New Orleans is likely to be closed to tourists for at least three months, but tourism officials are urging travellers not to desert the region. As the rescue operation continues and the full extent of the devastation of Hurricane Katrina emerges, the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau is keen to put forward the message the city will regain its former glory. President J Stephen Perry said: “Although we will be down for a period, there is a sense already forming among our leaders and the people that we will be able to preserve all of the things that have made us world famous.” The UK tourist office said the priority remains the welfare of New Orleans citizens, but sales director Jody Hanson said: “We are very confident that through planning, government funding and sheer strength of will, the city of New Orleans will rise again and open its doors to tourists from around the world. The UK is the strongest international market to New Orleans and we hope this will continue.” People with trips pending have been told to check with their tour operator, airline or hotel directly, and where possible, holiday elsewhere in Louisiana or the Deep South or postpone their trip until the new year. Armstrong International Airport remains closed to commercial flights and is currently being used as a medical facility. The Port of New Orleans also remains closed. All hotels are at 100% occupancy, housing some of the 20% of Louisiana residents who are now homeless. However, the city’s historic French Quarter looks to have escaped serious damage and the tourist office said nearly all of the district’s hospitality infrastructure has survived.
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