I've been to New Orleans a handful of times over the past decade, and it is a fabulous city. Truly lives up to the hype. No advice on going or not (although I personally would be tempted to ride out a hurricane at Cafe Du Monde as long as the staff kept the coffee and beignets coming). If you do decide to go, enjoy and keep one eye on the weather channel.

I can't tell you what to do, but if I were going I would call my hotel and find out their hurricane plan, pack some rain gear and a flash light, then enjoy the weekend. Eat beignets, go to Lafitte's (sp) Black Smith Shop (if you have never been to this historic bar just outside the French Quarter it's worth going just to hear it's story), and dine at Muriels in Jackson Square (I recommend the muscles appetizer, it's to die for). Whatever decision you make I'm sure it will be the right one for you. Either way I'm glad you posted this, it was just the nudge I needed to call my travel agent to plan my next New Orleans trip!

I did call the hotel and they said that they should know by Saturday and if there is an evacuation, the hotel will help get you to the buses, but they have no idea where you will end up. I already packed my yellow Mickey Mouse rain poncho.

I would imagine Heather and her conference organizers are watching Gustav very carefully as well. I hope the storm misses New Orleans. They're just now getting back on their feet. They sure don't need another Katrina. If you go, hope you have a terrific (and safe) time and, hey, if you do have to evacuate, just think of all the fascinating blogs you could get out the journey home! :)

Katrina was such a heartbreak for so many. When I heard Gustav was headed in the direction there was this gut reaction that said Lord, haven't these people suffered enough. Whatever decision you make as to your plans, stay safe.

We were in New Orleans last year and it broke my heart to see so many of the white trailers, so many people still displaced after Katrina. That city does not need another hurricane. They're still rebuilding. I'll keep my fingers crossed that you all have a great time, and that the storm either fizzles out or heads in another direction!

Barb--I think the Cafe du Monde is a concrete structure that might withstand the effects of Gustav!! Either way, you will be enjoying beignets & chicory coffee! Have a great time!

I writer have friends who live in Louisiana. Although I'd love to watch an Anderson Cooper drive-by, I hope Gustav fizzles and you have a great time!

Barbara, New Orleans REALLY needs your tourist dollars, so why not just wait and see what Gustav does? If the storm heads anywhere near to Louisiana, the airlines will allow you to change or cancel your ticket. I'm sorry it had to mess up your trip to give you a taste of what New Orleanians have gone through in the wake of Katrina, but we appreciate any attention you can bring to the fact that the federal government largely abandoned N.O. (when the Corps of Engineers' negligence caused the flooding) and the city still desperately needs federal help. thanks.

Hello Barbara, Everyone is offering great advice, and Yes, you should still plan to go to New Orleans. If Gustav is cranky and decides to visit the Big Easy, you can adjust accordingly. Kudos to Gina for suggesting Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop, which by the way, has the best Hurricanes in the city (have to respect the drink as much as the storm). Don't miss Pirate's Alley, and the Faulkner House, where Faulkner wrote his first novel. Nothing can crush the "spirit" of New Orleans, or its people. I plan on visiting later this Fall for my annual literary adventure. Crossing my fingers for you -- and wishing safe travels. Geoff, at "This Side of Paradise," where we follow Gatsby's beacon of green light and hope. (geoffschutt.blogspot.com)

I live in New Orleans and am here to tell you, it's way too early to predict Gustav. I also agree with Mark, "New Orleans REALLY needs your tourist dollars, so why not just wait and see what Gustav does?"

As long as the hotel can get you out if Gustav looks like it's going to make land, I would go. New Orleans needs all our help and tourist dollars are the best way for it to get back on it's feet. Have a safe and fun trip if you get to go.

Oh, I have every intention of going. I've always wanted to be an on the scene reporter, so watch for my updates. I heart New Orleans.

I lived in New Orleans for eleven years and still miss the beignets and chicory coffee. Your picture had me salivating! I hope you enjoy your visit as much as I did living there. No other city like it. Best luck.

Wow Barbara! Great weather map! You could be our next meteorologist! Keep up the good work!