Despite intensive re-building efforts, Hurricane Katrina’s wake was so devastating, New Orleans is still “desperately seeking tourists,” according to the Associated Press.
“The areas where tourists go largely escaped devastation — and are anxiously awaiting visitors to come and spend money,” the agency said.
Hotel rooms are widely available and restaurants are again open but word has yet to get out that the city has made a comeback.
Mardi Gras held in February, however, attracted an estimated 700,000 people.
The city’s convention business got a boost when the American Library Association brought 18,000 delegates to town. The event drew rave reviews.
Guide books say little has changed in the areas known to tourists.
The area has 28,000 hotel rooms of about 10,000 less than pre-Katrina, but another 1,150 rooms are expected to return in the fall.
Report by David Wilkening
