Where to Carnival this year? Rio and beyond…

Carnival is fast approaching this month, and preparations are being made round the world from Rio to New Orleans. We’ll be in Antigua, Guatemala, where the celebration is likely to be pretty low-key, but one of the few in that part of Central America, from what I hear. But if you’re really look for a party and an adventure in one this fat Tuesday, where should you head?

As I mentioned, Rio and New Orleans are perennial contenders for best bash, but there are other options.

Aruba’s ‘Carnaval 2007′ is bound to be much of the same, but I hear there’s plenty more steel drums and fire…

Curacao Carnival 2007 promises a bit more of a laid-back Caribbean celebration…

Venice Carnival 2007 features bands like Afro Celt Sound System playing in St. Mark’s Square.

And right here in my own backyard, the tiny town of Red River, New Mexico (Pop. 300) holds a big “Mardi Gras in the Mountains” bash that’s always a hit, especially if you don’t have the clams to get to Rio this year…