As we travel to New Orleans, we arrive for a stay on historical Bourbon Street just in time to relax and enjoy its many offerings before the craziness of Mardi Gras begins.  Technically, Mardi Gras begins on January 6 and continues until the Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday which is set according to the lunar calendar by the Catholic Church.  The season includes a number of events including balls with the crowning of the royalty of each Krewe, but the parades and festivities swing into full gear for the last 10 days of the holiday.

Look at the intricate detail on the iron work, the gorgeous bricks, and the unique signs.  The French Quarter is one of the oldest and best preserved historical sections in America.  It occupies the same 6 by 13 block area that was established in 1722 by the French founders; however, much of its architecture is Spanish because the area was given as a gift from the French King Louis XV to his cousin Spanish King Charles III in 1769.  Part of the Louisiana purchase of 1803, this sea port became home to thousands of refugees from Haiti and areas of the Caribbean and South America, followed by slaves from Africa, and prisoners from Ireland, England, and Germany resulting in a diverse culture like no other.

Although Mardi Gras is officially cited as beginning in 1857, when the Mystic Krewe of Comus held a torch lit parade, its roots are traced back to the French masked balls of the early 1700's and the African and Caribbean enjoyment of drumming and dancing in the streets.  Each parade belongs to a particular Krewe--a private social club with its own history, traditions, and central theme.

Bourbon Street offers a peek into the two very different sides of this popular city.  This month we are going to enjoy them both.  The official motto of New Orleans is Laissez les bon temps rouler--or Let the good times roll.  Join us as we roll through this inspiring street.