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Start locating housing
in August because by the time you make reservations in November
or December the rooms will be scarce and will undoubtedly cost
more. If you can't find a room keep calling because there are
always cancellations. On the other hand, if you like to camp
there is the state park located on the beach.
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Local transportation
includes the Island Trolley System, Taxies and Pete and Joe
(your feet). They are all better options then driving because
you don't need a designated driver.
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The historic Strand
area is closed to vehicular traffic so if you do drive look
for a place that is close to the festive activities. If you
want to use a commercial parking area get there early because
they do fill up.
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Arrive two hours early
for the day parades and two to four hours early for the night
parades. Find a spot where you can see everything and possibly
setup a chair while waiting for a day parade. Keep in mind that
a street may be empty but will fill quickly.
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Be careful when you
bend down to pick up beads, doubloons, etc. You may want to
put your foot on it, and when it's safer (between floats), you
can pick it up. Krewe members never throw when the float is
not moving; this is for the safety of the crowd. It prevents
people from rushing up to the float and getting hit or run over
when the parade advances.
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Don't be a total jerk
or obnoxious while attending Mardi Gras functions and parades.
The police use an efficient system for arresting and carting
off those who violate common sense rules like; Don't get overtly
drunk, or be obnoxious, or behave irrationally in public; it
is not amusing to anyone and especially the police. The police
are there to assist with issues the arise, so if you act responsible
they will not have to assist you with new jewelry and a place
to stay for the night.
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Plan on a meeting place
even with cell phones in hand. Pick a cornet or a place that
you start from and plan to meet there. If you depend on cell
phones one could get damaged or lost leaving you lost.
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Leave expensive cameras,
pets, keepsakes and jewelry at home because these are large
crowds of people that attract all kinds of people.
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If you are going to
wear a costume you should consider one that does not block you
vision. There are contests daily so have fun and dress up.
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Dress accordingly:
comfortable shoes, jackets, and layered clothing. Most of the
time at this time of the year the mornings are cold and afternoons
are hot. It's not unusual to be 40 degrees when you get your
place to watch the parade and 80 degrees when the parade starts
or finishes.
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To receive the maximum
number of throws by making eye contact with the members on the
float by screaming, waving (whatever) and dressing up. Items
thrown include beads, stuffed animals, cup insulators, etc.
Remember to bring a bag to put your items in then return the
extra items to a place for safe keeping until you are ready
to leave.
