I can’t believe that the end of the year is near. I just made reservation at Harrahs Las Vegas for my annual end of the year trip. Joining me on this trip will be my travel partners in crime, Gary Giddings and Ian C. Ian did not make the trip with us last year, but was with us in 2002/2003 celebration. This time, we will try to go to the taping of “The Price is Right†game show. May be we will return with a new car.
Recently, I decided to stray from my safe haven hotels in New Orleans (W, Loewes, Wyndham Canal) and decided to stay at the Intercontinental Hotel on St. Charles. What a delightful surprise this place was. The hotel is only a few blocks from Canal Street and the casino. I wandered the downtown area and discovered a small deli where the locals eat. Situated on St. Charles and one block north of the hotel, Frederick’s on the Avenue is a small place that has two long tables and a small counter facing a television. There is a small room about the size of my bathroom that has gambling machines. Gary and I had breakfast and dinner there. For breakfast, we each had two eggs, grits, sausage patties, biscuit, and a beverage. Served on foam plates, our total bill for both of us, including tax was $8.75. A similar meal at the nearby popular Mother’s will cost you twice as much.  The place is owned by an older man and the cooks are two ladies that can handle it all. We went back for dinner and this time Gary ordered a fried seafood plate that included fish, shrimps, oyster, a side of French fries and a small salad. This was fresh made to order food, and the cost was $8.99. I opted for the 11inch long Reuben po boy. At $5.50, this sandwich was served hot and delicious. Who know that 11 inches can be so good. I wanted more. Throw in two beverages and two ice cream bars from the ice cream freezer behind our table, our total bill was about $20; a bargain hunter’s paradise. I enjoyed the atmosphere and the two ladies so I decided that this place will be my regular hang out.
By the time this article is out, Halloween will have passed. Chito B. Gary Giddings and I will be going to New Orleans and dressed up as the Star Wars characters. Chito has a wonderful Darth Vader get up, Gary and I have opted for the fat twin Princess Leia ensembles. Watch out Starship Troopers!Â
HAPPY THANKS GIVING and don’t forget to partake in the Asians and Friends Christmas Party/gift exchange extravaganza in December. Remember, no dollar store items.
