Should I cancel my trip for this weekend?

Question

I had a trip planned to come to New Orleans for the first time this weekend. Doing all the typical tourist stuff - Bourbon Street, historical walking tour, cemetery tour. I've been watching the news coverage of this mornings events, and I'm wondering if I should cancel this trip and maybe come another time? I'm not too concerned about another attack (I'm sure the city is going to be safer than ever in the immediate aftermath), but I don't want to be imposing on a community grieving. Will Bourbon Street even be open to the public by Friday, given ongoing investigations?

Answer

First of all, it's completely understandable that you'd be concerned after hearing about the recent events in New Orleans. The safety of the community and the emotional impact of such incidents on both locals and visitors is important to consider. However, it’s also important to know that New Orleans is resilient and that the city is used to recovering quickly after difficult events. Many visitors still choose to come, and the community continues to welcome tourists as part of its recovery process.

Regarding the specific impact on your trip, here's what you can consider:

Bourbon Street and Public Access: While it's likely that there may be some temporary closures or security measures in the immediate aftermath of the incident, Bourbon Street and the French Quarter, in general, are central to the city’s tourism and economy. It's highly probable that businesses will reopen in a few days as the investigation progresses, though there might be some adjustments to the usual operations. It's a good idea to check with your hotel or directly with local businesses for any specific closures before you go, just to be safe.
Visiting with Sensitivity: If you're still considering your trip, it’s important to recognize that while New Orleans is recovering, many locals may still be grieving or processing the events. If you do decide to go, keeping a respectful, sensitive attitude toward the community and its people will go a long way. The city is known for its resilience and ability to come together in times of hardship, but it’s also valuable to be mindful of local sentiments and to avoid any actions that could come off as disrespectful or out of place during a period of mourning.
Tourist Activities: The activities you’ve planned, like historical walking tours and cemetery tours, are still likely to be operating, though some sites may adjust their schedules depending on the situation. Many operators in New Orleans are accustomed to changing circumstances and are often quick to adjust operations to ensure visitor safety. It may be helpful to reach out to the tour operators ahead of time to confirm availability and any changes to their services.
Checking with the Authorities: If you're concerned about safety or logistics, it's always a good idea to stay updated on local news and check in with the hotel where you're staying. They will have up-to-date information on any closures, advisories, or other impacts. Additionally, the New Orleans Police Department and local news outlets will likely provide ongoing updates on the situation and whether any significant disruptions are expected throughout the weekend.

If you're feeling uncertain, another option is to reach out to your hotel and local tour operators to gauge their perspectives on whether the situation will be manageable for a visit. If your heart is set on coming but you feel unsure, rescheduling might allow you to visit when things are calmer and more settled, though the decision is ultimately up to your comfort level.

In summary, New Orleans is likely to be open to tourists, but it's important to remain informed and considerate of the local community. If you decide to go, just stay informed about any potential changes and be respectful of the city's needs as it recovers from the tragic event. Whatever you decide, I hope you have a safe and enjoyable trip to New Orleans when the time feels right for you.

Should I cancel my trip for this weekend?

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