Do they still have those shoeshine guys all over the French Quarter? They would say a little poem then try to shine your shoes! I would recommend cloth tennis shoes....

New Orleans is a favorite city of my whole family! I definitely consider it a worthwhile, enriching trip. The crime is bad, however. We didn't have any bad experiences, but one of our clients had an awful one during a trip in the 90's. He was mugged for his wallet and beaten severely and hospitalized. He never seemed the same (mentally). I'm not trying to scare you, but just be aware there is always the possibility and exercise caution and good street smarts.

The city's crime rate is WAY down from the mid 1990s...over 60% overall. However, being smart is still en vogue. No convention nametags, no Mardi Gras beads when it's not the Carnival season, no "I'm a Tourist" signs. I have never had a problem in 11 years in New Orleans nor have any of my friends. Just be smart!

Buses and streetcars were fine when we were there last month, with the exception of one driver, who replied that she &quot;was not a tour operator&quot; when we asked her to let us know where to get off for Magazine St. (a must see).<BR>Just be careful &amp; don't wear expensive jewelry.

&quot;being smart is still en vogue.&quot; <BR>Excellent! Can I borrow that term?<BR><BR>Nobody has ever accused me of being &quot;en vogue&quot; of late. Hmmmmmmmm.

Kal: I believe you haven't been accused of being &quot;en vogue&quot; for a reason - could it be the &quot;lone trail-blazer&quot; thing, maybe? &lt;grin&gt;