Travel Tips To Help You Celebrate Mardi Gras Right

February 17th, 2015 spells one thing and one thing only: Mardi Gras! That's right, it is time to celebrate the event with food, drinks, and all of the festivities. The best place to do that is in New Orleans, Louisiana. This city in the United States has become known for its Mardi Gras celebration, thanks to the annual parade and the cities' French roots. Wondering how to plan and enjoy your trip? Don't worry - here is everything you need to know about celebrating the right way.
Travel Tip #1: Plan Ahead
Are you ready to get the party started? Then you'll need to do a little planning ahead. Mardi Gras is without question one of the most exciting things you can experience this March in the United States...which is why so many people plan to visit during this time. That means that hotels often book up early. If possible, plan your trip in advance and book accommodations as soon as possible. It will save you money and give you more options to work with. Other ways to plan ahead? Choose a meeting spot with your travel buddies in case you get separated and keep emergency phone numbers on you at all times.
Travel Tip #2: Be Transportation Ready
Whether you are driving, walking, taking shuttle busses, or cabs, you need to be able to get around the city with ease. In order to enjoy the parade route, the restaurants, and all of the nightlife, you'll need to have a plan of action. For instance, certain areas will be blocked off to vehicles during the celebration, and shuttle busses don't always run after certain times. Plus, finding an available cab in the middle of all those beads and costumes can be a nightmare! Make sure that you do some research online or ask your concierge for advice about your transportation options before you head out.
Travel Tip #3: Dress Appropriately
Part of the Mardi Gras experience is having fun with your outfit. The traditions of the celebration include dressing up in purple, green, and gold. As the night goes on, you may even be able to add on some of the beaded necklaces that are tossed off from the parade floats. If you're worried about looking foolish, don't! There will be plenty of outrageous costumes wherever you go, so you won't have to worry about feeling out of place. To make the most of your Mardi Gras experience, embrace the traditions and get out of your comfort zone. Remember, there are costume contests each year, so you'll need to be ready!
Travel Tip #4: Keep Your Arms Open
Celebrating Mardi Gras the right way means being ready to catch everything that come your way. What does that mean exactly? Well, items are tossed off of parade floats, so if you want them, you'll need to grab them. It is a good idea to bring a bag with you to store all of your loot! Keep in mind that if you plan on enjoying the parade, you'll need to show up quite early to get a decent spot. The better your spot is, the better your chances are of catching things like beads, doubloons, cups, stuffed animals, and all of those other items.
This year, Mardi Gras will be celebrated on February 17th...so there is no better time to get yourself down to New Orleans - or start planning your trip for next year. With these travel tips, you'll be enjoying the festivities like never before.
Julie Cammisa knows that February 17th, 2015 spells Mardi Gras. As the owner of US Waiver & Pardon Canada, she has helped clients with her professional experience and extensive knowledge of US Waivers and Canadian Pardons.