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Jean LafitteSmuggler, privateer and unlikely patriot, Jean Lafitte left an enduring mark on Louisiana lore. By the early 1800s the native of France had established a lucrative smuggling business, run from a blacksmith shop in New Orleans' French Quarter. He later assumed command of the disorganized bands of privateers based in Barataria Bay south of the city.
In 1814 the British failed to sway Lafitte's allegiance with a bribe of $30,000 in gold and a captaincy in the Royal Navy. Instead, Lafitte revealed the British plans to attack New Orleans to Gov. William Claiborne, who responded by dispatching Federal forces against Lafitte's Baratarian colony. Lafitte refused to fire on the American flag, and the Federals destroyed the smugglers' haven.
Undaunted, Lafitte offered to help Andrew Jackson defend New Orleans in exchange for a full pardon for himself and his men. Jackson accepted, and the battle-seasoned buccaneers fought honorably against the British.
Lafitte became the toast of the town, but the lure of his old life prevailed. In 1817 he established the pirate village of Campeche on Galveston Island, Texas, and resumed plundering Spanish ships. But when one of his captains attacked an American vessel, Lafitte was forced at gunpoint to leave Galveston. After throwing a raucous final party and burning Campeche, Lafitte boarded The Pride and sailed away, leaving behind only his legend and rumors of buried treasure.
New Orleans, LA
AAA’s in-person hotel evaluations are unscheduled to ensure the inspector has an experience similar to that of members. To pass inspection, all hotels must meet the same rigorous standards for cleanliness, comfort and hospitality. These hotels receive a AAA Diamond designation that tells members what type of experience to expect.
Sponsored Listing
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New Orleans Marriott555 Canal St. New Orleans, LA 70130
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Members save 5% or more and earn Marriott Bonvoy™ points when booking AAA/CAA rates!
JW Marriott New Orleans614 Canal St. New Orleans, LA 70130
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Hilton New Orleans Riverside2 Poydras St. New Orleans, LA 70130
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Sheraton New Orleans Hotel500 Canal St. New Orleans, LA 70130
Book NowCity Population
343,829
Elevation
11 ft.
Sales Tax
Louisiana's statewide sales tax is 4.45 percent; an additional 5 percent is levied in the New Orleans metro area, and Orleans Parish has a .5 percent tax on food and beverages. The city has a 11.75 percent lodging tax, plus an occupancy tax of $1-$12 per night. The state's car rental tax is 3 percent.
Emergency
911
Police (non-emergency)
(504) 821-2222
Fire (non-emergency)
(504) 658-4700
Time and Temperature
(318) 324-8808
Hospitals
Ochsner Medical Center, (504) 842-3000; Touro Infirmary, (504) 897-7011; Tulane Medical Center, (504) 988-5263; University Medical Center New Orleans, (504) 702-3000.
Visitor Information
1221 Elmwood Park Blvd. Suite 411 New Orleans, LA 70123. Phone:(504)731-7083 or (877)572-7474
Air Travel
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is about 21 miles west of downtown New Orleans in Kenner and is served by nearly all major domestic and foreign carriers.
Rental Cars
New Orleans is served by several major car rental agencies. Arrangements should be made before you leave on your trip. Your local AAA club can provide this service or additional information. Hertz, (504) 568-1645 or (800) 654-3080, offers discounts to AAA members.
Rail Service
Amtrak uses the Union Passenger Terminal at 1001 Loyola Ave. Daily service is offered. Phone (800) 872-7245 for further information.
Buses
The Greyhound Lines Inc. bus terminal is at 1001 Loyola Ave.; phone (504) 525-6075 or (800) 231-2222 for schedule and fares.
Taxis
Cabs are plentiful in the main business and tourist areas. Average fare is $3.50 initially and $2.40 for each additional mile and $1 for each additional person. The largest companies are Metry, (504) 835-4242 and United, (504) 522-9771. Information about taxi service also can be obtained from the Taxicab & For Hire Bureau at (504) 658-7176.
Public Transportation
Transportation by bus, streetcar and ferry is available in New Orleans.
As a AAA member, you'll save even more. Your AAA Travel Agent will check to see if AAA Vacations is combinable with other AAA member benefits, plus cruise and tour past passenger discounts and benefits.
