New Orleans, Louisiana is a city steeped in history. Originally settled as a French colony, New Orleans has evolved with rich French-Creole influences, which have been passed through the generations and continue to inspire the city’s culture to this day. Architecture, food, music and even language remain true to the city’s roots.

The determined spirit of New Orleans residents and aid from outside the city bolstered the relief effort after Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005, and New Orleans is once again thriving as a cultural center beloved by designers, music lovers, foodies and more. Professional sports teams such as the New Orleans Saints and the New Orleans Hornets are back in the Big Easy. Annual events such as Mardi Gras and the Jazz & Heritage Festival are more popular than ever. Film and television, music and theater productions flock to the city, giving it nicknames like “Hollywood South” and “Broadway South.” A 2009 Travel + Leisure poll of “America’s Favorite Cities” ranked New Orleans first in ten categories, the most first-place rankings of the 30 cities included.

The French Quarter contains many popular hotels, bars, and nightclubs. It is also home to Bourbon Street, the destination for the city’s annual Mardi Gras Festival, as well as Jackson Square, the French Market, St. Louis Cathedral and Preservation Hall. Magazine Street is a shoppers dream and is home to many popular vintage and antique shops, as well as expertly curated specialty shops and boutiques.

Foodies are delighted by the convergence of cuisine found in New Orleans. Local ingredients, French, Spanish, Italian, African, Native American, Cajun, Chinese, and a hint of Cuban traditions combine to produce a truly unique and easily recognizable Louisiana flavor. Signature Creole dishes like beignets, chicory coffee, po’ boys, crawfish, jambalaya, gumbo and red beans and rice ensure that you won’t go hungry during your visit. Waiting in line for beignets and chicory coffee at Café Du Monde on Jackson Square in the French Quarter is a time-honored tradition for travelers and locals alike.

New Orleans is a city unlike any other. Characterized as much by its architecture as by its people and culture, the city is resilient and proud, and worth a visit (or a move) whether you’re making the trip for the first time or you know the city like the back of your hand. Once you’ve been, the bright colors and the faint sounds of trumpets playing a triumphant tune with be with you forever.