More than just a city with a people so diverse and cultured, that the enigma of a town draped in a myriad of different backgrounds, races, and cultures, boggles even the minds of those that have lived in the city itself for many years.
Its history: Europe intertwined with Africa; a bit of American Indian, influenced by the government of France, with just a twinge of Spain. Add to the mix, Germany and Ireland, Philippines and Vietnam, Italy, Greece and Croatia, and you have New Orleans. Like a quilt of different traditions, nationalities, and customs, everything from its houses and buildings, to its music and food, are just as unique.
New Orleans is also “infamously” known for its mosquitoes, floods, fires, and hurricanes and most notably known for its gumbo, sea food, red beans and rice, and beignets.
No matter whether you are a “Gatorlander” or a “Yat”; whether you speak French or Spanish, Creole or English; even if you happen to say “Nyoo Ahhlyins” or “Nawln”; if you care to pronounce “th” or just settle for a “d”; you really only get a small glimpse into the complex and paradoxical way of life and speech that makes up the great Crescent City. Its also evident in the weather. One moment you might experience unbearable heat and humidity, and the next, you may just need an umbrella to protect yourself from a downpour.
New Orleans’ architecture is such a mix of old and new, that it’s easy to walk from town to town and get lost in the milieu of the different periods and historical eras achieved by the architecture. One might experience everything from the Creole Cottages of the French Quarter, to the American Townhouses in the Central Business District and Lower Garden District. Villas and Shotgun Houses, Double-Gallery Houses and California-style Bungalow Houses can also be seen throughout various parts of the city. NOLA is also home to the World Trade Center of New Orleans, which stands 400 + feet tall and 33 stories high. This extraordinary monument can be spotted from the shores of the Mississippi River; another paradox in this truly unique American town.
New Orleans wouldn’t be New Orleans without mentioning its pulsating, rhythmic music festivals and sultry and exciting nightlife. Mardi Gras, one of the most famous festivals celebrated during the months of February and March, features everything from 18-foot floats and marching bands, to dance groups and motorcycle squadrons. Participants are clad with masks, beads and costumes depending upon the Carnival’s theme. Many celebrity guests also make an appearance during Mardi Gras, adding to the fervor of the festival. Each year, thousands of people from all over the world are impressed to come and experience the excitement for themselves.
The ambiance of the architecture, diversity of the culture, and peculiarity of the dialect, make this town one that truly embodies a little bit of “all things American” and, by far, the best the Bayou has to offer.
Arnold R. Hirsch and Joseph Logsdon, “The People And Culture of New Orleans,” Neworleansonline.com.
Chuck Taggart, “The music, culture and food of New Orleans,” gumbopages.com
Chuck Taggart, “How ta tawk rite – A Lexicon of New Orleans Terminology and Speech,” gumbopages.com
“Buildings and architecture of New Orleans,” Wikipedia.
“World Trade Center New Orleans,” Wikipedia.
Arthur Hardy, “Mardi Gras Fundamentals,” Neworleansonline.com.
