The French Quarter is the oldest and most famous neighborhood in New Orleans. When the city was originally founded, it was centered around the French Quarter, or as it was originally called: Vieux Carre. The entire district is currently considered a National Historic Landmark and contains well-known shops, music, restaurants, and bars. The infamous Bourbon Street is also within the French Quarter, which is most famous for its drinking establishments. In addition, Bourbon Street is a famous part of the world renown party, Marti Gras, which is French for "Fat Tuesday." It is always celebrated the day before Ash Wednesday, so the actual day it falls on changes each year. The Mardi Gras parades start a few weeks before the actual "Fat Tuesday" and involve elaborate costumes, large floats, and colorful personalities that fill the streets; both the parades and the huge, lavish parties that follow are synonymous with the New Orleans culture. Louisiana Creole cooking is another local staple for which people travel to New Orleans to sample. This type of cuisine is a result of the many cultures that have filtered into the city over the years. There are inspirations found in the food that relate back to: French, Portuguese, Spanish, Canarian, Caribbean, Indian, and African cultures. It is remotely similar to Cajun-type cuisine, but the Louisiana Creole is a bit more sophisticated and evolved from more classic European culinary technique. Furthermore, Creole is a type of cuisine that continues to be available in most New Orleans restaurants and always intrigues the locals and visitors alike. Another part of the city that is incredibly unique are the above-ground cemeteries that are considered a must-see for all the people visiting New Orleans. These establishments involve elaborate-designed tombs and one-of-a-kind architecture throughout. While these cemeteries are also referred to as "Cities of the Dead," the oldest and most famous one in New Orleans is ironically called the Saint Louis Cemetery. Although New Orleans proves to have attractions within its city limits that are unlike any other city in the United States, it definitely lives up to its nickname of "Most Unique City." Its French influence, world-class parties, and interesting architectural attributes make this an intriguing place that is sure to be ranked high on travelers' lists everywhere!