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New Orleans once again is among one of the worst metropolitan cities in America when it comes to murders.
For the Pelican State, it’s not just New Orleans that gets a bad rap. As the New York Times reports, Louisiana has had the nation’s highest murder rate for 31 straight years.
After a COVID-19 pandemic-induced lull in early 2020, near the end of the that year, violent crime began to rise in many major U.S. cities, with law enforcement officials blaming the prevalence of guns and easy access to them.
Where Does New Orleans Rank For Murders Per Capita?
According to World Population Review, a website that analyzes statistical data for metropolitan areas.
The twenty cities in the United States with the highest murder rates (murders per 100,000 people) are:
- St. Louis, MO (69.4)
- Baltimore, MD (51.1)
- New Orleans, LA (40.6)
- Detroit, MI (39.7)
- Cleveland, OH (33.7)
- Las Vegas, NV (31.4)
- Kansas City, MO (31.2)
- Memphis, TN (27.1)
- Newark, NJ (25.6)
- Chicago, IL (24)
- Cincinnati, OH (23.8)
- Philadelphia, PA (20.2)
- Milwaukee, WI (20.0)
- Tulsa, OK (18.6)
- Pittsburgh, PA (18.4)
- Indianapolis, IN (17.7)
- Louisville, KY (17.5)
- Oakland, CA (17.1)
- Washington D.C. (17.0)
- Atlanta, GA (16.7)
Why Does New Orleans Always Rank Near the Top For Murders?
Now the hard part: Why does New Orleans perennially rank among the worst cities for homicides? The answer to that question had made many policy makers weary.
Guns
Former Mayor Marc Morial told the Times the issue could be guns. “Lots of illegal or stolen weapons, an illegal system in trafficking in weapons, plus drugs and narcotics, produce this lethal mixture. Look at the Legislature to see how many criminal laws versus efforts to address homelessness there have been. The state’s response is more of the same rather than addressing what’s driving it.”
Poverty
“Poverty by itself is a very powerful variable in trying to make sense out of crime and homicides, but it requires more nuance,” Dee Wood Harper, an emeritus professor of criminal justice at Loyola University, told the New Orleans Times-Picayune. “In New Orleans, look across our neighborhoods. In some, homicide is more common than the common cold, while others have never had a homicide.”
Lack Of Adequate Police Force
New Orleans Police Department Superintendnet Chief Shaun Ferguson told reporters in December 2021 that he had lost more than 150 officers in 2021 while recruiting 44 new officers. He said he would devote much of 2022 to recruitment and retention of police officers
Final Word
Whatever the cause of deadly crime, it’s going to take a citywide effort for New Orleans to break the cycle.
With that being said, you might be wondering how safe New Orleans is for travel. Find out.
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With hurricane season in its most active period, the main energy provider of New Orleans recently informed the public of how long it may take for them to restore power in the event of a major storm.
Entergy, the largest power company in the Greater New Orleans area, held a presentation laying out the expected wait times for residents who lose power to get their energy restored.
Here are Entergy’s estimates for how long you’ll be without power based on hurricane strength:
When New Orleans Residents Expect Power To Be Restored After A Hurricane?
Hurricane Strength Days Without Power Category 1 Storm 7 Days Category 2 Storm 10 days Category 3 Storm 14 days Category 4 Storm 21 Days Category 5 Storm More than 21 Days How To Check The Status Of A Power Outage Near You
In the Greater New Orleans area, you can check the status of a power outage near you by going to Entergy’s website here.
Once you click on your state, you’ll see a map that shows where power is flowing. Green lines generally indicate that power is on. Red lines typically mean that power is out.
Entergy’s website says, “While a green line is an indication that power has been restored to the area, it doesn’t necessarily indicate that power is on at your specific location.”
How To Prepare For A Major Storm
In the event that a major storm, hits the Gulf Coast region, including New Orleans, there are some things you can do to prevent the worst of conditions from occurring.
Buy A Generator
Most appliance stores sell either whole-house or portable generators, which are sufficient for major storms and hurricanes.
Remember to never run a generator in an enclosed space. They generate deadly fumes that can kill you. Here are some top portable generators you can purchase.
Champion Power Equipment 100519 6250-Watt Open Frame Inverter
- DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- DuroMax XP5500E Gas Powered Portable Generator
- Champion Power Equipment 201052 4750/3800-Portable Generator
Stock Up On Canned Goods
You’d be surprised how good some food in a can tastes when you’re starving. Hopefully, you never have to find out, but to be safe, it’s a good idea to have some canned goods stored for a rainy day.
Here are some food stuffs you should invest in:
Swanson Chicken & Dumplings W/ White & Dark Chicken Meat
- Campbell’s Chicken Noodle Soup
- Gatorade Variety Pack
- Canned French Style Green Beans
- Sardines in Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Homestyle Beef Stew
- Chicken of the Sea Canned Tuna
Have A Go-Bag Ready
When it’s time for you to flee your home, it can be very hectic trying to find the items you will think you need to take with you. That’s why it’s always a good idea to prepare a go-bag — a book sack or bag filled with your necessities — so that you can be on the move in a hurry.
What are some things to put in a go-bag?
- Flashlight
- Battery-Operated Radio
- Batteries
- Emergency Blanket
- MREs (Meals, Ready to Eat)
- Portable Tent
- First-Aid Kit
- Cash
Final Word
There’s little that can be done to thwart a major storm headed toward New Orleans, but you can take steps to get out of the dark in the event of a power outage.
Most residents in places like Orleans and Jefferson parishes are used to losing power for days on end when big storms come. No matter what, remember not to panic and to keep your senses at all times.
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Airbnb has made it super-easy to rent out your home. If you’re in New Orleans homeowner thinking about making some extra cash, read on.
You may be wondering how to go about renting your home on Airbnb. This guide breaks the process down step by step.
Here’s How To Rent Your Home On Airbnb
In New Orleans, hotels can charge high rates, not to mention a pricey parking fee if you have a vehicle. For many people, it makes sense to rent a home on Airbnb instead.
All you have to do is be willing to rent your property for a few days to make some good money. But before you do, make sure that you reside in an area / neighborhood where new faces are welcome and guests feel safe.
It’s also a good idea to to make sure your neighbors are aware of what’s going on to a reasonable degree. You might also want to check to see if your homeowners association forbids it.
If you’re all clear, then you just need to prepare to rent your home.
How Old Do You Have To Be To Rent On Airbnb?
Airbnb’s terms of use indicate, guests and hosts must be 18 years or older. No children are allowed to create an account.
That means you won’t have to worry about young kids renting out your home for a Sweet 16 party. College students, however, are generally old enough to use the platform.
What Percentage Of Rent Does Airbnb Take?
iAirbnb charges a service fee of 3% for hosts with a residential listing. If you have a Super Strict cancellation policy, you may be charged more based on other factors.
Now let’s go over how to set up your Airbnb account.
List Your Home In 6 Steps
1. Set up an account and log onto Airbnb.com, click on “Add a listing.”
2. Once you go through the prompts, you’ll choose whether this is a guest house or one where you “keep your personal belongings.”
You’ll also need to disclose whether you’re listing on behalf of a company or just yourself.
3. Under “Sleeping Arrangements,” add how many beds are in the bedroom(s) as well as if you have a sofa bed.
4. Once you add your address, you’ll need to confirm on a Google Map embedded in the page. Next, list any amenities like Wi-Fi, heat, AC (yes, those are all amenities) so that guests know what to expect.
5. Next list all the “Spaces” that guests can use (pool, washing machine, dryer, etc.).
6. Upload pictures of your home then describe your place, neighborhood and surrounding features to really sell it to would-be guests.
Once you do that, you’re ready to press the button to list your home.
3 Tips & Tricks When Renting Your Home On Airbnb
- Remember, all transactions should be handled by Airbnb. Do not accept cash payment outside of the online system, that’s how trouble and discrepancies can arise.
- Always draft some house rules: Let your guests know that this is not an anything-goes residence and that big parties are a no-no.
- Before you accept a guest, make sure they have great reviews. If you read their ratings on Airbnb, that will give you the greatest indication of what type of guest they are.
Final Word
Renting your home out on Airbnb can be an easy way to make some extra cash. If you live in New Orleans, the city has so many visitors that renting a home instead of a hotel is a viable option.
As you can see, there is some money to be made from renting your home out on Airbnb. To make the most of your home, always communicate your house rules to your guests ahead of time so there’s no misunderstanding.
Also, we can’t stress it enough: Let your close neighbors know that you’re listing your home on Airbnb.
There’s nothing worse than you renting out your home only to get a call from the cops hours later, saying that your neighbor reported a suspicious person on your property.
New Orleans has one of the best real estate markets in the South, with affordable housing in large swaths of the city. Large backyards and strong, vibrant neighborhoods with ample dining amenities make it one of the top places for transplants looking for a new home.
Keep up with what’s going on in New Orleans’ real estate scene here.More Articles From NolaFi:
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You’ve packed your sunscreen and now you’re ready to book a trip. How can you save along the way?
This article is going to list ways you can save money, from the booking process to the destination, during the trip and back.
5 Steps To Save Money On Your Next Trip
This article is going to show you how to save money on travel so that you can spend your cash how you please.
1. Get A Travel Rewards Credit Card
Photo by Gustavo Fring: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-woman-in-the-sofa-holding-a-credit-card-and-a-digital-tablet-6496045/ The first thing you want to do — perhaps a year in advance — is to see if you can get a travel credit card. These cards unlock savings that you can’t get anywhere else.
A travel credit card with a rewards program can save you big bucks because what you spend can be redeemed for points. Points can be transferred into miles or money toward your trip.
Here are some top travel credit cards:
- American Express® Gold Card
- Chase Sapphire Preferred
- Discover it Miles
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
2. Have Travel Flexibility
Photo by Godisable Jacob from Pexels Flexibility is paramount for booking a trip. When it comes to saving money on travel, knowing when and the best time to book your trip is half the battle.
Travel experts say that if you book a flight between 21 and 30 days out, you should be able to get a deal.
But no matter what, it pays to be flexible with your travel dates. Use Google Flights to find wiggle room in the days you plan to travel. You’ll be thankful for the money you save.
3. Fly On A Budget Airline
Photo by Daria Shevtsova: Pexels If you really want to just get there, avoid the United and Deltas of the world by flying on a budget airline. You can save up to 60% on your airfare by choosing low-cost airlines that fly in smaller or regional airports.
Don’t know of any budget airlines? Check out WhichBudget.com to research some carriers.
Here’s a list of budget airlines to choose from.
4. Don’t Rent A Car
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko from Pexels Need transportation? Don’t rent a car. Before you arrive at your destination, plan ahead so that you can use public transportation to get where you need to go.
You can choose to use Uber or Lyft to get around the city, or you can opt for a taxi.
Here are the best taxicabs in New Orleans.
Oftentimes, that may even mean staying at a hotel closer to the action. Rental cars eat up huge parts of your travel budget. And you may even have to pay for parking at the hotel or other places.
5. Eat Like A Local
One of the surest ways to go broke on vacation, especially overseas, is to eat exclusively at tourist traps. These restaurants will have you paying $8 for a bottle of water!
To really maximize your savings (and enjoy choice food), choose to eat where the locals eat. That way, you’ll pay what they pay, which is refreshingly affordable prices.
Final Word
New Orleans is one of those cities that you can get lost in once you take the time to explore it. As the former capital of Louisiana, New Orleans is one of the most eclectic and eccentric cities in the world.
One of the things that makes the place special is the people, which are eager to show you a good time via parties and authentic New Orleans cuisine.
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Our nation’s celebration of Independence is Monday, July 4, 2022 and New Orleans, Louisiana will be red, white and blue for the holiday. You don’t have to be in Atlanta proper to enjoy the festivities; surrounding cities will also be getting in on the fireworks!
Greater New Orleans July 4 Celebrations
Here are some of the metro Atlanta Fourth of July events you may want to check out.
4th On The River
Celebrate America’s birthday along the historic New Orleans Riverfront with the FREE Go 4th on the River Fireworks Show at 9:00 p.m. on July 4th! This spectacular fireworks display can be seen from the East and West Banks of the River from the Outlet Collection at Riverwalk to Crescent Park at French Market District.
Slidell Heritage Festival
The Slidell Heritage Festival takes place 4 p.m. Saturday, July 2, 2022. The event is hosted by the Rotary Club of Slidell, the Rotary Club of Slidell Northshore in conjunction with the City of Slidell. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m.
Mandeville Fireworks On The Lake
In Mandeville, Fireworks on the Lake is happening at 5 p.m. Sunday, July 3, 2022. Come to the Lakefront at 2623 Lakeshore Drive, Mandeville, La.
St. Bernard Salutes America
St. Bernard Salutes America’s Annual Celebration is set for Sunday, July 3, 2022 from 5:30 to 10:00 pm.
The St. Bernard Salutes America Celebration and Fireworks Display takes place on the Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center Grounds located at 8245 W. Judge Perez Drive, Chalmette. Admission is free.
Uncle Sam Jam
Uncle Sam Jam is happening 3 p.m. Sunday, July 3, 2022 at beautiful Lafreniere Park. Each year, festival goers look forward to live music, delicious food and great company. Uncle Sam Jam is a FREE festival featuring top local and national acts and a fireworks show to close out the night.
Final Word
Flying in and out of New Orleans is easier than ever after the Louis Armstrong Airport remodel.
New Orleans is a top destination for air travelers the world over. The reason? The city’s vibrant culture, top-notch cuisine and its many things to do and see.
Looking to visit the Crescent City? Here’s the cheapest time to travel to New Orleans.
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The 2022 hurricane season is still projected to be an active one. Weather experts are forecasting warmer than normal waters in the Atlantic Ocean.
So far, 19 storms are being predicted this year, which is two more than last year. It’s going to be a busy year, unfortunately.
When Does Hurricane Season Start?
Hurricane season also begins on June 1 and runs until the end of November. With that said, there is nothing that says a large storm system can’t form before or after that time.
The New Orleans area has only been hit by a relatively few number of storm systems the last couple years, but as we know, what we miss out on in frequency can more than be made up for in intensity.
These Are The Named Hurricanes For 2022 So Far
Here is the list of major storms predicted to hit this year in the Atlantic Ocean:
- Alex
- Bonnie
- Colin
- Danielle
- Earl
- Fiona
- Gaston
- Hermine
- Ian
- Julia
- Karl
- Lisa
- Martin
- Nicole
- Owen
- Paula
- Richard
- Shary
- Tobias
- Virginie
- Walter
Why This Hurricane Season May Be A Bad One
Weather forecasters are warning that this hurricane season may be worse than normal is because of the warmer temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico.
Storms generally get their power from the top 100 feet of the waters. In the Gulf, the Loop Current, a subtropical pattern that loops from the deeper and warmer parts of the ocean into the more shallow waters close to the United States, normally mix together to cool the waters.
So far these season, the Loop Current has been of a higher temperature than normal, making the penetration of warm waters more than 100 feet and possibly as deep as 500 feet. This means the waters this summer are especially hospitable for hurricanes to thrive and maintain speed and power.
What To Do In A Hurricane Warning
Whenever a tropical depression or storm forms in the Atlantic or eastern North Pacific, a government agency known as the NOAA National Hurricane Center (NHC) issues tropical cyclone advisories to warn the public.
The advisories are issued at least every six hours and can increase as the storm progresses.
If a hurricane warning is issued, here are some safety steps to follow:
- Stay inside your home and away from windows and glass doors.
- Close all interior doors and brace all external doors.
- Take shelter in a small interior room like a closet or hallway in the basement or lower level of your home.
- If flooding occurs, get out of the basement or lowest level of your home and take refuge on higher ground.
For the latest, stay with Nolafi.com for New Orleans-area news.
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If you want to learn about New Orleans, the most knowledge can be found between the pages of a good book. While that’s true of many things, it’s absolutely on point when referring to New Orleans.
The Crescent City has been immortalized in tomes since its creation. This article will show you some great books to increase your knowledge about Louisiana’s largest city and its culture.
What Are Some Good Books About New Orleans?
New Orleans is one of the most renown destinations in books, from the settings in Agatha Christie novels to major poems, movies like A Streetcar Named Desire and countless historical books.
Let’s get into some great Nola-centric books for you to check out.
Frommer’s Easyguide To New Orleans
Written by travel experts Diana K. Schwam and Lavinia Spalding, Frommer’s EasyGuide to New Orleans gives readers a glimpse of the city in a way that the everyday tourist would never see.
Little Maid of New Orleans
Originally published in 1930, this historical novel for girls aged 7 to 12 is set in New Orleans at the time of the War of 1812
Obituary Cocktail: The Great Saloons Of New Orleans
Lavishly illustrated with more than 200 photographs, Obituary Cocktail’s pictorial history provides a look into the architectural and cultural treasures of the city’s great watering holes.
New Orleans Trumpet: A Down Home Conservatory Method
If you’re an aspiring musician or even a well-seasoned one, this book gives an in-depth view of playing New Orleans-style trumpet.
The New Orleans Kitchen
Looking to cook New Orleans-style? This book offers instructional guide for 120 recipes for classic New Orleans cooking, from James Beard Award-winning chef and restaurateur Justin Devillier.
Mob Rule In New Orleans
This account from none other than freedom rights activist Ida Bell Wells-Barnett (1862–1931) tells of the atmosphere during one of the most tumultuous times in the nation’s and city’s history.
Final Word
Reading is fundamental in the big city. Not only does reading strengthen your comprehension, but it expands your mind and improves your memory.
Educate yourself on what it takes to eat and drink like a local when you come to New Orleans.
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New Orleans is a very photogenic city, from the skyscrapers to the renovated shotgun houses in the neighborhoods. It’s clear that New Orleans is one of the most instagrammable cities in America.
Want to know what places make for the best Instagram-worthy photos around the Crescent City? We’re going to show you.
Bourbon Street
If you can avoid the overzealous reveler, Bourbon Street is a must-visit to document the colorful charm of one of America’s oldest cities.
Preservation Hall
726 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116
One of the most musically important sites in New Orleans, Preservation Hall seems to play a tune when you look at each wall.
Lafayette Square
S Maestri Pl, New Orleans, LA 70130
One of New Orleans’ best parks, Lafayette Square is located in the heart of the city’s business district, but it’s also close to some great dining spots.
St. Louis Cathedral
615 Pere Antoine Alley, New Orleans, LA 70116
The St. Louis Cathedral is actually on Jackson Square, so you can photograph two birds with one stone, as they say. The cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans and is the oldest active cathedral in America.
Jackson Square
701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116
The Garden District
Known for its many stately homes, the Garden District is labeled as such because after its incorporation into the city, the houses, many times only two structures were built on one city block, typically were surrounded by large gardens.
Steamboat Natchez
If you really want to enjoy the breeze on the lakefront, there’s no better view than the Steamboat Natchez, which has daily voyages for super-cheap.
New Orleans Museum Of Art
Along with the beautiful views, you can learn some history at the New Orleans Museum of Art. Pictured here is the museum’s Besthoff Sculpture Garden.
Final Word
If you’re thinking about visiting New Orleans, you should definitely put these places on your must-visit list. Not only will it deepen your appreciation for the city’s many sights, but you’ll capture some of the most beautiful photos of New Orleans.
New Orleans is a top destination for air travelers the world over. The reason? The city’s vibrant culture, top-notch cuisine and its many things to do and see.
Looking to visit the Crescent City? Here’s the cheapest time to travel to New Orleans.
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Southwest Airlines is responding to the airline industry’s mass pullback of flights by growing its flight schedule. The airline will bolster its schedule through fall and early winter into Jan. 4, 2023.
Here is Southwest’s new nonstop flights that they are adding:
- San Jose, Calif., and Palm Springs, daily except on Saturdays, beginning Nov. 6, 2022;
- Nashville and Long Beach, Calif., once daily, beginning Nov. 6, 2022;
- Nashville and Steamboat Springs (Hayden), Colo., only on Saturdays, beginning Dec. 17, 2022; and
- Colorado Springs and San Diego, on select peak travel days from late November through early January (see specific itinerary options by date on Southwest.com.)
These new flights and the carrier’s full schedule is now open for booking through Jan. 4, 2023.
What Destinations Can You Fly From New Orleans?
Southwest serves New Orleans from several U.S. cities including:
- Dallas
- Denver
- Houston
- Las Vegas
- Los Angeles
- Orlando
- New York
How To Get Cheap Flights Right Now
To get cheap flights on Southwest or any airline right now, you’ve got to have a strategy. One easy tip is to go to the websites of some cheap budget airlines and check out their fares. Here are some top low-fare airlines.
Final Word
Flying in and out of New Orleans is easier than ever after the Louis Armstrong Airport remodel.
New Orleans is a top destination for air travelers the world over. The reason? The city’s vibrant culture, top-notch cuisine and its many things to do and see.
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adventure / culture / Dining / general / mood / news / travel / Where To Eat
June 20, 2022
2 Min Readit’s New Orleans Restaurant Week! That means your favorite eatery may have a food special or deal waiting for you — along with a table.
If you’re not familiar with the weeklong celebration, it’s a time to cheer on the Crescent City’s best dining spots and show them a little love as they fill up your bottle and your tummy.
When Is New Orleans Restaurant Week?
New Orleans Restaurant Week runs from June 20-26, 2022.
New Orleans Restaurant Week: Participating Restaurants
Here are the restaurants participating in New Orleans Restaurant Week.
- ACME Oyster House (New Orleans and Metairie)
- Andrea’s Restaurant
- Anna’s
- Antoine’s Restaurant
- Arnaud’s Restaurant
- The Blue Crab
- Boucherie
- Bourbon House
- Brasa Churresqueria
- Brennan’s
- Briquitte
- Broussard’s Restaurant
- Brown Butter Southern Kitchen
- Cafe Degas
- Cafe Maspero
- Cho Thai
- Commander’s Palace
- Commons Club
- Copper Vine
- Costera
- The Country Club
- Creole House
- Criollo Restaurant & Lounge
- Curio
- Desire Oyster Bar
- Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse
- Dickie Brennan’s Tableau
- Domenica Restaurant
- Ernst Cafe
- Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar
- Flamingo-a-Go-Go
- Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
- Gabrielle Restaurant
- Galatoire’s
- GW Fins
- Jack Rose
- Johnny Sanchez
- Katie’s Restaurant & Bar
- La Petite Grocery
- Luke Restaurant
- Mother’s Restaurant/Mother’s Next Door
- Mr. B’s Bistro
- Muriel’s Jackson Square
- Palace Cafe
- Patios
- The Pelican Club
- Pier 424
- Pizza Domenica
- Ralph’s On the Park
- Red Fish Grill
- Restaurant August
- Restaurant R’evolution
- Rib Room
- Royal House
- Sala
- Silk Road Restaurant
- Suis Generis
- Sylvain
- The Bower
- The Chloe Restaurant
- The Commissary
- Tito’s Ceviche & Pisco
- Tony Mandina’s
- Tujague’s Restaurant
- Ugly Dog Saloon & Bar-B-Que
- Trenasse
- Willa Jean
Final Thought
New Orleans is second to none when it comes to culinary greatness in the Southeast, but the city has much more to offer.
When New Orleans’ food is mentioned on a national level, it somehow always reverts back to gumbo, which is the best around, although the city’s eateries certainly represent those dishes well, there’s so much more.
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