Author: Emily Gautreaux

Why Aruba Beaches Are Worth the Journey

While the Caribbean is dotted with idyllic beaches, one destination continues to rise to the top for travelers seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and warm, clear waters: Aruba. More specifically, Eagle Beach has earned the prestigious title of the No. 1 beach in the Caribbean, according to the 2025 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best Beaches. This sun-kissed haven combines the best of what island getaways should offer—soft white sand, calm aquamarine water, and a refreshing sense of peace, even during high season, as per this article from Travel + Leisure.

Located in Palm-Eagle Beach on the island’s western shore, Eagle Beach is celebrated for its wide shoreline and laid-back atmosphere. Though it’s conveniently near Aruba’s resort district, it remains blissfully uncrowded—especially compared to other Caribbean destinations. This makes it a favorite for long, meditative walks and peaceful days lounging by the sea. Many visitors highlight the presence of the island’s iconic Fofoti trees, whose twisted, wind-shaped trunks are frequently photographed and deeply symbolic of Aruba’s natural resilience.

Eagle Beach is more than just a scenic shoreline—it also offers an ideal environment for watersports. The beach’s calm, wave-free waters are excellent for activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. Because of its gentle tides, swimmers can venture out safely and enjoy the clarity of the sea. For those looking to relax rather than explore, the sand is soft and white—perfect for stretching out under the shade of a palapa or beneath a Fofoti tree.

Amenities at Eagle Beach are another major draw. Public restrooms, free parking, and multiple shaded areas offer convenient options for travelers who want a hassle-free day by the ocean. While beach chair rentals may run as high as $50 for two, several nearby hotels and resorts offer complimentary access to beach furniture and shaded lounging spaces. These properties are often just a short walk from the shoreline, giving travelers the ability to drift between the sand and their accommodations with ease.

If Eagle Beach leaves you yearning for more Caribbean coastline, there’s no shortage of award-winning alternatives nearby. Also located on Aruba’s southern tip is Baby Beach, a shallow, crescent-shaped bay in San Nicolas known for its gentle waters and excellent snorkeling conditions. It’s particularly well-suited for those wanting a more intimate shoreline experience.

Beyond Aruba, you’ll find other gems in the Caribbean that have also earned high praise. Playa Varadero in Varadero, Cuba, offers miles of uninterrupted coastline with a relaxed rhythm of life. Bavaro Beach in the Dominican Republic is a tropical paradise with palm-lined shores, while Trunk Bay and Magens Bay in the U.S. Virgin Islands blend untouched natural beauty with accessible adventure.

Whether you’re unwinding in the shade of a Fofoti tree or paddling along the tranquil shoreline, Aruba’s top-ranked beach offers an unforgettable Caribbean escape. Eagle Beach earns its accolades not only for its soft sands and clear waters but also for the unique sense of peace it offers visitors who want to step away from crowded destinations. Its nearby sister spots like Baby Beach only add to the island’s charm, allowing travelers to explore multiple breathtaking coastlines within a single stay.

For those in search of stillness, sunshine, and sea views that feel tailor-made for postcards, Aruba delivers. Eagle Beach may have earned the top spot on TripAdvisor’s prestigious list, but for many, it also earns a lasting place in memory—where the water is always clear, the breeze always soft, and every moment feels like the best part of the day.

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East Baton Rouge Library Turns Creativity into Community Connection

Throughout the month of July, the East Baton Rouge Parish Library System embraced a heartwarming initiative aimed at spreading positivity across its communities. The “Kindness Rocks” program invited participants of all ages to join in a creative and uplifting activity—painting inspirational messages on rocks to be shared throughout Baton Rouge and beyond, as per this article from The Advocate. Held at every East Baton Rouge Parish Library branch, the program combined artistic expression with a mission of compassion.

On a recent Saturday afternoon at the Main Library on Goodwood Boulevard, tables were filled with children, teens, and adults, all dipping brushes into vivid acrylic paints provided by the library. The only request was to include the hashtag #ebrpl and the email address programs@ebrpl.com on the backs of each painted rock. Once completed, participants had the option of taking their rocks home or leaving them behind for staff to hide in nearby outdoor spaces, such as Independence Park, where unsuspecting community members might stumble upon them.

The library encouraged those who found the hidden rocks to take a photo and either tag the library on social media or send their snapshot to the designated email address. If the finder appeared in the photo, that added an extra personal touch. Whether the rocks were kept, gifted, or left for another person to discover, the hope was to spark moments of unexpected joy.

According to Megan Pugh of the Department of Community Programming, the inspiration stemmed from seeing similar projects on platforms like Facebook and Pinterest. She emphasized that the goal was to foster a stronger connection between the library and the community through small gestures of kindness.

The program welcomed artists of all experience levels, from seasoned crafters to first-time painters. Among them were young participants like nine-year-old Harleigh Jones, who used bold swirling techniques to layer her paint and create colorful designs. She painted alongside her aunt, Johnette Roberts Ballard, an educational consultant based in Baton Rouge, who planned to write phrases such as “Love Life,” “God is Great,” and “You are OK” on her rocks—messages she had drawn from an inspiring dance instructor who once reminded students of their inherent worth.

The room offered a snapshot of cross-generational engagement, as patrons from all walks of life joined the activity. Teenagers sat alongside retirees, while children painted in the company of parents and grandparents. Friends such as Karen Fritz and Marie Williams—frequent attendees of library branch events—spoke to the program’s accessibility. Fritz commended the library’s inclusive, no-cost offerings, which benefit low-income residents. Williams took a personalized approach, writing phrases like “Bless You Marie” and “Good Times” onto her rocks, transforming each into a token of joy.

Once the artwork was complete, the rocks were preserved with a coating of Mod Podge, a water-based sealer that protected them from the elements. While the library encouraged patrons to leave their rocks for placement around neighborhoods and green spaces, they also welcomed those who chose to take their creations home. Staff members had already distributed hundreds of rocks into the community, each serving as a small but powerful reminder of human connection.

As the month drew to a close, interest in the program remained strong. Organizers expressed optimism about bringing Kindness Rocks back for future events, citing the widespread participation and positive feedback as key indicators of its impact. Through this creative initiative, the East Baton Rouge Parish Library succeeded in turning simple materials into heartfelt messages—offering the community more than just decorated stones, but enduring symbols of encouragement and care.

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Backyard BBQ Favorite: Peach Barbecue Chicken

When summer hits its stride and the peaches are at their juiciest, it’s time to fire up the grill and celebrate one of the season’s most flavorful pairings: grilled chicken and fruit-forward barbecue sauce. This Grilled Chicken with Roasted Peach Barbecue Sauce recipe from Louisiana Cookin is a bold, mouthwatering recipe that infuses classic grilled chicken with the rich, caramelized sweetness of roasted peaches and the subtle heat of smoky spices. Whether you’re planning a weekend cookout, a casual dinner on the patio, or a festive gathering with friends, this dish will steal the show and satisfy every craving for Southern-style barbecue with a twist.

Inspired by seasonal ingredients and steeped in the traditions of American backyard grilling, this recipe blends the tang of vinegar, the earthiness of chili powder, and the rich depth of brown sugar with the brightness of fresh peaches. The result? A sticky, thick barbecue glaze that clings beautifully to tender grilled chicken, turning every bite into a balance of sweet, savory, and just a hint of spice.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Begin by heating your grill to a steady medium-high temperature, somewhere between 350°F and 400°F. In a shallow, ovenproof Dutch oven, combine the chopped peaches, brown sugar, ketchup, chili sauce, apple cider vinegar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. This mixture will serve as the foundation of your barbecue sauce, offering both sweetness and depth.
  2. Bake the mixture at 350°F, stirring occasionally, until it becomes thick, glossy, and caramelized—this usually takes about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the peaches have broken down and the sugars are bubbling.
  3. Once the mixture is bubbling, stir in 1 cup of water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes. The sauce will continue to thicken and develop flavor. Let it cool completely before using.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix the salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder to create a dry rub. Massage this seasoning mix into the chicken pieces until well coated. Place the seasoned chicken on the grill and cover with the lid. Grill for about 20 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally to ensure even cooking and slight char.
  5. Set aside 1 cup of your peach barbecue sauce for brushing. After the initial 20 minutes of grilling, begin brushing the sauce onto the chicken. Continue grilling for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F.
  6. Just before serving, brush the chicken with another layer of sauce. Remove from the grill and serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and additional peach barbecue sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.

This Grilled Chicken with Roasted Peach Barbecue Sauce recipe takes the best of summer produce and turns it into a deeply flavorful, memorable meal. The sweetness of ripe peaches blends beautifully with smoky spices and tangy vinegar, creating a sauce that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just exploring fruit-forward barbecue flavors, this recipe is sure to earn a permanent place in your warm-weather rotation. Serve it up with your favorite sides, pour a tall glass of sweet tea, and enjoy a delicious nod to Southern grilling at its finest.

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Nicholls Hosts Hybrid Environmental Summit with Global Partners

Nicholls State University recently took center stage in an international dialogue about environmental issues. On July 17, the university hosted “The Global Conversation,” a hybrid environmental summit that focuses on urgent ecological challenges, cultural preservation, and collaborative conservation, as per this news release from Nicholls. The free event was open to the public and was accessible both in person at Powell Hall Room 208 and virtually via Zoom, with a livestream provided by the United Nations. Scheduled to run from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., the summit invited participants from across the globe to contribute to a growing discourse about environmental responsibility.

Kellie Daniels, founder of Students Against Species Extinction and lecturer at Newcastle University, emphasized the importance of youth engagement in environmental activism. She noted that young people worldwide are stepping up to safeguard biodiversity and preserve their cultural heritage. Daniels added that by uniting students, scientists, and storytellers from various nations, the summit underscores the power of global collaboration. The issues discussed, she explained, are deeply interwoven and affect everyone, making it essential that we work together to create solutions.

The summit explored four central themes: global connections, effective communication strategies, conservation practices, and cultural exchange. A diverse slate of speakers from both Louisiana and the United Kingdom will lend their expertise, including Windell Curole, former director of the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program; Dr. Gary LaFleur, professor and director of the Center for Bayou Studies at Nicholls; Laci Melancon, executive director of the Coastal Center at Nicholls; and Dr. Alisha Renfro, lead scientist for the Mississippi River Delta coalition with the National Wildlife Federation.

Beyond the summit itself, Nicholls welcomed the visiting Newcastle academics on an environmental road trip across south Louisiana. Their itinerary included visits to the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center, the unique Chauvin Sculpture Garden, the coastal village of Cocodrie, and the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium. This hands-on tour will give participants a deeper understanding of the Bayou Region’s environmental and cultural richness.

Dr. James Stewart, chair of the Nicholls Mass Communication Department, expressed pride in hosting the event. He credited ongoing partnerships with Newcastle and financial support from the Matherne family, the National Wildlife Federation, and the Restore the Mississippi River Delta initiative as essential to making the summit a reality. Stewart noted that these international collaborations have helped students at Nicholls expand their worldview and realize that the environmental challenges they face in Louisiana echo those experienced in communities around the globe.

Laci Melancon, who leads the Coastal Center at Nicholls, highlighted the local-to-global significance of the university’s environmental work. She explained that south Louisiana is on the frontlines of climate change, with rising sea levels, land erosion, and cultural displacement threatening the region. Melancon emphasized that through collaboration with local, state, federal, and international partners, Nicholls students and researchers are generating knowledge that not only strengthens the Louisiana coast but also contributes to the global conversation on sustainability and resilience.

Nicholls continues to grow as a leader in environmental research and coastal protection. The Coastal Center serves as a hub for collaborative scientific efforts, inviting researchers from agencies such as the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority, the Water Institute of the Gulf, and various departments within Nicholls itself to work together on forward-thinking strategies to combat coastal degradation.

The success of this international event has been supported by the Nancy Sanderson Matherne Institute for Global Communication within the Mass Communication Department. Through the institute’s programming, Nicholls students are learning how environmental communication can bridge geographic and cultural divides, helping to protect ecosystems and heritage around the world.

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New Orleans Recognized as Second-Best U.S. City to Visit in 2025

New Orleans, Louisiana, has once again earned national recognition, this time by securing the number two spot on Travel + Leisure’s 2025 list of the best travel destinations in the United States, as per this article from The Shreveport Times. Each year, the magazine’s World’s Best Awards survey gathers input from readers around the globe, inviting them to rank their favorite destinations based on a range of criteria. For this particular category, readers evaluated cities according to walkability, cultural richness, historic significance, and the overall quality of the culinary experience.

Topping the list this year was Santa Fe, New Mexico, with New Orleans trailing close behind in second place. Readers overwhelmingly praised the Crescent City for its legendary food culture, which remains deeply rooted in its diverse heritage. According to the survey results, what truly set New Orleans apart was its vibrant and distinctive culinary scene, where bold flavors and multicultural traditions converge in unforgettable dishes.

As Travel + Leisure highlighted, the essence of New Orleans cuisine lies in the harmonious blend of Cajun and Creole influences. Creole cooking draws from French, Spanish, West African, and Native American traditions, resulting in iconic dishes like gumbo, shrimp Creole, and red beans and rice. Meanwhile, Cajun cuisine, which originated with the French-Canadian Acadians who settled in Louisiana’s rural bayous, brought forth flavorful offerings such as crawfish étouffée, jambalaya, and classic seafood boils. These culinary traditions remain central to the city’s identity and offer travelers an edible window into Louisiana’s layered history.

Yet food is only one part of what makes New Orleans so magnetic. The city’s deep sense of history is evident at every turn, from its cobblestone alleys and wrought iron balconies to its lovingly preserved architecture. Historic landmarks are woven seamlessly into everyday life, offering visitors countless opportunities to engage with the past. A walk through the French Quarter immerses guests in a timeless atmosphere, punctuated by jazz music drifting through the air and the sight of centuries-old buildings surrounding Jackson Square, a National Historic Landmark.

From there, tourists often find themselves exploring nearby icons such as St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States, or venturing out to the Garden District, known for its majestic oak trees and antebellum mansions. Other stops that allow for deeper historical engagement include Chalmette National Historical Park, which preserves the site of the Battle of New Orleans, and storied structures like Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, Napoleon House, and the LaLaurie Mansion, each offering a window into the city’s multifaceted past.

Beyond architecture and cuisine, New Orleans excels in cultivating an immersive cultural experience. Museums, galleries, and performance venues reflect the city’s ongoing commitment to the arts. Yet even outside of formal institutions, culture pulses through the streets—whether through second line parades, street performers, or neighborhood block parties. The city’s rhythm is both literal and metaphorical, inviting travelers not only to observe but to participate.

In recognizing New Orleans as one of the top travel destinations for 2025, Travel + Leisure placed it in the company of other celebrated cities such as Charleston, Savannah, Honolulu, and New York City. Still, what distinguishes New Orleans is the way it blends heritage and hospitality, wrapping history, food, music, and storytelling into every visitor’s experience.

To better appreciate the feedback from readers who voted in the Travel + Leisure survey, it’s worth clarifying the distinction between Cajun and Creole food. While both are unique to Louisiana and often overlap in flavor and ingredients, they reflect different cultural lineages. Creole cuisine is urban, often associated with New Orleans, and traditionally uses tomatoes, rich sauces, and a wider variety of ingredients. In contrast, Cajun cuisine is more rural, typically relying on hearty ingredients, robust seasoning, and slow-cooked methods. Together, they define the state’s culinary legacy and help explain why food played such a decisive role in the city’s ranking.

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A Coastal Detour Worth Taking: Discover Berlin, Maryland

Tucked just ten miles inland from the bustling shores of Ocean City, Berlin, Maryland has rightfully earned its nickname as “America’s Coolest Small Town,” according to this article from Southern Living. While nearby destinations like St. Michaels, Easton, and Cambridge often attract seasonal crowds, Berlin remains a serene retreat, rich in character and creativity. From its vibrant Main Street to its historic architecture, this Eastern Shore gem invites exploration at every turn.

One of Berlin’s biggest draws is its artistic energy. The walkable downtown is home to over 60 boutiques, more than a dozen galleries, and numerous venues showcasing the culinary and visual arts. Visitors can drop into local shops, hear live music drifting through open doors, or sign up for a creative workshop. The Worcester County Arts Council serves as a cornerstone of the community’s cultural scene, offering rotating exhibits and public art classes inside a charming white cottage. Nearby, galleries like Jeffrey Auxer Designs, Wooden Octopus, and Henry Fine Arts Gallery showcase works ranging from whimsical to classical. Even cafes like On What Grounds? and Baked Dessert Cafe double as art spaces, supporting Berlin’s motto: “artistically alive.”

The town’s architectural charm is a constant visual delight. A stroll through its neighborhoods reveals well-preserved buildings dating back to the 1700s, many framed by ancient flowering trees. It’s easy to understand why Berlin was chosen as a filming location for the 1999 romantic comedy Runaway Bride, starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. For a unique museum experience, visit The Mermaid Museum, a quirky and interactive destination celebrating the myth and magic of mermaids.

Events are a major part of Berlin’s identity, fueled by its close-knit community of about 5,000 residents. Despite its size, the town hosts nearly 50 events each year, from a summer Fiddler’s Convention to bathtub races and peach festivals. These traditions, paired with the town’s heritage and welcoming atmosphere, contribute to its nationwide acclaim.

Berlin’s lodging options blend historical elegance with modern comfort. The Atlantic Hotel, built in 1895, remains a crown jewel of the town. Lovingly restored, its 15 Victorian-era rooms and gracious front porch offer a timeless sense of hospitality. Not far away, The Inn Berlin transforms a grand estate into a boutique retreat with luxury furnishings, antique details, and gourmet breakfasts from a dedicated gluten-free kitchen. Even if you’re not an overnight guest, its in-house café, Boulangerie Berlin, welcomes walk-ins with decadent treats like Lemon Pistachio Cake and savory Quiche Lorraine.

Dining in Berlin ranges from nostalgic to globally inspired. Rayne’s Reef Soda Fountain & Grill has been serving classic American fare since 1901, offering everything from milkshakes to French toast in a retro setting. For a more casual midday meal, gather artisan provisions from Gilbert’s Provisions and enjoy a slice of pie from Mandala Pies under the open sky. Come dinnertime, Blacksmith delivers farm-to-table excellence with dishes like Shrimp Risotto and Black Lentil Thai Curry. For live entertainment and a bite, head to Oaked at The Globe, where music meets comfort food, or relax on the patio at Tiki Tim’s for a breezy evening atmosphere.

No trip to Berlin is complete without a deep dive into its downtown shopping scene. The six distinct districts branching off Main Street feature everything from vintage vinyl at Sound Storm Records to fashionable finds at Bruder Hill & Home and floral artistry at Bleached Butterfly. The town’s indie bookstore, The Greyhound, offers a thoughtful selection of literature and gifts. On Sundays from May through September, the Berlin Farmers Market transforms downtown into a showcase for local growers, makers, and bakers.

Berlin may be modest in size, but its offerings are anything but small. With its artistic soul, historic charm, and welcoming pace, the town continues to prove why it deserves its title as America’s Coolest Small Town.

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