Just returned from a visit to the Big Easy.  We went down for the Sugar Bowl and to cheer the Tide to a Victory.  Sad to say, we lost to Utah.  Still proud as Bama did better than we had exected this year.

I usually go to New Orleans once a year.  Have been going for the Mortgage Broker's convention for years before and after Katrina.

This past August I did not make the convention so it has been almost a year and half since I visited.  I was shocked at the difference I saw in New Orleans this time.  There is still destruction but seems like so much has been accomplished from August 2007.

In the past folks in New Orleans were so helpful and thankful for visitors.  This didn't seem to be the case in many establishments today.  We had lunch at "The Market Cafe" in the French Quarter.  The food was horrible, our orders were repeatedly wrong and upon expression of disappointment the manager laughed.  The waitress put a hefty tip on the ticket that was certainly not deserved by her service.  All but two in our party had to order twice and I never did get my lunch.  I will never set my feet in this establishment again and if you like service I would suggest you skip.

It was not only this restaurant or my group that noticed the negative behaviour.  Other's that we came into contact with were complaining about the poor service and rude treatment received in many spots throughout the city.  It seemed like the tourist have now become cumbersome and unwelcome.

I love New Orleans and have always enjoyed my visits, I have supported Katrina Relief Efforts and hoped that one day the city would rebound better than ever.  I was very disappointed this time around!  The Big Easy...Wonder if New Orleans can keep the name?