My guest today probably knows as much about Mardi Gras as anyone. He’s published an annual Mardi Gras Guide for 49 years, including the 2025 edition and he’s done an episode like this with me for several years. Welcome to the show, Arthur Hardy!

Sponsors

The Old 77 Hotel

The Old 77 Hotel and Chandlery is in a great location in the Warehouse District, just three blocks from the French Quarter. It’s close to lots of great places to eat, and the streetcar too. They also have an award winning resutarant in Compere Lapin that’s a great spot for dining or enjoying an adult beverage.

Another thing I love about the Old 77 is they support local artists and artisans, exhibiting their works and selling their products. The Old 77 is pet friendly, too.

They have a wide range of rooms from a studio loft, to artist inspired suites, ito nteriors rooms for those that don’t want any hint of daylight. Rooms feature exposed brick and hardwood floors. Located at 535 Tchoupitoulas Street, you’re so close to all the energy of the French Quarter, yet far enough away to not be bombarded by the noise and activity when you’re ready to rest.
Use code PHBEBO and save 25% on your next stay!

Accidental Cajun Experiences

Accidental Cajun Experiences is a boutique travel service company offering guided culinary tours and custom dining experiences, unique cultural experiences, and photography services from award winning chef, writer and photojournalist James Cullen.

Too often visitors to New Orleans never stray outside the French Quarter or the typical tourist destinations, and get incomplete and inaccurate idea about the true nature of the city.

Accidental Cajun Experiences offer a different option, that customizes itineraries to your tastes. Whether you want to learn the roots of Creole Cuisine in the 7th ward, go to a second line, see altars and Black Masking Indians on St Joseph’s Night, or wake up with the Skull and Bones Gang on Mardi Gras morning, we offer an alternative to the status quo.

They also offer travel photography services, whether it’s couples or family photos, or their personal paparazzi service to document your trip so you can relax and enjoy it, and you get professionally shot and edited photos that preserve your memories.

Accidental Cajun Experiences is also committed to giving back to New Orleans. They are sponsors of both the BBS podcast and WWOZ New Orleans. And they also donate $5 from every booking to The Roots of Music, a musical education program for at-risk New Orleans youth.

Accidental Cajun Experiences. Cuisine; Culture; Community. Above Ground. Below Sea Level.

Thank You

Thanks to Arthur for joining me today. Thanks also to Joel Sharpton of Pro Podcasting Services for editing the podcast.

Subscribe to the Podcast

If you enjoy the show, please subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Google Play Music or wherever you get your podcasts. If you do enjoy listening, please share Beyond Bourbon Street with someone who shares our love of New Orleans

Join Us on Facebook

We have a free Facebook group where you can ask questions, share your New Orleans experiences and engage with others who love all things New Orleans! Join us by going to beyondbourbonst.com/facebook.