New Orleans, LA

We had wanted to get a hotel close in to town, but based on the on-line reviews, a decent hotel here will run about $200.  In addition, most of the close in hotels have limited parking or valet only parking.  Considering the prices and the huge amount of luggage we have, we decided to head for the suburbs.  We ended up at a Fairview Inn at $129 per night.  One of the most expensive hotels on our trip, and one of the worst in terms of quality.

I'm not sure what to think about New Orleans.  It has all the crime, traffic, and other difficulties of a large city, but the reality is that Portland is nearly twice as large and yet infinitely more livable.  We only stayed 2 nights, but ended up having a nice time.

We took the bikes for a ride along the levy, all the way from Kenner to the Garden District, about 30 miles total.  Cruised around the garden district for an hour or so looking at the old mansions.  I really enjoyed the ride along the levy.  The viewpoint from the top of the levy gives an interesting perspective as it passes along the different neighborhoods.

We also went down to Bourbon Street later that evening, but only lasted until about 9:30.  I have a feeling the party was just getting started, but we were ready to call it a day.