Snowbirds Head to Lake Charles, Louisiana

[Sandra & John Scott]

http://www.examiner.com/destinations-travel-in-national/snow-birds-...

The leaves are gone, snow is coming – for sure.  Do you wish you were going some place warmer?  If so, consider Lake Charles, Louisiana in Southwest Louisiana.  The weather is warm and so is Louisiana hospitality.  Lake Charles has something of interest for everyone – museums, beaches, fishing, gambling, golf and more.

 

History buff will love strolling the Charpentier Historic district and visiting the Calcasieu Museum. Nature lovers can go bird watching along Pintail Wildlife drive, learn about the natural history at Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge Visitor, and go shell hunting at the expansive Rosemary Beach.

 

People never get bored because there is always a celebration to enjoy. The year starts with 12^th Night in January, Mardi Gras in February and continues with something going on every month including Cajun Days and Rouge et Blanc Food Festival.

 

If you think you will miss winter then head to L’Auberge Resort and Casino’s Winter Wonderland ice rink.  The resort is the “everything” destination – gaming, golf, swimming, dining, and a great spa retreat.

 

Southwest Louisiana is noted for its great foods much of which has been passed down from the Cajun culture.  There is always fresh seafood and Cajun delights such as gumbo, deep-fried alligator, and boudin – a sausage so engrained in the local culture there is even a Boudin Trail so people can try a variety of boudin.

 

Sun seekers can enjoy golf and swimming during the day, gaming and great dining in the evening, visiting nature and historic sites, reveling at the many festivals – it doesn’t get any better than that.  Heading elsewhere in the south? Or just driving around?  Then stop for a while in Lake Charles.