New Orleans Boat Show

In March thousands of boating enthusiasts are expected to head to New Orleans to indulge their passion.

The 30th annual New Orleans boat show takes place from March 8 to March 12 and the organizers are determined that this year's will be better than ever before. In a small change, this year's show takes place at Ernest N. Memorial Convention Center, but apart from that it's business as usual.

Proclaiming that "life is better with a boat", the show promises five days of boating fun, education and shopping. Boats catering for all uses and interests will be on display, with the models available for both sale and wishful dreaming.

With more than 72 million Americans regularly taking part in recreational boating – that's almost the combined population of Texas, California and New York – the boat show will not be appealing to a minority interest. This year's event is also expected to be especially popular, as New Orleans hopes to attract new visitors to the city in a bid prove that the Big Easy is firmly back on the tourist map.

Tourists are being welcomed back to the city's famous districts, such as the French Quarter and Bourbon Street. President Bush himself visited the city this week and declared it was "a heck of a place to bring your family," praising its "great food" and "wonderful fun". Long-time visitors to New Orleans won't need reminding of the city's charms, but they might appreciate the tribute. Thousands of Americans have known for years that New Orleans is the best place for traditional jazz music and fantastic Creole food.

To prove that New Orleans is well on the way to recovery, Southwest Airlines this week announced that it will be increasing the number of daily flights serving the city. From March 17, the airline will add three flights a day to its Houston-bound service and add an extra flight to Dallas and Orlando.

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