Explore Louisiana Hosts Trade and Press in Dublin
ITTN's Katie attended a wonderful event with key travel press and trade last night with the Explore Louisiana team. Over a delicious 3-course meal in Sole Seafood and Grill Restaurant's private dining room 'The Vault' attendees heard from key representatives on how they are welcoming visitors to the state in 2027 and beyond.
Hosting the event, Jennifer Berthelot (Director of Communications) and Joshua Duplechain (Director of Marketing) from Explore Louisiana joined Adam Aspinall (PR Account Manager) and Neil Tagliavini Jones (Owner / Chief Account & Marketing Officer) of Travel & Tourism Marketing Limited.
For Irish travellers looking to discover a different side of the United States, Louisiana offers an experience unlike anywhere else in the country. Known for its rich cultural heritage, lively music scene, distinctive cuisine and spectacular natural landscapes, the southern state is an exciting destination for visitors seeking more than the traditional American city break. With Explore Louisiana promoting the state's diverse tourism offering, there are plenty of opportunities for Irish travel agents and tour operators to introduce clients to one of America's most culturally distinctive destinations.
New Orleans
No visit to Louisiana would be complete without experiencing New Orleans, the state's most internationally recognised destination. Famous as the birthplace of jazz, New Orleans also hosts historic architecture that reflects the history of the state and and the city is famous for its eclectic food scene.
The French Quarter is one of the city's most popular attractions, with its colourful buildings, wrought-iron balconies, historic courtyards and lively entertainment venues. Visitors can explore Jackson Square, admire St Louis Cathedral or enjoy live jazz performances in the city's many music venues. Beyond the French Quarter, the Garden District offers beautiful historic homes and tree-lined streets, while Frenchmen Street is a favourite for visitors seeking live music.
For clients interested in history, culture and entertainment, New Orleans provides an excellent starting point for a wider Louisiana itinerary.
Beyond New Orleans
While New Orleans may attract much of the international attention, Louisiana's natural landscapes are equally worth exploring. The state's famous bayous, wetlands and waterways offer visitors an opportunity to experience a very different side of the American South. Swamp tours are among Louisiana's most distinctive experiences, allowing visitors to explore waterways and observe local wildlife, including alligators and numerous bird species.
The Atchafalaya Basin, one of the largest wetland and swamp ecosystems in the United States, is particularly appealing for nature enthusiasts, photographers and adventurous travellers. Kayaking, fishing, birdwatching and guided wildlife excursions provide additional opportunities for visitors to discover the state's natural beauty.
Famous for its Music and its Food
Music is central to Louisiana's identity, and the state has played a major role in the development of jazz, blues, zydeco and Cajun music. While New Orleans is internationally renowned for its jazz heritage, destinations such as Lafayette offer opportunities to experience traditional Cajun and zydeco performances. Baton Rouge, the state capital, also has a lively music and cultural scene, alongside museums, historic attractions and a growing culinary offering. The state's festivals are another major draw, with events celebrating everything from music and food to local traditions and cultural heritage throughout the year.
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and French Quarter Festival are among the best-known events, providing additional reasons for travellers to plan their visits around the state's cultural calendar.
Louisiana's culinary heritage is one of its greatest attractions, with a food scene shaped by French, Spanish, African, Caribbean and Acadian influences. Visitors can sample traditional dishes including gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish étouffée and po'boy sandwiches, while New Orleans is famous for its beignets, often enjoyed with a café au lait.
Travelling beyond the city introduces visitors to the flavours of Cajun Country, particularly around Lafayette, where local restaurants, food festivals and traditional cooking offer an authentic taste of the region. For food-loving travellers, Louisiana presents opportunities for culinary tours, cooking classes, food markets and memorable dining experiences.
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