Lauren’s family of four (with two teens) traveled to New Orleans for a spring break getaway.  We picked this unique city for its interesting history and culture, fabulous food, great array of hotel options and to learn more about the affects of Hurricane Katrina and what has transpired since the horrific disaster in 2005.  We stayed at the lovely Omni Royal Crescent ideally located just a few blocks from the French Quarter and Warehouse District.  This helped ensure a quiet place to sleep at night.  We appreciated the boutique feel of the hotel, helpful and friendly staff, fun restaurant, small gym and jacuzzi as well as free internet and morning beverages delivered to the room as members of their frequent stay program.  We didn’t appreciate the soft beds.  We enjoyed a variety of experiences in New Orleans including a visit to Mardi Gras World to see how many of the parade floats are made, the Audubon Zoo and a City/Katrina van tour which unfortunately was arduous and rather boring although chock full of interesting history and views of the reconstruction in a variety of neighborhoods.  The tour did stop at beautiful city park where we were able to sample yummy beignets.  We also rode the St. Charles Street car through the Garden District and visited cousins Uptown who attend Tulane University.  Our meals were certainly a highlight and included Domenica, GW Fins, Palace Cafe, Camelia Grill and the American Sector at the WWII History Museum.  Overall a nice trip with enough variety for a lovely few days.