You will need all of the energy you can get as you keep step with Louisiana's Cajun and Zydeco music.

If you're scanning a continental map and considering your next destination, let your eye wander to that intoxicating spot where the Mississippi River drains North America into the Gulf of Mexico: Louisiana!

The hurricanes that battered its shores in the fall have ushered in a renaissance making Louisiana (www.louisianatravel.com) better than ever. The entire state is a destination full of adventures that can be experienced right now. Whether your interest is the world-renowned cuisine, incredible music, outdoor adventure or the unique blend of cultures (including those that tie Louisiana's heritage with that of Canada's), this southern state off ers something for everyone.

Mother Nature provided Louisiana a bounty that is unmatched. Take advantage of what nature provides us and explore Louisiana's swamps, bayous and wildlife. For the daring, jump on board an airboat for a tour of nature like no other.

Already one of the most remarkable places on earth, plans for its rebirth will combine its rich cultural heritage with modern ideas to rebuild this region. Though the lands were damaged, the soul of this southern state thrives and is ready to welcome visitors and share its diverse bounty.

When traversing Louisiana, there are a number of stops to tempt you in each region of the state. From the Sportsman's Paradise, Crossroads, Plantation Country, Cajun Country to New Orleans—Louisiana is awaiting your visit with open arms and a pot of gumbo cooking on the stove.

Adventure in Sportsman's Paradise

Rolling, wooded hills scattered among lakes, rivers and bayous make Northern Louisiana a sportsman's paradise. Mother Nature graced the area with the best, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and travelling families. Excellent opportunities are scattered throughout this area for hunting and fi shing and taking in the breath-taking nature the state has to off er, such as Kisatchie National Forest and Caney Creek Lake.

Catch an amazing sunset, as well as trophy-size fi sh, in Sportsman's Paradise. Bass close to 16 pounds have been pulled out of Caney Lake—imagine the picture holding your own 16-pounder!

And the trees are not the only giants growing in this region. Skyscrapers, grand hotels, casinos, museums, parks, world-class restaurants, and sporting and cultural events guarantee plenty of action indoors throughout northern Louisiana.

The Sportsman's Paradise is home to an eclectic mix of cultures and histories. Get transported back in time as you hear stories of the Native Americans who traded at Poverty Point in Epps, Henry Shreve's breaking of the log jam on the Red River, the soldiers who fought and fell at Mansfi eld Battlefi eld, and Bonnie and Clyde's demise in Arcadia.

Starlight, nature and neon—you'll fi nd them all in northern Louisiana.

Come experience the courses of Arnold Palmer, Hal Sutton, David Toms and the most magnifi cent designer of all—Nature. The Audubon Golf Trail provides world-class golfing across all regions of Louisiana, including Cypress Bend in Crossroad.

Charm in Crossroads

The north-central region of Louisiana is its birthplace. Founded in 1714, Natchitoches is one of the oldest settlements. A beautiful historic town, Natchitoches boasts a 33-block National Historic Landmark District in which shopping and quaint bed & breakfasts encourage a leisurely pace.

South of Natchitoches, nestled on the banks of the Red River, Alexandria is surrounded by natural beauty including Dewey Wills Wildlife Management Area, Kincaid Lake and the Wild Azalea National Recreation Trail.

While travelling in the area don't miss The Alexandria Museum of Art; the restored home (now a museum and cultural centre) of Harlem Renaissance writer Arna Bontemps; Lloyd Hall Plantation in Cheneyville; the fabulous links of the Audubon Golf Trail; and Toledo Bend Reservoir, west of Alexandria, (hosting 300 pounds of fi sh per acre). As you continue your travels, don't pass up the opportunity to meander along the charming country roads, dotted with wildfl owers, along the Cane River.