If you're itching for a taste of some Cajun cuisine, a romantic weekend of live jazz and the perfect party town, head south and to New Orleans. Travel guides and an online poll released in March, 2005 also named New Orleans the top family vacation destination in the United States, which means one thing: New Orleans also offers affordable family vacation packages.

Luxury Vacation Rentals in the French Quarter
No trip to New Orleans would be complete without a visit to the French Quarter. Many of its buildings date back to the 1700s, and most of the architecture is actually Spanish, not French. The entire area consists of 120 blocks nestled on the Mississippi River. One thing to remember about the French Quarter is that it's a thriving neighborhood with private homes, condominiums, and apartments, as well as restaurants and museums. Many of the private homes are available as luxury vacation rentals, and several bed and breakfasts serve the area, as well.

Romantic Weekend of Live Jazz
When it comes to a romantic weekend of live jazz, New Orleans is the place to be. Every night of the week, the streets and clubs of the Big Easy come alive with vibrant music, from traditional jazz to acid jazz, there's something for every ear. And the famous New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, which is celebrated every spring, is the perfect party for jazz lovers.

Family Vacation Packages
Believe it or not, New Orleans travel guides say families comprise nearly 15 percent of New Orleans visitors. And with attractions like the Audubon Zoo, Aquarium, Nature Center, Six Flags New Orleans and the Louisiana Children's Museum, who's surprised? There are also 40-plus museums for families to explore, swamp tours and paddle wheel boat rides, and the rumbling Streetcar tours on Canal and St. Charles Avenue. Family vacation packages are available through many hotels as well as special coupon books with discounts to hotels, restaurants and attractions.