It sounds like you had an interesting and enjoyable trip to New Orleans, despite the challenging summer heat. It's great that you got to explore the city with the help of your friend. New Orleans has a unique charm with its rich culture and history.

Missing out on the Lake Pontchartrain bridge and a cruise on a paddlewheel boat gives you even more reasons to consider returning in the future to explore those experiences. Your photos capture some lovely moments and views of the city, and it's wonderful that you shared them as part of a contest. Travel experiences and memories like these are truly special.