Though hundreds of thousands will flock to New Orleans for Mardi Gras festivities, the metropolitan area is just under one million, making NOLA the perfect combination of big city amenities with a small town feel. There are plenty of reasons to call New Orleans home, here are a few of our favorites:

• New Orleans is often called the Crescent City, because the city proper is shaped like a crescent, or the Big Easy, which was the name of a famous jazz hall in the early 1900s. Either way, NOLA has fun nicknames that few other cities have achieved. It is much more fun to tell people you live in the ?Big Easy? rather than the ?Windy City? or the ?Big Apple?.


• New Orleans has a rich history which has molded and shaped this unique city. Few other cities have been able to replicate the cultural ambiance that pervades the streets, buildings and entertainment options.


• The French Quarter has some of the most entertaining performances for free, right on the street! Tourists call these street performers, but you can fill a day or fun evening out with free mini concerts, puppet shows and special performances without emptying your wallet?though it will hopefully be a bit less heavy since tips are greatly appreciated.


• NOLA is known for its tasty cuisine and Cajun sensations. Although the city has an abundant choice of fine dining establishments for a romantic evening out or important occasion, you do not have to break the bank to eat good here.


• If you are a football fan, you've found the right place to be. In addition to being the home of the New Orleans Saints, the city annually hosts the Sugar Bowl and is one of the cities in rotation for the college National Championship.


• You have front row seats to the nation's largest festival and get to partake in as much, or as little, as you want. The overstuffed crowds and crazy tourists may not be your thing when it comes to Mardi Gras. However, you can stay away from the craziness while still enjoying King Cakes, festive attire and Mardi Gras balls.