I've never been to New Orleans. Always wanted to go, but never had the chance. And it seems to me that this year's Mardi Gras will be the most local oriented and least "spring break"~ish one in a long time - probably in my lifetime.

So, I have become more and more fascinated by the idea of going this year.

I'd long thought this was something I'd never do, and so it is something I know very little about. Looking into it, I have discovered that there is not one unified mardi gras celebration, but many individual parties and parades. (Those in the know are surely saying "duh!" right now, but it's all news to me.) I've been researching the history, logistics, and how it all works, and the more I've learned, the more fascinated I've become.

From what I've been able to find out so far, the main issue for outta towners this year will be lodging - many locals are still stuck living in hotels, so the ones that are open may not have a lot of space for out of town tourists.

Nevertheless, the more I think about this, the more I want to see and experience it for myself, and this year seems like the perfect time for me... and also a good time to support tourism in N.O. at a time when they can surely use the $.

So, I'm wondering if any of my friends out there have any knowledge or experience of New Orleans, Mardi Gras, or any other relevant info or advice.

I'm feeling: curious