Travel Articles Archives : Robin Dohrn-Simpson

Exploring Lafayette, Louisiana’s Bayous and Swamps

Posted on February 3, 2026 by Robin Dohrn-Simpson

Blu Heron at a Bayou in Lafayette Louisiana

Louisiana is famous for its uniqueness in many categories, be it culinary, cultural, musical, or natural beauty. With its diverse and intricate landscape, the state boasts over 53,000 miles of bayous, cypress-tupelo swamps, and slow-moving rivers. Many people say these waterways are mystical and filled with Cajun folklore and Native American legends. There’s even a “Myths and Legends Byway” that stretches for 181 miles throughout the state. Explore it by car or by water, and learn of true stories, ghosts, and tall tales dating back to the time of the land pirates and outlaws.
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The Secret Supper, An Enchanting Evening at Maison Madeleine in Beaux Bridge Louisiana

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Posted on November 17, 2025 by Robin Dohrn-Simpson

Driving through the bayou into the lush tropical jungle, we arrive at a homestead called Maison Madeleine Bed & Breakfast, nestled among gardens on the shores of Lake MartinBuilt in the 1840s, it’s on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of fewer than 50 surviving Creole cottages from its era. Under the starry Louisiana sky, the twinkling white lights illuminate the ancient trees in this historic Acadian setting. This supper event is so secret that even our guide didn’t know what it was or what it entailed. Continue Reading →

Visiting Graceland, the Private Home of Elvis Presley and his Family (Part 4) Elvis’ Dressed to Rock Exhibit and Gold Records

Posted on December 22, 2023 by Robin Dohrn-Simpson

For me the highlight is the Dressed to Rock exhibit with more than 100 pieces of Elvis’s stage wear including hand drawings from his designer for different styles. Continue Reading →

Visiting Graceland, the Private Home of Elvis Presley and his Family (Part 3)

Posted on December 22, 2023 by Robin Dohrn-Simpson

Head across the street to see Elvis’s 2 airplanes.
The larger one, a Convair 880 is named the Lisa Marie. Elvis spent around $800k to remodel the jet complete with a living room, conference room, sitting room and private bedroom.
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Visiting Graceland, the Private Home of Elvis Presley and his Family (Part 2)

Posted on December 22, 2023 by Robin Dohrn-Simpson

Elvis Presley's Grave in the family meditation garden

Continuing on the property we see the barn and the horse area. Then walk around to the family burial plot/meditation garden. Here are two new additions of Lisa Marie Presley and her son Benjamin Storm Presley Keough. Continue Reading →