification. Wildlife and animals or their by-products carry restrictions. Dairy products and eggs from specified countries are not allowed. Firearms and ammunition are not allowed without the necessary license and permit.
Doing Business in United States of America
In such a large country, filled with so many diverse groups, business practices may differ according to each state, however rarely to any large degree. The East Coast is traditionally more formal than the West Coast, though in states such as California, dress code and conservative appearance are as common as they would be in New York. Punctuality is important throughout the country and it is considered rude to be late for a meeting. Gift-giving is uncommon as it may be construed as bribery. Appropriate titles (Mr, Mrs, Ms) are used upon introduction and until otherwise stated. Americans favour politeness and greetings of ‘Hello’ and ‘How are you?’ are often expressed with sincerity. Business hours may vary in each state, but an 8am start and 5pm finish Monday to Friday is the most common with an hour over lunch.
Status and age are not necessarily indicative of seniority, nor do they carry much weight in themselves. Those doing business in the States should be mindful of this fact; foreigners should never make assumptions about someone’s position or rank. Best practice is to be respectful to all parties. That said, the US upholds a hierarchal business structure, in which ‘the boss’ is the ultimate decision-maker. Senior leaders have the power of the last word, and can go against the grain just as easily as they can follow popular opinion. Foreigners should concentrate on winning over this individual, even if the greater group seems unsupportive. Americans value a direct style of communication. In this fast-paced, consumer culture ‘time is money’, and small-talk is viewed as unnecessary and wasteful. It’s best for foreigners to get to the point quickly, speak about issues in a frank and open manner, and to avoid taking offence if someone questions or challenges them outright.
Communication in United States of America
The international country dialling code for the United States is +1. Mobile networks cover most of the country, especially all urban areas, and WiFi is widely available.
Tipping in United States of America
A 15 percent tip is expected by taxi drivers, bartenders, hairdressers and waiters, but travellers shouldn’t tip in fast-food or self-service restaurants. In expensive restaurants or for large parties, the tip should be 20 percent of the bill. It is normal to tip staff such as valets and porters in hotels; this is discretionary, although a minimum of $5 is expected. Most services are customarily tipped if the service is good.
Passport/Visa Note
It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from them travel destination. A visa is required for short visits unless travellers qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables citizens of certain countries to travel to the US for a stay of up to 90 days without a visa. Visitors under the VWP need to register online three days before travel and have an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This allows the US government to screen all visitors before travel. Visitors entering the country under the VWP must have a machine-readable passport (MRP) that has a barcode on the photo page. Travellers under the VWP must have passports that include biometrics if they wish to enter the country without a visa, which means that passports must contain unique personal data such as fingerprints or iris details. All passports must contain a digital photo image in order to travel visa-free. All visitors to the USA have a photograph and two fingerprints taken by an inkless scanner on arrival, including those travelling visa-free under the VWP.
As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid passport is required by immigration authorities. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
The most important requirement on entering the U.S. is providing proof of Canadian citizenship. A valid Canadian passport is the best document to prove Canadian citizenship and the right to return to Canada. However, several other documents can serve, depending on the mode of transport. Generally, Canadian citizens do not require visitor, business, transit or other visas to enter the United States from Canada, though there are some exceptions.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK nationals require a passport valid for duration of stay. Most passport holders can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) through the Visa Waiver Programme, which allows travel to the US for up to 90 days. The VWP includes tourism, certain types of business visit and transit to another country.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Passports must be valid for the period of intended stay. If visiting the US for fewer than 90 days, Australian nationals may be eligible to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), and enter under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Passports must be valid for duration of stay. Irish nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
Passports must be valid for duration of stay. New Zealand nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South Africans must hold a passport valid for duration of stay. A visa is required.
Getting around in New Orleans, Louisiana
When in New Orleans, the vintage electric rail vehicles or ‘streetcars’ are the way to go. With various lines crossing the city, most destinations are accessible by these trams.
The Jazzy Pass allows unlimited rides on buses and streetcars. The Canal Street Ferry takes passengers across to the suburb of Algiers, offering fine views of the city skyline. Walking, cycling, taxis and rental cars are some of the other options, with many tourist areas, such as the French Quarter, being most enjoyable on foot. Rideshares such as Lyft and Uber are also available.
Events in New Orleans, Louisiana
Mardi Gras
Tuesday February 21, 2023 (21 February 2023)
Where: Throughout the city, especially Bourbon Street
Mardi Gras, the world-renowned festival with a reputation for being the most scandalous and sensational annual event on the world’s festival calendar, has been celebrated in New Orleans in its present form since 1856. The origins of the carnival trace back to Roman times, but the date is based on the Christian calendar.
Traditionally, Mardi Gras day falls on ‘Fat Tuesday’, the day before Ash Wednesday, usually occurring during late February or early March each year. The history and traditions of the New Orleans Mardi Gras are confusing and complicated.
But what it all means to revelling visitors is a series of ever-more exciting spectacular street parades through the French Quarter, starting about 10 days before Fat Tuesday and building up to the big day culminating in a major street party.
http://www.mardigrasneworleans.com
New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival
Friday April 28, 2023 to Sunday May 07, 2023 (28 Apr — 7 May 2023)
Where: The central event is held at the New Orleans Fair Grounds Race Course, but celebrations take place around the entire city.
In late April, just before the onset of summer heat and humidity, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival takes place at the New Orleans Fair Grounds Race Course. Numerous stages simultaneously present a vast cross-section of musical performances by top artists.
Genres range from traditional New Orleans jazz, gospel, and country, to rap, hip hop, and Creole zydeco. In addition to the hundreds of performances and many musicians, the festival includes numerous food stalls and loads of arts and crafts displays, making it a true celebration of the city’s culture and heritage.
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St Patrick’s Day
Friday March 17, 2023 (17 March 2023)
Where: French Quarter
No sooner has New Orleans recovered from the revelry of Mardi Gras than it starts all over again. St Patrick’s Day is the perfect reason for another round of drinks, parades and parties, which cascade through the downtown area, centred on famous Bourbon Street.
Traditionally, it’s a day for the locals to gather on the streets and pavements with picnic baskets and umbrellas. Groups dance down the street in green costumes, dispensing flowers, beads, and kisses to the spectators.
Live bands trundle by on the backs of floats and trucks, providing a festive soundtrack to the celebrations. Meanwhile, onlookers call out to the floats to throw something at them, with the most popular items usually being cabbages, carrots, onions, and the odd potato.
http://www.stpatricksdayneworleans.com
Gay Easter Parade
Monday April 17, 2023 (TBC 2023)
Where: Streets of the French Quarter
Parties and parades are the order of the day during Easter in New Orleans. This time, it’s when the city’s gay community turns out to celebrate under the auspices of the Easter Grand Marshals. Thousands of spectators line the streets of the French Quarter, watching passing floats, carriages, walking groups, bands, and motorcycles.
The parade aspires to showcase the fashion and creativity of the local LGBT community, with gentlemen traditionally dressing in summer suits or tuxedos and ladies donning their best Easter suits or dresses, complete with Easter hats. Nudity isn’t permitted. But apart from that, anything goes with the costumes and conviviality.
New Orleans Gay Easter Parade
French Quarter Festival
Thursday April 13, 2023 to Sunday April 16, 2023 (13 — 16 April 2023)
Where: New Orleans French Quarter, especially Jackson Square and the River Front
Priding itself on being the largest free music festival in the southern states, the annual French Quarter Festival is a showcase for local musicians and a chance to savour New Orleans’ gourmet flavours. On the music front, 21 stages and over 800 musicians operate in the historic Vieux Carre district with a diverse programme ranging from brass bands to gospel and traditional jazz.
On the food front, over 65 popular local restaurants are invited to contribute to the ‘world’s largest jazz brunch’, which features a smorgasbord of New Orleans specialities. These include jambalaya, gumbo, and bread pudding. Other special events around the festival include fireworks over the Mississippi, art exhibitions, courtyard tours, music workshops, and parades.
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Satchmo Summerfest
Sunday July 31, 2022 to Tuesday August 02, 2022 (TBC 2022)
Where: Old U.S. Mint, 400 Esplanade Avenue, French Quarter
New Orleans turns out in style to celebrate Louis ‘Satchmo’ Armstrong, the city’s most beloved son. Occurring every year in the week of the star’s birthday, the line-up of free events honouring the man who promoted jazz around the world includes an outdoor music festival and local food. There are activities for children, art exhibitions and a jazz mass, as well as a parade, club and seminars. Happily, most of the events are free to enjoy.
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Nightlife in New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is a city of music and rhythm, most famous for jazz, Cajun and zydeco music, and its nightlife reflects this with enthusiasm. There are countless bars along Bourbon Street, and the party invariably pours out onto the sidewalks. While most places have a cover charge, it’s not always necessary to actually go inside! Some of the best clubs and bars are in the neighbourhoods of the French Quarter and Faubourg Marigny.
Preservation Hall is a must for jazz fans, while Maple Leaf Bar is another popular spot for live music. Molly’s is said to be the best bar in the French Quarter and Napoleon House offers a fantastic Pimm’s Cup Cocktail. Nightclubs come and go but the best nightlife districts are lively and fun almost every night of the year.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
