#68 Feb 2015 Beginning the New Orleans Experience

When we realized our traveling would bring us to Louisiana during Mardi Gras we had mixed feelings. We had heard many stories about safety and security during the festivities. We chose an RV park an hour from New Orleans on the north side of Lake Pontchartrain.

This is the park in Robert LA. I’m sure it's a hive of activity in the summer.

There are two routes into New Orleans from the north shore of the lake. Going around the lake takes a few minutes longer but is along the swamps and bayous edging the lake.

The causeway across the lake is 24 miles long and is the longest bridge across open water in the world. There are six crossovers and one drawbridge for ships. There is a $3 toll going south into New Orleans with a view of downtown buildings.

We saw more signs of oil activity.

Heading north there is no toll going into smaller cities.

We both had colds so searched out a small, local parade in Covington on Mardi Gras day. Audience participation is expected.

It was just above freezing and windy so everyone was well bundled.

A marching band is a must.

As well as community organizations.

This krewe created the full Mardi Gras float.

The “throws” are loaded onto pegs for easy reaching.