Port Arthur

...was shortly after my father died. He was born here, as was I. Driving into town from my mother’s home in nearby Lake Charles, LA, I was overcome with emotion, as the last time I was in Port Arthur my dad was still alive.

Frankly, this place actually doesn’t hold the best of memories for me. I didn’t grow up here, although my sister and I spent several childhood summers here, and the only relative I have who still lives there is my 94-year old grandmother.

Still, when Hurricane Rita hit, I was devastated by the images I saw. While it may not be my favorite location on the planet, it is my birthplace and for that reason alone, I will likely visit again.

I grew up near here.

Hot, humid, polluted. The highest concentration of oil refineries on the planet.

They used to have a decent Mardis Gras parade here. If you like fishing and seafood, it has that going for it. There used to be a great little place to eat called Monceaux’s.

Sea Rim beach is not far away, but it’s condition was poor the last time I was there (pre-storm). If you like collecting sea shells, there are lots of nice ones around (about 3-4 inches long). The air boat rides are a fun experience, if the marsh isn’t dried up.

You can have a fun weekend here. I wouldn’t want to spend more than a week there, though.

i have family from here and i’ve met nothing but good ppl here.