Luxury holidays in New Orleans

When to go

Although this Southern city stays warm throughout the year, the mildest months are February through April and September through November. From June to August be prepared for sticky, humid heat. Keep an eye on weather reports starting in August, when hurricane season begins.

Getting there

• Planes

  International and domestic flights from most major hubs touch down at Louis Armstrong International Airport (www.flymsy.com), 20-30 minutes outside of New Orleans proper. From New York, fly with American Airlines (www.aa.com) or United Airlines (www.united.com). Take a taxi to downtown for US$25. Make a grand entrance or exit by private plane at Lakefront Airport (www.lakefrontairport.com), just 10 minutes from downtown.

• Boats

  The Canal Street Ferry offers daily trips to the West Bank from 6am to 12.15am: it’s a US$1 round-trip for cars, free for pedestrians.

• Trains

  Catch an Amtrak train at New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal at 1001 Loyola Avenue (www.amtrak.com), with routes to Los Angeles, New York and Chicago. Climb aboard the city’s iconic streetcars to cruise along historic St Charles Avenue (the Canal Street line is more geared to commuters) US$1.25, unlimited day tickets start at US$5 (+1 504 569 2700).

• Automobiles

  A set of wheels is helpful for heading out of the city limits, or exploring multiple districts. Rent one at the airport, where the major outlets are represented, such as Avis (+1 504 464 9511; www.avis.com).

• Taxis

  It’s easy to flag a cab on the street if you’re downtown or in the French Quarter. In less-frequented hoods or to pre-book, call United Cabs Co (+1 504 522 9771; www.unitedcabs.com).