Connecting with a loved one toward the end of their life can be an emotional experience, but it can also be an opportunity to create some truly meaningful memories. If you’re considering hospice care for a loved one, or if you have already started working with hospice services, it’s not too late to plan some fulfilling experiences to help your loved one enjoy life to the fullest. Fortunately, Hospice of South Louisiana is situated in a beautiful, culturally rich part of the country, and our team has put together the perfect Louisiana bucket list. Read on to help create treasured memories with all the food, nature, and cultural events that Louisiana has to offer!
Experience the Natural World of Louisiana
Louisiana is a breathtaking state, home to rich wetlands and wildlife perfect for slow strolls, or gentle boat rides. Taking a quiet walk on a nature trail and enjoying the sounds of the birds and the sight of sunlight streaming through Spanish moss is a low key activity that’s easy on the body and budget. Try a visit to Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge right here in Houma, which offers boat access, or an easy to navigate 1.4-mile walking trail. Just about an hour away is another great option – Barataria Preserve in Jean Lafitte National Historic Park. Located just outside of New Orleans, this is another lush area to explore, offering vibrant flowers and plants, cheerful birds, plus the occasional gator sighting! With accessible boardwalks and guided tours available, this is a wonderful day trip to help you and your loved one connect more deeply.
Savor the Flavors of Louisiana
No Louisiana bucket list would be complete without an acknowledgment of one of our greatest resources – food! Houma is home to some excellent Cajun cooking and seafood specialties. The joy of breaking bread with loved ones is one life’s greatest pleasures and Louisiana has some awesome spots to do just that. Try a casual lunch of boiled seafood for that perfect finger-licking Louisiana experience. The Shack of Houma is an excellent option for tasty seafood boils and other Cajun dishes. For a full sit down dinner, try Boudreau and Thibodeau’s Cajun Cooking for a classic Cajun seafood meal that will leave you wanting more. For a fun Friday night with some old-time flavor, try A-Bear’s Café to savor a taste of some home-cookin’ and a Cajun band! Just a short drive away, New Orleans is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. Dine like royalty at Commanders Palace, Galatoire’s, Antoine’s, and other Crescent City favorites. If you aren’t up for a big meal, then a sweet treat might do the trick. For the adventurous, stop on over in New Orleans’ French Quarter and get covered in powdered sugar with a beignet from Café du Monde. Or locals can stick to Houma and indulge in a fresh, hot donut from Mr. Ronnie’s – the perfect stop for a late night treat that will make you feel like you’re really living your best life. Bring back the good old days with a trip down memory lane at Scarlet Scoop Ice Cream Parlor for some nostalgic sodas, candy and ice-cream treats.
Laissez les Bon Temps Rouler: Festivals for your Louisiana Bucket List
Finally, no Louisiana bucket list would be complete without experiencing some of the great cultural festivals that the Houma area has to offer. From Mardi Gras parades to the Krewe of Terreanians Fishing Rodeo in June, plus the Voice of the Wetlands Festival and Rougarou Festival in October, Houma has something great going on nearly every month of the year. Attending a festival or parade is an exciting way to feel connected to a larger community. From civic and cultural pride to the sheer delight of seeing a creative Mardi Gras costume, parades and festivals are part of what makes people love our great state.
New Orleans is also home to countless festivals for people of all ages. If you’ve never been, try and head down for Jazz Fest, Crescent City Blues & BBQ Fest, or Luna Fete for a variety of food, music, art, and culture.
For more information on hospice care in Louisiana, please feel free to contact us today. At Hospice of South Louisiana, we’re committed to providing excellent end-of-life care and helping you and your loved one through your most difficult time.