How to Take an Affordable Mardi Gras Vacation

Everyone should try to enjoy Mardi Gras at least once!

The Mardi Gras in New Orleans is a massive party that has to be experienced firsthand to truly be appreciated. Here are some tips for a fun and fantastic fling that won't break the bank on "Fat Tuesday."

Instructions

1. Go with a group and look into package vacations via an agent. Or consider going in on an RV, which could potentially save you money on lodging (but could also complicate parking, travel logistics and other details).

2. Plan at least a tentative daily budget for your trip, and stick with it. New Orleans is a very reasonable city in most respects, especially in its "Post-Katrina" era, so you should be able to have plenty of fun without spending like a whirling dervish.

3. If you're leaning towards a hotel/motel, try the funky but fun Royal Street Inn & Bar (in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood), The Depot at Madame Julia's (business district) or the St. Charles Guesthouse uptown.

4. When it comes to affordable fare, bypass the plethora of often-pricey French establishments for more down-to-earth but equally tasty offerings, plentiful in the Crescent City. The French Quarter alone boasts a handful of reasonably priced restaurants, including Angeli on Decatur (Italian), Café Maspero (eclectic) and Petunia's (Creole/Cajun)-ideal for a hardy lunch that will bolster your stomach for the celebrating to come.

5. As for shopping, the best way to save cash, of course, is skipping it altogether. But if you're dead set on making some registers ring-aim for Magazine Street, where the budget shopping options include several good clothing stores such as Turncoats and Winky's.

6. If, like many party-goers here, you plan to imbibe significantly, purchase your beverages from a store and do some of your drinking in-room. You'll also save money-and remember more of the excitement-if you drink in reasonable moderation. Do make sure to have a designated driver if you're going by car!

7. Look into transportation options ahead of time if you're not going to be staying right by the center of festivities. Some hotels offer a free shuttle, but if not, you can potentially save a lot of money by figuring out the public transportation ahead of time and eschewing numerous cab rides.

Tips & Warnings

• A video camera is a great way to record the sights and sounds of this fiesta for posterity.

• Be cautious and be sure to secure your valuables while partying with the crowds on Bourbon Street and elsewhere.