In Focus - Louisiana's Jazz, Plantation Homes and Creole dining.
“I absolutely love Louisiana. Every time I visit the state I find something different to do, but I always have to start my stay with a few nights in New Orleans to soak up the buzzing atmosphere (and enjoy a Hurricane cocktail in the French Quarter). I like to meander around Jackson Square, where artists display their diverse talents then pick up some lunch at the French Farmers Market and watch the world go by in the warm sunshine. There are always some strange sights! During my latest visit in March, I followed New Orleans with stays in Baton Rouge and Lafayette. To say the whole journey was less than 300 miles round trip, the diversity of these places is astonishing. Plantation homes, the Mighty Mississippi, Cypress swamp lands, Old State Capitol buildings, Voodoo and Jazz museums, country dance halls and fabulous seafood dining. Make sure you try the crab claws, alligator, seafood gumbo and spicy craw fish.” Karen, Product & Marketing Manager
Undeniably regarded as party town, the French Quarter is bustling every night of the week. Wall-to-wall bars and clubs invite revellers to taste their signature cocktails and dance until the early hours. This district also offers some fabulous restaurants, serving authentic Creole dining both indoors and out amidst the revellers. If you prefer a slower pace don’t be fooled that New Orleans isn’t the right city for you. The French Quarter is full of history which can be fully appreciated by taking a walking tour. The pretty gardens and cafes of Jackson Square are framed by St Louis Cathedral and just a short stroll takes you to the French Market overlooking the Mississippi River. Visit Woldenberg Riverfront Park and The Aquarium of the Americas; listen to a live jazz session; wander the Warehouse Arts District and tour the new Mardi Gras World, where the amazing parade floats and outrageous costumes are created and are on show. There are cooking schools, golf courses, museums, theatres and tax free shopping. New Orleans has something for everyone.
This picture postcard town is all about its Southern Louisiana roots. It celebrates Cajun and Zydeco music in its dance halls and at its festivals and serves mouth-watering Cajun and Creole specialities in its restaurants. Just a few miles away are the swamp lands where you can take a tour of the Atchafalaya Basin exploring its diverse landscape whilst keeping an eye out for the alligators! Tour the grand plantation homes, the lush tropical gardens and Lafayette’s museums which depict the areas colourful and complex history.
Downtown Baton Rouge, carved by the Mississippi River, is a pretty city with attractions which are easily accessible on foot. The tallest state capitol building in the U.S, Louisiana State Capitol offers fabulous views of the city, outstanding artwork and an insight into the creation of the nations’ legislation. Compare its grandeur to the Old State Capitol. Replaced when it was destroyed by fire, it has since been restored to its original splendour and portrays life in a bygone era. The new Louisiana State Museum is a fun, interactive way of discovering Louisiana’s way of life, from its early days, through the civil wars to today’s colourful festivals. A visit to Baton Rouge wouldn’t be complete without visiting some of the splendid Plantation homes. Filled with mystery, romance and a sprinkling of ghost stories a candlelight tour creates the perfect atmosphere.
