A swirl of color, music, costumes, and crowds, Mardi Gras is the last day before the start of Lent. This year it falls on February 21, 2012. Each of the countries that celebrates Mardi Gras does it in an inimitable way, blending its culture and traditions into the event's parades and revelry. In many places Mardi Gras (literally "Fat Tuesday") is part of an extended celebration known as Carnival.
Much as I love escaping the frozen north in the winter for warmer climes, I can't simply go flop on a beach for a week. I need a city, one with culture, nightlife, activities, and a choice of restaurants. Which makes Miami a terrific choice. And since this visit is child-free, there will be no parrot jungles or theme parks. Instead, with its mix of Latino, art-deco, and celebrity influences, Miami is a sizzling adults-only escape. In fact, be warned that some of the nightlife can get a little steamy, so check these places out before you go.
The days are ticking down to the holidays but there is still time to book, and savor, a package deal with accommodations, meals, and treats galore over Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's. This is the third—and probably the last—round-up of deals for the year, but you never know. If I hear about more in the next few weeks, watch for further listings.