Ever since Bob and I started planning for our retirement and traveling the USA, we knew about Betty's RV Park. The only problem was it wasn't on the route we were traveling.....until this trip! We made a special effort to make sure we visited Betty's this trip. Now, I can hear you asking what is so special about Betty's? It is a small RV park with the best hostess in the area! Betty will show you the sights and the restaurants that are known for local flavors. That's right, I said show, not tell. She goes with her guests when they go as a group to a local eatery or event. Every evening on her patio, she hosts 'Happy Hour' and she provides a casserole or large dish for everyone to share. The guests also bring items and dinner is often not necessary. She shares information on local sights and people decide what suits them.
When we arrived at Betty's she came out and helped get us backed in our sight. She gave us a map of small local towns and highlighted the restaurants that she thought were the best examples of Louisiana cooking.
After Bob and I got set up, we went for a walk around the neighborhood. We were met by every dog in the area, all friendly.
That evening, we went to our first 'Happy Hour'. It was decided that evening that everyone would eat at
Shuck's the next day for lunch. I had the shrimp and grits which was recommended and Bob had the shrimp po' boy. Both dishes were excellent!
That evening at 'Happy Hour' one of the guests brought mac and cheese, I brought a cheese ball and someone else brought Girl Scout Cookies. Everyone else provided different chips.
Bob and I decided to tour Avery Island the following day. For those who don't know, Avery Island is the home of Tabasco Sauce! First we toured the museum and then we walked through the factory.
These are whiskey barrels that the Tabasco is aged in for 3 years. The tops are sealed with salt from the salt mines on Avery Island.
All around the property are items celebrating Tabasco.
The family of six flavors are all made on Avery Island. In the store, you can sample the six plus a few more flavors. Bob and I were both surprised at the ice cream flavored with Tabasco...it was really unexpectedly yummy.
After visiting the store we headed to Jungle Gardens which was started by the McIlhennys. The camellias, azaleas, and Japanese magnolias were in bloom.
Most people drive the three mile loop around the gardens, getting out take the short walks in some of the areas, but Bob and I decided to walk the loop.
In one section there is a Buddha that was given to the McIlhenny's in the early 1900s.
Ned McIlhenny founded a bird colony in the 1890s to protect the snowy egret which was nearing extinction. The egrets continue to flock to 'Bird City' to nest and have their young each year. The rookery is above water to help protect the birds from predators. Alligators also help by patrolling the waters around the rookery.
This snowy egret was taking a break from feeding its mate and nest building.
When we returned to Betty's we found out that her niece had been out crabbing and was bringing crabs for everyone. Here Betty is getting everything organized.
Betty and her niece are showing off the crabs just before putting them on the table.
Each guest brought something to contribute to the crab boil and we all had a great time!
Betty tried to trap us in her web for another few days, but we assured her we would return on our trip home.
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