 It's a city with sass. It's survived through hard economic times to emerge as a city on the edge. New Orleans, the Big Easy, is a city like no other. Its French ownership in the first century of its existence is still visible in its architecture and cuisine. Its annual Mardi Gras celebration is legendary. It gave birth to jazz, a uniquely American musical style. New Orleans has sophistication and charm; it pulsates with excitement while maintaining a carefree attitude.
New Orleans was discovered by the French, although it had been inhabited by Native Americans for hundreds of years before that. It quickly became the Paris of America due to its European outlook and architecture. It was given to Spain, and then returned to France under Napoleon. Like the rest of the South, New Orleans suffered under the Civil War and its reconstruction, and then wobbled under unstable political leadership. Today, the city has almost half a million residents. Tourism is the dominant industry, with a wide variety of employment opportunities for any skill level.
 Tourists flock to New Orleans for hundreds of reasons, but Mardi Gras is the biggest draw. It's the party to end all parties. Food, drink, parades, and balls are just a few of the Mardi Gras staples. With the bars open all hours, the revelry is non-stop. Tourists coming at other times enjoy a slightly more sedate celebratory style. Clubs and bars are plentiful, with offerings from laid-back jazz to techno. Visitors can also enjoy the historical aspects of the city, strolling through its cemeteries, French Quarter, and battlefields. A state-of-the-art aquarium and outstanding museum are appealing for the whole family. The French Market and Farmer's Market are great to browse for that special something.
Year-round residents find New Orleans to be a uniquely exciting place to live. Its neighborhoods are diverse, and many historic. Commutes are fairly short, and tourism offers jobs for every skill level. Residents enjoy their carefree, New Orleans lifestyle.
Whether you are going there for Mardi Gras or for an exciting place to live, New Orleans doesn't disappoint. With interesting neighborhoods, endless entertainment, and a celebratory lifestyle, the Big Easy has a place for everyone.
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New Orleans Area Info