Prudential Convention 2008

New Orleans

I have not visited New Orleans in a few years. What can I expect?

All visitors want to know if the authentic New Orleans experience still exists and the answer is a resounding YES! That authentic, sensory New Orleans experience of food, music and culture that people have come to love is alive and thriving. The city recently hosted major events such as ESSENCE Festival, Jazz Fest, Mardi Gras and major conventions are happening everyday. The damage caused by Hurricane Katrina was in the outlying neighborhoods, miles away from the airport and the historic areas frequented by visitors, such as the French Quarter, Faubourg Marigny, Warehouse Arts District, and the historic Garden District. In fact, the historic architecture in the tourist areas is as beautiful as ever.

How large is the French Quarter?

The area it occupies is the same 6x13 block area laid out in 1722 as the original City of New Orleans. Source: www.frenchquartercitizens.com

How many miles away from the city is the airport?

The airport is 10 miles, approximately 20 minutes away.

Why is New Orleans called the Crescent City?

The Mississippi River flows in the shape of a crescent around the city.

Why is New Orleans called the Big Easy?

The term "Big Easy" is believed to come from a dance hall by that name which existed in the early 1900s. Some say that it might have been the dance hall, an actual dance, or possibly even a person who could do the dance. At the turn of the century, jazz musicians were fond of nicknames, and might have used the "Big Easy" for an Uptown dance hall. Eventually the nickname transferred to the city as a whole, referring to the gentle pace of life and somewhat lax morals for which New Orleans is known. Source: Times Picayune - August 27, 1987, 2003

What options are available to volunteer to help a neighborhood that was affected by Hurricane Katrina?

From convention visitors to leisure travelers, church groups to high school and college students, people have shown incredible generosity in giving of their time and talent, and a great deal of elbow grease, helping the city of New Orleans in its recovery and restoration. Governor Kathleen Blanco and Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu have formed an official organization that matches volunteer opportunities with volunteers, called Volunteer Louisiana. Visit www.volunteerlouisiana.gov to get started.

Where can I get more information about New Orleans?

For information regarding restaurants, attractions, city maps and much more visit: www.neworleansonline.com.

forward page to a friend