As I mentioned in a previous blog we’re just wrapping up Christmas celebrations at our home (round three of gift opening took place on Sunday—the Epiphany or Three Kings Day) and now another big celebration is just around the corner.
Mardi Gras (a.k.a. Carnival) is less than a month away and if you plan to party like a college coed at the world’s hottest Fat Tuesday blowouts then you’d better make your travel plans now. Tickets to the best parties in New Orleans, Rio de Janeiro and Trinidad are going fast. The festivities peak on February 5th and lucky for you the following options are still available.
NEW ORLEANS
I’ve never spent Fat Tuesday in New Orleans, but I have been in the Crescent City a few weeks before the crowds descended and can attest that even then things were swinging. Beginning February 1st, the Big Easy will host a series of spectacular festivities, with live music, parades, picnics, floats, crazy costumes, and… crazy people. If you have never been to Mardi Gras in New Orleans you should seriously consider doing so this year. You could look at your trip as a service project. Don’t forget it was just a few years ago that Hurricane Katrina devastated the city, so your tourism dollars could do a lot of good. If you are looking for a way to save while in the Big Easy check out the Hilton New Orleans Riverside. The property is offering a special Mardi Gras rate between February 4th and 7th. Discounted double rooms start at just $169 per night.
RIO DE JANEIRO
Each year revelers from around the world break out their glittering gowns, outrageous costumes, and feathered frocks to experience Carnival in Rio de Janeiro. During the first few days of February there is no shortage of fun in the Brazilian city, which hosts samba soirees on sun-kissed beaches during the day and full throttle fiestas at night. The parties peak on February 3rd and 4th when the samba schools compete in the famed Sambodromo. Tickets to the event are almost as outrageous as the dance off itself (prices run in excess of $600). However, General Tours is offering a package, which includes six days in Rio during Carnival with five nights’ lodging, meals, sightseeing tours and Sambodromo tickets for $1120. It doesn’t include airfare.
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
Trinidad & Tobago’s Carnival events take place among the rainforests, waterfalls, and sugar sand beaches. The island’s masquerade bands fill the night with pulsating calypso and soca music and are one of the main attractions during the February festivities. Likewise, Trinidad’s giant street party is known as one of the world’s best social gatherings. If you want to get in on this cultural feast for the senses consider booking a travel package with Caribbean Discovery Tours. For $400 you’ll get five-nights’ accommodations at a deluxe hotel during the festivities, transfers, island tours, and breakfasts.
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