Just curious, does your sister think NO is safe for tourists? So many places now are just not safe.
The French Quarter has always been risky. You just have to be careful where and when you go. I’ve probably visited 50 times and never had any problems but of course I never went during Mardi Gras or other insane tourists times. Easter is a beautiful time of year to go. It’s not too hot then. The Fall is also a great time to visit. My cousin lives in a condo in the Garden District and my sister lives in Metarie. I don’t know how much has changed since this Covid stuff but if you’re careful you should be okay. It’s a wonderful city to visit but I never wanted to live there.