If you've gotta go, you've gotta go.
But during Carnival in the Big Easy, finding a bathroom ain't easy. It's a big pain. Although there's 250 fewer New Orleans police officers during this year's celebration, there's still plenty who will arrest revelers at the first drop of trou. Public urination accounts for the most arrests during Carnival.
Here's three ways partygoers can relieve themselves.
HOTEL LAVATORIES
You'll have to be a guest of The Whitney hotel to go in here. (AP Photo/Derrik J. Lang)
For those staying in a hotel, their lodging has no doubt posted security at the front door and issued guests a color-coded wristband to gain access to the lobby. This is to keep the drunken riffraff out and the hotel's guests in. Obviously, if they're nearby their own digs, they can go up to their room to powder their nose.
BAR BATHROOMS
Wanna use the facilities at Snooks on Bourbon Street? Get a drink. (AP Photo/Derrik J. Lang)
Thanks to open-container laws, many French Quarter bars are simply to-go windows. Those that have actual restrooms issue receipts with every drink order. This is your golden ticket to use their commode. Many are manned by a bathroom bouncer who only allows people who've patronized the establishment to take a flush.
PORTABLE TOILETS
The Pots O' Gold at the end of the rainbow. (AP Photo/Derrik J. Lang)
The City of New Orleans and some enterprising folks has dumped several portable toilets throughout the city. Most are located near the New Orleans Police Department's 8th District station. But there's always a long line. In the Garden District, the Port O' Lets and Pots O' Golds are fewer and far between. Some are pay-per-use. Typical price: $1.
asap reporter Derrik J. Lang is covering the sights, sounds and smells of Mardi Gras 2006.
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