Louisiana Tax Free Shopping for International Visitors (LTFS) announced the creation of the Louisiana Cultural Shopping Trail Nov. 18 in Natchitoches, in conjunction with the launch of the 2017 Holiday Trail of Lights.

Use the interactive map online at lashoppingtrail.com to discover the unique shopping experiences Louisiana has to offer, from outlet shopping in Bossier in north Louisiana, to the Front Street Marketplace on Natchitoches’ river bank, to the charming cottage boutiques in Covington’s historic district.

“This is a chance to promote cultural and local shopping to Louisiana’s out-of-state visitors,” said LTFS Executive Director Denise Thevenot. ”The shopping trail provides an opportunity for visitors driving through our state to get off the highway and discover Louisiana’s unique retail experiences.”

The trails offer something for all visitors, from antique or boutique shopping to viewing our culture through locally hand-crafted goods, tasting and sharing our culinary delights or gearing up for one of our many outdoor adventures. Stores do not have to be members of the Louisiana Tax Free Shopping program to participate in the shopping trail.

Louisiana Tax Free Shopping offers international visitors to the state the opportunity to receive cash refunds for sales taxes paid on tangible items purchased at participating tax-free stores and permanently removed from the United States. Visitors can apply for refunds at six locations throughout the state, including New Orleans, Metairie, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Bossier City, and Louis Armstrong International Airport. For more information: http://www.louisianataxfree.com.