Zachary, LA Outdoor Activities

Though he wanted to fly ever since he was a young boy, life kept coming between Raja Gharazeddine and his dream. Finally, at age 30, he managed to earn his private-pilot’s license, despite juggling extra jobs and overtime hours. Today, the Gold Seal–certified flight instructor channels his lifelong love of aviation to guide students toward certifications such as recreational-pilot licenses, private-pilot licenses, and instrument ratings.

He and his team of dedicated instructors work with pupils on individual timelines, using comprehensive syllabi and a wealth of flight sources to carefully track every student's progress. Acadian Aviation’s resources also include a four-plane fleet, whose Cessna 172 and three Pipers suit novice flyers looking to enrich their skills before operating larger aircraft. When not soaring skyward, Raja invites his students to open houses where aviators in all stages of training discuss aspects of flying such as tips for racing against pelicans.

When designing Squirrel Run Golf Club's three courses, architect Joe Lee incorporated the verdant charm of South Louisiana, challenging golfers of all stripes with 27 holes of stunning natural beauty. Throughout the Plantation, Steeple, and Woods courses, trees reflect off of glistening pools of water, and greens of Champion grass keep balls rolling with buttery-smooth surfaces. Separate practice greens and facilities allow golfers to fine-tune specific skills, and a well-stocked pro shop carries fairway-ready gear from labels such as Callaway, Cleveland, and TaylorMade or custom-fitted clubs from Ping and Titleist. After strolling the greens and thwacking shots into the stratosphere, guests share frosty beverages, grilled fare, and stories of the time they gave Fred Couples a piggyback ride at The Restaurant at Squirrel Run.