This week map publisher Rand McNally announced the city of Lafayette as one of six finalists in the “Best for Food” category of its "Best of the Road" contest. It doesn’t surprise me that out of more than 600 nominated towns, Lafayette would be among the best. As a finalist, Lafayette will host an official “food team” between June 23 and July 15. This team will try the local cuisine and hopefully deem it worthy enough to take home the title of “Best for Food,” which will be announced July 22.

Lafayette’s culinary landscape is one of the best in the state. From traditional Cajun and seafood to Spanish and Mediterranean, this little city has it all and it is all worth eating. Eat Lafayette, a celebration of locally-owned restaurants, is happening from June 20 through Aug. 15. I encourage you to take a trip to Cajun Country to enjoy the unique cuisine and restaurants offering specials in conjunction with Eat Lafayette.

Lafayette is also part of the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area, which encompasses 14 Louisiana parishes and highlights the area’s cultural and natural assets. The heart of the heritage area is the Atchafalaya Basin, the largest river swamp in the United States. Adventure tourism opportunities are endless in this area and include birding, fishing, boating, hunting, paddling and biking.

You can fulfill many passions in this region. I hope next time you visit Louisiana you spend some time in Acadiana, eat some great food in Lafayette and explore the natural beauty of Cajun country.