So I was sorry to leave New Orleans. Even though I had nearly 2 weeks there it wasn´t long enough in the end. But here are some of the lessons I learnt along the way:

1. Carry ID at all times. It is required nearly every time I use my debit card (even though the debit card doesn't have my name on it).

1. Pedestrians nearly always have right of way. Hitting a pedestrian is an absolute liability offence so drivers will usually insist on stopping to let you cross at intersections. Embrace this legal lunacy and use it to your advantage on a regular basis.

2. Don't drink the wine. Don't drink the beer. Live only on frozen daiquiris.

3. In addition to point 3, if you are persuaded to drink the local cocktail they create for the tourists (the Hurricane) don't drink a frozen daiquiri, wine and beer as well.

4. Learn the local currency as quickly as possible and don't accidentally give the tour bus driver a $50 tip and then have to awkwardly retract it.

5. Y'all is both singular and plural and should be used in every sentence.

6. Many supermarkets don't have fresh meat or produce. Wal-Mart may symbolise capitalism at it's worst but at least they sell broccoli.

7. Do not make smartarse comments about there having been swineflu at the White House for some time (even if you think you are funny). This will provoke a swift and sharp response along the lines of "What? Don't you like our Obama?".