Airports
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is the city’s main airport. Airport Transfers: Shuttle services, taxis, rideshare (Uber/Lyft), and public transit options.
New Orleans has one major airport (MSY)
Climate
New Orleans has a humid subtropical climate. In October, daily average temperatures range from 18–28°C (65–82°F) with lower humidity than the summer months. Light, breathable clothing is recommended, but you may want a light sweater or jacket for the evenings.
For the latest weather forecast, click here.
Currency
The United States uses the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, AmEx, Discover) are widely accepted. ATMs are plentiful, though foreign transaction fees may apply. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and major banks.
Daylight
Central Standard Time (CST) / Central Daylight Time (CDT) in October (UTC -5). In October, the sun rises around 7:00 and sets around 18:00 in New Orleans.
Driving
- U.S. driver’s licenses and International Driving Permits are accepted.
- Driving is on the right-hand side of the road.
- Parking in the French Quarter and downtown is limited and can be expensive.
- Public transportation includes New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) buses and historic streetcars.
- Walking is safe in tourist areas during the day; use caution and stay aware of your surroundings at night.
Electricity | Cell Phones
Standard U.S. electricity is 120 volts, 60 Hz, plug types A/B (two or three flat pins). Most hotels and the convention center provide free Wi-Fi. SIM cards, eSIMs, and prepaid plans are available from major carriers (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile). U.S. cell networks are GSM/LTE/5G. International visitors may need an unlocked phone for a local SIM/eSIM. Major carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon) offer prepaid plans.
Emergency Numbers
Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies.
Foreign Exchange
Currency exchange is available at the airport, commercial banks, and ATMs. Banking hours vary, but most banks are open Monday–Friday, 9:00–17:00. Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; some smaller shops may prefer cash.
For the latest exchange rate, click here.
Geography
New Orleans sits in southeast Louisiana at a crescent bend of the Mississippi River, about 95 miles (150 km) upriver from the Gulf of Mexico. The city (coterminous with Orleans Parish) is bordered by Lake Pontchartrain to the north and surrounded by wetlands and bayous that form part of the Mississippi River Delta. Elevation is mostly at or near sea level (with some areas below), and the landscape is protected by levees and pumps. The walkable core—French Quarter, Central Business District, Warehouse/Arts District, Garden District—runs along the river near the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Nearby landmarks include Baton Rouge (~80 miles/130 km northwest) and the Mississippi Gulf Coast (50–100 miles/80–160 km east).
Gratuity
US has a tipping culture: Restaurants: 15–20% of the bill is customary. Bars: $1–2 per drink. Hotels: $2–3 per bag for bellhops, and $2–5 per night for housekeeping. Ride services/taxis: 10–15%.
Healthcare
The U.S. healthcare system is a mix of public and private. Medical treatment can be expensive without coverage, so travel insurance is strongly recommended. New Orleans is home to several major hospitals, including Ochsner Medical Center, Tulane Medical Center, and University Medical Center.
- Pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens are common and provide both prescriptions and basic medical supplies.
- No required vaccinations are needed to enter the US.
- In an emergency, dial 911.
Internet Connectivity
The convention center has wireless internet connectivity. Most hotels also provide Wi-Fi, though fees or limitations may apply.
Language
English is the primary language spoken in New Orleans.
Population
The population of New Orleans is approximately 370,000, with a metropolitan area population of over 1.2 million. The city is known for its vibrant cultural diversity, reflecting French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences.
Smoking
Smoking is banned in all enclosed public spaces, including restaurants and bars. The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is a non-smoking building.
Shopping & Taxes
Sales tax in New Orleans is approximately 9.45%. Unlike VAT, sales tax is not refundable to foreign visitors. Sales tax (about 9.45% in New Orleans) is added at checkout and is not included on price tags. U.S. cash comes in bills ($1, $5, $10, $20) and coins (1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢). Many shops and restaurants are cashless or card-preferred. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and the convention center.
Time
New Orleans is in the Central Time Zone (CST/CDT). In October, daylight saving time is still in effect (UTC –5).
Transport
The French Quarter, Warehouse District, and convention center areas are walkable. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft), taxis, and hotel shuttles are readily available. Streetcars and buses provide affordable public transit. It is best to avoid walking alone late at night outside busy areas.
Vaccinations
No special vaccinations are required to enter the United States. Travelers should ensure they are up-to-date on routine immunizations.
Visas
U.S. visa requirements vary by country. Travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries must apply for ESTA prior to entry. If you require a letter of invitation for your visa application, please request one during registration. Please visit the U.S. Department of State travel site below for up-to-date information.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas.html
Water
Tap water in New Orleans is safe to drink. Bottled water is also widely available.
Local Culture and Attractions
New Orleans is world-famous for its music, cuisine, and historic neighborhoods.
Music: Widely regarded as the birthplace of jazz, the city has a vibrant live music scene ranging from traditional jazz to blues, funk, brass bands, and more. The Frenchmen Street area is especially known for nightly performances.
Cuisine: Local specialties include gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys, beignets, and fresh Gulf seafood. You’ll find a mix of Creole, Cajun, French, and Caribbean flavors throughout the city.
French Quarter: The oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, known for its architecture, balconies, street performers, and Bourbon Street nightlife.
Garden District: Famous for historic mansions, tree-lined streets, and Lafayette Cemetery.
Museums & Culture: Highlights include the National WWII Museum, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, and the Louis Armstrong Park.
Festivals & Events: October often features local celebrations such as food festivals and cultural events, giving visitors a taste of the city’s year-round festive spirit.
Customs & Immigration
Passport control and baggage claim can take some time — allow at least 60–90 minutes after landing. U.S. immigration requires electronic fingerprints and a photo for most visitors. Have your conference invitation letter and hotel details handy.
Alcohol
Drinking age is 21; you may be asked to show ID even if you are obviously over the drinking age.
Food & Dietary Needs
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are increasingly available, but traditional Cajun/Creole food is often meat- or seafood-based. Food portions in the U.S. are typically larger than in many countries.