With a colorful history, and even more colorful residents, New Orleans has a story or two to tell. From the slave trade, through prohibition and into the 21st century, you'll learn about this unique city's history and how it has shaped its current landscape. Your motorcoach will ferry you through the French Quarter and Jackson Square while regaling you with tales of debauchery and fierce loyalty, including the story of the Grand Marquis.

Admire the strange eeriness of the “City of the Dead”, an above ground burial system utilized in New Orleans. New Orleans unique burial rituals are as much about respect as they are about practicality. The city, with an unusually high water table, just can't seem to keep caskets in the ground. Rising water has led to more than one casket literally popping out of the ground. Vaults have been used in more recent years, influenced by Spanish customs. These unique cemeteries are a must see. Not only are they beautiful in a strange way, but they speak of New Orleans' unique perspective.

Once you've toured the cemeteries you'll head across the causeway. Don't divert your eyes from the waterway. You'll catch glimpses of the levee system, which failed during Hurricane Katrina leading to widespread damage, flooding, and loss of life. The elaborate system is a must see on your trip to the Big Easy; the longest bridge over water at Lake Pontchartrain is also something not to be missed.

There is no better way to get to know New Orleans than with a local guide, who delights in sharing the vast array of history behind this party town, and knows all of the must sees, must eats and must tries in the city. This ain’t your typical city tour! So come along to explore this resilient, soulful city and see how it bounced back from disaster and still remains the smooth, soulful face of Louisiana.

Lake Pontchartrain ecosystem

The unique and fragile ecosystem of Lake Pontchartrain has been under attack in recent years. Shipping and irresponsible dumping has led to stress within the environment. Elephant ears, an invasive species of plant, has begun invading the marshlands and salt-water intrusion is wreaking havoc on one of the most important natural resources of New Orleans.