Coventina's TOP 10 Tourist Tips for Mardi Gras

[Coventina]

I went to Mardi Gras a few years back, and this time every year since I feel the itch to do it again. This is my way of dealing with that itch this year. These tips come too late for this year, but may be helpful for anyone contemplating a trip next year.

1. Make sure to get your accountant's permission to go. It's worth every penny, but you may have to plan your entire annual budget around the trip.

2. PLAN AHEAD! When my friends and I went, we started making calls to hotels in June, and many hotels were already booked!

3. If you want to stay in the French Quarter, leave the kids at home. Not only would they probably see things that make them ask difficult questions, but they might get lost or trampled in the crowds. If you must bring the kids, stay in the Garden District or Business District.

4. Bring sturdy shoes and clothes. Bring shoes that you can walk and stand for hours in. Don't bring any open-toed shoes. Trust me. Keep in mind that anything you bring may be destroyed by the trip. This means silk cardigans. Sigh.

5. Bring sunscreen and WEAR IT! Hats are a good idea as well.

6. Bring large plastic garbage bags. The sturdier the better. They have multiple uses. They are good for sitting on while waiting for the parades, and they are good for hauling your booty back to the hotel. They can make a rain poncho in case of emergency.

7. Forget about your diet. Let it go. Whatever damage is done, you can deal with after you get home. New Orleans has the best food in the WORLD (that I've experienced). I don't think it's possible to have a bad meal there. EAT!

8. Be aware of your alcohol tolerance. I'm dead serious about this. If you plan on drinking a lot on the trip, make sure you build up your tolerance over several months before-hand. I saw many unfortunate souls who were obviously ruining their trip and/or lives. Don't let that happen to you. Watch your intake, or start a training program.

9. Be smart. New Orleans is not Disneyland. It is a city. You can't do dumb stuff and expect bad things not to happen. Guys, do NOT urinate in public or show your junk. Girls, if you flash, do it on Bourbon street. If you flash at the parades you WILL get arrested. Don't be a jerk about stuff. You do NOT want to get arrested. If you get wrestled to the ground you will be sorry.

10. Don't wear your beads on Ash Wednesday. Mardi Gras is OVER. Wearing your beads marks you out as not only a tourist, but an ignorant one.

LAISSEZ LES BONS TEMPS ROULER!!!!!!
:toast: :party: