Shalisa Roland
Meet The Author
Shalisa Roland

Hey, y'all! I'm the director of public relations for Visit Lake Charles, and I tell travel stories about things to eat, explore, and experience in Southwest Louisiana. As a Texas native and Louisiana adoptee, I share a fresh and familiar perspective on the area's offerings. Whether you're visiting for an extended stay or day tripping for a quick taste, the Lake Area welcomes you with Southern charm and open arms. The more you read, the more you'll discover luxury and laidback experiences that can fit every price point, such as rural gems, foodie fun, and countless events to help you grasp the Lake Charles area like a local. You’ll fall in love with Southwest Louisiana through my eyes, one bite or excursion at a time. 

How to Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend in Lake Charles

10 Must Experience Memorial Day Weekend Events The 2023 Memorial Day Holiday is observed on Monday, May 29, to commemorate those who have fallen in service to the country and is considered the unofficial start to summer for many families. There is a myriad of events to experience on this extended…

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Brunch Adventures in Lake Charles

Where to Find the Most Unique Brunch Items in Lake Charles Offering the best of both worlds, breakfast and lunch, brunch is typically a weekend affair, where menu items consist of bloody Marys and mimosas alongside waffles, French toast, and mounds of eggs, grits, and breakfast meats. But brunch is…

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23 Reasons to Vacation in Lake Charles in 2023

The true essence of Lake Charles, Louisiana, is seeded in culture, luxury, and outdoor explorations. With more than 75 annual festivals and events, you’ll see why this comfortably sized city has earned the title of Louisiana’s Playground. Located in the Southwest Louisiana region, Lake Charles is…

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The Ultimate Mardi Gras Bucket List

Louisianans love to party year-round, but it’s safe to say that Mardi Gras is the most popular party throughout the entire state. In Southwest Louisiana, Mardi Gras is honored from Twelfth Night to Fat Tuesday with parades, events, food, costumes, and more. This Mardi Gras Bucket List guides you…

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Lake Charles Holiday Cocktail Tour

The cocktail programs in Lake Charles are top-tier, but Southwest Louisiana’s mixologists like to shake things up around the holidays. From martinis to mocktails and more, I’ve scoped out some of the best Christmas-themed cocktails in the area that are sure to make this season merry and magical for…

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The Ultimate Gift Guide to Southwest Louisiana

Lake Charles and its surrounding communities have mastered the art of giving by compiling the ultimate Southwest Louisiana gift guide, which is comprised of items for everyone on your “nice” list this holiday season. Whether you’re shopping for themed nick-nacks or hoping to instill lifelong…

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Your Guide to Labor Day Weekend in Lake Charles

Events, Excursions, Eateries Southwest Louisiana’s Labor Day activities and festivities include everything from live music and lounging under the sun to themed Sunday brunches and luxurious experiences at casino resorts. From Thursday, Sept. 1 through Labor Day, Sept. 5, Lake Charles offers…

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What's New and Renewed in Southwest Louisiana?

From restaurants and nightlife to family fun and outdoor adventures, Lake Charles and its surrounding towns are stacked with brand new eateries, experiences, and explorations, as well as renewed establishments that elevate the status quo. Within the past year, Southwest Louisiana enhanced its…

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