A Crescent City Christmas

Don't let the lack of snow deter you! New Orleans is a uniquely "Christmasy" destination (if you like your Yule cool) and therefor a delightful place to visit in December. But because nobody knows it, prices tend to plunge then.

How much? Throughout the coming month, 48 of top city hotels will be shaving up to 30% off their nightly rates. So a stay at the French Quarter Chateau LaMoyne or the Cotton Exchange Hotel will be just $69 a night. The chi chi W Hotel New Orleans (I've stayed there; it's very cushy) is coming in at a mere $99 and the historic Hotel St. Pierre will be but $79. These are just a few of the deals on offer. You can find more by clicking here.

Meals, too, will be slashed in price...if you're willing to try a blow-out Reveillon dinner.  These multi-course, holiday meals are a beloved New Orleans tradition making use of  recipes that are sometimes several centuries old. Ever wanted to try chestnut crusted sweetbirds, wild game cassoulet or roasted local Muscovy duck with cornbread stuffing and pepper jelly glaze? Here's your chance! Among the restaurants participating are some of New Orlean's most celebrated: Commander's Palace, Arnauds, Galatoires and the Court of the Two Sisters.

So you'll sleep and eat cheap, but that's not a reason to go anywhere is it? Happily, NOLA will be offering a slew of holiday entertainments from craft fairs to holiday concerts to caroling in Jackson Square and home tours. For a complete calendar of events, click here.