A wonderful but lesser-known way to start on a Mississippi cruise is to leave from the Gulf of Mexico and cruise upriver, leaving from either Galveston or New Orleans. Many cruise companies offer these options, as their ships have to travel both ways.

Galveston, in Texas, is a great starting point for a Mississippi cruise. The city, which is built on an island, has a much higher proportion of German-Americans than the surrounding area due to immigration patterns, and is blessed with some wonderful and airy parks.

Before leaving on your Mississippi cruise you may want to stop in the city for a couple of days, as interesting sights abound. There are several close and lovely beaches for sunbathing and swimming, for instance, as well as some lovely landscaped gardens in the city proper.

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 river, a perfect Mississippi cruise embarking point. Recent hurricanes notwithstanding, much of New Orleans is back open for business.

In effect, by starting or ending your Mississippi cruise in New Orleans you will be contributing to the city's recovery by spending your time and some of your tourist dollars there.

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 before leaving for a Mississippi cruise.

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, also prevalent on day Mississippi cruise outings

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! You can get alligator, and in fact you will see it on a lot of menus. Try these in the city, as not all Mississippi cruises will have them on their menu.

Concerning your safety, make sure to bring a hat and sunscreen if you are leaving for your cruise in the summer and be especially vigilant for pickpockets in the town centers. You can relax your guard once you have boarded your Mississippi cruise.