Jaunted

· Rio Carnival, Brazil: March 5-12.
When you think Mardi Gras, what comes to mind? New Orleans, right? Well, what about "Carnival." Surely not carnies and cotton candy—Rio's baccanal celebration should be the first thing in your head. And if it's not, it's time to change that. Head down to Brazil for the Samba Parade, legions of people clad mostly in body paint, and the warm, hot sun.

· Goa Carnival, India: March 5-8.
Goa, already has a reputation as a world party capital, so you know they won't let Mardi Gras alone. There's a 36-hour party which includes requisite parades and some raving, but with a super sparkly, highly color saturated flavor that is uniquely Indian.

· Apokries, Patras, Greece: March 7.
Like to get a little kinky and wear a costume on more than Halloween? You can during the Apokries in Greece, where all-night partying is de rigueur. This celebrations is next on our list, to be truthful. it just sounds awesome.

· Trinidad Carnival, Port of Spain, Trinidad: March 7-8
If you can't go as far as Brazil and maybe just want to head somewhere tropical for the weekend, Trinidad & Tobago has all the energy and events to make a trip worthwhile. Be sure to head down for J'Ouvert Monday when the locals wear clothing saturated with either mud, oil or paint before the real celebrating on Tuesday.

· Carnevale di Venezia, Italy: March 8.
Here's another costume-happy Carnival for you, but with a far more regal air than that of Carnival in Greece. For Venice's Carnevale, tourists as well as locals are welcome to assume the character identities from the Commedia dell'Arte (think the Harlequin, the plague doctor or the Spanish captain). Stroll around Venice with your face hidden by an elaborate mask...but be warned that tourists will be taking pictures of you left and right. We have to confess that this is our favorite Carnival since it's the only one where you can get away with wearing heavy, floor-length velvet capes.

[Photo: CelineMassa]