Major cross-country roads in the USA are called Interstate roads. On road signs and maps, these are designated by an ‘I' and a corresponding number. All 50 US states have their own traffic rules and regulations, although there is generally little difference. In Louisiana, the minimum age for driving is 16 years and cars drive on the right. All valid national licences are acceptable; however, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is preferred. US insurance is mandatory and can be purchased from the car hire company, but it is costly so check to see if your insurance covers car hire. In many cases, if the hire is charged to Diners Club International, the credit card covers the insurance.

Speed limits are generally 48kph (30mph) in town, 88kph (55mph) on highways and 105kph (65mph) on the Interstate highways, unless otherwise posted. Louisiana has strict laws against drinking and driving, and driving while intoxicated is cause for arrest and a criminal charge. Drink driving laws are strictly enforced. The maximum legal alcohol to blood ratio is 0.08%. Open containers of alcoholic beverages are not permitted in vehicles. Seat belts must be worn by everyone in the car and passengers under 12 must be seated in the back. In private vehicles, children under four years old must be protected in car seats. Drivers may turn right at a red light, after a complete stop, if the way is clear. A flashing red traffic light is the same as a stop sign, which means that it is necessary to come to a full stop and proceed when safe.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) (tel: 1 800 765 0766; website: www.aaa.com) can provide information, and may offer reciprocal benefits to members of automobile clubs in other countries.

Emergency breakdown service: AAA (tel: 1 800 222 4357/AAA HELP).

Routes to the city: I-10 heads west to Houston (Texas) and Los Angeles (California), and east to Mobile (Alabama) and Jacksonville (Florida). I-55 heads north to Memphis, St Louis (Missouri) and Chicago. I-59 connects New Orleans to Birmingham (Alabama) and Chattanooga (Tennessee). Note that the exit for the French Quarter is marked 'Vieux Carré'.

Approximate driving times to New Orleans: From Jacksonville - 8 hours 30 minutes; Los Angeles - 30 hours; Mobile - 2 hours 30 minutes; Baton Rouge - 1 hour 35 minutes.

Coach services: Greyhound buses (tel: (504) 525 6075 or 1 800 231 2222; website: www.greyhound.com) arrive at the 24-hour Union Passenger Terminal, 1001 Loyola Avenue, which is shared with rail services. Facilities include a tourist information booth and cafe. There are frequent services to Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Memphis and Mobile.