Don't laugh, but if there is one city in the continental US that I have been dying to visit, its New Orleans.

Now, thanks to my boss Ralph, here we are!

The city that gave us Mardi gras and Bourbon Street is right at my fingertips.

And let me tell you, this city suits me well because there are always fun things to do in New Orleans!

Hey guys, it's me again, Shelby, and I'm writing from one of my favorite American cities of all time; New Orleans, Louisiana.

Yeah, I know, it's hardly original.

I mean, New Orleans has gotten a lot of press from both the news and from Hollywood.

But that is hardly something new for this awesome city.

A Short History of New Orleans

Seriously, from the slave trade to Hurricane Katrina, it seems that the city of New Orleans is always in the news.

This has a lot to do with New Orleans being a major shipping port.

It has played a big part in the economy of the US since it became a part of the country thanks to the Louisiana Purchase in 1803.

Before 1803 New Orleans was firmly in control of the French.

The French influence is obvious not only in the accents of the natives, but in the architecture from the very earliest parts of New Orleans' history as well as much of the food and music.

This gives the whole city a very international and €Old World€ feel.

Another distinctive influence is that of the slave trade which played a big part in this city's culture right up until the American Civil War in the 1860's.

The culture of the slaves who were brought in both from Africa and from the Caribbean plantations is highly visible in the current culture and traditions as well.

Fun Things to Do in New Orleans

In spite of (or maybe because of) its rich cultural history, New Orleans is an awesome city to visit.

Whether you end up here during the world famous Mardi gras celebrations or simply come for a long weekend, there are always fun things to do in New Orleans.

You can wander through the French Quarter taking in all the excellent jazz clubs.

You can sample some of the best food to be had east of the Mississippi.

You can shop in exclusive boutiques dedicated to everything from Voodoo to high couture.

Then of course there are things like riverboat tours and guided nighttime tours of some of the most haunted places in the city.

Do you like history? Then a visit to New Orleans is definitely right up your alley.

You can see some of the oldest architecture in the country, visit plantations that featured in the slave trade and Civil War, visit the Old Ursuline Convent or any of the other Cathedrals peppered throughout the city.

You know what I like best though?

What I like best is to sit out on the balcony of my hotel in the mornings with my coffee and a croissant (yes, I know, very French) and watch the city come alive as I eat my breakfast.

Who knows, perhaps you'd like to join me?

Love Always,

Shelby (S.O.S.)

http://funstufftodoin.com/new-orleans/