Is there anything more exciting than Mardi Gras? If you’re one of the thousands of revellers who are travelling down to New Orleans for the Mardi Gras season then you’re in for a treat. Parties, picnics, parades, costumes, live music, floats and warm, welcoming locals all put together in an eclectic mix of new meets historic in this beautiful, famous city. What could be better?
Sadly, for many revellers, the excitement and the fun of Mardi Gras is marred by injuries, crime and frightening experiences. None of which are their fault – click here for some straightforward Mardi Gras safety tips. So, if you’re heading to Mardi Gras this year and want your trip to be filled with happy, fun memories rather than bad ones, read on for how you can stay safe during this fantastic festival.
Stick together
Of course, Mardi Gras is a festival that is best experienced with friends, so make sure that the friends you’re travelling with are sensible, can be trusted and will look out for you as much as you’ll look out for them. Mardi Gras attracts huge crowds every year so you must stick together to avoid getting separated and lost. It’s always a good idea to come up with a plan so that way if you do get lost you can find each other again. Phone signal may not be great, so choose a location that you’re all familiar with to meet at if you become separated.
Stick to areas that are heavily policed
Police = safety. So, it makes sense to enjoy the festival in the heavily policed areas where your safety is being monitored at all times. If you choose to party in an area with less of a police presence then you may find yourself at the mercy of pickpockets and other dangerous individuals.
Drink sensibly
Of course, everyone goes to Mardi Gras to have a good time and the drinks are always flowing during the festival. You want to have a great time and let your hair down, but you should still exercise caution. Only drink drinks that have been prepared in front of you, never leave your drink unattended and avoid drinking until you can’t stand up and your common sense is impaired. Opt to drink water between alcoholic drinks and don’t feel under pressure to keep up with friends and those around you. Be smart!
Be wary of strangers
It makes sense to meet new people and party the night away, however, you should be smart. Not everyone you meet can be trusted and if someone is trying to lure you away from the crowds into a secluded area or back to there hotel then you should decline and remove yourself from the situation entirely. Always stay within sight of your friends and police officers.
Leave your wealth at home!
Jewellery, expensive cameras, designer handbags, even watches and bracelets. Not only are you more likely to lose them but having your wealth on display makes you a simple and easy target for pickpockets! Be smart and only bring the basics.
