I might be able to make it. I mean I’m not exactly the most MPSIMS-ish Doper on the boards, and I’ve never actually met a fellow Doper before, but I think I’d be up for it. If I do go, it’ll only be Saturday. I work nights during the week.
A warning, though : If I do come and instantly clam up and hardly say a word the whole time, don’t take it personally. I can be shy that way sometimes. 'Tis my nature. Then again, I’m usually surrounded by people I don’t relate to very well, so maybe the wisdom of Dopers combined with the social lubrication of alcohol will loosen me up.
I’m a little over two hours away. It’s not a bad drive, except for that damn Atchafalaya Basin bridge.
I also have a good friend to rely on for advice. He has lived in New Orleans (well, Metairie, actually, but that’s only 15 minutes from the Quarter) all of his life and knows all the ins and outs of the city, including the best places for absolutely everything. He’s even been on the floats in a couple of Mardi Gras parades.
One place I’d recommend going is the Aquarium of the Americas. It’s right near the Quarter, just a few yards from the river, and it’s pretty damn cool. Last time I was there they had an albino alligator. Completely white. Quite rare, too, as white gators rarely reach maturity. They usually get gobbled up first. Luckily, someone found this one while it was still a baby. They also have an IMAX theater, which can be a pretty fun experience.
I just now spoke with the Queen of St. Charles; we’re good for the weekend - she might join us on Saturday, but you’ve got me to deal with on Friday night!
As mentioned earlier in the thread, Friday is definitely the best day for us. We have fairly early flights Sunday morning and likely won’t be joining anyone for any late night eating or drinking Saturday night.
Local dopers, any further thoughts on where to meet? I don’t think wandering Bourbon Street in the hopes we’ll run into each other is such a good idea.
Mrs Kamikazee and I would love to attend, but distance and 4 kids prevent(s?) it. We were in New Orleans in early June for the first time, and had a blast. I am not much of a big town person but that is one town I could / would go back to any time.
Also UncleBeer sez I’m not allowed to talk to you. just kidding Beer.
OK, y’all; li’l sis (sweetheart that she is), who has lived there for the last 24 years, is on the job. She wil provide me with recommendations, locations and contacts forthwith.
She’ll set us up with a place, or places, to congregate Friday night, but she’ll not join us. Saturday night she and I are hookin’ up, and any Dopers who remain in town at that point are more than welcome to join us.
Easy atmosphere … river view … $25-per-head price range …
You guys would do well going to Bella Luna for an early supper. At it’s heart, Bella Luna is a pasta retaurant run by a German chef, but they offer selections from a wide variety of cuisines – including local seafood. Make reservations for Friday evening around 5 - 6 p.m. It’s an easy walk from anywhere in the Quarter.
There are other French Quarter locales that would fit the bill – like the Hard Rock Cafe in the Jax Brewery, which is very close to a little riverside park that’s perfect for bummin’ around and general conversation.
You also get a fantastic river view from the Canal Street Wyndham Hotel’s 11th story restaurant, just outside the edge of the French Quarter. I’d have to call for more details.
Too bad you guys are staying on the wrong side of town sans car! There are some lakefront restaurants (Jaeger’s, Bruning’s) that are known for excellent seafood. I’d bet you’d enjoy the New Orleans Lakefront.
FYI, the better restaurants in town (esp. for seafood) are NOT in the Quarter. Most are Uptown or on the Lakefront.
I’m intrigued by a New Orleans mini-Dope. It’s where I grew up and lived until two years ago, and my wife and I will be in town visiting family and friends that weekend.
