HOBOKEN, N.J., Feb. 2, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- Think going to New Orleans for Mardi Gras this year is out of the question? Think again, says Mary Herczog, author of Frommer's(r) New Orleans. Herczog thinks this year's celebration will be the best one yet.
For people who have never been to the annual celebration, Herczog says this is the year to go. And for those who have gone before or make it a tradition, they won't be disappointed. Below is a list of tips for when you get to New Orleans for this year's Mardi Gras and other facts:
-- The New Orleans You Know and Love. The regions where tourists
are likely to stay like the French Quarter and the Garden
District/Uptown made it through Hurricane Katrina with little or
no damage. If you've been to these areas before, you won't see
much of a physical difference. (Herczog does suggest visiting
the places that were hit hard, however, to see firsthand the
devastation this beloved city and its people have endured.)
-- Most Hot Spots Are Alive and Well. Almost every popular
restaurant in the city, from favorite institutions like
Galatoire's and Arnaud's, to Bacco, Palace Cafe and Cafe Du
Monde, are open again.
-- Some Need a Little More Time. Restaurants like Commander's
Palace, Mr. B's Bistro and Dickie Brennan's Steakhouse are
still undergoing repairs but should also be open again soon.
-- Best Dining Experience. Because staff is short, many of the
chefs are spending more time than ever in the kitchen, so you've
got their full attention right now.
-- Tight Quarters. Many hotels will be booked with relief and
construction workers, so if you're in a bind, call Bed and
Breakfast Inc. (800/729-4640) for alternate places to stay.
Visitors should also consider hotels in Metairie; a little far
from the action, but may have more available hotel rooms.
-- Patience. Most restaurants and hotels are open for business,
but they are short-staffed. Service will be the best it can be,
but because of the lack of resources, guests may have to wait
longer.
-- Royal Treatment. Tourism is New Orleans' number-one industry so
you'll feel more welcome than ever. The locals will really
appreciate the economic boost.
-- The Big Day. Though there are slightly fewer parades scheduled
for this year, those that are taking place will be spectacles.
Herczog says to expect the most innovative, satirical and
intricately constructed costumes that are spectacles in
themselves and will reflect all the resilience of the creative
locals.
-- Pack Your Mask. Everyone is invited to dress up and the better
your costume, the better the beads you will get.
-- Don't Overdo It. Most importantly, emergency services are very
backed up at this point due to shortage of staff and open
hospitals. So while New Orleans wants tourists and visitors, if
you're in poor health, this may not be the best year to go.
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