Baton Rouge is the capital of Louisiana and is situated on the Mississippi River. It is known for its friendly people, vibrant culture, unique food, and lively music. It is home to LSU (Louisiana State University) and Southern University which provide the city with exciting sports venues and entertainment.

Baton Rouge also has the farthest inland deep-water port on the Mississippi River, six deepest in the nation. It is ranked within the top ten ports when considering the cargo tonnage. Because of this port, Baton Rouge is the center for much commercial and industrial activity. There are many large industry and chemical complexes that support the local economy with other growing trades including travel, finance, insurance, and health care. The two main railroad lines further establish Baton Rouge as a center for transportation and industry.

There are approximately 90,000 households within the greater Baton Rouge area and the cost of living is only 87% of country’s average. There is an average of 214 days of sunshine during the year and mild temperatures averaging 80 degrees in the summer and 50 degrees in the winter. Current residents may entice you to consider making Baton Rouge your home with their welcoming attitude alone, but there so many reasons why this area is a great place to live and why it is a great time to buy.

Lenders are currently fearful of borrowers defaulting on their payments and so they are being much stricter when it comes to approving loans. It used to be that anyone could be approved for a loan to buy a house, even those with poor credit and no down payment, but now you must have decent credit (at least 560-580), money to put down, and proof of a sustainable income that will more than cover mortgage payments.

Many people worry about buying into a market that has crashed and is continuing to fall. This is not the case in Baton Rouge. Most of the southern states did not participate in the real estate boom to the same extent as the rest of the country and thus it did not fall as far. Some real estate agents are even reporting the market as healthy and stable. The Baton Rouge area is faring very well compared to the rest of the nation and ought to be considered when making your next real estate purchase.

While some travelers may assume the most romantic part of Louisiana was found in the city of New Orleans, there are actually many areas within this state that offer romance and seclusion, as well as luxury and more. Spots located on the Bayou, in Cajun country and other spots throughout the area make perfect places to stay and enjoy all that is the South. There are many romantic destinations in Louisiana that are available in all different atmospheres, from small towns to cities, and you can be sure that if you are in the mood for love, this state will deliver.

One spot that is considered especially romantic in Louisiana is the Maison d’Memoire in Rayne, Louisiana. These separate guest house styled accommodations are all designed to give you the romantic and secluded stay that you are looking for. The town of Rayne is known as being in the heart of Cajun country, but it also has another nickname – “The Frog Capital of the World” (if you’re not a frog fan, this might not be the spot for you!). The Maison d’Memoire offers seven different cottages for your stay, and as an added touch, your full breakfast is delivered to the door of your cottage each morning! You really won’t need to leave the romantic confines of your room if you do not want to.

The Country Garden Cottage, built in the 1850′s, is a perfect place for you to spend a night or two alone together. Miles of Battenburg lace, along with a Jacuzzi and a kitchen for your nourishment needs make this Maison d’Memoire cottage a good spot for two. The other cottages are similarly named and themed, but each has its own distinct style. Former guests rave about the service of the innkeepers, and the many activities situated around the inn’s area mean that you will be sure to have plenty to do for the small amounts of time that you are not in your room.

Romantic destinations in Louisiana have always been popular, and with the restoration of the state after the hurricane devastation, going to Louisiana for your next trip is a better idea than ever. The romance of this French inspired state is sure to make your trip a perfect choice.