Charm is an inherent trait and is very difficult to recreate.  Through the years, New Orleans’ charm and its unique cultural experience have thrived as the “Paris of the South.” 

Don’t let the name fool you, it’s not a full-fledged francophone city.  Nor is it quite like any neighboring American metropolitan areas.  New Orleans is one-of-a-kind.  It has built itself up separately from the backdrop of the American South. 

Come to grips with its charm, its people and even some of its lingo.  During your free time, walk down a banquette (sidewalk) filled with gumbo ya-ya (people talking all at one) and fais-do-do (put the kids to sleep and party hearty.)

Although gumbo is New Orleans’ signature Creole dish, it also aptly describes the city’s character.  The city was founded in 1718 by a French explorer and was dubbed La Nouvelle  Orléans. 

It was handed over to the Spanish in 1762 and eventually ceded back to the French.  Napolean then sold New Orleans to the United States in the Louisiana Purchase.

French, Spanish and American flags have flown over the Big Easy.  It doesn’t stop there.  The Crescent City has also been influenced by the Creole, Caribbean and Cajun cultures.  The city is unlike any other in the nation.  Given this fact, New Orleans is the model American city because it represents a true melting pot of traditions.

The amalgamated result is a place where you can listen to soulful jazz and zydeco or visit the Aquarium of the Americas; a place where Magazine Street will fulfill your shopping desires or where the historic New Orleans museums will satiate your artistic whims; a place where you can hit the golf links or discover the city’s culinary secrets.  Live in the revelry of the famed Bourbon Street and everything else that this will offer.

Just remember that this type of charm cannot be duplicated.  So soak it in and laissez les bons temps roulez!