Cruise the Mississippi Upriver, from Galveston or New Orleans

If you feel like airfare to the embarkation port is impeding you to go on a cruise in the Mississippi, consider leaving from the Gulf of Mexico. The two main Gulf Coast cities are now increasingly offering cruise departures up the Mississippi. Galveston and New Orleans are not only close and Mississippi cruise vacationers; these are great but lesser-known American cities worth a visit in their own right.

 Galveston (TX) is built on an island, about an hour's by car from Houston. it is a historical area since it was already a very large, bustling commercial city in the 19th century. In fact the city was the Ellis Island of the Gulf, and many immigrants (especially of German origin) landed in Galveston.

Galveston is blessed with several beaches, nice fishing spots in the surroundings, so before you go on that Mississippi cruise you can partake in local water sports. As for food, sea fare such as shrimp is very good, preferable to Tex Mex (which is more common in Texas's landlocked areas). As for sights, don't miss out on Moody Gardens, which includes a butterfly zoo, extensive gardens, and even an Imax Theater.

New Orleans's weather is similar to Galveston's, but apart from that the cities are fundamentally different. New Orleans mostly below sea level, and built on the two shores of the Mississippi River. Recent hurricanes notwithstanding, much of New Orleans is back open for business.

In fact, the Mississippi cruise business is important for the citify for and those who want to help New Orleans get back on her feet can't do better than by leaving for a Mississippi cruise from her port, after having spent a couple of days in the city.

For visitors, the most interesting part of the city is the French Quarter. This is the area for strolling, people-watching, window shopping, and feeling the heat. As for food, there are lots of superb options. If you fancy Oysters, visit the Acme Oyster Bar, which is near Canal Street. For a quick takeaway snack, get a muffaletta at a baker in the French Quarter. It's a sandwich made with olives.

As for local specialties, Creole and Cajun cuisines are the staple in New Orleans and also common on a Mississippi cruise. You'll notice that they are pretty different approaches to food. Creole food is Europeanized in taste, and uses lots of wine, butter, thick sauces, enjoy pastries and is the backbone of local fancy dining. Cajun cuisine is more hearty and rural, with lots of hot food, and includes whatever animal that you can get without it eating you first! won't eat them first. You can get alligator, and in fact you will see it on a lot of menu. And Brennan's is famous for its turtle soup, and for eggs benedict at breakfast.

Finally, here are some safety tips: summer and even mid-season (spring, autumn) can get very hot both in Galveston and in New Orleans, so wear your walking shoes and take sunscreen and a hat. Also, don't leave your valuables unguarded! This being a touristy area, pickpockets and other scammers are at work here too. The merrymaking culture can be infectious, but don't let it make you go beyond your limits.

 Make sure that you don't drive if you've had anything to drink as the local police doesn't have much of a sense of humor about drunk driving.

But generally, people are friendly, the style is casual and down-home, and most people are out to have a good time. It will be a great starter to your Mississippi cruise!