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Seeing it on TV just can’t compare with seeing it live. The floats are huge, the creativity in their decoration is easier to see, and the smell of all those flowers – wow!

Getting there, finding a place to park, paying for tickets for bleacher seats (or camping out for a free spot) can all be a real hassle, but it’s worth it to see the parade live. Do it if you can!

Bourbon Street is an American icon. If you’re in N.O., you have to go. However, it’s rather tacky, filled with little more than bars and souvenir shops, and very, VERY crowded. A word of warning to those traveling with kids: some of the bars are topless clubs, and have explicit advertising outside. (On the other hand, why the heck would you bring a child to Bourbon Street, anyway??)

I’ve been not once, but twice! My first visit I spent in the hospital. Not only did they treat me well as a person (and a patient), but everybody my traveling companion met as she looked for a place to stay until I was well enough to travel was friendly, considerate, and helpful. We went back two years later, saw the sights we’d missed, and said “Thanks!” to our B&B hosts, the doctor, and the nursing staff. If I can, I’d love to retire there!