NOLA Rundown

I'm still getting asked, so I'll run it down:

*I went to New Orleans despite Gustav worries because (a) it seemed only moderately likely to hit on Friday morning, and (b) I figured that I'd forfeit my prepaid hotel and plane if nothing happened.

*When we arrived things looked bleakish per CNN, but restaurants were open, we checked in as planned, and partied all night.

*The next morning it was pretty clear that we had to plan to get out. Since our return flights had been canceled overnight, we managed to score reservations on a Saturday midnight flight. (Though only after some crazy conversations with jetBlue, Enterprise, and other assorted parties.) We had lunch and wandered the city a bit, then went back to pack.

*The W is the best hotel I've ever stayed in, and I'm heartbroken that I only got one night there. So very comfortable. But they lose points for the 8.95 for each of three necessary 311 calls regarding evacuation procedures. (I'd be annoyed about 2.00 for each local call, but I should have made those on my cell so I won't object.

*The free evacuation airport shuttle shut down without notice at four; we arrived at five and only learned that there would be no shuttle because a hotel employee was anxious that we knew they weren't responsible. Our cab driver knew an amazing shortcut that got us there in under half an hour. Six hours before scheduled departure.

*There were still lots of people heading into town, presumably to close their shutters, grab their pets and join the procession on the highway. (Which looked beautiful and sad from above, incidentally--all the headlights faced one way.)

*There aren't any refuelers left in the city, so most flights have to stop to refuel on the way in and on the way out. This delayed our flight's arrival at JFK by about an hour and a half. After a ridiculous wait for bags, I got on the express bus and arrived home at about seven, having had almost no food or sleep in twelve hours.

*Goddamn, I'm glad I'm not in New Orleans right now, and I'm terrified for the place. I feel a little silly for having gone yesterday, or for feeling sore about the loss of my vacation now. (Though this is my blog, and I'm allowed.)

*Unless I have no choice in the matter, I'll still be out on Tuesday and Wednesday, because this has not been a restful holiday weekend by any means.