Advice for jazzfesters going solo

[funkkjunkie]

Thought it might be good to give this topic its own thread. All you old as dirt threadheads bear with me while I tell my story once again. In 1998, I was checking pollstar for shows for Bonnie Raitt and Keb Mo, 2 of my fave musicians at the time. They were both going to be at something called the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival in April. Huh. So I found the jazzfest site which was linked to the old purple chat bored. I began talking to the music crazies on the site and shared my plight. Man, I'd love to go but none of my friends are interested. These peeps, whom I'd never laid eyes on, said Come on. We'll take care of you and show you around. So I told my best friend, but not my mama, what I was doing and I headed to New Orleans for the weekend, knowing I was going to either be raped and murdered or have the time of my life. I was totally blown away. First by these peeps who kept their word and spent the first day and night schooling me on the ways of the fest and all things NOLA. Second by all the music I'd never even dreamed of experiencing. Didn't even know much of it existed. I never went back for just 2 daze again. Every year my stay got longer and longer. Now I'm up to 9 nights and 10 daze in mecca. And I'm never alone unless I want to be.

[funkkjunkie]

Advice: If you want to hang with soon to be new friends at fest, you can't be shy. You have to come to the meetups to hook up with threadheads. Ok, so I'm not so great at making meetups but it is essential for newbies. The music just carries me away and I forget. Some folks hang around for a long time at the meetups and it's a great way to find out what everyone is thinking about seeing at night, make plans to share a taxi, etc. You can also make friends with your neighbors at the stages. Most neighbors will be friendly. Some may even share their various mind enhancers with you and their opinions on who to see.

[mightyradgumbo]

YYR, funkjunkie. I came down solo for the first time last year under the banner of a 1st year threadhead and now have many new friends and look forward to meeting so many more this year. I said it once, I will say it 100 times:

THREADHEADS RAWK

[pokerchick66]

You alllllright, KK. ;)

[Zydekitten]

I, too, went solo for the first time last year (after going in a couple for many years) and I would concur with my esteemed colleagues, FJ and MRG . . . just jump in with all four feet, we're a pretty welcoming and easy crowd ('specially easy ;) )

We won't even bite - unless you ask us to do so . . .

[Papins]

I'm going solo again this year...I'm looking forward to meeting y'all

[pokerchick66]

I LIKE going solo.

[Zydekitten]

It is really fun in terms of being able to do whatever you want to do, whenever you want to do it . . . however I *do* like sharing the Fest experience with someone near and dear.

[chrisjoseph]

Me going solo this year...first time in many, many years. And I'm really looking forward to it.

[MzJoey]

Dr.V Lover will now dispense your prescription for solo festing....keep those call and emails coming.....

[steffie]

I went solo last year and made some great friends. Due to circumstances beyond my control I learned last evening I will be going solo this year : ( This thread is like a gift. I just want someone to know if I go missing ( not in a good way ):eek:

[socaleric]

I'm planning on going solo this year, and it's my first time to Jazz Fest, and my first time in New Orleans, and my first time in Louisiana!

I'm finding the costs are going to cost somewhere around $600 just for room/air. How much spending cash/tickets/drinks???

[Zydekitten]

I'm planning on going solo this year, and it's my first time to Jazz Fest, and my first time in New Orleans, and my first time in Louisiana!

I'm finding the costs are going to cost somewhere around $600 just for room/air. How much spending cash/tickets/drinks???

Well, baby . . . it depends on how much you like to see live, local music at night and how much you like to dink (drink) . . .

I figure you're probably going to spend another $3-400 before you're done - but it will be dough well spent, my friend. Don't short-change yourself on your first pilgrimage down to NOLA!!

:D

[stlbarb]

[QUOTE=...... And I'm never alone unless I want to be.[/QUOTE]

so true. as someone who used to live alone - and loved it - i found constantly being with thousands at the fest and several people in the hotel room to be a little much at times. so scheduling a little alone time is a good thing.

my 1st solo fest. 1993, my 4th fest but my 1st 'both weekends'. a friend drove down with me & flew back. thought i'd find someone to room with 2nd weekend but didnt. but the room was cheap and i knew lots of people from STL coming in for 2nd weekend, so i wasnt worried. i made so many new firends 1st weekend, then spent daze 'tween at my sisters in Lake Chales and 1 night with a new freind in Lafayette. arrived back at the motel thursday morning just in time to drive to fest with motel friends from the previous year - in their '57 Chevy convertible (the only way to arrive). where did they take me once inside - but to a RayBan camp of friends of people i had hung witht the previous weekend. that's when i first discovered that there may be 100k people there, but there seemed to be about 1k who all knew each other. still friends with all those people - even if i only see/talk with some of them once a year.
it was the best year. i could do whatever i wanted, whenever. it was before cell phones took over our lives - i didnt have to tell anybody where i was going. someone could invite you to ride along to a party or a show and you could go. awesome.
i think everyone should do a weekend fest solo sometime in their lives.
jazzfest is the ultimate hedonistic experience.

[Zbonnie]

I'm planning on going solo this year, and it's my first time to Jazz Fest, and my first time in New Orleans, and my first time in Louisiana!

I'm finding the costs are going to cost somewhere around $600 just for room/air. How much spending cash/tickets/drinks???
How many nights ya staying, and how many days at the festival? Long story short, I figure on $100+/day, not including festival tickets at ~$40 each and I don't drink alcohol at the fest, buy a bottle of gin for my room, and don't buy many drinks at night. The best money- and time-saving tip is to buy all your food at the fest on fest days, including dinner before you leave or dinner to go. Too much time and money spent at restaurants leave less time for music in the clubs at night.

[bluesgirl]

I've gone solo, but hooked up with friends every time I've gone to La. I love it. I don't have to be anyplace that I don't want to be, and if I find something fun to do, I can do it till it's done.

[Dr. A.]

here is a tip for solo travellers (and i do one weekend solo, one with family every year). if you are buying a ticket at the entrance, slowly make your way up to the booth. there are frequently people looking to get rid of one ticket at reduced price who would love to intercept you and negotiate. me, i think it is good karma to give away unused tickets, and try to do so on those occasions i have ended up with an extra ticket.

[socaleric]

kinda off topic but, i've been chatting with people at another random message board, and the some people from LA have been telling me NO is quite dangerous. They even recommended staying away! Their only recommendation is to stay with the crowds, and avoid going out during the evening. Is it safe to walk around neighborhoods (outside touristy areas) during the days? I'd like to go take photographs.

[chrisjoseph]

I think it's safe...although New Orleans has a lot of crime, I think the press inflates everything...it's like living in Los Angeles...we have a lot of crime here as well, but for the most part it's safe to move around.

[neverleft]

I go solo now mostly because it's just easier. I love meeting new people down there, and if you go alone you do. It's always great to go with people to, I've gone with as many as 10 people. When I've gone with allot of people it's been harder to see and do things there. At Jazz Fest there is so much happening one person can just bearly decide what to do. Jazz Fest is my time to get my music fill in for the year, that's why I like to go solo.

[Jaypee]

Never been solo, but wouldn't mind at all, other than the disadvantage of picking up entire the room cost.

I've gone with large groups and just one or two others, and the most important thing is that everyone does what they want...for those who like to camp at one stage with others that's fine, and those who like to wander alone, or wander alone frantically as I do when FOMS hit, that's fine too.

As long as everyone gets to approach the event in their own way, and it takes a "special kind of crowd" to do that, whether you go solo or not, you'll get the most bang for your buck, time, and soul.

[funkkjunkie]

Eric, locals and experienced nola visitors can tell you areas where you should not go walking alone, and there are several of those areas. If you are looking at certain hotels, let us know and we can help. Shows at night range from free to $30. You can take the city bus to fest if you're staying somewhere close to a bus stop where the esplanade bus stops.

[funkkjunkie]

Back atcha, chipchop.

[Zbonnie]

Eric, totally don't "avoid going out at night!!" DO avoid walking around at night, even in groups. There are special JazzFest cab rates - anywhere within a certain area (which includes the French Quarter to the fairgrounds) - two years ago it was $4 per person. Most of the threadheads use United Cab and keep its phone number programmed in their cell phones 504-522-9771/2. DO NOT get into any "gypsy" cabs, e.g., a regular-looking car cruising along Canal Street after the boat cruise empties out with a guy leaning out asking "taxi?"

[socaleric]

I think it's safe...although New Orleans has a lot of crime, I think the press inflates everything...it's like living in Los Angeles...we have a lot of crime here as well, but for the most part it's safe to move around.

Hey ChrisJoseph,

Are you going to the fest in May? I was wondering what rates you were getting for airlines/hotels, since you'd be flying out from the same area as me. I'm really excited to go after discovering these boards, but cost is a big issue and I'm trying to fit it all in my budget!

[chrisjoseph]

I am going from April 30 to May 7...staying at the W. I prefer non-stop flights, so I got something on United.

[Zydekitten]

kinda off topic but, i've been chatting with people at another random message board, and the some people from LA have been telling me NO is quite dangerous. They even recommended staying away! Their only recommendation is to stay with the crowds, and avoid going out during the evening. Is it safe to walk around neighborhoods (outside touristy areas) during the days? I'd like to go take photographs.

I would add that as a single woman traveling to New Orleans several times alone, you can go out at night and even walk around the Quarter or Frenchmen Street, but I would stay away from walking around the CBD or outer neighborhoods.

I usually ride a bike, if I'm not cabbing it to my nighttime entertainment options - but like any large urban area, NO requires some caution and watchfulness. Look like you know where you're going and that you belong there - don't stroll around displaying cameras/expensive jewelry. Keep your camera put away, except when taking your photos - particularly at night.

The other thing I've been told by locals is that some of the cemetaries can be handy places to get mugged (depending on where they're located) - so I've personally avoided those myself, but others here can chime in on whether that is still true.

However, New Orleans is one of the most unique and beautiful places and I highly encourage you to discover it - just be careful out there!

:D

[Orleansnj]

With family and friends in New Orleans and going back home several times a year - I can say this....it's just like every other major urban area. Crime exists - the difference is that they tell you about it in New Orleans. If you use a little common sense there is unlikely to be a problem.

Can hardly wait for the fest !@! Yippie ! Going technically solo for the second weekend with husband and friends from out of town first weekend.......fest, fest, fest !!!!!

I think the estimates for cash are about right - figure roughly 80-100 per day for all miscellaneous expenses if you're doing this on a budget. Mind you - that will take you far......that would be meals, transport and a few mighty fine cocktails.......you could probably even do it on less - but as was noted earlier - make this vacation a splure and you won't regret it.

[stlbarb]

kinda off topic but, i've been chatting with people at another random message board, and the some people from LA have been telling me NO is quite dangerous. They even recommended staying away! Their only recommendation is to stay with the crowds, and avoid going out during the evening. Is it safe to walk around neighborhoods (outside touristy areas) during the days? I'd like to go take photographs.

there are many people who live in 'suburbs' who think their own 'city' is very dangerous. some people think seeing a black man walk down the street makes it a dangerous neighborhood. so its hard to determine who's giving fair warning and who is just paranoid. (prior examples were of paranoid people)

if you are the only person on the street, day or night, do not walk down that street. if you must walk down it, try the middle of the street - sometimes people lurk in doorways. look over your shoulder. cross the street if you feel uncomfortable. and groups of 2-3 have been mugged in NOLA so safety in numbers is not always true.
tourists are prime targets because the bad guys know most likely you will not return for the court date even if they do get caught. avoid looking like one. hide your camera and your maps. do not carry a purse - or carry a decoy with some cash and an old credit card. if someone asks for your stuff, give it to them. most likely they will just take it and run.
don't take any expensive jewelry to NOLA. you wont need it, and you'll probably get too puffy from all the salty fried foods to wear rings anyway.
there has been a lot of press about the murders at the beginning of the year. these were almost all drug/gang related. don't buy drugs from gang members.

[Orleansnj]

I really like the response above....

Having lived in New Orleans for many, many years and now working in Newark, NJ every day and sometimes late into the evening - I can tell you about stereotypes and all of the bad hype and about real crime.

New Orleans isn't nearly as bad as it is here......

you won't know unless you go - and we sure do hope that you go and have a good time.

[McGregor]

Having lived in New Orleans for many, many years and now working in Newark, NJ every day and sometimes late into the evening - I can tell you about stereotypes and all of the bad hype and about real crime.

New Orleans isn't nearly as bad as it is here......
.

First time this southern kid ever landed at Newark in Jersey the lady at the counter told me to be careful and I replied, "In the airport?" HA She said yea, 'in the airport'.

I thought that was weird seeing how I'm a pretty big dude. I don't guess she was kidding around!

[stlbarb]

I really like the response above....

Having lived in New Orleans for many, many years and now working in Newark, NJ every day and sometimes late into the evening - I can tell you about stereotypes and all of the bad hype and about real crime.

New Orleans isn't nearly as bad as it is here......

you won't know unless you go - and we sure do hope that you go and have a good time.

Newark has no tourists. they had a few, but they ate them.

[Orleansnj]

ROFLMAO.....

Hey now - try to be nice.....there really is a renaissance going on here.....we may not have tourists yet - but we've got a gorgeous performance hall - the NJPAC, development going on in the lincoln park area (more music = yea !!) and a whole lot of other stuff.......

but I don't live here - I work here....so I have to be fair.....:D

[Lester_leaps_in]

Here's a related question: I will be solo, staying at Embassy Suites downtown, and will be without a car. During the evenings, will I be better off taking a cab to wherever (suggestions?), or will I be happy, for the most part, just going to places within walking distance?

Wadda ya think?

[stlbarb]

Here's a related question: I will be solo, staying at Embassy Suites downtown, and will be without a car. During the evenings, will I be better off taking a cab to wherever (suggestions?), or will I be happy, for the most part, just going to places within walking distance?

Wadda ya think?

is that in the wharehouse district? if its where i think it is you can walk to a few places - its hard to get a cab to take you 4 blocks. but historically that is a popular area for muggings. keep your wits about you. if you heading over to Frenchmen - cab - that's a loooong walk. other than HOB, not much music in the quarter. that may be walkable if you come down St. Charles. Cab back.

best advice - make friends with people with cars. but then there's the issue of walking to/from the parking spot. and sobriety is overrated.

[saturn]

I would suggest bringing along some cab fare. There will be lots of good options you can walk to, but also lots that you will want to cab it to.

[tangledupinblue]

Here's a related question: I will be solo, staying at Embassy Suites downtown, and will be without a car. During the evenings, will I be better off taking a cab to wherever (suggestions?), or will I be happy, for the most part, just going to places within walking distance?

Wadda ya think?

Are you talking about Embassy Suites on Julia? I think that is the only one...

I have stayed there many times. The night shows are all over the place but we always just grabbed cabs to places like Tips and Maple Leaf, etc... You don't want to skip the good shows and there isn't that much near Julia as far as I remember. It is so easy to shower, drink up in your room and then grab a cab. There are cabs that line up right outside of Embassy.

[sophisticated sissy]

First time this southern kid ever landed at Newark in Jersey the lady at the counter told me to be careful and I replied, "In the airport?" HA She said yea, 'in the airport'.

I thought that was weird seeing how I'm a pretty big dude. I don't guess she was kidding around!


One time I was in Port Authority in NYC and a homeless woman pulled a razor on me. But I wasn't worried...there wasn't anywhere for her to plug it in! ;)

[tangledupinblue]

One time I was in Port Authority in NYC and a homeless woman pulled a razor on me. But I wasn't worried...there wasn't anywhere for her to plug it in! ;)

You NUT, you had me worried there for a second. I am there all the time.

[funkkjunkie]

I really think if you are alone, you should cab. Women should cab unless there are several walking together. Maybe you can share with someone else waiting for one.

[sophisticated sissy]

You NUT, you had me worried there for a second. I am there all the time.


Don't worry, Tangie! It was back in pre-Guiliani days! I think Dinkins was hizzoner at the time.:)

That place (P.A.) was a riot back then. I was living in Montclair, NJ at the time. A family came to visit & we all went to NYC. As soon as we got there, the son "T." had to go to the loo. His dad took him in the Men's room and there were two buck-naked guys standing at the sink, singing at he top of their lungs, washing up!

"T" was just a little guy then and it was the highlight of the trip for him. He still talks about it to this day! :D

[sophisticated sissy]

I really think if you are alone, you should cab. Women should cab unless there are several walking together. Maybe you can share with someone else waiting for one.




I think it depends largely upon how much you are accustomed to walking, how well you know the area you are in, and how much you have had to drink.
Exercise good judgement when you are a tourist in any urban area. If in doubt, cab it out.

[pokerchick66]

lmao . . .If in doubt, cab it out. I love it.

[sophisticated sissy]

Yeah.
I guess I'm just in a Johnny Cochran kind of mood.:)

[tangledupinblue]

Don't worry, Tangie! It was back in pre-Guiliani days! I think Dinkins was hizzoner at the time.:)

That place (P.A.) was a riot back then. I was living in Montclair, NJ at the time. A family came to visit & we all went to NYC. As soon as we got there, the son "T." had to go to the loo. His dad took him in the Men's room and there were two buck-naked guys standing at the sink, singing at he top of their lungs, washing up!

"T" was just a little guy then and it was the highlight of the trip for him. He still talks about it to this day! :D

Ah the memories. Hiliarious.

[BigDag]

Maybe I've just been lucky, but I've visited New Orleans a hundred times or more over the past twenty years, and had only one problem... somebody tried to pick my pocket on New Year's Eve of 2005 on Bourbon Street... my wallet was in my hip pocket, so it was pretty obvious when this guy stuck his hand in there... he didn't get the wallet, and it was so busy that night he just disappeared into the crowd and I didn't see him again.

[pokerchick66]

Well, out of my whole life, the only thing that has ever happened was during Mardi Gras one year on Bourbon Street, this African-American punk tried to take the camera strap off my shoulder and I just jerked it right back and he disappeared into the crowd and I didn't see him again.

Maybe it was the same guy, Bigdag? ;)

[funkkjunkie]

Bumping for socaleric and other solo festers.

[luvdancin]

I've gone solo to all my Fests and I like it. The first 4 I had roommates in the hotel, but I've had my own room ever since. I like the alone time. At fest, I know where all my friends gather and can socialize as much as I want, but much of Fest I wander around alone taking in the sights and a lot of music that I can't hear anymore since I moved to central VA. I have to drink up as much as I can in these two weekends. I haven't even rented a car for the last two fests--usually I can get a ride with my friends or I have cabbed it before. Looking forward to meeting up with all of you this year to have more friends to socialize with, but also enjoy my own time.

[socaleric]

Fest is getting real close now. I'm waiting for the grids to show up, then I'll do more planning - but, I don't want to be a loner during most of my trip! I am definitely going to the meet-ups. After fest hours, I'm not sure what I'll be doing (maybe some shows ie Michael Franti for sure!)

Any other solo festers have plans on non-fest days or after fest hours? If you'd like to join me, holler. I want to do a couple of tours, maybe dinner on the Cajun Queen, and walk around the French Quarter early, early in the morning (somebody's post about the early morning quietness makes me want to stroll down the street).

[stlbarb]

Fest is getting real close now. I'm waiting for the grids to show up, then I'll do more planning - but, I don't want to be a loner during most of my trip! I am definitely going to the meet-ups. After fest hours, I'm not sure what I'll be doing (maybe some shows ie Michael Franti for sure!)

Any other solo festers have plans on non-fest days or after fest hours? If you'd like to join me, holler. I want to do a couple of tours, maybe dinner on the Cajun Queen, and walk around the French Quarter early, early in the morning (somebody's post about the early morning quietness makes me want to stroll down the street).

you obviously enjoy your own company or you would never make this trek alone. and most things can be truly enjoyed in a party of 1. but some of the things you mentioned would be more fun with others -i'm sure you can find some like minded souls.
being solo gives you the opportunity to travel where fate takes you. you could be hanging out at Liuzza's after the fest having a drink and someone mentions a show their heading for, or plans for a meal, and wow they've got room for one more in the car, and off you go with new best friends. so make plans, but keep them loose. keep cab money in your shoe.
and if you're single & solo, you might just find someone special to dine with. you will fall in & out of love dozens of time every day at fest. its a beautiful thing.

[bruce3404]

I've done the solo route 3 times and went as a couple twice. Both have their advantages. One thing for sure is that you tend to meet a lot more people as a solo, and since most everyone is there for the same reason.... great food and music, you won't have any trouble finding someone with like interests.

[chrisjoseph]

I've done it all different ways...solo, w/friends, with girlfriends, with wife, with wife and kids...and this year, I'm going solo again. And I couldn't be happier.

[mwgirlonherown]

Fest is getting real close now. I'm waiting for the grids to show up, then I'll do more planning - but, I don't want to be a loner during most of my trip! I am definitely going to the meet-ups. After fest hours, I'm not sure what I'll be doing (maybe some shows ie Michael Franti for sure!)

Any other solo festers have plans on non-fest days or after fest hours? If you'd like to join me, holler. I want to do a couple of tours, maybe dinner on the Cajun Queen, and walk around the French Quarter early, early in the morning (somebody's post about the early morning quietness makes me want to stroll down the street).

Strolling the quarter is always a treat in the morning. I like to walk while the sidewalks are getting hosed down; around eight a.m. Some people are probably grossed out but I love the smell of the quarter. It's almost sensual. I grab a coffee and beignets and sit in Jackson Square, listen to the lone trumpet player and think about how good life is. (I'll be the blonde in the kabuki/straw hat.) How many more daze?

[rosetree]

Strolling the quarter is always a treat in the morning. I like to walk while the sidewalks are getting hosed down; around eight a.m. Some people are probably grossed out but I love the smell of the quarter. It's almost sensual. I grab a coffee and beignets and sit in Jackson Square, listen to the lone trumpet player and think about how good life is. (I'll be the blonde in the kabuki/straw hat.) How many more daze?

Mygirl.... You are going to be real impressed with the new sanitation company! They are doing a real nice job keeping the Quarter clean!

[Belle]

Mygirl.... You are going to be real impressed with the new sanitation company! They are doing a real nice job keeping the Quarter clean!


I watch them via the cams. Amazing
Trash one slide and gone the next!!!

[mwgirlonherown]

I watch them via the cams. Amazing
Trash one slide and gone the next!!!

I'll have to check the Bourbon cams out. I read some posts from residents debating their effectiveness on NOLA.com

I'm still getting used to putting the trash out on the curb here on the east coast. I have learned to avoid stepping over subway grates at dusk (rats!)
I grew up in Chicago where they have wide alleys. They made for great playgrounds.

I love the cam at Muriel's. Great view of the square. It hasn't worked for about four weeks now (since before Mardi Gras).

[NYMAMA]

I'll have to check the Bourbon cams out. I read some posts from residents debating their effectiveness on NOLA.com

I'm still getting used to putting the trash out on the curb here on the east coast. I have learned to avoid stepping over subway grates at dusk (rats!)
I grew up in Chicago where they have wide alleys. They made for great playgrounds.

I love the cam at Muriel's. Great view of the square. It hasn't worked for about four weeks now (since before Mardi Gras).

Is that cam on Muriel's website?

[jonnygospeltent]

I've done it all different ways...solo, w/friends, with girlfriends, with wife, with wife and kids...and this year, I'm going solo again. And I couldn't be happier.

Hey Chris do your girlfriend and your wife get along?

[mwgirlonherown]

Is that cam on Muriel's website?

Yes, I believe it's listed under "ambiance."
I just tried it earlier and still it isn't working.

[mightyradgumbo]

I LIKE going solo.

So do I chipchopchick /note to self:ditch the priest :p /

[stlbarb]

So do I chipchopchick /note to self:ditch the priest :p /

if he doesn't ditch you first.

[pokerchick66]

So do I chipchopchick /note to self:ditch the priest :p /

OMG! lol, I can't believe you just said that. Go say ten Hail Marys.

[stlbarb]

OMG! lol, I can't believe you just said that. Go say ten Hail Marys.

or Hail Monica's.

ya' know, Hail Mary would be a good band name.

[mightyradgumbo]

if he doesn't ditch you first.

YYR, Barb..Shy he aint LOL

[mightyradgumbo]

OMG! lol, I can't believe you just said that. Go say ten Hail Marys.

It doesn't count when your family...you can make fun of clergy members who are family all you want. It's in the bible

[Zydekitten]

It doesn't count when your family...you can make fun of clergy members who are family all you want. It's in the bible
Hmmm it's been a while but I remember the Cain vs. Abel story differently . . .
;)

[stlbarb]

Hmmm it's been a while but I remember the Cain vs. Abel story differently . . .
;)

he meant its in his family's bible. he wrote it with a sharpie years ago.

[Zydekitten]

Ah, I thought it was finger-paints . . . ;)

[mightyradgumbo]

Ah, I thought it was finger-paints . . . ;)

Crayon, actually and if it was good enough for my parents then daggone it its good enough for me LOL Actually my brother and I are best of friends and have had some crazy travels..this may be another story for the book :D

[Zydekitten]

Oh . . . I'm guessing it will!!! ;) :D

[stlbarb]

Crayon, actually and if it was good enough for my parents then daggone it its good enough for me LOL Actually my brother and I are best of friends and have had some crazy travels..this may be another story for the book :D

Just remember: what goes on at jazz fest, stays on hundred of camera's.
and someday will most likely be revealed on these threads.

[mightyradgumbo]

Just remember: what goes on at jazz fest, stays on hundred of camera's.
and someday will most likely be revealed on these threads.

Oh well-I gots no skeletons in my closet, they all piled up nice and neat outside the door for all to see-runs in the family too so PB prolly would tell you the same thing.

[sailing]

Just think of all of those criminals & pictures on places like myspace that were taken with Camera Phones.Remember New Orleans is A HOME for many people so treat it with the same respect you would your city or town!.Respect the fact people actually live there and think of how you would feel if Bourbon Street & Jazz Fest antics spilled into your Town!!. I've had a home 17 miles north of Key West,Florida and Fantasy Fest has had quite a bit of trouble with people coming in thinking they could behave like stupid drunken idiots and doing the nasty in public, drugs & the worst sloppy drunks, well the Key West Police Department now send the paperwork to the jerks local newspapers and police with those revealing MUG SHOTS.It has actually worked out quite well for those who take it way too far.Plus if you get that naked or drunk you are asking to be robbed or raped.Just remember: what goes on at jazz fest, stays on hundred of camera's.
and someday will most likely be revealed on these threads.

[stlbarb]

Oh well-I gots no skeletons in my closet, they all piled up nice and neat outside the door for all to see-runs in the family too so PB prolly would tell you the same thing.

the beauty of catholism, do it, confess it, move on. if you stay away from the mortal sins, its just another day in purgatory. oh wait, they did away with purgatory. i think they replaced it with tickemaster.

[Rossvegas]

I've done the Fest solo LOTS of times (and again this year) and I love it. The fact is, it is pretty hard to find anyone (romantic partner or otherwise) who is wired exactly the way you are - same shows, same hours, same food. Here's a few tips...

Reach out to everyone and anyone at the Fest. If you see someone walking with some neat looking food, ask them what it is and ask if it is good! Make friends at various stages and, if possible, get to know some people with totems. You'll always have a friendly face to greet you at the end of the crowd crawl!

I've often thought of carrying pepper spray or some other defensive weapon with me, but I've found that the most disarming 'weapon' you can employ is a smile. I've met some really bad hombres on the street at night, and a quick "Hey, whatsup?" seems to knock them off their game. I keep walking (without showing fear) and pretend that they're not there. But I definitely keep walking as if I have somewhere to be...right now.

I am not the LEAST bit shy about taking a cab for a few blocks if I feel a bad vibe. I'm also not shy about approaching people who might be waiting for a cab (at the Rock N'Bowl, Tips, etc.) and asking them if they are going to the Quarter and if they would mind sharing their cab. Most people are VERY cool that way.

I think that if you treat anyone at any gig as your friend, you'll be fine. If they're at the same funky gig as you, they're cool right? Say hi, talk for a few minutes and you'll have an instant buddy if you need one.

I find that the biggest 'threat' is really from the odd drunken frat boy at HOB who decides they want to stir things up. I ran into one of these buffoons at a Neville Brothers show, and he infuriated me so much, I almost took him, his twin idiot brother and his bimbo girlfriend out at the same time...but I didn't. My rare voice of reason kicked in, and I thought: "I've travelled thousands of miles and paid thousands of dollars to be here, right here, right now. I'm not going to have anyone ruin that by getting turfed out of this bar." I just swallowed a bit of pride and moved to the other side of the stage, and I suggest you do the same. It just ain't worth getting into it with someone down there, no matter how drunk or obnoxious they might be.

Probably the biggest problem with going solo is knowing the difference between being "alone" and "independent". If you are alone, you're vulnerable; if you are independent, you are in control...and often it is just a state of mind that seperates the two.

I would hate for anything to happen to anyone in NOLA (including me), and thank Gawd, nothing has happened to me yet. I'm always aware of the possible dangers, and I just turn on my Spidey Senses™ to "sensitive" mode.

Have fun, enjoy, and don't be shy to say 'hi"...it works for me!

[stlbarb]

DAMN, ROSS, YOU'RE SMART WHEN YOU'RE SOBER.

WE SHOULD PRINT YOUR POST & PASS IT AROUND.

[funkkjunkie]

YYR! Ross, it's great to have you back! We missed ya!
My first fest in 98, which was solo, I made lots of friends and I think that part of the reason was I was just glowing with the happiness of this wonderful place I had discovered. It's contagious.

[sailing]

Ross I agree with what you said.I hate doing road trips with all but one person, and that's because we are wired the same.Problem is she is on the road so much if I' out we try to cross paths even if for a day or two to catch up.I still think pepper spray on your key chains a good idea for that ATM visit so you are not rushed in the morning.One huge thing a visitor should do alone or in a group is REMOVE THE RENTAL CAR TAG FROM THE KEYCHAIN, NEVER TAKE A WHITE RENTAL CAR both are equal to having stupid written on your forehead.I look forward to learning more of your road trips, and avoid the sloppy drunks before they hurl on your birkenstocks!!. FaithI've done the Fest solo LOTS of times (and again this year) and I love it. The fact is, it is pretty hard to find anyone (romantic partner or otherwise) who is wired exactly the way you are - same shows, same hours, same food. Here's a few tips...

Reach out to everyone and anyone at the Fest. If you see someone walking with some neat looking food, ask them what it is and ask if it is good! Make friends at various stages and, if possible, get to know some people with totems. You'll always have a friendly face to greet you at the end of the crowd crawl!

I've often thought of carrying pepper spray or some other defensive weapon with me, but I've found that the most disarming 'weapon' you can employ is a smile. I've met some really bad hombres on the street at night, and a quick "Hey, whatsup?" seems to knock them off their game. I keep walking (without showing fear) and pretend that they're not there. But I definitely keep walking as if I have somewhere to be...right now.

I am not the LEAST bit shy about taking a cab for a few blocks if I feel a bad vibe. I'm also not shy about approaching people who might be waiting for a cab (at the Rock N'Bowl, Tips, etc.) and asking them if they are going to the Quarter and if they would mind sharing their cab. Most people are VERY cool that way.

I think that if you treat anyone at any gig as your friend, you'll be fine. If they're at the same funky gig as you, they're cool right? Say hi, talk for a few minutes and you'll have an instant buddy if you need one.

I find that the biggest 'threat' is really from the odd drunken frat boy at HOB who decides they want to stir things up. I ran into one of these buffoons at a Neville Brothers show, and he infuriated me so much, I almost took him, his twin idiot brother and his bimbo girlfriend out at the same time...but I didn't. My rare voice of reason kicked in, and I thought: "I've travelled thousands of miles and paid thousands of dollars to be here, right here, right now. I'm not going to have anyone ruin that by getting turfed out of this bar." I just swallowed a bit of pride and moved to the other side of the stage, and I suggest you do the same. It just ain't worth getting into it with someone down there, no matter how drunk or obnoxious they might be.

Probably the biggest problem with going solo is knowing the difference between being "alone" and "independent". If you are alone, you're vulnerable; if you are independent, you are in control...and often it is just a state of mind that seperates the two.

I would hate for anything to happen to anyone in NOLA (including me), and thank Gawd, nothing has happened to me yet. I'm always aware of the possible dangers, and I just turn on my Spidey Senses™ to "sensitive" mode.

Have fun, enjoy, and don't be shy to say 'hi"...it works for me!

[Jay Fest]

I mostly agree with Ross, too. The main things I dislike about going to JF alone are the extra costs for the hotel room and cabs. But I'd like to put in a good word for the bus and streetcar system in NOLA. Most people know about the bus to the fairgrounds, but as a solo traveler over the past several years, I have taken buses to Rock n Bowl, The Maple Leaf, Generations Hall, the Zephrys' stadium, Tips' uptown, Audobon Park, and I especially like the Canal street streetcar that goes almost all the way over to Frenchmen Street, where I often find myself hanging out. The buses are very cheap ($1.25, exact change not necessary, last time I remember), and while they are often not frequent and sometimes late at night non-existent, I find them to be on time and fairly quick for the most part (fairground bus excepted, of course). The public library at Tulane and Loyola (about 2 or 3 blocks from the Saenger Theater) has all the schedules for the taking, so you can verify when and where they are running. They are also available at www.norta.com as PDF files. And I have never had any sort of problem with the people on any NOLA bus (again, I might want to exclude that fairground sardine bus). Taking the bus probably makes you seem a lot less like a tourist.

[stlbarb]

I mostly agree with Ross, too. The main things I dislike about going to JF alone are the extra costs for the hotel room and cabs. But I'd like to put in a good word for the bus and streetcar system in NOLA. Most people know about the bus to the fairgrounds, but as a solo traveler over the past several years, I have taken buses to Rock n Bowl, The Maple Leaf, Generations Hall, the Zephrys' stadium, Tips' uptown, Audobon Park, and I especially like the Canal street streetcar that goes almost all the way over to Frenchmen Street, where I often find myself hanging out. The buses are very cheap ($1.25, exact change not necessary, last time I remember), and while they are often not frequent and sometimes late at night non-existent, I find them to be on time and fairly quick for the most part (fairground bus excepted, of course). The public library at Tulane and Loyola (about 2 or 3 blocks from the Saenger Theater) has all the schedules for the taking, so you can verify when and where they are running. They are also available at www.norta.com as PDF files. And I have never had any sort of problem with the people on any NOLA bus (again, I might want to exclude that fairground sardine bus). Taking the bus probably makes you seem a lot less like a tourist.

hey - you finally snuck in. did you bribe the doorman?

does norta offer a day or week pass like some cities?

and of course on the bus, you might run into Beatle Bob, his favorite mode of transport in STL.

[Bill/KC]

and of course on the bus, you might run into Beatle Bob, his favorite mode of transport in STL.

Gee.....I thought Beatle Bob always bummed a ride every where.:rolleyes:

[stlbarb]

Gee.....I thought Beatle Bob always bummed a ride every where.:rolleyes:

when possible, espeically from gigs. stl buses are pretty non-existent after midnight.