How to become a Disney travel agent in Louisiana
Becoming a travel agent in Louisiana can be a rewarding and fulfilling career, especially given the state's vibrant tourism industry. With millions of visitors flocking to New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and other areas each year, there is a constant demand for skilled travel agents who can help plan and execute memorable trips.
As a travel agent in Louisiana, you will be responsible for taking care of every aspect of a client's travel itinerary, from booking flights and accommodations to planning activities and ensuring all necessary travel documents are in order. This role requires strong communication skills, patience, organizational abilities, and a good understanding of geography and current world events.
The job is flexible and can be ideal for parents, college students, or anyone looking for a career with varied hours. To succeed, you need to be a great communicator, able to curate personalized travel experiences that meet the client's needs and preferences. This involves in-depth consultations to understand the client's desired destination, budget, travel style, and preferred amenities.
A travel agent is much more than someone who just books flights and hotels; they are a master of many trades, ensuring every detail of the trip is meticulously planned to create the perfect holiday.
In Louisiana, the path to becoming a travel agent is relatively straightforward. While there are no licensing requirements, having a high school diploma and being at least 18 years old are essential. It is highly recommended to attend classes in tourism and hospitality to gain the necessary knowledge for the job.
| Skills | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Strong communication and interpersonal skills | High school diploma |
| Good computer skills and knowledge of geography | At least 18 years old |
| Patient and well-organized | Optional: Classes in tourism and hospitality |
By understanding these initial steps and requirements, you can set yourself on the path to a successful career as a travel agent in Louisiana, helping countless travelers enjoy the rich culture, history, and beauty that the state has to offer.
As a travel agent in Louisiana, your primary role is to plan and book travel arrangements for clients. This involves understanding the client's vacation needs, preferences, and budget to tailor a personalized travel experience. Key responsibilities include booking flights, hotels, and rental cars, as well as organizing activities and excursions. You will also need to ensure all necessary travel documents are in order and provide ongoing support to clients during their trips.
You will need to be well-versed in customer service, able to handle inquiries, and resolve any issues that may arise during the travel planning process. Additionally, staying updated on travel industry trends, destinations, and supplier information is crucial for providing the best possible service to your clients.
| Responsibility | Description |
|---|---|
| Booking Travel Arrangements | Flights, hotels, rental cars, and other travel necessities |
| Organizing Activities and Excursions | Tours, dining reservations, and other travel experiences |
| Customer Service and Support | Handling client inquiries and resolving travel-related issues |
| Updating Industry Knowledge | Staying informed about travel trends, destinations, and supplier information |
Being a travel agent offers several benefits, including the flexibility to work independently or with a host business, and the opportunity to earn a flexible income. Many travel agents appreciate the variety in their work, as each client's needs are unique, making every day different. Additionally, the job allows you to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and help them create lifelong memories.
The satisfaction of seeing a client's face light up when they hear about a specially curated trip is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a travel agent.
However, the job also comes with its challenges. The travel industry is highly competitive, and you may face pressure to meet sales targets and handle last-minute changes or cancellations. Moreover, the constant need to stay updated with new destinations, travel regulations, and industry trends can be demanding.
High competition in the industry
Pressure to meet sales targets
Handling last-minute changes or cancellations
Continuous need for industry knowledge updates
Despite these challenges, many travel agents find the rewards of the job far outweigh the difficulties, making it a fulfilling and exciting career path.
To become a travel agent in Louisiana, one of the primary legal requirements is obtaining an IATA (International Air Transport Association) number. This unique identifier is essential for conducting business as a travel business. If you are working with a host business, they typically provide access to the IATA number, making it easier for you to get started.
While there is no strict educational requirement for becoming a travel agent in Louisiana, having a high school diploma or GED equivalent is highly recommended. This foundational education can help you develop essential skills such as communication, organization, and basic computer literacy. However, it is important to note that neither a formal travel agent certification nor a bachelor’s degree is mandatory.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| High School Diploma or GED Equivalent | Recommended but not required |
| Formal Travel Agent Certification | Not required, but highly encouraged |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Not required |
On-the-job training is a crucial aspect of becoming a successful travel agent. Many host agencies offer comprehensive training programs that include seminars and workshops on various topics such as customer service, booking systems, and industry best practices. For example, LuxRally Travel provides a free online travel agent training course that covers travel agent basics, sales training, and how to use their proprietary booking engine.
These training programs are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to handle all aspects of travel planning, from booking flights and hotels to providing concierge services.
In addition to the general training, some host agencies may have specific requirements or additional training programs. For instance, you might need to take a practical exam or participate in ongoing training sessions to stay updated with industry trends and new technologies.
Comprehensive training courses on travel agent basics and sales techniques Practical exams and role-playing sessions Ongoing training and advanced certification programs Access to proprietary booking systems and CRM tools
Agency-Specific Training Programs
By combining these educational and training components, you can ensure you are well-prepared to succeed as a travel agent in Louisiana.
Working with a host business is a crucial step for many aspiring travel agents in Louisiana. One of the primary benefits is access to an IATA number, which is essential for conducting business as a travel business. This unique identifier allows you to earn commissions on the travel you book and access various industry resources.
Host agencies also provide a supportive environment, offering resources such as access to booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and comprehensive training. This support is invaluable, especially for new travel agents who are just starting out.
A host business acts as a mentor, guiding you through the complexities of the travel industry and helping you build a successful business.
Host agencies offer a wide range of resources to help you succeed. These include training programs that cover foundational topics such as customer service, booking systems, and industry best practices. For example, Fora, a host business, provides a 40+ hour live training program along with access to recordings and ongoing training sessions.
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Training Programs | Comprehensive training on customer service, booking systems, and industry best practices |
| Booking Systems and Partner Programs | Access to proprietary booking systems and partnerships with hotels, airlines, and tour operators |
| Marketing Support | Marketing tools, social media templates, and email marketing support |
| Community and Networking | Access to community apps, online forums, and networking events |
In addition to these resources, host agencies often manage the backend commission processes, ensuring that you receive your earnings seamlessly. This eliminates the hassle of chasing commissions, allowing you to focus on what you do best – planning amazing trips for your clients.
Host agencies handle the commission management, ensuring you receive your earnings without any hassle.
Backend Commission Management
When selecting a host business, there are several key considerations to keep in mind. First, look at the business's reputation and the level of support they offer. Check if they provide comprehensive training programs and ongoing education to keep you updated with industry trends.
Another important factor is the range of resources and tools provided. Ensure the business offers access to robust booking systems, marketing support, and a strong network of partners. This will significantly enhance your ability to plan and book travel efficiently. It is also crucial to consider the commission structures and any fees associated with joining the host business. Look for transparency in their commission management and ensure that the fees are reasonable and aligned with the services provided.
Choosing the right host business can be the difference between a successful and struggling travel business. Take your time, do your research, and select an business that aligns with your goals and values.
Example of Key Considerations:
- Reputation and support - Comprehensive training programs - Access to booking systems and partner programs - Marketing support - Commission structures and fees
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find a host business that will be a valuable partner in your journey to becoming a successful travel agent in Louisiana.
To become a well-rounded travel agent in Louisiana, enrolling in comprehensive training courses is essential. For instance, LuxRally Travel offers a free online travel agent training program that spans approximately 50-70 hours. This program is divided into several sections, including "The Industry" and "The Systems" courses. The "Industry" course covers foundational topics such as travel agent basics, industry terminology, best practices, and how to provide concierge services to clients. It also includes videos and insights on hundreds of brands and destinations around the world.
| Course Component | Description |
|---|---|
| The Industry Course | Covers travel agent basics, industry terminology, best practices, and concierge services |
| The Systems Course | Teaches how to use the CRM, proprietary booking engine, and other non-FastBook suppliers |
| Practical Exam | Role-play with a member of the team, providing feedback on performance |
| New Agent Orientation | Covers final tips, accessing resources, and getting supplier logins |
In addition to comprehensive training, there are several certification options available to enhance your credentials. The Louisiana Travel Association offers the Certified Travel Specialists (CTS) program, which is an annual certification program that includes four educational sessions. These sessions focus on customer service, industry leadership, personal growth, and navigating Louisiana tourism resources. Upon completing a national certification test, participants graduate as Certified Travel Specialists.
Becoming a Certified Travel Specialist not only boosts your professional profile but also connects you with a network of industry professionals and resources.
Another certification option is the New Orleans Travel Professional certification, offered through Visit New Orleans. This program includes courses that introduce you to the unique aspects of New Orleans, such as its culture, cruises, and group travel opportunities. Upon completing each course and passing the corresponding quiz, you receive a certification certificate.
This certification covers topics like Cruise New Orleans, Groups the Big Easy Way, and Romance and Destination Weddings, providing you with the tools to sell New Orleans effectively.
New Orleans Travel Professional Certification
Ongoing training is crucial to staying up-to-date in the travel industry. Many host agencies, such as Fora and LuxRally Travel, offer advanced certification programs and regular training sessions. These include partner and destination trainings, marketing office hours, and specialized office hours for cruises and group bookings. These resources help you refine your skills, build your brand, and stay informed about industry updates and insights from top vendors.
| Training Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Advanced Certification Programs | In-depth training on specialized topics like sales techniques and vendor negotiations |
| Regular Partner and Destination Trainings | Updates and insights from top vendors and destinations |
| Marketing Office Hours | Guidance on marketing strategies and brand building |
| Specialized Office Hours | Focus on cruises, group bookings, and other specialized areas |
These ongoing training opportunities ensure that you remain knowledgeable and skilled, enabling you to deliver exceptional service to your clients and grow your business successfully.
Building a successful travel business in Louisiana heavily relies on effective client relationship management and exceptional customer service. As a travel agent, you will work closely with clients to understand their vacation needs, preferences, and budget. This involves active listening, clear communication, and a deep understanding of the client's travel goals.
Customer service is a critical aspect of your role. You will need to handle inquiries, resolve any issues that may arise during the travel planning process, and provide ongoing support to clients during their trips. Ensuring that clients feel valued and supported can lead to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Active Listening | Understanding the client's vacation needs, preferences, and budget |
| Clear Communication | Keeping clients informed about travel arrangements and any changes |
| Personalized Service | Tailoring travel experiences to meet the client's unique needs |
| Ongoing Support | Providing assistance during the client's trip and resolving any issues promptly |
To build a thriving travel business business, you need to implement effective marketing and promotional strategies. Leveraging modern technology, such as social media and email marketing, can help you reach a wider audience and attract new clients. For instance, creating engaging content on platforms like Instagram and Facebook can help showcase your expertise and the unique travel experiences you offer.
Using social media effectively allows you to connect with potential clients, share testimonials, and highlight the benefits of working with a local travel agent.
In addition to digital marketing, networking is crucial. Joining local travel associations and participating in industry events can help you establish strong partnerships with other agents, suppliers, and potential clients. These connections can lead to valuable referrals and collaborative opportunities.
Utilize social media platforms to share engaging content and client testimonials. Engage in email marketing to keep clients informed about new travel options and promotions. Network through local travel associations and industry events.
Marketing and Promotional Strategies
One of the most significant advantages of being a travel agent in Louisiana is the ability to leverage your local knowledge to plan unique and personalized trips. By understanding the culture, geography, and hidden gems of the state, you can create travel experiences that are both authentic and memorable.
For example, you can offer clients exclusive experiences such as a guided tour of the French Quarter, a swamp tour in the Atchafalaya Basin, or a visit to the historic plantations along the Mississippi River. By highlighting these local attractions and experiences, you can differentiate your services from larger travel agencies and attract clients looking for a truly local perspective.
| Experience | Description |
|---|---|
| Foodie Tour of New Orleans | Exploring the city's culinary scene, including famous restaurants and local eateries. |
| Adventure in the Bayou | Guided tours or activities in the Atchafalaya Basin, such as kayaking or birdwatching. |
| Historical Tour of Baton Rouge | Visiting historical sites and landmarks, including the Louisiana State Capitol and the USS Kidd. |
By combining exceptional customer service, effective marketing strategies, and a deep understanding of local attractions, you can build a successful and thriving travel business business in Louisiana.
The salary for travel agents in Louisiana can vary, but on average, a travel agent can expect to earn a annual salary ranging from $35,000 to $50,000. This figure is influenced by factors such as the agent's level of experience, the type of travel services offered, and the size and type of the business they work with.
| Salary Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Base Salary | $35,000 to $50,000 per year |
| Commissions and Bonuses | Varying amounts based on sales performance and client bookings |
Salaries for travel agents can also vary depending on the city within Louisiana. For instance, travel agents working in larger cities like New Orleans or Baton Rouge may earn higher salaries compared to those working in smaller towns. The cost of living and the local demand for travel services also play a significant role in determining these salary variations.
New Orleans, being a major tourist destination, tends to offer higher salaries due to the increased demand for travel services and the higher cost of living.
In New Orleans, for example, the average salary might be slightly higher, ranging from $40,000 to $60,000 per year, while in smaller cities, the salaries could be lower, reflecting the local economic conditions.
New Orleans: $40,000 to $60,000 per year Baton Rouge: $35,000 to $55,000 per year Smaller towns: $30,000 to $45,000 per year
Salary Variations by City
The travel industry offers several growth opportunities and paths for career advancement. As you gain experience and build a strong client base, you can move into more senior roles such as team leader or business manager. Additionally, you might consider specializing in a particular type of travel, such as luxury travel or corporate travel, which can command higher salaries and greater prestige.
Further, many successful travel agents choose to start their own agencies, which can be a highly rewarding and lucrative venture. This requires strong business skills, but the potential for financial gain and personal satisfaction is significant.
| Opportunity | Description |
|---|---|
| Senior Roles | Team leader or business manager positions |
| Specialization | Luxury travel, corporate travel, or other specialized areas |
| Starting Your Own Agency | Entrepreneurial venture requiring strong business skills |
By continuously developing your skills, expanding your knowledge, and taking on new challenges, you can ensure a fulfilling and financially rewarding career as a travel agent in Louisiana.
To enhance your credentials and deepen your understanding of New Orleans, the Certified New Orleans Travel Professional Program is an excellent option. This program, offered through Visit New Orleans, allows you to become a certified expert in all things New Orleans. The program includes courses that introduce you to the unique aspects of the city, such as its culture, cruises, and group travel opportunities.
The program covers various topics, including "Cruise New Orleans," "Groups the Big Easy Way," and "Romance and Destination Weddings." Upon completing each course and passing the corresponding quiz, you will receive a certification certificate, which you can download immediately.
| Course | Description |
|---|---|
| Cruise New Orleans | Combining two vacations into one, highlighting cruise options in New Orleans. |
| Groups the Big Easy Way | Planning and executing group travel in New Orleans. |
| Romance and Destination Weddings | Tools and techniques for selling New Orleans as a romantic destination and wedding venue. |
Engaging with Louisiana tourism resources and community involvement is crucial for building your expertise as a travel agent. The Louisiana Travel Association offers an annual certification program for state and regional travel counselors, which includes four educational sessions. These sessions focus on customer service, industry leadership, personal growth, and navigating Louisiana tourism resources.
Participating in such programs not only enhances your knowledge but also connects you with a network of industry professionals and resources, making you a more valuable asset to your clients.
Networking is also a key component of community involvement. Joining local travel associations and participating in industry events can help you form strong partnerships with other agents, suppliers, and potential clients. This can lead to valuable referrals and collaborative opportunities.
Join local travel associations and participate in industry events to build strong partnerships and networks. Engage in annual certification programs to connect with industry professionals and resources.
Community Involvement and Networking
Leveraging your cultural and local insights is essential for planning unique and memorable trips for your clients. As a travel agent in Louisiana, you can use your knowledge of the state's culture, geography, and hidden gems to craft intensely personal travel experiences. For example, you can offer foodie tours of New Orleans, adventures in the Bayou, or historical tours of Baton Rouge.
Understanding specific protocols and requirements for different destinations within Louisiana can also enhance your service. This includes health and safety requirements, local customs, and unique attractions that only a local would know about.
| Insight | Description |
|---|---|
| Foodie Tours of New Orleans | Exploring the city's culinary scene, including famous restaurants and local eateries. |
| Adventures in the Bayou | Guided tours or activities in the Atchafalaya Basin, such as kayaking or birdwatching. |
| Historical Tours of Baton Rouge | Visiting historical sites and landmarks, including the Louisiana State Capitol and the USS Kidd. |
By combining these specialized certifications and leveraging your local expertise, you can provide exceptional service to your clients and build a successful travel business business in Louisiana.
Becoming a travel agent in Louisiana is a rewarding and exciting career path that combines your passion for travel with the opportunity to help others create unforgettable experiences. From obtaining the necessary legal and educational requirements to choosing the right host business and undergoing comprehensive training, each step is crucial in setting you up for success.
The journey to becoming a travel agent is not just about the technical skills and certifications; it is also about building strong relationships with clients, staying updated with industry trends, and continuously learning and growing. Whether you are working with a host business like Fora or LuxRally Travel, or pursuing specialized certifications like the Certified New Orleans Travel Professional Program, you have numerous resources at your disposal to help you thrive.
Remember, your role as a travel agent is not just about booking flights and hotels; it's about crafting personalized journeys that leave lasting impressions on your clients.
| Takeaway | Description |
|---|---|
| Leverage Local Knowledge | Use your understanding of Louisiana's culture, geography, and hidden gems to create unique travel experiences. |
| Choose the Right Host Agency | Select a host business that provides comprehensive training, resources, and support to help you succeed. |
| Pursue Specialized Certifications | Consider certifications like the Certified Travel Specialists or New Orleans Travel Professional to enhance your credentials. |
| Focus on Customer Service | Provide exceptional customer service to build strong client relationships and ensure repeat business. |
As you embark on this journey, remember that the travel industry is dynamic and ever-changing. Staying adaptable, continuously learning, and being passionate about what you do will be the keys to your success. With the right mindset, training, and support, you can build a fulfilling and lucrative career as a travel agent in Louisiana.
Stay updated with industry trends and new technologies.
Network regularly with other industry professionals.
Continuously seek out new learning opportunities and certifications.
Focus on building strong client relationships through exceptional service.
With these insights and the support of your chosen host business and local resources, you are well on your way to a successful and enjoyable career as a travel agent in Louisiana. 🌟✈️
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Native Americans lived along bluffs of the lower Mississippi Valley for thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans. Groups in the area were part of the Mississippian culture that produced ceremonial temples and earthen mounds. Most Native Americans abandoned these practices before European explorers arrived, but one group in Louisiana, the Natchez, retained many of the practices, which allowed Europeans to observe a culture far different from most others they encountered in North America.
The first Europeans (Spaniards Cabeza de Vaca, Panfilo de Narvarez and Hernando de Soto) arrived in the 1500s. In 1682, Frenchman Sieur de La Salle claimed the area and promptly named it for his king, Louis XIV. Portions of Louisiana switched from Spanish rule to British and back to the French again before Napoleon sold most of the state to the U.S. in 1803 as part of the Louisiana Purchase (the part east of the Mississippi had been in U.S. hands since the conclusion of the Revolutionary War).
A melange of groups migrated into the area throughout this period, and a few even combined to form distinct new cultures. In New Orleans, the white Creoles (directly descended from the early Spanish and French settlers) mingled with free blacks, slaves and their descendants to form a new class of citizens known as the gens de couleur libres, or "free people of color." These light-skinned blacks often owned their own slaves, and many sent their children to school in Paris. The bayou country upriver from New Orleans was settled by the Cajuns (descendants of the French Acadians exiled from Nova Scotia in the 1700s).
Though much is made of Louisiana's French and Spanish roots, other ethnic groups have helped to shape the state's identity. In the 1700s, the Senegambians created the first successful rice crop in the Mississippi Valley. In the 1800s, the free Haitians introduced the shotgun house—a distinctive architectural feature of New Orleans neighborhoods. German immigrants intermarried with Acadian settlers, combining the diatonic accordion and the French fiddle to create Cajun music. Croatians cultivated oysters; Sicilians brought the muffaletta to New Orleans; and Irish immigrants fell to deadly yellow fever as they struggled to dig the all-important canals.
Louisiana joined the Confederacy in 1861 and was weakened significantly by Reconstruction politics. Around the turn of the 20th century, the discovery of coastal oil fields turned the political and economic tides of the state. Oil wealth flowed into the pockets of the urban elite as poverty ravaged the rest of the population. This disparity gave rise to strongman Gov. Huey P. Long, the prototype for other colorful Louisiana politicians who are heavy on charisma, flamboyance and corruption (always alleged, never proved). Popularly known as "the Kingfish," Long spearheaded huge public works projects that built Louisiana's modern infrastructure and helped him establish a huge personal power base. Constantly surrounded by controversy, Long was assassinated in 1935.
Huey's gubernatorial successors have kept Louisiana's "political circus" reputation alive, including his brother Earl Long (who was once committed to a mental hospital) and Country Music Hall-of-Famer Jimmie Davis. Yet another colorful governor was the four-time elected and perpetually indicted Edwin Edwards. The son of Cajun sharecroppers, he was surrounded by rumors of lucrative kickbacks and was convicted in 2000 on charges of racketeering, and mail and wire fraud. Before his incarceration, Edwards opened the door to land-based casino gambling in the state. As if to bury the past, voters elected their first female governor, Kathleen Blanco, in 2002.
Today, Louisiana's economy runs mainly on health care, tourism, agribusiness and the petrochemical industry.
In August 2005, Hurricane Katrina swept across the Gulf Coast, bringing a 20-ft/6-m storm surge that devastated the city of New Orleans and wreaked damage up and down the coast. The city is certainly on the road to recovery but will show scars—in the form of abandoned neighborhoods outside of the tourism districts—for years to come. The good news for tourists is that the most historic and iconic areas of the city have rebounded. Just a month after Katrina, Hurricane Rita slammed into the southwestern part of the state and dealt a massive blow to Cameron and Calcasieu parishes and the Lake Charles area. Suffering a fate similar to New Orleans, thousands of homes were flooded, and small towns such as Holly Beach were simply wiped from the map. As with New Orleans, this area of the state is rebuilding and great progress is being made.
Although Louisiana is still recovering from the storms, travelers should not hesitate to visit—attractions and cultural treasures are alive and well. Tourism is part of the state's lifeblood, and there's no better way to help out than to pass a good time in Louisiana.
Louisiana's main attractions include Cajun and Creole culture, New Orleans, outdoor activities (especially fishing and hunting), original music (Cajun, zydeco, jazz and swamp pop), antebellum homes, inspired food, Mardi Gras, the Aquarium of the Americas, riverboat rides, swamps and historic sites.
Anyone interested in food, history or music—as well as romantics of all sorts—will enjoy a visit to New Orleans, and those who want to spend time hunting, fishing or exploring Cajun culture will love the countryside. Some visitors can find the sweltering temperatures and humidity of summer a little too much to handle.
Louisiana is a state of several languages. Cajun French, a dialect exclusive to Louisiana, is spoken in many parts of Lafayette, Acadia and other parishes, and members of the Isleno community in St. Bernard Parish still speak the same archaic idiom of Spanish Colonial Louisiana. With the influx of contract workers to the city since Katrina, New Orleans now reflects a greater Hispanic culture, and it's not uncommon to hear Spanish spoken on the street.
The Atchafalaya Basin is the largest freshwater swamp in the U.S.—approximately 150 mi/240 km long and 20 mi/35 km wide.
Abbeville hosts the Giant Omelette Celebration each November, using more than 5,000 eggs.
Though alligators can be dangerous, Louisiana's most worrisome varmint may be the nutria, a large rodent similar to a muskrat. They burrow through flood-control canals, creating a serious threat to towns in the delta. Officials have sanctioned nighttime hunts in an effort to control the nutria population.
Zydeco, music pioneered by African Americans in the Lafayette region, is believed to have come from the phrase "les haricots sont pas sales" (the beans are not salty).
At more than 23 mi/38 km, the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is the longest over-water bridge in the world. Arching distinctively over the Mississippi, the Huey P. Long Bridge is one of the longest and highest steel railroad bridges in the country—running more than 4 mi/7 km from abutment to abutment. Upriver in Donaldsonville, the Sunshine Bridge derives its name from the hit song "You Are My Sunshine" penned by the late Gov. Jimmie Davis.
Louisiana has had five different capital cities: New Orleans, Donaldsonville, Opelousas, Shreveport and Baton Rouge. Pre-Katrina, New Orleans was the most populous city in the state, but post-Katrina the title goes to Baton Rouge.
Gumbo may seem like a purely local invention, but its roots can be found in the West African word for okra—nicombo. Sweet potatoes are another staple that reflect the African influence on Louisiana culture.
If the Mississippi had its way, it would have joined the nearby Atchafalaya River years ago. To keep the river from straying, it is kept in place by man-made levees, spillways and the Old River Control Structures (located just north of Baton Rouge). However, without the natural flooding to spread the river's sediment, the ground is sinking. Efforts are under way to divert sections of the Mississippi River to allow its rich natural sediment to build land along Louisiana's coastal wetlands.
The state's coastline erodes at a rate of about 30 mi/45 km per year. In an effort to save this fragile land, locals donate their used Christmas trees each January to be used in a natural fence—positioned end-to-end, the branches guard against erosion by breaking the waves. Although this offers some help, a large-scale effort is under way to stem the tide of coastal erosion. In 2006, Congress passed legislation to fund the most aggressive coastal protection and land-building initiative in U.S. history.
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