I've never been to New Orleans but will spending the month of January there. Any ideas on where to stay and neighborhoods that are safe. Thank you!

The French Quarter is one of the heavily policed areas in the country. It's also the most active place in NO, has tons of great restaurants and lots of things to do. I'd stay there.

There's a wonderful B&B on the very edge of the FQ on Bourbon Street called La Maison Marigny. The proprieters are great and so is their B&B. www.lamaisonmarigny.com

I'm with SusanCS - the Quarter is the only place to stay. You'll hear from lots of people warning you of crime in New Orleans, but any large city has their share. Just be careful what you do and you should be fine. Enjoy yourself - I sure love New Orleans and envy you having a month there. Especially before Mardi Gras - the city will be getting really excited by then.

Susan makes a great suggestion, I don't know that you want to stay right in the middle of the Quarter. However, if you are closer to the Faubourg-Marigny area, that puts you right next door w/lots of residential as well as well as being removed from the noise & bars of Bourbon St. Other options - http://www.faubourgmarigny.org/ & look here for events, etc. - www.neworleanscvb.com

What's the occasion for being in the city for a month.

In my perspective, you may want to stay in the Warehouse District or somewhere quieter for a month. Personally I like to get at least some sleep.