Thank you for your continued coverage of New Orleans. There is so much work still to be done, and keeping us in your readers’ minds is crucial.
Our tourism-based economy has suffered a severe blow, yet there is a duality to New Orleans right now that makes it a must-see for anyone planning a vacation. The French Quarter is virtually untouched, the Garden District is pristine, eclectic Magazine Street, Faubourg Marigny and the Bywater historic districts are hopping with activity. Visitors could come to New Orleans now and not see a thing wrong, but the large area of destruction is a side trip they should not miss. Our world-class restaurants, galleries, music joints, and especially our wonderful small hotels are all ready for you to come NOW! The climate is delightful, the city has never been safer. Many of our attractions are small businesses, owned and operated by New Orleanians who are suffering greatly. With no financial aid forthcoming for the thousands of small businesses that are the very heart of what makes the traditional New Orleans experience so unique, most are hanging on by a thread. We are counting on the return of our visitors to keep us going.
We thank you, we love you, and we need you.

Joanne Hilton
St. Charles Guest House
New Orleans