HOBOKEN, N.J.-
The first comprehensive guidebook to look at New Orleans post-Katrina is out from Frommer's.
"Portable New Orleans" by Mary Herczog is the seventh edition of the Frommer's guide, but Wiley Publishing says it's the first guide to the city to hit bookstores since Katrina devastated the area last August.
The slim paperback ($11.99) has maps and chapters on where to stay, where to eat, nightlife, shopping and attractions.
There's also advice on when to go. Obviously Mardi Gras–Feb. 20 in 2007–and the New Orleans Jazz Fest–April 27-May 6, 2007–are the most popular draws for out-of-towners, along with Halloween.
But Herczog recommends Christmas as one of the best times to visit New Orleans, saying "the town is gussied up with decorations, there are all kinds of seasonal special events, the weather is nice… Hotels, eager to lure any business, lower their rates dramatically, and most restaurants are so empty that you can walk in just about anywhere without a reservation."
Also keep in mind the city's other festivals, listed in the book in a calendar of events, including an annual literary festival (Nov. 2-6); the Spring Fiesta––and the Swamp Festival, featuring swamp music and swamp critters (always the last weekend in September and first weekend in October).
Listings for jazz and blues clubs include Donna's, The Famous Door, Fritzel's European Jazz Club, Maison Bourbon, Palm Court Jazz Cafe, Preservation Hall, Snug Harbor and Vaughn's Lounge.
Other tips from the Frommer's New Orleans guide:
–For self-directed tours of landmarks related to the area's black history and heritage, visit .
–If you don't have a car, invest in a VisiTour pass, which gives you unlimited streetcar and bus rides for $5 a day or $12 for three days.
–Outside the city, consider checking out Laura Plantation and Oak Alley Plantation 60 miles away in Vacherie, along with the Atchafalaya Basin Swamp Tours in Cecilla.
–A lagging economy and ongoing renovations could affect what's open and what's closed, so it's important to call ahead before you plan your trip. Recommended resources include the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau, 800-672-6124 and (click on "Visitor").
