Louisiana travel guide by mail
Y'all! Louisiana is a fantastic destination, and I'd be happy to help you plan your trip. Here's a Louisiana travel guide by mail, covering the best places to visit, eat, and stay:
Getting There
- New Orleans Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY) is the primary airport serving the state. You can fly into MSY from most major US cities.
- Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) is another major airport, serving the capital city and surrounding areas.
- If you're driving, Louisiana has several major highways, including I-10, I-12, and I-49.
Must-Visit Places
- New Orleans: The birthplace of jazz, NOLA is a city like no other. Explore the French Quarter, Bourbon Street, and Jackson Square. Visit the National WWII Museum, St. Louis Cathedral, and the Garden District.
- Baton Rouge: The capital city is home to the Louisiana State Capitol, USS Kidd, and the Magnolia Mound Plantation.
- Lafayette: Known for its Cajun and Zydeco culture, Lafayette is a great place to try boudin, cracklins, and gumbo. Visit the Vermilionville Historic Village and the Acadian Cultural Center.
- Shreveport: This city in northwest Louisiana is home to the Shreveport Aquarium, the R.W. Norton Art Gallery, and the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium.
- Houma: Located in southern Louisiana, Houma is a great base for exploring the Bayou Teche National Wildlife Refuge and the historic town of Thibodaux.
Must-Try Foods
- Gumbo: A classic Louisiana dish made with a combination of ingredients like okra, rice, and a variety of meats and seafood.
- Beignets: These sweet fried dough pastries are covered in powdered sugar and are a must-try in New Orleans.
- Po' Boys: A crispy French bread sandwich filled with fried seafood, meat, or veggies.
- Jambalaya: A hearty one-pot dish made with sausage, rice, and a variety of meats and seafood.
- King Cake: A sweet bread traditionally eaten during Mardi Gras season, often topped with icing and sprinkles.
Accommodations
- New Orleans: The French Quarter is home to many historic hotels, including the Hotel Monteleone and the Columns Hotel.
- Baton Rouge: The Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center and the Renaissance Baton Rouge Hotel are great options.
- Lafayette: The Hotel Acadiana and the Lafayette Inn are cozy choices.
- Shreveport: The Shreveport Hotel and the Hilton Shreveport are convenient options.
- Houma: The Hampton Inn Houma and the Holiday Inn Houma are comfortable choices.
Tips and Essentials
- Weather: Louisiana has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for occasional rain showers.
- Language: While English is the primary language, you may hear French and Cajun dialects spoken throughout the state.
- Currency: The US dollar is the official currency.
- Safety: As with any city, be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
- Events: Louisiana is known for its festivals, including Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and the French Quarter Festival.
Mail-Order Materials
If you'd like to receive more information about Louisiana, I can send you:
- A Louisiana travel brochure
- A list of recommended restaurants and bars
- A guide to the state's best festivals and events
- A map of Louisiana's major highways and attractions
Just let me know what you're interested in, and I'll send it your way!