We are thinking of planning a trip to New Orleans in October. We are interested in knowing about weather and type of dress. After reading Frommers, however, we are a little leery about safety factor. Frommers has warned us that this could be a major issue. If anyone has had any experience in this area, we would appreciate reply! Thank you.

I have spent a few vacations in New Orleans and have never felt unsafe during the day. I have wandered the French Quarter and the Market alone with no problem. But I don't walk at night. Just use common sense and you should be fine.

I agree w/ the post above. I've even walked the quarter alone at night and not felt threatened. However, I do recommend safety w/ numbers when possible (all cities).

Dear Barbara:
We always stay in the Quarter when we go to New Orleans & have felt safe at night as long as we avoided very dark side streets with no one around.
We've only been there in April so I don't know about the weather in October.
It's a wonderful place - I'm sure you'll have a great time.
Susan

Statistically speaking, New Orleans is not even in the top 20 among major cities in overall crime, and most of what DOES happen isn't in the Quarter or the tourist-populated areas. I do think the same common sense you would use in any major city would be appropriate in New Orleans. Also, just ask the hotel or B&B folks when you arrive where the bad areas are and you'll be fine.

I have lived in the Quarter or Faubourg Marigny (adjacent neighborhood) for 7 years and have never had a problem.

Weather in October is wonderful, usually. Great time to visit. Book soon, though...it fills quickly.