February 22nd, 2010 by admin

Even though the city of New Orleans is gearing up for Super Bowl weekend in grand style this year, the biggest event for the year continues to be Mardi Gras, with festivities kicking off as early as Friday, February 11, 2010. Mardi Gras falls on “Fat Tuesday” February 16, and

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Even though the city of New Orleans is gearing up for Super Bowl weekend in grand style this year, the biggest event for the year continues to be Mardi Gras, with festivities kicking off as early as Friday, February 11, 2010. Mardi Gras falls on “Fat Tuesday” February 16, and the Central Business District and French Quarter are preparing for the festivities with special discounts, free meals and cocktails, and plenty of party packages for travelers of all tastes. If you’re getting ready to dress up in costume and attend the Mardi Gras parades and festivities in New Orleans this season, here are some travel survival tips:

1. Avoid parking and driving hassles altogether by using taxis. Most of the main streets will be closed off for the parades and you won’t find parking within a few miles radius of major sites and venues. Avoid the stress of driving and parking (and parking tickets!) altogether by calling a cab whenever possible. It’s also a good idea to be at your parade route within three hours of the beginning of the parade or you won’t be able to get a good view amongst the crowds.

2. Save money with last-minute reservations. While most of the hotels around the French Quarter are booked solid by now, you can still catch a cheap flight to New Orleans and stay at a hotel with last-minute reservations. Don’t be afraid to call up area hotels to find out if something has opened up a few days before Mardi Gras if you have a flexible schedule.

3. Take a cloth bag along to catch the goods from the parade. Beads aren’t the only thing coming your way at the Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans! The floats are famous for throwing t-shirts, stuffed animals, cups and even Mardi Gras-themed blankets. You’ll need a tote bag or backpack to stash all the goodies you collect during the parade, so bring a large, empty bag with you.

4. Set aside some funds for shopping. You’ll find dozens of locally-owned shops and souvenir stands scattered around the French Quarter, the Riverwalk and the attractions throughout New Orleans. These are some of the best places to pick up authentic Louisiana masks and collectibles, Mardi Gras t-shirts, and round up an assortment of festive beads if you didn’t get a chance to catch some from the parade.

5. Enjoy some local eats between festivities. New Orleans is home to several great destinations where you can eat on the cheap and dig into local favorites. Head to the Central Grocery in the French Quarter for the traditional Muffuletta, relax on the patio of Café Du Monde for the legendary coffee and freshly made beignets, or treat yourself to a juicy hamburger at the Port of Call in the lower French Quarter.

6. Pack comfortable shoes. The streets can get very, very dirty over Mardi Gras weekend and you’ll be doing a lot of walking as you head to the parade routes, shop the day away and navigate your way through the upper and lower French Quarter. Wear a pair of old and sturdy shoes to make it through the day in comfort.

7. Avoid carrying a lot of cash. You’re going to be walking through many crowded destinations throughout New Orleans over Mardi Gras weekend, so don’t put yourself at risk for getting mugged. Stay safe by carrying just enough money to get you around, and leave your credit cards and other personal items in a safe in your hotel.

8. Sign up for a city tour by day. You can take a steamboat tour of the Mississippi or head out on a bus tour of the city for some sightseeing between Mardi Gras events. These are a great way to learn about the local culture and see some world-famous sites around New Orleans before you head off into party mode for the rest of your trip!



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Mardi Gras Beads: Howieluvzus
Iris Mardi Gras onNapolean: Ray Devlin

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