Shreveport-Bossier City and the state of Louisiana are open for business

Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana wants the nation and the world to know that tourism is very much alive and moving forward in our area. These north Louisiana sister cities were deeply affected by the devastation experienced by fellow citizens. Our south Louisiana family and neighbors poured into our community as we opened our doors and our hearts to help them during the nation’s worst natural disaster.

Though for a moment we were down, in Louisiana we are never out. Gumbo and
pralines are warm in our kitchens and we need everyone to know that it’s on
the stove for them. The southern hospitality and charm that people associate
with Louisiana is here. Nothing can wash that away.

People are asking us, “What can we do, how can we help?” The answer is
simple. To help Louisiana is to help its number two industry – tourism -
move forward. Our solution is our visitors. Many people had conventions,
reunions, groups, and events scheduled for New Orleans. Keeping that
business in the state is vital to our rebuilding effort. Whether the
business comes to north, east, west or central Louisiana, the state needs
those dollars if we are to recover and quickly rebuild our crown jewel – New
Orleans.

The film industry has taken the lead on this. As many as five productions
have moved from south Louisiana to north Louisiana. “The Guardian” starring
Kevin Costner is the largest production to settle in the Shreveport-Bossier
City area. Other productions have made Natchitoches, Monroe and other
Louisiana cities home for the duration of filming.

Though hotel availability has been limited, the Shreveport-Bossier
Convention and Tourist Bureau is making daily calls to area hotels to check
availability. As rooms become available, the bureau is sharing that
information with travelers. In the meantime, our visitors within driving
distance can continue to make day trips into the area.

Adventure, gaming, musical heritage, cultural diversions, festivals, and
food are abundant in Shreveport-Bossier City. Help Louisiana by spreading
the word that the state and most of its cities are open. We want visitors.
We need visitors. Louisiana and Shreveport-Bossier City are open for
business.

October 11, 2005   Posted in: United States South