Louisiana is unlike anything else on offer in the USA, says local representative Penny Brand who’s encouraging Kiwi agents to highlight the destination’s offering to clients.
Brand, from Gate 7, says the state has a depth to it, citing its mixed heritage that includes French, Spanish, African American and Native American, and the vast experiences on offer. For foodies, she says there’s some ‘absolutely amazing’ food options, including Cajun and Creole. “Trust me, the food there is absolutely mind blowing…”
There’s also the outdoors, which is very different from New Zealand. There’s everything from swamps to oak trees that are dripping in Spanish moss, to the Mississippi River. The state is home to more than 400 festivals annually, including the famous Mardi Gras, which Brand is quick to point out is weeks long, and celebrated across the state.
. . . Roadtrips
She also suggests a road trip, where clients fly into Dallas Fort Worth, do little bit of cowboy country in Texas and then head down the centre of Louisiana exploring St Francisville, Baton Rouge and then New Orleans. Or Kiwis coming via Houston can go across to Lake Charles and Lafayette and into New Orleans.
Both of those trips will need at least seven days, plus time in New Orleans to wander around and explore, she adds. “Louisiana is going to be one of the hidden gems that your clients are going to thank you for squeezing in that little extra time, because there is just so much depth to the state.”
Clients can combine the state with a cruise. NCL and Carnival sail to The Caribbean via Louisiana, while Viking and American Cruise Lines offer river cruises ex New Orleans.
. . . Self-famil?
The Louisiana Office of Tourism with New Orleans and Company offers a self-famil program Jul-Aug, with ‘really heavily discounted’ rates. At other times there is an agent pass that offers discounts throughout the state. Training is available via Brand USA and the Discovery Program.
