Louisiana

At a Glance

Louisiana’s Southern charm, its subtropical climate and its laid back vibe make it a perfect destination for couples who want to share the beauty of the Great Outdoors and also visit cities and towns with plenty of personality. Catch a football game at LA State University and become a Tiger fan. Tour exciting art galleries. Hear the history on a guided tour through the capital’s streets then get into the exotic countryside and get to see the mysterious swamps and bayous that are unique in America. Let it all happen and everything will amaze you!

· HAVE A HURRICANE: At least once, try Louisiana’s unique cocktail, the Hurricane. It’s a smooth mix of rum and fruit juices that you may get to love.

· CATCH A MOVIE: Take the notion of “dinner and a movie” to new heights at the Robinson Film Center in Shreveport. It’s a charming combination of cineplex and bistro, and also has a museum of memorabilia from films shot in the area. Housed in a three-story restored building, it offers the best independent films, classic movies and new releases. Movie buffs delight! Address: 617 Texas St., Shreveport Website: www.robinsonfilmcenter.org Phone: (318) 359 4122

· CRUNCH A CRAWFISH: Crawfish are a Louisiana delicacy. You’ll be missing something if you don’t try at least one! Chances are, you’ll want another!

· LET THE ART AMAZE YOU: Spend a relaxing afternoon in the R. W. Norton Art Gallery in Shreveport. They display the private collection of a prominent Louisiana family. The American and European paintings and sculptures span four centuries and the building itself is stunning. The peaceful setting inspires you to share your dreams as you relax

in the lush gardens. Amazing azaleas will provide the background for beautiful photos in late March. Address: 4747 Creswell Ave., Shreveport Website: www.rwnaf.org Phone: (318) 865 4201

· LISTEN TO LEGENDS: Legends, superstitions and the supernatural go hand in hand in Louisiana. If you seek thrills and chills, take a guided tour of a haunted plantation or visit a cemetery and watch out for the ghosts!

· TOAST YOUR LOVE: At the Abita Brewing Company in Covington, beer lovers can try the distinctive local beer while you learn how it’s made. Pour your own drinks in the chic lounge area, tour the brewery, then dine at the casual restaurant or bring your own picnic to enjoy in the garden and you’ll have a memorable honeymoon day. Address:21084 Highway 36 Website: www.abita.com Phone: (800) 737 2311

· WATCH HISTORY COME ALIVE: At Vermillionville in Lafayette, you can step back in time to an 18th century bayou community. Buildings and monuments have been recreated to provide an interactive experience for visitors. Live performers add to the charm and make you feel as if you’re part of a time capsule. Art and cooking demonstrations illustrate what life was like back then. You can get a taste of down home cuisine at Mama’s Kitchen, and browse for a honeymoon souvenir at the gift shop. Address: 300 Fisher Road, off Surrety St., Lafayette Website: www.bayouvermiliondistrict.org/ Phone: (337) 233 4077

· SEE A SWAMP: Unravel the mysteries of Louisiana’s famous swamps in Crown Point and learn about the crucial part that bayous played in the state’s history on an airboat tour led by Louisiana Swamp Tour’s knowledgeable captains. You’ll hear the legends, pet and feed alligators, and learn about the wildlife as you ride through eerie waterways covered with Spanish moss. This tour can be an exotic honeymoon afternoon that you will never forget! Address: 9714 Barataria Blvd., Crown Point Website: www.louisianaswamp.com Phone: (888) 30-SWAMP

Fast Facts

• AIRPORT CODE: MSY is the code for Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. This is the most common hub for incoming travelers.
• CURRENCY: US dollar.
• ELECTRICITY: 120V/60Hz.
• TIME ZONE: U.S.A. Central Time Zone.
• LANGUAGE: English, but you’ll hear Cajun, French and other dialects spoken throughout the state.
• PARISHES: Louisiana is the only state in the USA that has no counties. They’re called “parishes” here.
• CLIMATE: In general, temperatures are balmy year round. However, humidity rises dramatically in summer months.

Honeymoon Hints

• GETTING AROUND: Rent a car if you plan to travel outside New Orleans.
• CAJUN AND CREOLE: You’ll hear these words interchangeably throughout the state, but they actually mean completely different things. Cajun refers to the more rural areas and their cultures. Creole is a blend of African, Italian, French and Portuguese influences and can be used to describe a person’s ancestry, a dialect or food.
• TIPPING: A 15-20% tip is customary in restaurants. The state sales tax is 9.7%, so doubling the tax is an easy way to calculate.
• WHAT TO WEAR: Light, casual wear is customary throughout the state. Double check the dress code if you are dining in a fine restaurant in New Orleans.
• MARDI GRAS MADNESS: Louisiana is the site of America’s most colorful pre-Lenten Carnival. Part of the Cajun culture, it was introduced to the USA by French settlers. Parades are led by the legendary King Momo. Bright costumes and unbridled revelry reign in the streets for the 3 days prior to the beginning of Lent. Though major Carnival events take place in New Orleans, smaller versions often take place in cities throughout the state