Travel writers visit Vermilion Parish

Recently, the Vermilion Parish Tourist Commission hosted 15 journalists as part of the Society of American Travel Writers Western Chapter Meeting being held in Lafayette. The members contribute to a vast range of publications, web sites, guidebooks and broadcast media outlets, reaching millions of potential travelers.

“Hosting this group of travel writers will mean positive publicity for Vermilion Parish,” says Alison Miller, Executive Director for the Vermilion Parish Tourist Commission. “It was an excellent opportunity for our area to showcase some of our unique culture, festivals and cuisine.”

According to Miller, many of the writers said they were surprised by their visit.

“The trip was a real eye-opener for us,” said Bob Schulman, a freelance writer. “Many of us, like myself, thought the epicenter of Cajun culture was in New Orleans. Boy, were we wrong.”

The travel writers visited a variety of attractions throughout Vermilion Parish including museums, churches and restaurants.

“What impressed me were the residents who showed great pride in their heritage, food and music,” said Millie Alexander, travel editor. “At the Acadian Museum of Erath, the curator pointed out the written apology made by Queen Elizabeth for the forceful deportation of Acadians from Nova Scotia. Best of all, it was heartening to hear the stories of people helping one another rebuild their homes after the devastation of Hurricane Rita.”

Linda Duval, another writer on the trip said she had a wonderful time and would love to visit again.

When asked to describe Vermilion Parish in one sentence, she replied, “The food was great, the music was irresistible and the history so rich and fascinating.”