New Orleans is a lively mlange of diverse people, customs, and cultures. From the French Quarter to the historic Faubourg Treme, the streets of New Orleans pulse with the sounds of Creole and jazz, and are filled with the hot, spicy aromas of Cajun cuisine. The cities historic, French inspired architecture and world famous festivals make the Crescent City a much-loved destination.
Being a diverse melting pot, New Orleans has been the birthplace of many historic and intriguing people. It has been an epicenter for writers and artists. William Faulkner, considered one of the greatest writers in American history, was from New Orleans. Truman Capote, most famous for his novel “In Cold Blood, also called New Orleans home. The best selling crime novelist Elmore Leonard lives there as well. Two of the most famous people from New Orleans are Anne Rice and Tennessee Williams. Anne Rice continues to live in the French Quarter, and has used New Orleans as the backdrop for her many popular vampire stories. Tennessee Williams is considered to be one of the most influential playwrights in America, as “The Glass Menagerie” and “A Streetcar Named Desire” are still read in school, and staged throughout the U.S.