The rising prices of gasoline, diesel, and aircraft fuel has local officials worried that tourism could take a hit.

Mary Beth Romig with the Metropolitan Convention and Visitor's Bureau says it's yet another challenge the area faces in the post-Katrina world.

"Since August 2005, we have a lot of challenges that we're already battling," said Romig. "So, this price increase in gas is just another lesson we have to learn, and see how it's all going to play out."

Listen to WWL's Jay Vice with Mary Beth Romig:

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One of the reasons behind the rise in gas prices is the weak U.S. dollar. Ironically, the weak dollar could also be a silver lining for the New Orleans area.

"The dollar is very strong in Europe," according to Romig. "So, we're hoping that the international market will continue to recognize that New Orleans is a great place to visit, because it is a great value to come from Europe to New Orleans."

She says that the weak dollar isn't as much of an advantage to tourists from some other countries such as Japan, which is having economic problems of its own.