We visited a really neat location in Southern Louisiana this past weekend. It was actually not our first time to visit, but it has always been a memorable experience. What makes this place special for me, is that it was our very first outing as a family after “immigrating” to Louisiana. The first step towards assimilating into ‘Cajunland’, in which we were lucky enough to drag our extended family along for the adventure. This memorable destination is called Avery Island, which is located approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) inland from Vermilion Bay. Geologically, Avery Island is a huge salt dome; three miles (4.8 km) long and two and a half miles (4.0 km) wide; surrounded by swampland, a salt marsh, and bayous. I know, it sounds romantic, right? It’s not until you roam the grounds of the 170 acre Jungle Garden, that you develop a deep connection and appreciation for the beauty surrounding the island. The mammoth live oaks shelter the land with their large branches that reach out touching the ground. Most are beautifully draped in Spanish moss, lining the lagoons that are teaming with life. It’s absolutely beautify and a must see if you ever find yourself in Southern Louisiana. Plus, there is a bonus…….
I have yet to mention the Mcllhenny family, but as the legend would have it, Avery Island is the birthplace and home of TABASCO hot sauce since 1863. It was founded and created by Edmund Mcllhenny on Avery Island, and dubbed THE original red pepper sauce. Who doesn’t love TABASCO? Well, I know I’m not speaking for everyone, but with 12 uniquely different hot sauces, you are certain to find one that you like. Yes, that’s right, TABASCO produces 12 distinctively different hot sauces:
- Original (Cory’s go to)
- Chipotle
- Garlic Pepper
- Family Reserve
- Roasted Pepper (Tamera’s choice)
- Sweet and Spicy
- Green Pepper
- Habanero
- Buffalo (Bryson’s number one hit)
- Sriracha
- Scorpion
- Raspberry Chipotle (Willow’s favorite)
Over the years we have been fortunate enough to travel and live around Asia. Vietnam, Papua New Guinea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Bangladesh are just some of the places we have visited and no matter where we were, there was always one consistent flavor that you could find….TABASCO hot sauce! Let’s face it, more than half of any adventure is experiencing it through taste; forget the other four senses. Food takes center stage on any trip for my family and I am pretty confident in saying that we aren’t alone.
So, if you are ever in South Louisiana, it’s definitely worth your time and money to explore, learn and experience Avery Island’s Jungle Garden and TABASO Brand Factory & Museum. Make sure to bring water for the tasting!
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