sunset, sunrises?

Can we see both the sunset and sunrise if saying on SPI? Of course, to see the sunrise we would have to go the eastern side beach, and the sunset on the western side, but is both viewable? Which is generally better and prettier?

sunset, sunrises?

sunrise. the entire beach faces east, so you%26#39;ll see the sunrise over the ocean.

sunset, sunrises?

~ and the sunsets over the bay are spectacular. From anywhere on the island....just look west. There are some restaurants/bars that offer great views of the sunset.

any recommendations for good restaurants with sunset views?

amberjack%26#39;s, de luna%26#39;s, scampi%26#39;s (I haven%26#39;t eaten here in awhile, but the quality hadn%26#39;t been up to par, but maybe it is back to where it used to be), louie%26#39;s.

Dallas to Vegas how long?

Hi

We are honeymooning near Dallas and we want to drive to Las Vegas, how long will this take us? Sorry we are dim Brits!

Cheers

Vick

Dallas to Vegas how long?

it%26#39;s more convenient to fly....and maybe less expensive when you factor in the cost of a rental car, gas and a motel.... check out southwest.com

according to mapquest.com, the car trip will take 18 hours, 19 minutes Total Est. Distance: 1217.28 miles (you could drive straight through, but that would not be fun. i think you would want to break the trip up with a night sleep somewhere in the middle)

it is a terrible drive across desolate country, and i would not wish that drive on anyone. if you have the funds, then fly.

Dallas to Vegas how long?

Thanks Texas Ham, we want to try out a ranch, not a soft ranch - want to do one with cattle drives and stuff, but neither of us are very experienced riders, so can%26#39;t do a proper ranch you know?

any suggestions? we were looking at the beaumont ranch, but have read a few reviews on here and now feel very deflated :-( gone from hyper to miserable in just a few reads!!

any suggestions gratefully received? thanks ever so much!

don%26#39;t know about cattle drives, but you can ride horses on a dude ranch here: http://www.mayanranch.com/ (however, this is in far southwest texas, which is far out of the way.) i%26#39;m sure others can ';steer'; you in the right direction for a cattle drive. best wishes.

To the northwest of the Dallas area, there is the Wild Catter Ranch, which is a dude ranch and experience does not matter.

I also second flying to Las Vegas. Southwest.com really has some good fares. I am assuming you mean Las Vegas, Nevada versus Las Vegas, New Mexico.

When are you coming to Texas and Las Vegas? If you are not coming in the winter, then I would suggest you fly to Las Vegas as suggested and then drive to Denver. (Winter storms could produce very bad driving conditions.)

You could go through the Grand Canyon but my personal favorite is Bryce Canyon. The red sandstone hoodoos are beyond belief. Utah has terrific scenery for a driving trip.

Interstate 70 west of Denver is an incredible drive. It is a drive through Wonderland.

Hi Vick

One of the things I like about Texas are those windswept, barren drives along featureless interstates and Texans always think I%26#39;m crazy. There is not much attraction to these drives if you live here but being from Holland (or England) the endlessness of the this great state is impressing. This year we will drive a fair bit again (yes to Dallas, Houston and the Gulf from NM and back on I10. You better allow yourselves at least 3 days for this drive but you can also travel for a week because many great sights not too far from the interstates. Please tell me, how long are you planning and I can give you routes. Maybe Dallas-Carlsbad Caverns NP-Tucson-Las Vegas. Plan at least 3 days for it. Better 4 or 5 if you have the time.

And whatever you do, don%26#39;t miss Grand Canyon NP.

Tet

Tet, that is an interesting observation. i never thought of that long drive as being enjoyable because i%26#39;ve lived in Texas all my life and get tired of seeing miles of wide-open spaces after about one hour. so, Vick may enjoy the drive too...who knows!?

Let%26#39;s see. Dallas, Texas to Las Vegas, Nevada:

Find you way to Interstate 40 and go west, young man. :)

Find Amarillo and you can try to eat the steak in the alloted length of time and get it for free.

As you go through New Mexico, there are places to see, but unless you have a lot of time, I%26#39;d just stay in Albuquerque for the night and move on.

In Arizona, there is the Meteor Crater and the Grand Canyon. Either one is well worth the visit in my opinion. Flagstaff Arizona is a nice place to spend the night.

In Kingman, Arizona, find highway 93 and got to Boulder Dam. There is a check station for inspection there, but not a big problem to deal with. National Security and all that.

From Boulder, a nice town, it isn%26#39;t far into Las Vegas..

The wife and I made the trip from McKinney, Texas to Las vegas and back in two weeks.

I hope you enjoy your honeymoon and the USA.

Meson European Dining - reviews and dress code?

Has anyone been to the Meson European DIning Restaurant?

If so, how was your review of it? Also, I%26#39;m wondering if there%26#39;s a dress code? On some links, like this one: http://local.yahoo.com/details?id=19292015, it says it does, but others, like citysearch, says its just causal, so I%26#39;m wondering.

This would be for lunch, if that matters.

Meson European Dining - reviews and dress code?

I meant the offical website and chowbaby says it%26#39;s ';casual'; dress code.

First time to Austin--Safe Place to Stay for 3 Women

We will be visiting Austin from March 5 to March 8. We don%26#39;t know the city at all. Could anyone recommend a safe area to stay--moderately priced hotel. Thanks.

First time to Austin--Safe Place to Stay for 3 Women

What do you consider moderate?

If you are coming just for a visit and don%26#39;t need to be close to a particular business, etc. I would definitely recommend that you stay downtown. Most of Austin is very safe so I wouldn%26#39;t worry too much about that.

Will you have a car and are there any particular things you%26#39;re interested in seeing?

First time to Austin--Safe Place to Stay for 3 Women

I would feel safe anywhere west of IH35 in the downtown area. Of course, use common sense (e.g., lock your doors and don%26#39;t walk around alone in the late-night hours or leave your purse hanging open while you%26#39;re on the street). We%26#39;re friendly down here, but we also have our share of criminals.

I%26#39;m not sure what your price range is, but there%26#39;s a variety of accommodations in walkable areas of downtown. How much do you want to spend and what are you coming to do?

Ihave stayed at the Radisson, the Holiday Inn, and the Crowne Plaza. All are nice enough, and all are in the 6th Street area. See if you can find a good rate for one of these. A word of caution...March is high conference season here and hotels can get full. Just about anything that is NOT on I-35 is going to be OK. Book now.

Yes, March is busy. Along with conferences, there are NCAA finals and the rodeo, and SXSW is the week of March 9.

AND the legislature is back in town!

Thank you everyone for your comments. I think we will try for April or May.

Lynn, I would rather visit Austin in April or May for the bluebonnet season. Try some research and googling - and good luck!

April would be best for wildflowers. If you decide on May, watch out for hotels booking quickly for UT graduations.

A nice, well-located %26amp; moderately priced hotel is the Austin Motel on Congress Avenue. You can walk to shopping and restaurants- the free trolley (called the %26#39;Dillo) passes right by the door, you can walk to the Town Lake hike and bike, etc...For all these reasons, i recommend it! (i livedin the neighborhood)

http://www.austinmotel.com/neighborhood.html

There is also Hotel San Jose which is a little more but just up the block. Each should have a website. March is a nice time to visit...

there is also a b%26amp;b the Crockett-Miller house i believe is the name

happy travels,

mg

I%26#39;d recommend staying anywhere except East or Southeast Austin. If you like the %26#39;trendy%26#39; scene, bars, Austin history (capitol, etc.) stay closer to downtown. If you think you%26#39;d rather be doing some day trips / hill country drives, stay in the Southwest / West area. I%26#39;d consider West Austin the nicest area of Austin, it%26#39;s my favorite area, and it%26#39;s the hilliest/prettiest in my opinion. But, it can be a good 20-30 min drive to downtown. Or stay downtown, if you%26#39;d rather be close to all the bars and popular restaurants.

It really all depends on what you want to do in Austin while you%26#39;re here!

New Year's In Austin (for a couple in their 30's)

Hi!

My husband and I (in our early 30%26#39;s from Toronto, no children) are coming to cut loose in Austin for New Year%26#39;s. Is there a place people would suggest? We are staying at the Hilton downtown. I guess we are looking for a more mature (not ancient, but not 21) crowd with fun music. We%26#39;ve never been near Texas before so any help would be great.

Thanks, Kara

New Year's In Austin (for a couple in their 30's)

there are many places to hear live music and/or ';cut loose'; here in Austin. For a bit older crowd, I%26#39;d suggest walking 5th street and going in to any place that seems to suit you. Speakeasy is good - also may want to check out Elephant Room on Congress for jazz.

New Year's In Austin (for a couple in their 30's)

Thanks for the tip! I%26#39;ll check out both of those places on the net.

-K

Try Mesa Ranch in NW Austin. The food is great, the band is fun and entertaining, plus they have dancing, party favors and a bottle of champagne included. It%26#39;s a neat Texas experience.

You might want to look at the Austin American Statesman XLent to choose music and dining possiblities ...

Lots of my Canuck buddies love Robert Earl Keen, and I think he is at the Austin Music Hall for New Years + will be a solidly good show ...

Many options for great Texas Music...

can tune into KUT 90.5 Fm or KGSR 107.1 FM to scout the audio possibilities, and turn on cable 15 Austin Music NEtwork when you get a hotel room for the updates and videos samples of local talent ...plenty also happening downtown with the FREE FIRST NIGHT events on New Years Eve also, fabulous art, dance, theatre, You Name it kinds of public participatory arts also ...

Best genuwine Texas Honky Tonks _ two to choose from =

the Broken Spoke in South Austin,

or, if you have a rental car, Gruene Hall in New Braunsfels ( 65 minutes south down i35) are also good options to dance and mix it up all night long .... and then, there%26#39;s always the legendary roots rock venues, Continental Club .. Saxon Pub .... Egos ... aw shucks, at least 3 musical stops on Nyears is not unusual in this town ..

OH + ANTONES + home o%26#39; da bluezzzzz....

welcome and have a large visit ~l Please, let us locals hear back how it all works out and what you experience !

Kara, if you can still get tickets, the Spazmatics is a great 80s cover band, lots of fun, that is playing at Cedar Street Courtyard in the Warehouse district in downtown Austin. We love this place!

http://www.cedarstreetaustin.com/

Good luck!

Beth

Slytx is right on for the older crowd/Texas venues. The Spoke is definitely honky-tonk, but it%26#39;s a tame crowd, which you might actually enjoy. I know I%26#39;m rowdied out, myself. You%26#39;ll find people anywhere from elementary-age kids to folks in their 80s on the dance floor. If you%26#39;re looking to country dance and not hook-up, pose, or put on a pretentious attitude, then the Spoke is the place. Down on Lamar, too, is the Saxon Pub, another great venue that plays several music genre, but often local Texas artists. Best bet is to check the music listings at www.auschron.com or the XLent as Slytx suggests.

Elephant Room is another great choice, as someone said, for *loud* jazz. If you want to have a conversation, sit near the door. Gruene is another great dance hall. Depending on who%26#39;s playing, you could be with an older crowd or a bunch of college-age kids. Just depends.

If you walk along Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth streets within a few blocks of Congress, you%26#39;re sure to find someplace that suits.

Slytx is right on for the older crowd/Texas venues. The Spoke is definitely honky-tonk, but it%26#39;s a tame crowd, which you might actually enjoy. I know I%26#39;m rowdied out, myself. You%26#39;ll find people anywhere from elementary-age kids to folks in their 80s on the dance floor. If you%26#39;re looking to country dance and not hook-up, pose, or put on a pretentious attitude, then the Spoke is the place. Down on Lamar, too, is the Saxon Pub, another great venue that plays several music genre, but often local Texas artists. Best bet is to check the music listings at www.auschron.com or the XLent as Slytx suggests.

Elephant Room is another great choice, as someone said, for *loud* jazz. If you want to have a conversation, sit near the door. Gruene is another great dance hall. Depending on who%26#39;s playing, you could be with an older crowd or a bunch of college-age kids. Just depends.

If you walk along Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth streets within a few blocks of Congress, you%26#39;re sure to find someplace that suits.

If you%26#39;re staying downtown, would recommend walking or taking a cab (cheap cab ride if you dont want to walk) to 4th or 5th streets. 6th is more the college crowd area. Saba Blue Water Cafe is one of my favorites, as well as Gingerman, Malagra, and as mentioned in the other reply, Speakeasy and Elephant Room are also good for the 30s crowd.

mask work

Looking For Texas Hill Country Recommendations

I love Texas, but have never been to the ';Hill Country'; so we%26#39;re looking to go. Austin, Fredricksburg and New Braunfels all look interesting - any other ideas? Could you please make recommendations on B%26amp;Bs or Cabins to rent, hotels, restaurants, things to see and do for a few days? It would be great if there were recommendations for a central agency to handle the lodging reservations. Thanks in advance for your help.

Looking For Texas Hill Country Recommendations

Can you give us more information about what you like to do? and when you%26#39;d be coming? kids/no kids? want to stay in one place or drive around to different places?

Austin is really fun; lots of nightlife and things to do. New Braunfels is great if you like floating in a river. Fredericksburg is great if you like meandering up and down a quaint main street.

I also love Marble Falls. Enchanted Rock is wonderful. You%26#39;ll get a lot of help on this board, but give us an idea of where to start. :-)

Looking For Texas Hill Country Recommendations

Adding to the above heliskimaster post:

We are two newly retired adults with adult kids/grandkids - they probably won%26#39;t be joining us, but one never knows.

I think we%26#39;d like to spend a couple days in each area, so driving around would be fine.

We like to eat good local fare with a cold beer - fine dining is great too. A few sightseeing sites of note are fine, but we mainly just like to poke around and see what happens.

We%26#39;re not too much into nightlife, but if something appeals to us, we%26#39;ll check it out. We mainly enjoy C %26amp; W music.

Generally speaking, when we check out a new area of interest, we go and get the locals input over the course of a few days and then come back for a more thorough visit. We%26#39;re mainly just looking for some good places to start and just learned about Tripadvisor, so we figured we%26#39;d give this a try.

Great!! Thanks for the direction.

I%26#39;ll get it started. I don%26#39;t know if you%26#39;ve been to San Antonio or not. I don%26#39;t think it%26#39;s technically ';Hill Country';, but the Missions and the Riverwalk would captivate you.

Spend one day in Fredericksburg - maybe a B%26amp;B. One that I%26#39;ve heard of and have been wanting to try is the Fredericksburg herb farm:

www.fredericksburgherbfarm.com/bnb/index.htm.

Since I haven%26#39;t stayed there I couldn%26#39;t tell you if it was fabulous or awful, but maybe someone else knows. I%26#39;ve just read complimentary write-ups. There is a lot of fabulous German food there; a day walking up and down the main drag is really neat, plus the Admiral Nimitz museum is worth a stop.

I think you%26#39;d really like Greune (pronounced Green) - have a meal at the Grist Mill and a beer at Greune Hall:

http://www.gruenetexas.com/activities.html

People on this forum are probably tired of hearing me recommend Marble Falls. LOL. I swear I don%26#39;t work for the tourist bureau or anything there. But it%26#39;s a really cute little town. There is a Marriott resort there that we have enjoyed; don%26#39;t know any B%26amp;B%26#39;s there but there certainly must be at least one or maybe one in nearby Horseshoe Bay.

http://www.marblefallstexas.com/

The Bluebonnet Cafe is a favorite there.

Austin is a topic unto itself - a great place. There%26#39;s a lot about Austin in these forums and I%26#39;m no expert, but I do think The Oasis (on Lake Travis) is very unique:

http://www.marblefallstexas.com/

And I also love Chuy%26#39;s (the original one, on Barton Springs) - it%26#39;s really fun.

http://www.chuys.com/index.html

That%26#39;s a start... now I%26#39;ll let some other Texans have a turn!!

Sorry - I messed up the web address for The Oasis:

http://www.oasis-austin.com/

That%26#39;s better! :-)

Check out Settler%26#39;s Crossing just east of Fredericksburg near Luckenbach (www.settlerscrossing.com). I was there maybe five years ago and it was awesome. We went with our toddler, but I would love to go back with just my husband. Very nice houses. I haven%26#39;t found the ';fabulous'; German food in Fredericksburg. Maybe someone can let me know where it is. ;-) But August-E%26#39;s has a good write-up in Southern Living (http://www.august-es.com/). I haven%26#39;t been there but have been meaning to give it a try.

I%26#39;d second San Antonio for the Riverwalk. Tourists love that place. There is a great restaurant at the end of the Riverwalk called Fig Tree (http://www.figtreerestaurant.com). I%26#39;ve also stayed at the Hyatt Hill Country Resort in San Antonio. If you%26#39;re into pools and spas, it%26#39;s great, though its%26#39; a good family pick and you will see many kids. (There%26#39;s an adult pool with an adjacent bar, though, so there are places to hide!)

I know others will chime in with more.

Have fun!

I second the Gruene Hall and Gristmill experience. The steak salad is usually wonderful, and the environment is truly Texas Hill Country. Fredericksburg or Wimberly would be a must see as well. If you like scenic drives, take Hwy 71 West out of Austin and then Take RM 3238 (Hamilton Pool Road) all the way out to Hwy 281 on your way to Fredericksburg. It is a beautiful country drive through a bunch of old family ranches.

Fredricksburg is filled with B%26amp;Bs. Our favorite is the Cotton Gin Inn. It is made up of log cabins imported from Ky and Tn. Wonderful food in the resturant and a delightful diner, Peggy Sue%26#39;s down the road. Climb Enchanted Rock, antique shop in Comfort and Boerne as well as Fredricksburg. Golf in State park across from Cotton Gin Inn.

Now that I%26#39;ve had more time to think...

Since you just like to poke around (me too) what about just driving from San Antonio north on Hwy 281? It would give you a chance to drive through towns and stop whenever something strikes your fancy. There are plenty of small town restuarants. You could drive as far north as Stephenville (although I don%26#39;t think there%26#39;s all that much to see other than pretty terrain north of Lampassas). You could even drive as far as Burnet, then head to Llano, from Llano head back down to Fredericksburg (past Enchanted Rock) and make almost a ';loop';. Sounds fun to me!!

Two other things I want to mention (as a fellow ';poke around-er';) is (1) that the Kerrville/Ingram area is really pretty too and (2) there%26#39;s a really beautiful cave near Boerne called Cave Without a Name.

www.cavewithoutaname.com

It%26#39;s a much smaller cave than the ones most tourists go to (InnerSpace and Natural Bridge) but I wanted to mention it in case you think you might like something like that. Personally, I%26#39;m fascinated by the caves we have in Texas... but not enough to take up spelunking. LOL.

Oh... and (3) Bandera is wonderful.

Great replies above. My only addition is a recommendation for a B%26amp;B.-- Rosehill B%26amp;B- in Stonewall, TX, about 15 minutes outside Fredericksburg. It%26#39;s beautiful, quiet, and the food is delicious. I highly recommend it, and if you do stay there, try their full course dinner there one night (it%26#39;s also a small restaurant) The food is delicious, I could go on and on. See my review of Rosehill on tripadvisor for more info/pics. Also, their website is http://www.rose-hill.com/.

They book fast though, and their most popular room is the Sunrise Room (where we stayed).

Any family ideas? Sister is coming....

I%26#39;m new to Dallas and live in Euless. My sister is coming down and I need some ideas for her and I to do. Plus I have a husband and 2 kids who will probably be in tow also at least a little. Any ideas? Please advise. Nothing to expensive but fun. We do love to shop but you can only do that so long.... Thanks.

Any family ideas? Sister is coming....

My ideas are going to be in Ft. Worth, but neither of these areas should be hard to get to from Euless.

The Ft. Worth Zoo might be a though if weather permits. The Stockyards area of Ft. Worth would also be a touristy/fun thing to do.

If she%26#39;s here during a ';first Monday'; weekend, you might consider leaving the little ones at home and heading out to Canton for the day.

Any family ideas? Sister is coming....

Wed is half price day at the Ft Worth Zoo.

I like the Forest Park Train that runs from near the entrance of the zoo into Trinity Park. They make a stop in the park so you can get popcorn and a soda...my kids love doing this. This is not the train in the zoo - which is a rip-off.

Ft Worth Botanical Garden is nice - they have a Japanese Garden that costs a couple of bucks to get into. There are huge ponds of koi and fish food feeders all around (bring quarters!!). You will have to keep a good eye on your kids here - there are railings around some ponds, but it%26#39;s very easy for a kid to fall in if they are not careful.

Galleria Mall is probably going to be a stop for you. They have an indoor play area on the 3rd floor near Sak%26#39;s and Nordstrom. There are plenty of kids food options up there too.

If you want to sit down at the Galleria - the Grand Lux is great and they have wikki sticks for kids to play with so they won%26#39;t get out of hand.

Need hotel recommendation

My husband and I plan to fly to San Antonio on the 13th of next month and stay for a week. Upon reading all the reviews, none of the ';affordable'; places to stay sound safe or sanitary. WE will not have a car so would like to stay near downtown or the riverwalk. Or perhaps there is a place further out with good trolley or shuttle service? Will appreciate any help.

Need hotel recommendation

Have you tried the Homewood Suites on the Riverwalk? It is a bit further down but not too far down the riverwalk.

Restaurants in Woodland Area

Hi there! We will be staying in Houston, in the Woodlands area, for a week the end of this month. I would love some suggestions on restaurants in the area. Since we will be there for a week, we have a chance to try out lots of different places.

Thanks for your suggestions!

Restaurants in Woodland Area

Anyone?

Restaurants in Woodland Area

It really depends on what type of food you like- I am not a steak eater, but I understand that Perry%26#39;s and Kirby%26#39;s are both nice (and expensive) steak restaurants. We also have the usual chain%26#39;s (Chili%26#39;s, Friday%26#39;s, etc). We have several excellent Mexican resaturants to choose from- Guadalajara (my opinion) is good, but used to be better, Chuy%26#39;s is good but salty, Mario%26#39;s (small local family owned) is one of the best around in my opinion.

There are a few good italian (Buca de Beppo, Carrabba%26#39;s), as well as others.

I am sure there are many more out there with their own favorites- enjoy your stay.

What kind of food are you looking for?

The Market street area by the Woodlands mall has quite a few restaurants and a nice outdoor shopping area. Brio, PF Cahngs, Rockfish, Tommy Bahama, Benji%26#39;s.....there are a lot of laces to choose from.

There are tons of places to eat in the Woodlands area. You name it - it is there - Mexican, Steakhouses, etc. Check out the area around the Woodlands Mall because that is where a lot of them are located. You won%26#39;t be dissapointed! You must have some mexican food while you are in town!

Good Chinese Restaurant in Austin?

What are the good chinese restaurant around austin? Sad to say I always have to go to Pei Wei coz%26#39; I don%26#39;t know anything! Thanks.

Good Chinese Restaurant in Austin?

not sure if you want specifically Chinese but two good Japanese ones to check out in town:

Kenichi and Uchi

One of the better Chinese places I%26#39;ve been to in town is Hunan Lion on South Lamar

Good Chinese Restaurant in Austin?

let me know when you find one! i%26#39;ve heard there is a good one that just opened up north but i%26#39;m here in brazil....good luck!

Snow Pea on Jefferson, off 38th between Lamar and MoPac.

We love the Snow Pea because:

1. Fresh seafood. Not the largest selection, but every seafood dish they have is well-prepared.

2. Pork dumplings. Our three year-old daughter enjoys them every visit. The staff call her ';Dumpling Girl.';

3. They do not use MSG. Every other Chinese restaurant we have checked out uses MSG, even my husband%26#39;s favorite dim sum place.

4. Sushi chef. Happy Hour sushi M - Th.

5. Good service.

I like Chinatown (one on 2244 by Randall%26#39;s and one on Mopac at Far West) and Suzi%26#39;s Chinese Kitchen (several locations around town). Chinatown is my favorite. A little pricey for dinner (around 8-12 dollars a plate) but good deals for lunch.

Fun/interesting restaurant for family outing

I want to take out my teen-age sons and 82 year old mother this week-end and am looking for suggestions for a restaurant that will be interesting for the wide age range. Any comments on Hills Cafe, Broken Spoke or other suggestions? What about going late afternoon to avoid crowd?

Fun/interesting restaurant for family outing

Hills is certainly big enough to accommodate a family dinner, and the menu is sure to satisfy some teenage boys. It%26#39;s heavy on meat, and the portions are huge. It%26#39;s not necessarily ';fun/interesting.'; There are some interesting photos on the wall, and they sometimes have live music. I%26#39;ve never eaten at the Spoke, only frequented the place for dancing, so I can%26#39;t comment on the food. I think Hills would be a better choice for a family meal.

When I have family come in, one of our choices is the Salt Lick on 1826 (it%26#39;s near my house). If you go in the evening on most days, they have someone playing some music, and the atmosphere is nice. They also serve family style for the growing boys. It%26#39;s BYOB, and some don%26#39;t like the barbecue. I%26#39;m not sure where you stand on those issues.

Other folks will likely have other suggestions. It%26#39;s early yet, and my brain isn%26#39;t working properly.

Fun/interesting restaurant for family outing

Depending on the atmosphere you are going for:

Rudy%26#39;s is a great barbecue place--big picnic tables, eating with your hands, very fun, especially for hungry teenage boys. Also very reasonable prices.

Carlos and Charlies is fun--out at the lake, music, mexican food.

Never been to Hills, but one of my co-workers loves that place and I have been meaning to try it.

mask work

Restaurant near Zach Scott Theater

Hello everyone! My husband and I are going to be in Austin on January 4 to see Santaland Diaries at the Zach Scott Theater. Does anyone know of any restaurants in the area that we can eat at before the show? We%26#39;re not very picky, but we do love mexican food!

Thank you for your help!

Restaurant near Zach Scott Theater

welcome to Austin, TearBearchickie ~

the Zach Scott theatre is just about 3 blocks away from one of our major restaraunt rows- which is along Barton Springs Rd ....

On BSprings Rd is the legendary CHUYS _+ good green chile ! often long waits so go early ~

Also, nearby for good Mexican food is South First St ... along which are at least 3 of my favorite Mexican Palaces between BSprings Rd and Oltorf St ..... including Little Mexico, ( great mole !) , La Reyna ( great authentic bakery ), and Polvos (michocoan ) .. several other joints along there too ....

Then , for high test Mid Mexico cuisine, in North Central Austin is the lovely Fonda San Miguel ....

East Austin? that is where the legendary El Azteca is located and also, Juan in a Million, and Arredondos%26#39; original location ...

All are excellent ~ be aware that each regional cuisine is influenced from joint to joint even within our town- depending on the %26#39; style %26#39; of preparation/ chilies preference / and cooking.

Any one of these ya can%26#39;t help but enjoy !

let us know whatcha find and like !

Restaurant near Zach Scott Theater

Thank you so much!

The previous poster is right about that area--Barton Springs Road has some great places and is right by the theater. I would recommend Shady Grove (especially with nice weather) or Chuy%26#39;s. Both are very popular though, so be prepared to wait or go early. A little north has Z-Tejas (6th and Lamar) and El Arroyo (5th and Mopac). Vinny%26#39;s is a fairly good place on Barton Springs on the other side of Lamar from the restaurant row.

Best Restaurant for Group

I am looking for a nice quaint restaurant for a bridal shower under 20 people where we could maybe catch a happy hour but could accomodate us for a Sunday afternoon. Some of the places I have checked seems kinda pricey,,,,,,any ideas?

Best Restaurant for Group

What price range per person are you looking for? Any particular type of food/cuisine?

Best Restaurant for Group

Italian,,Mexican would be fine and was looking at more getting appetizers,,,drinks and dessert....around 20 per person would be good.

Any particular part of town you%26#39;re looking at?

Museum area would be great and also galleria area would be ok.....

One of my favorite Tex-Mex places in Houston is Pappasito%26#39;s. Locations all around Houston... http://www.pappasitos.com/

How about Hugo%26#39;s on Lower Westheimer? You said quaint so I am assuming you want something kind of quiet where you can hear each other talk?

Cyclone Anaya%26#39;s in Midtown would be fun as well - I%26#39;ve seen showers there before.

I%26#39;ve always enjoyed Maggianos for group gatherings. You%26#39;re sure to get more then enough food (and its good food at that). They do have some private rooms upstairs and some of the tables downstairs are isolated. Not what I would call ';quaint'; tho. I%26#39;m trying to think of anything in the Museum district and/or Galleria that%26#39;s quaint and also not pricey... and drawing a blank.

I%26#39;ll try to do some ';research'; this weekend.

How to get to Galveston?

We are considering a cruise from Galveston but I cannot figure out how to get there. Is flying into Houston our only option?

How to get to Galveston?

that%26#39;s your best option in my opinion as i%26#39;m pretty sure Galveston doesn%26#39;t have an airport. i believe they have buses/shuttles that run from the airport to Galveston....just a quick jaunt down I-45.....but i%26#39;m sure a local can give you better info.

How to get to Galveston?

Yes, unless you have a private plane, Houston is your only option. Hobby airport (HOU) is the largest airport to Galveston. Some Continental flights, I think, fly into Ellington Field (EFD), which is a little bit closer to Galveston.

Best airline probably will be Southwest Airlines into Hobby (HOU).

Thanks for the quick replies. Now to get from the airport to the port of Galveston?Ideas?

You might do a search on previous posters, there have been alot in the past. I think it is Enterprise that has a one-way cruise deal if you want to rent a car. It is about 45 minutes - 1 hour to drive one direction, depending on traffic from Hobby airport. Ezcruiseconnection.com I think is another one.

You might also find some information at galveston.com for shuttle services.

Happy cruising!!

Not sure what airline you are planning to take - Southwest flies into Hobby which is the closest. Continental Express no longer flies into Ellington.

We are flying into IAH and renting a car from Enterprise- one way. (Remember your Entertainment book coupon!)

We are renting from Budget for the return, one way trip. Enterprise had none available.

This was much cheaper than the shuttle and we have the car to go shopping, etc on our own time.

I phoned the rental companies a few times. At first they had no cars available and then when I had one reserved I called back a couple of times in the following 2 weeks to check the price. Sure enough it dropped and we got a great deal.

Fly to Houston and take 45 South til it runs out and you are in Galveston. No way to get lost, and no way to fly to Galveston directly unless your loaded and in that case someone else would be planning it for you, lol.

Just back and it was easy!

We flew into IAH (although next time I will try to get Hobby if it is direct flight- not worth it if we have to transfer and take another plane) and picked up our one way rental car there.

The road system there is amazing! It was so easy and quick I couldn%26#39;t imagine anything simpler.

We stayed near Baybrook Mall so I could shop the next day and it was quick and easy to get to.

We drove in the next day and that was simple too. The car rental place had a shuttle so we dropped our keys off and we were dropped right at the cruise ship door.

Getting back to the airport was even easier since it was daylight and we knew the exits to take for all the good shopping places I wanted to revisist!

You would have to fly into Hobby which is Hou and it is quicker. However, getting to Galveston is a pian in the neck. The shuttle people will price gouge you at 200 dollars a pop and super shuttle just started there and so they do not recognize Galveston to be a hub for the cruise ships. So do not bother I tried. My cruise is in September and I probably will never cruise out of Galveston again. I just want to avoid Texas like the plaugue. Because the transportation is not good unless you rent a car. In my case I do not drive. So I am up a creek without a paddle.

Good Luck

Did you try the galveston.com website? I started there when I was reffered to it on this forum and the shuttles on there were around $60 or so. We rented a car because it was only a little more money and gave us the freedom.

We were worried because Houston was so big, but the roads were wide, clear and easy to navigate. So many easy ways to correct any off ramp mistakes you make!

If anyone does rent a car- both companies we used were very helpful with directions and maps. They pointed out that routes looked shorter but had construction or not as many lanes to use. They also pointed out the ones that had tolls, etc.

By far, the easiest city we have ever had to manouver in.

Hotel Derek/Houston in April

We will be visiting Houston for a couple of days in April, bid on Priceline for hotel and got Hotel Derek. Are there any places nearby where we could go for breakfast ?

I understand the Galleria is about 5 minutes away and there is a good Italian restaurant over the road. Has anyone used the hotel recently, the reviews aren%26#39;t too bad .

What sights do you think we could fit in in 2 days ? We will then be moving on to San Antonio for 2 days, followed by Austin

Thanks

Hotel Derek/Houston in April

Hotel Derek is good. Right in the center of the action. (And close to highways). You have at least 10 places to eat within a quarter mile, at least 100 within half a mile. (On Mapquest, ask for Hotel Derek in Houston, then ask for restaurants nearby). In my opinion, if a place stays in business in this competitive market, it%26#39;s good. May not be to your taste, but what they do, they do well.

Hotel Derek/Houston in April

Depending on the day you could either walk (though be careful since you%26#39;re crossing 2 busy intersections) or there is a hotel shuttle to the Galleria. At the Galleria, you could try La Madeline, good French bakery which have yummy omelets!!! It%26#39;s located at the Skating Rink level along with some other eating places. Another quick option are the chicken biscuits at Chick-Fil-A, though they are closed on Sundays. Just a few block in the other direction on Westerheimer is Le Peep. They primarily serve breakfast and lunch, typical American breakfast fare and reasonably cheap.

The big things to do in Houston are to go to the Galleria and possibly head to the Museum area. While in the Museum area, we%26#39;ve got a light rail line that goes from Downtown Houston - Museum District - Texas Medical Center. Museum District includes Fine Arts, Modern Art, Natural Science and History, Children%26#39;s, Health Science, and Holocaust.

In terms of eating, Grotto, the Italian place across the street from the Derek (next to the CVS) is rather good! Also not to far from there is Highland Village. They%26#39;ve got Escalante%26#39;s (Tex-Mex), PF Changs (Chinese fusion), RA (sushi), Smith %26amp; Wollenski (steak). Otherwise, venture out to Central Market, which is a grocery store that has a big and tasty prepared food section! Can%26#39;t go wrong with the turkey %26amp; provolone panni or coconut chicken fingers!

It%26#39;s been a while since I%26#39;ve been to San Antonio, so can%26#39;t help you there. If you%26#39;re driving between San Antonio and Austin, there%26#39;s the big San Marcos Outlet center. Can%26#39;t miss it. As for Austin, tons of interesting places: Guero%26#39;s (Tex-Mex), Chuy%26#39;s (Tex-Mex), Whole Foods on 6th, Frank %26amp; Angie%26#39;s Pizza, Las Manitas (Mexican), Hoovers (Southern), Mozart%26#39;s (Coffee).

Enjoy your visit to Houston and Texas!

help!!!!!!!

I am planning to take a trip to Houston, TX maybe end of May or beginning of November. I am from Long Island, NY. How%26#39;s the traffic situation around Houston particularly I-45 North from Hobby north to Conroe? I am planning on renting a car at the airport and driving around the Houston area. Best places to visit around the city? Conroe? Thanks for your help.

help!!!!!!!

Traffic depends on the time of day, but I-45 between Hobby and Conroe is probably pretty steadily busy all day and extremely heavy during rush hour. BTW, Hobby is on I-45 South.

help!!!!!!!

I can get from Hobby to Bush IAH in about 45 minutes any time of day other than rush hour. Then it is still quite a way to Conroe - so estimate probably another 20-30 minutes

It is about 55 miles on I-45 from Hobby to Conroe. Count on heavy traffic during the day, particularly rush hour. If you are traveling outside of those times you can make it in no more than an hour.

I don%26#39;t know your interests, but these are my suggestions for places to visit.

1. The Galleria for shopping

2. The Menil Collection is one of the best private art collections in the world. It is particularly heavy on 20th century art.

3. The Museum District, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Hermann Park, the Science Museum and Rose Garden.

4. Galveston Island-The Strand and historical districts

5. Space Center Houston/NASA

6. The San Jacinto Monument.

7. Bayou Bend and the nearby Houston Arboretum

8. College Station is about an hour from Conroe. I haven%26#39;t personally been to the George Bush Library in College Station, but I have been told it is interesting.

Careful where you go on the Strand in Galveston, this time of year there are a lot of transients and pick pockets trying to get all they can out of the winter texans.

You%26#39;ll be fine - just use the same common sense you would in any strange city. Been around Galveston my entire life and never had or known anyone who has had a problem with pickpockets. The Strand area itself is a major tourist spot so using your common sense as you normally would will keep you safe %26amp; happy.

I lived in Galveston thirty years and still return there bi- monthly. Reality is that what I said is true. You have to watch out. Too often people get sloshed on the strand and end up getting their wallet stolen or they get their vehicle broken into because they leave a shopping bag setting on the seat. You have to protect yourself in life. Galveston has a large homeless population and turning a blind eye and pretending you are safe is just plain sad. You have to look out for yourself.

Are you flying JetBlue or Southwest to Hobby? It%26#39;s a bit far, otherwise, get a flight to Intercontinental. Conroe is much closer to Intercon than Hobby.

Need advice for March 4-9 trip

I%26#39;ll be attending a conferance at the Omni Park West. Sounds like it is out in the middle of no where. I can%26#39;t stand being cooped up in a hotel room so I%26#39;m looking for options that are reasonbly close to eat, drink and not be bored. Any suggestions?

Need advice for March 4-9 trip

Will you have a car?

Need advice for March 4-9 trip

Haven%26#39;t decided whether to rent a car or not. Waiting to see if it will be needed. I%26#39;d rather not, but if that%26#39;s what I%26#39;ll have to do to get away I will.

It may look like you are out in the middle of now where but that hotel is actually in a good spot, espcially if you have a car. You are just down I-635 from lots of shopping and chain restaurants- head west toward the airpot- you will be surprised what all is out there. If you head south, into the area of Irving called Las Colinas, there are some more upscale areas and a very neat, good for happy hour place called Cool River. SOrry I am blanking on names of restaurants but ask at the desk about Las Colinas- I think your concierge can help you. You can head over to Dallas and the Galleria area but it isn%26#39;t necessary.

mask work

What to do in Houston

Hi,

We have a couple of days around Marcch 10th to spend in Houston. We would like to find some music events, blues clubs, sites to see, things not to miss, etc. Any suggestions will be welcomed.

Also, we are trying to decide where to stay. Is downtown Houston the place to be on the weekends or are there other areas that are livlier?

Thanks!

What to do in Houston

Downtown is where you want to be for clubs, etc. The HIlton is very nice, as is the Four Seasons and the Icon.

I wish I could help you more on the clubs, but I am a suburbanite soccer mom...I know the hotels but not the hotspots.

Space Center Houston at the Johnson Space Center is interesting...

A trip to Galveston to enjoy some Gulf Coast seafood (try Gaidos) is a fun thing to do...Galveston has an area called the Strand with a lot of shops and some sights to see. Moody Gardens offers a lot---a rainforest pyramid, an IMAX, and an aquarium.

We have some great museums---Museum of Fine Arts, Museum of Natural Science, the Menil Collection---that are world class. The Museum of Natural Science has a fabulous butterfly center and a wonderful gem collection.

I wish I could help you more, but maybe this is a start.

What to do in Houston

Agree with the previous writer - downtown is livelier in the evening than the other popular place to stay, the Galleria. I would second her list of hotels but also would include The Magnolia - very art deco. The Icon is beautiful but $$$$. The Four Seasons is top notch as is the Hilton. Less expensive but also conveniently located in downtown is the Hyatt.

I would also include - if this is your thing - a trip to our zoo. It is beautiful and, during March, particularly so.

If you like to shop, you will need to go to the Galleria. That is going to be about a $15-$20 cab fare from downtown.

March really is one of the best months to visit in Houston: azaleas are usually at their peak along with a host of other flowers and shrubs. You should expect the weather to be warm-ish but bring a sweatshirt and pants if you are going to Galveston and for the evenings in Houston. We are not quite at tropical heat yet in March!

Try looking at www.002magazine.com or else 002mag.com. Lots of great clubs - what type music and what age group do you want to be with?

Here are some places to try in the blues/jazz/lounge/ live music and dance realm.

http://www.sambucarestaurant.com/ - Downtown

http://www.sammysat2016main.com/ - Downtown

http://www.pubfiction.com/index2.html - Midtown

More on the night scene:

BIG TIP.... Midtown is more of the happening place these days. A little less rough looking type to be honest. its right outside of downtown and a short cabbie ride away. There you can hop from pub fiction, to the red door, to tipsy clover, etc,etc..

And since this IS Texas.... you might as well swing by Whiskey Creek in Midtown to get some Texas flavor. Dont worry, its not all rednecked out. Its fun with dueling pianos,etc..

鈥itysearch.com/profile/鈥hiskey_creek.html

If you want to check out the biggest rodeo in the world:

http://www.rodeohouston.com/

As far as a hotel.... everyone seems to be really happy with hotel Icon.

BTW... another tip.... downtown Houston isnt really the liveliest of places. You also might want to consider the Galleria Area (Uptown) to stay. From there you can still get to mid town and down town. Plus great restauraunts and the actually shopping of the Galleria is right there.

Just some additional options for you.

this site has it all http://www.uptown-houston.com/

starwoodhotels.com/westin/鈥?/a>

take a look at www.deda.org for dining/entertainment downtown.

Downtown Houston is what my kids call a little ';ghetto'; now. I%26#39;d stay away from there.

The place for drinks and music is Midtown.

The rodeo will also be going on at this time, all types of music offered and of course the livestock show. More info at www.hlsr.com

A great place for live music is what the local residents call the duck (mucky duck) :

http://www.mcgonigels.com/

It is also not bad for food (guiness stew or fish and chips).

In downtown, the Continental club is a good place for some cool acts.

Downtown Houston is the business district right next to the entertainment district (great place for concerts) so it is pretty dead in the day and only comes alive at night for the clubbling, show (music or play) and dining scene.

If u want something that is lively day and night on weekends, try the Rice Village or Galleria area instead. Rice is more compact and u can easily walk around the few streets for shopping and dining.

good luck

Don%26#39;t think downtown is ';ghetto'; but it probably depends on what clubs or what areas you are going to.

Staying at Embassy-Conference at Westin

How far is the walk from the Westin-Galleria to the Embassy Suites? I%26#39;m attending a convention that will be hosted by the Westin but decided to find a hotel away from the convention traffic. Also, what restaraunts are in the area?

Staying at Embassy-Conference at Westin

Canyon Cafe and Maggiano%26#39;s are both nice and fun

Staying at Embassy-Conference at Westin

If your convention starts after 10AM, you can easily walk to the Westin-Galleria by entering Macy%26#39;s at the corner of Sage and Alabama. This is the older Macy%26#39;s in Galleria 3, and so you would have to go through Saks Fifth Avenue to get to Galleria 2 where the Westin-Galleria is located. If it%26#39;s a nice day, just walk around the church that%26#39;s between the Embassy Suites and the Old Macy%26#39;s and you%26#39;ll see the Westin-Galleria. Otherwise, that Embassy Suites does have a shuttle service to the Galleria and can tell you where they drop off and pick up. Do verify that your conference is at Westin-Galleria rather than Westin Oaks. We do have 2 Westin hotels here, and most of the conferences are at Westin-Galleria, but on odd occassions there are stuff held at Westin Oaks.

In terms of food, in the Galleria the big restaurants are Cheesecake Factory, Ninfa%26#39;s Tex-mex, Chili%26#39;s, and Benigans. Canyon Cafe and Grand Lux Cafe on the other side of Westheimer are good. If you have a car, then the Original Pappasito%26#39;s on Richmond, as well as a bunch of other restaurants in Highland Village, and even prepared foods at Central Market (grocery).

Need Help

I will be traveling across the US with my husband this coming summer. He鈥檚 a long haul truck driver and me and my son plan to join him for a few weeks every now and then. I have no clue where well end up stopping in your state so I was hoping you could all help me by telling me cool kid friendly places to see. I know there will be times where we鈥檒l be waiting a day or so to pick up or drop off and I鈥檇 love to use that free time to explore areas. I鈥檓 the kind of person who likes to plan as much as possible. So any and all recommendations of places to stop and see would be greatly appreciated

Thanks so much for all your help

Lisa

Need Help

How old is your son? What are your interest?

There are some great beaches at South Padre Island. As you travel north along the coast, the water gets brown and the sand darker too. SPI has clearer water and whiter sand.

Galveston has an indoor/outdoor waterpark, Schlitterbahn. Moody Gardens. SeaWolf Park has a submarine to explore.

Houston, a typical large city, has all the expected stuff like museums, zoo, shopping, etc. But on the east side of town, there is the Battleship Texas that you can explore and the San Jacinto Monument. This is where Texas won its independence from Mexico. There is also the NASA complex, and it is really geared more towards kids, but its interesting still with all the astronaut and space thngs.

In Richmond, the is the George Ranch. This is a living history park of a working cattle ranch.

In Bandera, there are lots of dude ranch. Your son can play cowboy for a day or however long you spend there.

San Antonio and surrounding area has lots of caverns to explore. Tubing down the river in New Braunsfels is also lots of fun in summer and very popular.

Since your really like to plan ahead, I think you should visit www.traveltex.com and order the state travel quide. This lists all the attractions in each city of the state by area. It gives great descriptions of everything, plus a map, and I think it%26#39;ll really come in handy. Welcome to Texas!!

Location of the Missions

We are stopping in San Antonio for 2 nights and then have a 13 hour drive home. How far from downtown area are the missions located and aprx how much time will it take to tour them.

We are driving to McAllen 16 hours on Wed to visit DD and her family, leaving from McAllen (3-4 hour drive) on Sunday planning to stay in SA Sun. and Mon nite and then drive back to AL on Tues. We both plan to work on Wed ugh.

I just don%26#39;t want to spend tooooo much more time in a car. :) But we love history, esp me and we will be there on my birthday. Right now our plans in SA include Riverwalk, the Alamo, and a good TEXAS steak dinner . We will be eating Tex Mex in McAllen. We are planning to cross the border so I%26#39;m really not interested in Market Place.

Thanks for your help.

Location of the Missions

They are just minutes from downtown. Because you have limited time, I%26#39;d see one or two of them (aside from the Alamo)--San Jose and Concepcion are my personal favorites, and in that order. :%26gt;

Happy birthday--San Antonio is a great place to celebrate!

Location of the Missions

Thanks for answering. I plan on picking up a Texas map at Books a Million before our trip. We have an atlas, but I want to be able to see everything/!

Open the San Antonio Attractions link to get to the National Park Service website link to get info on the missions. Texas Land and Cattle on the Riverwalk (I believe its at the Drury Inn %26amp; Suites) has pretty good steaks at reasonable prices. Mortons is also in the Riverwalk area and Ruth Chris just east of downtown in the Sunset Station area are good restaurants for steaks, but the are also pretty pricey.

help me choose a romantic lunch restaurant (out of these)!

Here are some choices of a romantic lunch.

Which ones would you recommend or not recommend?

Silo

La Scala

La Fogata

Los Patios

Cafe Milano

Milano Ristorante Italiano

Scouzzi

Crumpets

help me choose a romantic lunch restaurant (out of these)!

Oh yeah another one:

Meson European Dining

help me choose a romantic lunch restaurant (out of these)!

I ate at Crumpets New Year%26#39;s Eve - not impressed.

La Fogata and Scouzzi do not impress me as romantic.

I haven%26#39;t eaten at Los Patios in years, I think it was like a holiday buffet, as I remember it was good. That%26#39;s all of the direct experience for me.

La Scala - it has been quite a while since I%26#39;ve eaten here, but it was very good on my last visit.

Milano Ristorante Italiano - ate here a couple of days ago and as always, it was excellent. I would definitely recommend this place.

La Fogata - I think this place is overrated.

Los Patios - it has also been a while since I%26#39;ve eaten here. Good, but nothing special.

I %26#39;ve never eaten at the other restaurants you mentioned so I can%26#39;t comment on them.

A couple more thoughts to ponder.... I have eaten at most....

Silo%26#39;s is very nice - not sure if they are open for lunch and they just opened a new location at 1604 and StoneOak--not sure how that one is. We have had excellent service and food at Silos

La Scala is nice - would be my 2nd choice

Milano%26#39;s at Lockhill Selma and Wurzbach is nice too - but kind of noisy at lunchtime - you might just ask for a quiet table by the window... good food and service

Wasnt impresses by Crumpets....

No to La Fogata ...mexican food doesnt strike me as romantic...

havent eaten at the others.

Might consider the new Paesano%26#39;s on 1604, its very nice. also Bravos at La Cantera shops is really terrific ....

hope this helps!

Amtrak & Greyhound

HI we are two girls who are arriving into Houston by Amtrak on Friday 9th Feb. we need to stay in a hotel/B%26amp;B for one night before heading out to San Antionio by Greyhound on the saturday at around 10.30. We then come back to Houston to stay with a friend on the Tuesday night, and need another hotel on the Wednesday night before heading to the airport on Thursday lunchtime. Any advice on location for the friday night particularly?

thanks

k

Amtrak %26amp; Greyhound

The main Amtrak station and the main Greyhound station are a bit far. Your best bet is to find a cheap hotel in the Downtown area. Look up Best Western hotels or go to priceline.com and see if you can get a hotel in Downtown. Unless the hotel provides a shuttle service anywhere in Downtown, you%26#39;d need a taxi to get from Amtrak to the hotel. The Greyhound station is between the Downtown Transit Center (southbound) and McGowen (nothbound) stations. Let me know if you need more info.

mask work

best beach? south padre island or port aransas?

which has the more picturesque, beautiful beach with great views and lots of do around it?

best beach? south padre island or port aransas?

We visited them both for 4-5 days. Imo SPI has the better beaches and there%26#39;s more to do, PA (and Mustang Island)also has good beaches and is low key. Tiny town and we liked it. SPI has many high rise buildings along the shore, the views from PA are a bit less because of the drilling platforms but they are not very close and it didnot bother us. PA also has a city nearby (CC). We liked our PA stay better because of the great long walks on Mustang Island but nothing wrong with SPI either.

(Not much help I%26#39;m afraid.)

Tet

texas

My sister and I are trying to meet in Texas somewhere for a fun weekend girls trip! She%26#39;s coming from CA and I%26#39;m coming from Nashville. Any suggestions on what city (Dallas, Houston) and then where to stay and eat???

texas

I am going to suggest Austin. As you can tell from reading the Austin forum, there are plenty of places to eat, drink and be merry. I would stay downtown and, depending on budget, look at places such as the Driskill (high end), Omni, Four Seasons, Radisson, Hampton, Embassy Suites. Considering what weekends you have in mind, there is usually some sort of festival or event going on- you might want to avoid March since South by Southwest is there the whole month and you probably can%26#39;t find rooms at this date. If you like live music, of all types, Austin is the place- you can%26#39;t help but have fun in the Sixth St. and Warehouses districts.

texas

Definately Austin!!

The Radisson has a great location that%26#39;s close enough to downtown, warehouse district and MY FAVE - South Congress.

I usually stay at the Austin Motel on S Congress - cheap rates and kitchy, tacky decor. If you%26#39;re feeling chic-er...San Jose Hotel has a TexZen thing going on.

Houston%26#39;s fun. Dallas is fun.

Austin is a MUST. I think both of you can get there via Southwest Airlines. Wow... have fun. (*is that jealousy I%26#39;m feeling?*)

You don%26#39;t mention when you%26#39;%26#39;re planning on your trip.

If you don%26#39;t care to visit Austin due to travel arrangements or whatever, then the time of year might determine whether you want to go north or south.

I would not choose to visit Houston in the summer. Also, their transit system isn%26#39;t as good as the one in Dallas.

If you decide on the Dallas area, then you might want to go to Fort Worth instead of Dallas. It all really depends on what you like to do.

When you get together what kinds of things are you interested in doing?

I recently stayed at the Austin Folk Inn, a bed and breakfast close to downtown and Univ of Texas at Austin. It was a great place and the food was great. Bed and Breakfasts always have more connection to the locale than big chain hotels.

Maybe Austin is just for hanging out and Dallas and Fort Worth have more art museums and major attractions. Also Dallas may have better air flight scheduling and costs since it is a hub.

Southwest Air has an expanded schedule at Love Field but also check the big airlines at DFW also.

What should we do/see in Texas with kids?

We have three kids ages 10, 6, and will be three by the time we leave. We are planning on being in Texas for at least a week during the last part of February/first part of March. We are coming in on Highway 10 from Lousiana. (We live in Michigan, so this is a big trip for us!) We want to see the Alamo in San Antonio because our kids are history buffs. And we want to spend an afternoon with friends in Austin.

Aside from that, we have nothing planned. We%26#39;d like to see a working oil refinery/drill/plant (whatever it%26#39;s called!), and a working ranch or rodeo would be fun as well. (So, if you know of any, you%26#39;d save me a ton of time trying to find a good one!)

Basically, we want to experience as much of Texas as we can.

Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,

Melissa

What should we do/see in Texas with kids?

On your way into Houston, on I-10, you will pass near the oil area of the Texas refineries. During your time in Houston, the rodeo will be here. I think the dates are Feb 27-Mar 18, you can get all the info at www.hlsr.com. Also in refinery area, there is the Battleship Texas State Historic Site and San Jacinto Monument. This is where Texas won its independence from Mexico.

To the southwest of Houston, in Richmond, there is the George Ranch Historical Park. This is a living history park and working cattle ranch (www.georgeranch.org).

To the west of San Antonio, in Bandera, are the dude ranches. Your kids can be cowboys/cowgirls with horseback riding, trail rides, hay rides all that good stuff. This is really fun and we did this when we were kids. There were many posts about this not long ago and you may want to do a search on here for them.

In Austin, be sure to visit the Bob Bullock State of Texas Museum for lots of Texas history.

Welcome to Texas.

What should we do/see in Texas with kids?

A word of caution...

We live in Austin and took the kids to San Antonio a couple of years ago to see the Alamo. Across the street from the Alamo are a bunch of amusements - you know ';Ripley%26#39;s believe it or not'; ';Tussaud%26#39;s wax museum'; etc.

Here is the warning: The prices aren%26#39;t visibly listed and the lines when we went were very long, the kids begged to do one of these attractions and we figured how much could it cost? After waiting on line for a long time we got up to the front where the prices are taped to the tops of the counters and discovered the cost to be, if memory serves, something like $250 for a family of four. We walked away from our hour-long wait without going in but I saw many a Dad cough up the credit card in despair of telling their kids that the hour on line had been for naught.

For Austin with kids - well mine snooze right through the Bob Bullock museum but that%26#39;s them. Do make certain you go to see the bats come out from under the Congress Avenue bridge. Austin has the largest urban bat colony in North America and it is a huge part of our culture - I guarantee your children will be wowed. Google bats and Austin for information on where to view them.

Have fun!

My kids love the bats and it%26#39;s high on my list of ';favorite things to see in Texas';, but I wouldn%26#39;t go in late February/early March. The bats have migrated to Mexico and *some* may be there, but not enough to rely on.

Maybe your kids would like to see some of the caves around the area. There are three that you%26#39;ll be near:

1) Cave Without a Name (in Boerne) which is small (in relative terms) but breathtaking.

www.cavewithoutaname.com

2) Natural Bridge Caverns (north of San Antonio) which is great

www.naturalbridgecaverns.com

3) Inner Space Caverns (in Georgetown, north of Austin).

www.innerspace.com

Also, consider visiting some of the other missions in the San Antonio area if your kids are history buffs, and watching the Alamo movie at the IMAX in River Center.

www.imax-sa.com/

Sea World opens on March 3rd (weekends only) if that might appeal to you.

Please post back about the route you%26#39;re taking back to Michigan (and if your drive will be leisurely or hurried)! If you decide to head north on I-35 to Dallas, I live in Central Texas and can give you ideas about good places to stop with kids.

Enjoy your trip!!

I am a Native Texan and here are some of my suggestions:

In Houston: Museum of Natural Science....wonderful and magical for children. I am a Texas educator and this is a definite field trip each year for my 3rd grade students. WONDERFUL !

South Padre Island: Now, that is a TEXAS style beach! Crystal blue water, clean air, and friendly people! A real MUST for anyone visiting Texas. Beautiful hotels although very affordable and ';family'; oriented and ';kid'; friendly. While in South Texas, ask for ';road trip'; route of orange, grapefruit, and lime orchards....amazing this time of year!

Be prepared for friendly and smiling people all across the LONE STAR STATE!

Have a wonderful trip and Welcome to TEXAS...where ';If you weren%26#39;t raised here -you got here as fast as you could.';

I am a Native Texan and here are some of my suggestions:

In Houston: Museum of Natural Science....wonderful and magical for children. I am a Texas educator and this is a definite field trip each year for my 3rd grade students. WONDERFUL !

South Padre Island: Now, that is a TEXAS style beach! Crystal blue water, clean air, and friendly people! A real MUST for anyone visiting Texas. Beautiful hotels although very affordable and ';family'; oriented and ';kid'; friendly. While in South Texas, ask for ';road trip'; route of orange, grapefruit, and lime orchards....amazing this time of year!

Be prepared for friendly and smiling people all across the LONE STAR STATE!

Have a wonderful trip and Welcome to TEXAS...where ';If you weren%26#39;t raised here -you got here as fast as you could.';

Our recent Wimberley trip

After reading the various messages on Wimberley Texas I decided to post a review of our recent two-night visit to the town in early December, 2006. We were in Houston for a conference and decided to visit old college friends in San Marcos, Texas over the weekend. Rather than stay in a San Marcos hotel or near outlet mall traffic I decided to stay in a Wimberley bed and breakfast. I had not visited the area in almost 20 years (We now live in Miami, Florida) and while there have been many changes (how many houses can you build on a hill?) it still seemed like a quiet place to spend a calm weekend.

After driving over from Houston (about three hours) we stopped off in San Marcos and loaded up on wine. We also had to purchase some cold weather clothes (scarves, hats, gloves are non-existent in Miami) since a cold front have moved into the Hill Country. But that was fine since it made our visit seem more like a Christmas trip.

We had heard Wimberley was dry (sort of true) and we were eager to see the area before sundown. We made it to our room at the Creek Haven Inn. It was a second floor room with a hot tub in it and an outside porch overlooking the creek or river, I guess, when it rains. Pat welcomed us, showed us to our room and invited us to the Friday night wine and cheese hour downstairs. We met the other guests who were from Waco and having a family reunion that weekend at the bed and breakfast and since we all enjoyed drinking wine it was a nice way to interact with strangers.

Our next stop was at the Trail of Lights a holiday display constructed by various residents and local groups. It was a large area with Christmas theme displays throughout the church lot. The local residents were very friendly and invited us to drink hot chocolate, pet the llamas, put hot dogs on the grill, chatted with us and asked where we were from and so on. It was very cold that weekend but we were impressed with how many people were out that night proudly showing off their various light displays and welcoming us in a friendly small town manner.

We had a late dinner at the Cypress Creek Café. The chicken fried steak was perfect-crispy on the outside, moist and tender on the inside, the vegetable side-dished were fresh, and the service was prompt and friendly. We had heard that the town was dry but that means you have to join the “club” to get served alcohol. Joining the club meant giving them my driver’s license and at other places it might be a dollar. I am not sure if this is limited to beer and wine consumption or alcohol is sold at local stores.

The next morning we had a very tasty breakfast at the bed and breakfast. Everything was fresh and the smell of fresh rolls and buns was a great way to wake-up. After breakfast, we drove over to San Marcos Texas. Walked around my alma mater (Southwest Texas State University—Go Bobcats!), looked at old and new houses, had lunch at Grin’s restaurant and walked around the San Marcos, River. We spend the rest of the afternoon looking at deer and driving around hills in the Wimberley area.

We were lucky enough to get a reservation at the Saturday night dinner at the Blair House Inn. We drove up at night (look out for deer in the dark everywhere!) and noticed the parking lot was full. Apparently a local priest was giving the Inn a holiday blessing and we were met by Mike and later Vickie who were also friends of the Creek Haven Inn owners. We had some wine (I guess that was the weekend theme!) and sat down to the special Prime Rib holiday dinner. I have to admit that I was pleasantly surprised. The pate appetizer was tasty, the soup was excellent and the salad was crisp. The prime rib entrée was excellent and I thought the dessert was also fine. The wine was served throughout the meal, the staff was efficient without being intrusive and we thought overall the meal was excellent. For the price, I think $62 including tax and tip it was a bargain especially considering it was several course dinner with no hint of frozen or canned products and we were in the rural Hill Country not Miami!

We made it back to the Blair House Inn, chatted with a couple of the guests who were having night cap and crawled back to our room. We had another excellent breakfast, chatted with everybody, left and drove over to Hobby Airport

All in all we wanted to have a nice quiet weekend in the Hill Country. We did. We also got into the Christmas spirit, which is hard to do in our sub-tropical hometown of Miami, but that was because everybody was very friendly, welcoming and tolerant. There are probably little things we could criticize—the bed and breakfast room needed more drawer space and towels, the wine selection at the restaurants is not very extensive, people need to drive fast (or slower) and so on. But, we were in the Hill Country not in South Beach, and in the end people were laid-back and very friendly. To us the latter mattered more than the wine list. We will be back and we suggest others go as well.

Our recent Wimberley trip

I am so thankful to read such a great post about Wimberley. I guess a lot of people that visit Wimberley live in a very angry and depressing world and then come to Wimberley and take it out on everyone there. We visit Wimberley often and absolutely love it. I am amazed at how juvenile some people act. Once again, thank you for writing such an eloquent and tasteful post. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Best food and drinks in in Sundance Square?

I%26#39;ll be staying at at Etta%26#39;s Place in the Sundance Square area for Fri-Sun before I shift over to Dallas for a conference. A friend who now lives in Dallas will be meeting with me here and there, but I will be a lone female traveler for part of the time. I see plenty of historical, cultural, and local activites. What I can%26#39;t seem to guage from my internet searches are the best places to go out for a drink and/or meal. I%26#39;m more interested in what the area has to offer that I%26#39;m not going to find in NorthEast cities (I%26#39;m in Philly and NYC often). What are the best local establishments? I%26#39;m open anything from simple inexpensive home cooked food, to more traditional TX or southern, ecclectic upscale, beer houses to snooty wine or vodka bars. I just want to avoid feeling like I got caught in a tourist trap or chain! Oh, and I%26#39;m trying to avoid renting a car, so I%26#39;m hoping for walking distance or trolly rides! Since I%26#39;ll be traveling at least part of the time on my own, please note if your recommendation is in a ';shady'; area - I%26#39;ll make sure I don%26#39;t go there when I%26#39;m on my own! I look forward to ideas and suggestions!

Best food and drinks in in Sundance Square?

Sundance Square has plenty of interesting places to eat. The area is safe and well patrolled if you stick to the main streets. I recommend 8.0%26#39;s (for the hipster), The Flying Saucer, Cabo Grande (my favorite repeat place), and the Reata (for speical occasions around here). I would try to get outdoor seating to enjoy the views of the Square.

This website has a more comprehensive list, but I can personally vouch for the places listed above.

www.sundancesquare.com/dining/default.aspx

Hope you enjoy Fort Worth!

Best food and drinks in in Sundance Square?

We like Sapore, which is about a 4 block walk from Etta%26#39;s; cozy restaurant which blends unique flavors in a great presentation. Fresh ingredients nicely prepared. The same owner used to operate under a different name, Randall%26#39;s Gourmet Cheesecake, which you can still get for dessert; I highly recommend the cheesecake. www.saporefw.com

Reatta, which is right next to Etta%26#39;s, gets lots of raves locally, but we%26#39;ve tried it twice and find it to be boring. Still, if you%26#39;re used to the cosmopolitan northeast, Reatta might provide some tastes you%26#39;re not used to. I think I%26#39;d call it Texas ranch food with a southwest flare. Probably best if you like beef. www.reatta.net

If you have the chance, take in a show or concert at the Bass Hall, just a couple of blocks from Etta%26#39;s. What a wonderful facility. www.basshall.com

By the way, we always stay at Etta%26#39;s when we%26#39;re in Fort Worth. They will treat you right.

A friend highly recommends Lanny%26#39;s Alta Cocina - but not sure exactly where it is.

Fizzi is a very nice place right across from Bass Hall (www.fizzis.com)- I always swear I am going to stop by sometime just for dessert! Nice bar as well. Billy Miner%26#39;s is great just for a burger and a beer. Although Daddy Jack%26#39;s is part of a chain, it is good for seafood- I have eaten there by myself- no problem. Pour House is your basic beer place- Flying Saucer is fun too. Grape Escape is a nice wine bar, next to Fizzi. Even if you don%26#39;t reat at Reata, havae a drink on the rooftop bar- nice view. You won%26#39;t have any trouble finding places to eat, drink, meet folks. I love Etta%26#39;s- you will find them very helpful with suggestions as well.

Lanny%26#39;s is down by the Museum District- haven%26#39;t been but hear it might be worth a taxi ride if you are looking for an upscale and unique experience. (www.lannyskitchen.com/)

Update from Bud Kennedy%26#39;s column in the Star-Telegram:

Sapore%26#39;s is closed! May open on Magnolia Ave in the future.

Fizzi is going to start serving Italian dishes since its sister restaurant, Ciao, closed.

Grape Escape is turning into Giant, a Texas Tapas lounge- Texas flavors on small appeetizer plates.

So much going on downtown and funny after these three places were recently recommended on this forum.

I totally understand your desire to stay away from chains and get the real deal. There are several of them in Sundance Square--La Madeleine, Razoo%26#39;s, P.F. Chang%26#39;s, Starbucks.

One pretty authentic Fort Worth place downtown is Risky%26#39;s BBQ. It%26#39;s a pretty reasonably priced meal.

My husband and I recently went to Daddy Jack%26#39;s (seafood) and do NOT recommend it. The food was disappointing.

I%26#39;d actually recommend two places on Magnolia Avenue, which is a little south of downtown. For lunch, go to Hot Damn Tamales. They have really interesting, creative tamales. But they%26#39;re only open during day hours.

For dinner, try a new Italian restaurant called Nonna Tata. It%26#39;s a tiny little place, but the food is great. It%26#39;s genuine Italian, not like the Americanized version you find at most places. They%26#39;re only open Mon-Fri.

There%26#39;s also pretty good Mexican food in Fort Worth. An authentic Tex-Mex place near downtown is called La Familia. It%26#39;s off 7th Street, across from the newly renovated Montgomery Plaza.

Mi Cocina is good mexican, a little pricey but good..

Piranha for Sushi, it is really tasty...

Pour House actually has really good food, great lunch option...

Agree with the Riscky%26#39;s call...

I have always had good meals at Daddy Jacks

If, you can get to Montgomery St Cafe for breakfast or even better, lunch go for it... Same goes for lunch or dinner at Angelo%26#39;s BBQ on White Settlement

This may be a little late but Frerre just opened across the street from the Bass Hall. It is not a chain but has a sister restaurant in Dallas. We were there last night and had excellent service and food. The food is Italian - pizza, pasta, and meat dishes.

Econo Lodge, Avenue U

Just reserved this hotel for Labor Day Saturday night. We%26#39;re going for a wedding and wanted a cheap but clean place to stay because 4 days later we leave for a cruise out of New York. I have read reviews until I am dizzy. Would you stay here?

Econo Lodge, Avenue U

I just stayed here this past August for one week and will be again in about a month--

Its nothing real fancy.

Its clean, service is good...its just basic, no complaints here...

I wouldn%26#39;t worry to much....I%26#39;d give it 8 out of 10 ;)

Econo Lodge, Avenue U

It is a plain Jane Motel. Do not leave valuables in your vehicle or your room. You will have them stolen. I know, I spent thirty years in Galveston.

Thanks, I would usually not stay here but with a vacation back to back I really don%26#39;t have much choice.

Galveston is like any other city with its good and bad parts. Use your common sense and you will be safe. You wouldn%26#39;t leave valuables lying around just anywhere anyway. Don%26#39;t walk the beaches after dark. Stay in the tourist areas (which again is just using common sense in a strange city) etc.

During the day the beaches and tourist areas (strand, moody gardens, schlitterbahn) are generally safe - just be aware of your surroundings.

They have drugs, gangs %26amp; prositition which is visibly present off of the main roads. If you see something that doesn%26#39;t look safe - then it probably isn%26#39;t.

mask work

Spring Break?

Hi, a couple of my friends from the University of Kansas and I are trying to find a nice relaxing beach to go on our last college spring break. Our priorities are a nice beach, couple nice restaurants, and a fun bar or two to go to. Also, do other students come here for spring break?

If anyone could fill me in that would be great!

Spring Break?

Yes, Galveston is popular with spring breakers. You will find all that you are looking for here. I do want to warn you though, that the waters are not clear, rather a murky brown. If you want bluer, clearer waters, you need to head further south to South Padre Island, Texas. Look at galveston.com for a listing of the different beaches. Make hotel reservations now because the island does sell out.

Spring Break?

Spring breakers in Galveston tend to be locals (University of Houston, etc) and high schoolers. It isn%26#39;t promoted as a big Spring Break place. South Padre however is a huge Spring Break crowd (but a much longer drive if you are driving) and markets toward Spring Breakers and has a tendancy to get wild and crowded. Galveston will be more sedate, not much going on after dark. A few nice clubs on Post Office Street.

Trying to help newbie Spring Breakers

plan 2007 trip.5 College males. Will be flying to SPI Mar 3-10 2007. Would prefer not to rent car (but does any agency at Harlingen airport rent to 22 year olds?) so looking for reasonable ,clean accomodations, near college spring break bars/activities that are cool with college students and usual spring break behaviour. Suggestions and/or anything they need to know? Thanks!

Trying to help newbie Spring Breakers

Almost all beach activity (stages, bands, etc) is on the beach in front of the Radisson, so I would check there first for accomodations. Some condos won%26#39;t rent to Spring Breakers, but I believe that most of the hotels/motels do. Sheraton is also close to the activity. I don%26#39;t know if these places jack up their rates during spring break, but splitting b/t 5 shouldn%26#39;t be too bad. Bahia Mar on far north end of island rents to breakers, and it looks it, plus it%26#39;s a little out of the way. There is Holiday Inn (2), La Quinta, etc. Just google around till you find what suits you. As far as car rentals, I would recommend it. Harlingen has all the usual places (Hertz, Enterprise, Budget, etc.) I don%26#39;t know what the restrictions are as far as age. Harlingen is about 45 minutes from the island, so a car is better than having to take a taxi or shuttle....and I am not for sure about how to arrange for the shuttle.

Trying to help newbie Spring Breakers

For spring break info, check out www.spionline.com - there%26#39;s lots of info on there and forums where you can ask questions. Yes, the Radisson is party central during the day, but, after the sun goes down, it%26#39;s the bay side that has all the clubs. All places who rent to breakers raise their rates for spring break, but, the big week this year, Texas week, when the Texas and Oklahoma universities and colleges get out, is March 9 to 16. If you book early enough (now) you may be able to deal. Hope this helps. Party safe!!

I recommend looking at condos rather than hotel rooms, because many of the hotels won%26#39;t let you bring in your own liquor. Also condos are bigger %26amp; nicer. Try Saida if you can afford it, or Gulfview if on a budget.

How far to: Sea World, etc

We are thinking of flying into San Antonio or Austin. How far is the drive to New Braunfels from each airport?

Once in NB how far is:

Sea World

Six Flags

River Walk

Also, looking at staying in a 1 bdrm Apt. Schlitterbahn Resort - Any comments? - thinking of the ';Rapids'; due to the advertised noise of the Bahn section.

Oh yeah, one more thing, what are the temp%26#39;s %26amp; humidity like in late July early August and are there bugs

Thanks

MamaCatNV

How far to: Sea World, etc

San Antonio will be closer. The airport in San Antonio is about 45 minutes from New Braunfels. Once you are here, allow 45-55 minutes to the Riverwalk, one hour to Six Flags Fiesta Texas and an hour and fifteen minutes to SeaWorld.

I don%26#39;t know a lot about the Schlitterbahn Resort. From what I have seen, the rooms look small. It is definately NOT the Hilton Hotel, but the location is great. The ';Rapids'; section will be much quieter than the ';Bahn'; section.

It is quite hot here during the months of July and August. Typically,it stays somewhere between 95-100 degrees during the daytime. Thankfully, the humidity isn%26#39;t as bad here as in the coastal locations of Texas, such as the Houston area. We have what some refer to as ';dry heat.'; There aren%26#39;t as many bugs here either, unless you want to count tourists.......just kidding. This is a great place to visit on a vacation.

USAF.....hotel needed

In April, we will be going to our son%26#39;s graduation from the USAF boot camp and will be staying in the area for a few days. Any suggestions on where to stay? That will also be the weekend of Easter, which I hope won%26#39;t a problem.

Thanks!

USAF.....hotel needed

I would book early because we get a large number of Mexican Nationals for Easter. Of course that%26#39;s good advice any time. Some thoughts about hotels: Riverwalk - a little pricey, but definitely the SA experience. Book on Hotwire and should be able to get a 4-star hotel for around 100 bucks. Medical Center - reasonably priced a little inconvenient to Lackland but not too far. Airport - less expensive, further away.

USAF.....hotel needed

Thanks Octoboy for the heads up. Looks like I better make reservations now.

Driving from LA to Florida

hi there,

We are driving from LA to Florida next year as part of a round the world honeymoon. We plan to hire a car in LA and spend about 7-10 days driving and taking in cities like Vegas, New Orleans and any where else that is worthwhile. Does anyone have advice for what route to take, must stops, decent (and cheap) accomodation and any advice on car hire.

Thanks alot,

Ryan (and Kellie)

Driving from LA to Florida

Riman8, if you come through Texas, I would suggest that you check out the city of San Antonio. There is a section of town built along a river called the River Walk. There are many nice hotels, sidewalk cafes and boutiques lining the banks of the river, all within walking distance of each other. There are scenic half-hour riverboat cruises along the river. Also within walking distance is the Alamo, where you can learn a little about Texas history and view one of the most famous Spanish missions in America.

I don%26#39;t know that your plans to go to New Orleans is wise. I%26#39;m sure they would welcome your patronage, but the city is in a shambles after being devastated by Hurricane Katrina.

Congratulations on your upcoming marriage. I wish you many years of happiness together.

Driving from LA to Florida

San Antonio is nice if you survive the extremely boring trip across West Texas. It%26#39;s about 550 miles from El Paso to San Antonio, and there%26#39;s not much in between but flat land with no trees and scrub bushes. The landscape changes to more rolling hills and trees by Junction, TX (sort of the beginning of the ';Texas Hill Country';, which is worth seeing (http://www.hill-country-visitor.com/) When will you be travelling? If it%26#39;s NOT in the summer, then one diversion from this trek could be a stop at Big Bend National Park for a day of hiking if you%26#39;re into that: http://www.nps.gov/bibe/

galveston gal, thanks for the info - we are travelling in August of this year, which is obviously a bit away yet. I will keep up to speed as to how things are going in NO before we decide whether to go.

One other question I did have - when we leave Las Vegas, we need to decide whether to go south to Phoenix or west to Albuquerque - the result of which will bring us into Western Texas to the North at Amarillo to head for Dallas or further South and head for Austin. What do u think the best option would be both for seeing the cities and the countryside/sights.

thanks,

Ryan

Hi Ryan,

I live in Georgetown,outside of Austin.

I dont know much about Dallas area but Austin is really a neat area. There is the hill country, which is between San Antonio and Austin. I would definitely see Johnson City, Marble Falls, Austin. Barton Springs in Austin is a pool that is always 65 degrees even in August! And clean.

I lived over 55 years in Illinois and then moved here. I had no idea about LBJ except for Vietnam. Then I visited his birthplace, his library etc. Also go to Bush Library in College Station. No matter what your politics both of these men lived during very historic times. You need to go to Sixth Street in Austin at nite.

Town Lake in Austin downtown area is great to hike. State capitol of Texas. UT campus. Lots of restaurants to eat outside. Esthers Follies is wonderful entertainment. Pete%26#39;s Piano Bar is also great. www.austin360.com should help alot.

Wish I could think better but this should get you started.

My husband and I are driving to LA in a few weeks and we too are trying to decide which way to drive there. Good luck to you!

Ryan, may I suggest that you see the Grand Canyon since you will be so close when leaving Las Vegas. You could then continue northward into Colorado, which is a beautiful state with many sights (Royal Gorge, river rafting, Pike%26#39;s Peak, the Colorado Rocky mountains) instead of coming to Texas.

I am a Texas native and truly love my home, but as stated above by another poster, traveling across West Texas in August will be a trial. It is a vast land of flat, treeless prairie with nothing to relieve the monotony of hours of driving.

I would suggest you take a more northern route to a state where it will not be 105 degrees. We are in the middle of a drought and all the surrounding lands are brown and dead. I would much rather have you see a state with some beautiful, green scenery.

Hope this helps!

Don%26#39;t forget about Houston! I-10 goes right through the heart of Houston. If you have time, book a hotel near I-10, you really can get to see a lot of Houston, like; The Galleria, The Heights, Montrose District, Richmond/Westhimer District, and Downtown. All of these areas are very close to I-10, and these areas include various shops, malls, historical areas, etc.

We are about 3 hours from SA, and 5 hours from NO, So, we really hope you enjoy your time in Texas!

If you want to visit somewhere interesting between El Paso and San Antonio, what about Carlsbad Caverns? It is many years since I was there but I thought they were definitely worth visiting.They would involve you coming off the I10, but if we were to go from LA to Florida (a journey which appeals to me) we would visit the caverns.

I am actually driving part of that trip right now- I have done it a few times- LA to New orleans. long drve- just want to make it through texas- the western part goes on forever. I have been to the Grand Canyon and also carlsbad caverns and would definately recomend both, at least the grand canyon. San Antonio riverwalk is wonderful very romantic place- you could see the Alamo! by the way just a reminder- August is Hurricane season and it is nasty hot and humid down in New Orleans- but if you wont get the chance again- why not- if you are driving you could always change your route if there is a storm. If you stay on the 10- it should be interesting through Gulfport and Biloxi MS ( about 1 1/2hour past New Orleans

try to time the drive through Houston - I 10 is a terribly busy freeway - avoid anything near a rush hour, if poss.

ditto on austin - san antone is about an hr south - and on I-10!

From san antonio, you can drive on I-10 straight thru to Florida! lol

there may be a problem driving from Houston past Lake Charles, La since the I 10 bridge into NOLA was wiped out

Be cautious about NO - relatives there say it%26#39;s still kinda crazy

Thanks all for the info. Given the advise that western texas is pretty boring I am considering whether to go a bit further north instead. Anyway, I will keep you posted if I need more advise as it is all very useful!

aimLA - what is the driving time from LA to NO? I%26#39;m trying to work out the whole drive (LA - Vegas (3 nights) - TX - NO - FL) and reckon whilst taking in interesting sites I could do it in 8-10 days inc 3/4 nights in Vegas. Do you think this is do-able whilst making sure I see all there is to see?

Also - does anyone have any good tips on car hire. I heard that I may get charged a big fee for dropping off in Miami v pick up in LA and also the amount of mileage I do may increase the fee? Thoughts appreciated.....

Ryan