New Orleans is an incredible, vibrant, bursting at the seams, melting pot of a city. Whether you"re visiting for the music, the food, to get to the know people, or to just party all night long (or all of the above), Fodor"s New Orleans 2014 is the guidebook that makes every trip the trip of a lifetime. Expanded Coverage: New hotel and restaurant recommendations have been added throughout New Orleans, as well as in select destinations in Plantation Country and Cajun country. Illustrated Features: A Mardi Gras feature, including a parade schedule, helps revelers plan their time. A feature on New Orleans music provides basics about making the most of your Jazz Fest experience and how to best enjoy local music year-round. Neighborhood food spotlights, as well as features on New Orleans cuisine and cocktail culture identify the best eats and drinks. An essential feature about Hurricane Katrina and its lingering effects on the city will keep travelers in the know. Indispensable Trip Planning Tools: Neighborhood planners with colorful maps, an easy to access "Dining and Lodging" atlas, and "Best Bets" for restaurants and hotels makes planning a trip easy. Discerning Recommendations: Fodor"s New Orleans offers savvy advice and recommendations from local writers to help travelers make the most of their time. Fodor"s Choice designates our best picks, from hotels to nightlife. "Word of Mouth" quotes from fellow travelers provide valuable insights. ABOUT FODOR"S AUTHORS: Each Fodor"s Travel Guide is researched and written by local experts.