Despite Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans' French Quarter still retains its romantic charm. A visit to this historic city will not only help restore the Crescent City's economy, but it will help you renew the love in your relationship.

Couples celebrating anniversaries and honeymoons search for the perfect gift for a loved one. Tired of a dozen roses? Champagne lost its fizz? Then plan a getaway to one of America's most romantic cities…New Orleans.

The Hotel Monteleone is the perfect location for experiencing the city. It is centrally located on Royal Street in the French Quarter, within walking distance to most historic areas. The Deluxe King Rooms offer just enough space for a loving couple. The tastefully furnished rooms have recently been renovated. This historic hotel has housed notable writers such as Truman Capote and Ernest Hemingway, just to name a few. The rooftop Carousel Bar is not to be missed. This is a luxury property with a luxury price, but the splurge is well worth it.

Nearby, in the French Quarter, there are sites and tastes to experience. This area of the city was built on high ground, saving this historical section from flooding. Today it is once again bustling with tourists, and street artists can be found surrounding Jackson Square. Cafe du Monde is still the place to sit and people watch, all while sipping a Cafe au Lait and devouring a crisp, warm, powder-sugar coated Beignet. Be sure to get there early, though, or you will have to wait a long while for one of these sought after tables.
In Louisiana, the motto is "Live to Eat", which is evident in the outstanding cuisine that can be found. New Orleans is home to hundreds of restaurants and more than 3000 bars. Brennan's located on Royal Street, is the birthplace of such dishes as Eggs Benedict and Bananas Foster. A typical New Orleans brunch is served here daily, which consists of Turtle Soup, Eggs Benedict, and Bananas Foster. This three course meal costs less than $50US per person, and is not just a meal, but an event. Also, be aware of your surroundings. You never know who you might see at famous restaurant.

The nightlife in New Orleans, most notably on Bourbon Street, is still active and exciting. The oldest pub in the city is Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop, located on Bourbon at St. Philip. It is rumored to be the rendezvous spot of the famous pirate Jean Lafitte and his lady-love, Dominique.

To add extra sizzle to your visit, try kissing at one or all of the following locations during your romantic getaway:

• The Moonwalk, overlooking the Mississippi River, at dusk.
• During a carriage ride through the French Quarter, snuggling with your honey
• Holding hands, walking through Pirate's Alley
• At the fountain at Audubon Park, or under a 100-year-old oak tree at the Park
• On a streetcar ride along the levee
• In a corner of a dimly lit booth in any jazz club

If this isn't enough romance, check out a Mardi Gras parade where you can kiss as the floats go by. Carnival is derived from the Latin "Carnivale" and is loosely translated into "feast of the flesh." Use your imagination and lose your inhibitions to make this a trip worth remembering.

There are many festivals and events happening all year long. Please help rebuilt the economy of New Orleans by visiting as a tourist and enjoying yourself. And most of all, "Laissez les bon temps roullet" (Let the good times roll.)

For more information, check out NewOrleansOnline.com