Home State Post: A Jaunt through Jeff Davis Parish

Good Morning Welcome back to Bathroom Blues Travel Blog,

By the time you read this, I'll be on a plane to upstate New York for a visit to Keuka Lake and my Keuka Roots™ friends. I'll be sharing details from that trip after my return on August 6th.

Today I'd like to share with you something a little closer to home and heart. 

We've all heard the old adage about not knowing what's in your own "back yard." Meaning, most of us consider traveling out of state or to another country a "true vacation." Years ago I had the chance to explore more of my home state for a local magazine. I'll be sharing those articles periodically begining with A Jaunt through Jeff Davis Parish...

We start our journey heading east on I-10 out of Lake Charles. Our first stop in Jeff Davis Parish is the unincorporated community of Lacassine. There are a couple of stories on how the name came about, one being that a tribe of Comanche Indians led by their Chief Lacassine settled the area in the early 19^th Century. The other tale denotes that ‘Lacassine’ stands for hunting ground in Choctaw and yet another version is that the name means “small house” in French and the community was named after a small house built by an Indian Chief. Regardless of which story resonates with you, Lacassine’s main attraction is the Bayou Rum Distillery, home of the #1 Craft Rum in America followed by Lil Cochon’s Cajun Kitchen restaurant which is know for its variety of great Cajun & Creole dishes.

Onward ho! and we arrive in Welsh. Officially incorporated in 1888, Welsh was founded when Henry Welsh and his father, Miles moved into the area from New Orleans to raise cattle. Soon Welsh became an agricultural hub with rice being its main crop. In 1910 the entire six blocks of businesses downtown burned to the ground but didn’t extinguish the spirit of the town’s citizens who immediately rebuilt. Replete with memorabilia, the Welsh Museum showcases the town’s history with a Blacksmith shop, antique farm equipment and so much more! Open Tuesday through Saturday, a quick trip to the Welsh museum followed by lunch or dinner at one if its Cajun restaurants like Parish Seafood Company would make for a festive day out with the family.

Continuing on east on I-10 through Jeff Davis Parish, you’ll discover the Parish Seat, Jennings.  Established in 1880 and named after railroad contractor, Jennings McComb, Jennings is also known as the “Cradle of Louisiana Oil” since the first oil well was dug in 1901. Rich in History, Jennings offers several museums for visitors to enjoy. Much ado has been done about Gator Chateau where you can learn all about these historic creatures. Open Monday – Saturday (9-5) Gator Chateu invites you to visit and have your picture taken while holding baby alligators.

A popular festival held in November is “Battle of the Bows” a fiddling contest open to all ages! Check out the guidelines here and even if you can’t register this late, you can always enjoy the music.  From the Jeff Davis Parish Fair (October) to car shows and music and movie nights, Jennings is full of fun and festivals all year so check out their calendar and plan a day or weekend to visit.

Moving on from Jennings, head south on Hwy. 26 to Lake Arthur and enjoy some great food at Regatta Seafood and Steakhouse. If you’re lucky, you might even get to experience live Cajun music. Not up for steak or seafood? Check out the Gummie Burger at Nott’s Cajun Restaurant (aka: Nott’s Corner). Named for one of the earliest settlers, Arthur LeBlanc, Lake Arthur was initially known as “lake le petit lac Mentau” and incorporated in 1904. One of the most popular places to visit in Lake Arthur is Myers Landing Campground and RV Park. Set amidst towering trees billowing with Spanish Moss, this rustic campground offers nature at its finest. As with any small town, tourism is a plus and Lake Arthur offers events for Memorial Day, July 4^th and other National holidays but is known for its old-fashioned Mardi Gras complete with chicken run and parade!

Had we turned north on Hwy. 165 just east of Iowa, instead of taking the interstate, we’d have moseyed on into the Village of Fenton. Moseying is definitely what you want to do because the Fenton Police guards the speed limit with fierce dedication. Originally settled in 1888 by Silas Fenton, the area became a community in 1882 when Mr. Fenton commissioned First US Postmaster. Mr. Fenton went on to donate 240 acres for the Fenton Town Site and built the first store/post office followed by the school in 1893. Fenton’s rice mill was built in 1896, and the Village of Fenton was incorporated in 1951.  

Were you to keep heading north on Hwy 165 then take a right onto Hwy 190 in Kinder, you’d soon find yourself in Elton, another village in Jeff Davis Parish. Incorporated in 1911, Elton is partial home of the Coushatta Indian Tribe. The Coushatta Reservation, which is mostly housed in Allen Parish, stretches into Jeff Davis Parish as well. Federally recognized as a Native American Tribe in 1973, the tribe began investing in a variety of enterprises to provide revenue for their government, the largest of which is the Coushatta Casino Resort. Find out more about the Coushatta Tribe by visiting their website. Even if you don’t gamble, a trip to the Coushatta Casino Resort is a cultural experience in itself.

One of Elton’s most notable people is NFL Nose Tackle, Al Woods who grew up in Elton and played for LSU before moving on to the professional league.

We’ve traveled the main components of Jeff Davis Parish but it behooves us to mention all of the unincorporated communities who also make up the unique beauty and culture of the heart of bayou country spread throughout our neighboring parish: Barnsdall, Bellevue, Buller, China, Coverdale, Edna, Foremans Hall, Gravel Point, Hathaway, Niblet, Panchoville, Pine Island, Raymond, Roanoke, Silverwood, Thornwell, Topsy, Verret and Woodlawn.

Hope you enjoyed our little jaunt through Jeff Davis Parish. Perhaps someday, if you’re so inclined, you’ll indulge in a little road trip, stop at the mom and pop restaurants and stores and learn all you can about this beautiful area of our state. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Until next time, take care, God bless and safe travels!

PamT

*Previously published in Lagniappe Magazine © 2018; Revised 2026

Guest Post: My Bosworth Experience by Diana Rubino

Good Morning and Welcome back to Bathroom Blues Travel Blog, 

It is always a pleasure to share my travel stories with you but as I mentioned in April, and as you've seen, I opened this space for friends to share theirs as well. So, it is with great pleasure, I introduce you to an author friend of mine, Diana Rubino, as she tells her about her Bosworth experience. Take it away, Diana!

Thanks, Pam. I enjoyed a ‘Ricardian Pilgrims’ article in our Ricardian Register several years ago, and decided to share my Bosworth experience in a letter to the Register, which I will copy here. I felt better knowing I’m not the only one who cried there.

My first visit to Bosworth was with the Ricardian group on the anniversary of the battle, 1992. The mass at Sutton Cheney church where we laid a wreath and sang the ‘Loyalty’ hymn was very moving. The tea under the tent with my fellow Ricardians was delightful and comforting, but for a few days afterwards, the memory of my pilgrimage to the field lingered.

I’d just started writing a novel with Richard as a central character, and read Kendall’s stark description of his last moments, but I hadn’t yet written about his death. So, strange as this sounds, he was still alive to me up till then, with visits to York, Middleham, Warwick Castle, all his favorite places. But standing on the spot where he’d fallen smacked me with finality—this really was once a living, breathing man who’d lost his kingdom and his life to an undeserving foreigner.

As I slogged through the mud on that chilly rainy day, the gloom of my surroundings contributed to my increasing sadness. Walking the same ground where he’d charged with his army and taken his last breath gave me a strong link to him, because I felt a charge of energy in the air and coming out of the earth. I just knew that some spirits were still lurking, one of whom might’ve been Richard, but I doubt he’d linger there.

I’m convinced that Bosworth isn’t an empty field—it’s still very much alive, and I’m very glad to hear that others felt the same way!

My second pilgrimage to the field in 1999 was at dusk, and I was disappointed that Sutton Cheney church was locked. Unfortunately, I had no way of finding out who held the key.

As an aside, I thought the bumper sticker I saw at the parking lot in Stow-on-the-Wold, “So Few Richards, So Many Dicks,” was clever. Only a Ricardian could recognize that as an obscure reference to Taffy Harry. I’d like to see some for sale in York Minster’s gift shop!

How, Cool, Diana! Please tell visitors more about yourself and how they can connect with you...

Ok. 😃

I'm a self-confessed history nut, my favorite eras being Medieval and Renaissance England, and all American history. I've written several novels set in England and the U.S., three time travel romances, a vampire romance, and an urban fantasy, FAKIN’ IT which received a Top Pick award from Romantic Times. 

I'm a longtime member of the Richard III Society and the Aaron Burr Association. I now write biographical novels about strong women, with no fictional characters. In my spare time, I bicycle, golf, play my piano and devour books of any genre. You can connect with me through my Website and Blog, or on Facebook, Instagram and X (@DianaLRubino).

Wonderful, Diana. We wish you the best of luck and God's blessings with your books and travels and hope you'll join us again!

I hope you enjoyed Diana's story as much as I did, Friends. If you'd like to find out more about Diana and her work, check out the many times she visited my book blog.

Until next time, take care and travel happy!

PamT

2026 Vacation: Truckstops, Rest Areas, & Restaurants!

Good Morning and Welcome Back to Bathroom Blues Travel Blog,

In earlier posts I mentioned that we made a quick trip to South Carolina for my Honey's Granddaughter's High School Graduation. Six days of driving with 4 days of familial fun and bonding in between. Since we pretty much traveled the same route we always do, I thought I'd share a bit of that trip with you today.

When heading east on I-10 our first stop is always Tiger Truck Stop in Gros Tete, LA. First opened in 1987, this iconic place once had a live tiger for tourists to view. Disregarding all the controversy you may find, "Tony" was well cared for and lived to the ripe old age of 17. He is now on display in the facility which was renovated and enlarged in 2021. The restrooms in this truck stop are always clean and fully stocked (as many times as I've been there anyway LOL!) and one of the best things about it is they carry pints of my favorite brand of chocolate milk, BORDEN'S. This makes grabbing a snack so much nicer.

Our next pitt stop was in Mississippi. Despite it's pretty border, this one had me singing the blues. IMHO it is definitely in need of updating. That disappointment was followed by a beautiful rest area in Ponce de Leon, FL. This gorgeous facility is tucked in an alcove carved into a wooded area just off the interstate. Orignally opened in the '60's, discovering this was quite a surprise as my mother and I stayed at the hotel right next to the entrance numerous times and didn't even know that was there! 

Our first night on the road, we stayed at the Wilderness RV park in Robertsdale, AL. I've shared this campground with you before, so I won't go into detail here. Our second night was at Lake City campground, FL which had nice big showers and great water pressure and that always has me singing a happy tune. 

Since we're talking about truck stops and rest areas, I'll fill you in on those we visited on the way home...

The Shell station in Pembroke, GA was nice and clean. Mobil @ Madison/Perry exit, FL, wasn't fabulous but the friendly service made up for it. The Gadsen rest area in FL (mm 161) was really nice, tucked away in a wooded area with their cat mascot. Last but not least, the Santa Rosa rest area (mm 30) was pretty cool as well. In all my travels I must say Florida has some of the nicest rest areas you'll visit. 

While in SC, we stayed at Santee State Park. Again, I've told you all about this place too while
recapping our 2024 vacation, so I won't go into detail except to say that the road into/out of the area in which we stayed left a LOT to be desired! 

One of our excursions while in Santee, was into Charleston to Shem Creek where we ate at the Tavern Table restaurant-with it's amazing decor and super nice bathroom-and strolled along the boardwalk. As you know, I LOVE wildlife so this was a real treat. Check out the video and you'll understand what I'm talking about...

We headed home from SC on May 26th and stayed at Lake City campground again. Our second night on the road we spent in Theodora, AL at I-10 Kampground and had dinner at Time to Eat restaurant. 

The video below shows what's so special about this restaurant but one thing that really felt like home was going into the Rouses grocery store right next to the eatery and finding a Lagniappe newspaper which we both have here in SWLA.

And as you well know, while it is SO good to go on vacation, whether a new place or a favorite one, it is ALWAYS good to get home.

I hope you enjoyed traveling along with me as I reminiced on our trip to SC this summer, that you found this post fun and beneficial, and that you'll check back weekly for another edition of Bathroom Blues!

Until next time, take care and travel safe.

PamT

Guest Post: How to Stay Hydrated and Healthy During Summer Vacations

Good Morning Friends and Welcome Back to Bathroom Blues Travel Blog. 

Today we have another guest post from Sara M @ NZ Tourism. It's hot, hot, hot out there so this is the perfect post to share.

Enjoy...

Summer vacations are the perfect time to escape the daily grind, explore new destinations, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you are planning a tropical beach getaway, a thrilling backpacking trip through rugged mountains, or a relaxing city tour, summer offers endless opportunities for adventure. However, the rising temperatures and increased physical activity that come with summer travel can take a significant toll on your body. Maintaining optimal health and hydration during these warm months is crucial, yet it is often overlooked amidst the excitement of travel planning.

When you step out of your regular routine, your daily habits change dramatically. You might spend hours walking under the blazing sun, trying exotic foods, or rushing from one tourist attraction to the next. These changes make you highly susceptible to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and fatigue, which can quickly ruin a well-planned vacation. Staying healthy requires a proactive approach that blends smart preparation with mindful daily practices. This comprehensive guide will provide you with practical, actionable strategies to keep your body energized, hydrated, and resilient throughout your summer journeys, ensuring you make the most of every sunny moment.

The Hidden Science of Hydration and Heat

Understanding how your body interacts with summer heat is the first step toward staying healthy. When you are exposed to high temperatures or engage in physical exertion, your body relies on its built-in cooling mechanism, which is sweating. As sweat evaporates from your skin, it cools your body down and helps maintain a safe internal temperature. However, this process means you are constantly losing vital fluids and essential minerals, known as electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and magnesium. If you do not replace these lost fluids promptly, your body enters a state of dehydration, which impairs your physical performance and cognitive functions.

Dehydration does not just happen when you feel incredibly thirsty. In fact, by the time your brain registers the sensation of thirst, your body is already mildly dehydrated. Early warning signs include dry mouth, mild headaches, dark-colored urine, and sudden feelings of fatigue or dizziness. For travelers, mild dehydration can manifest as brain fog, making it difficult to navigate unfamiliar cities or map out transportation routes. When dehydration worsens, it can lead to heat exhaustion or even heatstroke, which are serious medical conditions that require immediate attention. By understanding the science behind fluid loss, you can appreciate why consistent fluid intake is a non-negotiable part of summer travel.

Practical Strategies for On the Go Fluid Intake

Staying hydrated while traveling requires deliberate effort, especially when you are constantly on the move. The most effective strategy is to invest in a high-quality, reusable, insulated water bottle before you leave home. An insulated bottle keeps your water crisp and cold for hours, making it much more appealing to drink when you are walking through hot city streets or sitting on a sunny beach. Make it a habit to fill your bottle at your hotel before heading out, and look for safe refilling stations at airports, museums, or restaurants throughout the day.

To ensure you are drinking enough, set a target to consume water at regular intervals rather than chugging large amounts all at once. Sip continuously throughout your excursions, aiming for at least eight to ten ounces every hour when you are active outdoors. If you find plain water boring after a while, you can infuse it with natural slices of lemon, lime, cucumber, or mint leaves to enhance the flavor without adding unhealthy sugars. Additionally, downloading a hydration tracking app on your phone or setting simple hourly reminders can help you maintain your fluid intake goals when you are distracted by sightseeing.

Nutritional Choices That Boost Summer Hydration

Many travelers do not realize that hydration is not achieved solely through the liquids you drink. The foods you choose to eat play a massive role in maintaining your body's fluid balance, especially when enjoying New Zealand tours. Nature provides an abundance of water-rich fruits and vegetables during the summer season, which double as excellent travel snacks. Watermelon, strawberries, grapefruit, and oranges are packed with water and natural sugars that provide quick energy. On the vegetable side, cucumbers, zucchini, celery, and bell peppers offer exceptional hydration alongside essential vitamins and minerals that support your immune system.

When you are exploring local markets or dining out, try to incorporate these hydrating ingredients into your meals. Choosing a crisp summer salad or a chilled vegetable soup can provide a refreshing break from heavy, greasy foods that are difficult to digest in the heat. Heavy, high-fat meals require more metabolic energy to break down, which can elevate your internal body temperature and leave you feeling sluggish. Furthermore, incorporating small amounts of healthy, salty snacks like pretzels or salted nuts can help replace the sodium lost through sweat, allowing your cells to retain water more efficiently.

Smart Choices and Avoiding Dehydration Traps

While it is tempting to indulge in local beverages while on vacation, certain drinks can actively work against your hydration goals. Alcohol, caffeinated beverages like espresso or iced lattes, and sugary sodas are notorious for their dehydrating effects. Alcohol and caffeine act as natural diuretics, meaning they stimulate your kidneys to produce more urine, causing you to lose fluids faster than you consume them. Enjoying a local cocktail by the pool or a morning iced coffee is a wonderful part of travel, but these choices must be managed with care.

To counteract the diuretic effects of these beverages, practice the one-for-one rule. For every alcoholic drink or caffeinated beverage you consume, drink a full glass of pure water immediately afterward. This simple habit helps neutralize the fluid loss and keeps your hydration levels stable. Additionally, be cautious with energy drinks that are loaded with synthetic sugars and high levels of caffeine, as they can cause rapid heart rate fluctuations and sudden energy crashes in hot weather. Stick to pure water, herbal iced teas, or coconut water, which is an excellent natural source of electrolytes.

Protecting Your Body from Heat and Sun Exposure

Hydration goes hand in hand with external body protection, as sunburn and heat exposure can accelerate fluid loss. When your skin is sunburned, it loses its ability to regulate body temperature efficiently, and fluid is drawn to the surface of the skin away from the rest of your body. To prevent this, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher at least thirty minutes before stepping outside. Remember to reapply your sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you are swimming or sweating heavily during outdoor activities.

In addition to sunscreen, your clothing choices play a critical role in keeping you cool and healthy. Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting garments made from breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking athletic materials. Light colors reflect the sun rays, whereas dark colors absorb heat and increase your body temperature. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat safeguards your face, neck, and ears from direct sunlight, while UV-blocking sunglasses protect your eyes from strain and damage. Whenever possible, plan your intensive outdoor sightseeing during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, and take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

Conclusion and Your Next Steps for Summer Travel

Prioritizing your health and hydration is the ultimate secret to a successful, vibrant summer vacation. By understanding how your body handles heat, packing the right gear, making smart dietary choices, and protecting your skin, you can prevent fatigue and illnesses from interrupting your adventures. Staying hydrated enhances your energy levels, keeps your mood positive, and ensures you have the stamina to explore every corner of your travel destination. Health management does not have to be a chore, it can easily become a seamless, rewarding part of your travel routine.

As you pack your bags for your next big trip, make a conscious commitment to put these hydration strategies into action. Start by selecting a dependable reusable water bottle today and researching safe water sources at your upcoming destination. Share these tips with your travel companions so that everyone stays safe, healthy, and energized together. Do you have a favorite hydration hack or a go-to summer travel snack that keeps you feeling refreshed? Tell us about your summer travel plans and your best health tips in the comments below, and do not forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more expert travel advice!

All Great Advice, too, Sara. Thank You for sharing with us.

Hope you enjoyed today's post, friends and that you'll check back weekly for more great travel stories or advice on Bathroom Blues travel blog!

Until next time, take care, God Bless, and happy trails to you...

PamT