The Lone Star State

It's been a great week in the Lone Star state. We've experienced real big cities, some crazy driving and a lot of people wondering how on earth we ended up in Texas.

Our introduction to the state was in Dallas. We spent a considerable amount of time learning about JFK, which is a big deal, as you can imagine with the 50th anniversary of his assassination fast approaching; seeing the memorial, the spot where it happened and that window.

We also admired the view from the reunion tower, spent a Saturday night checking out the locals bars and ate great food from two very different cuisines: tex mex and ethiopian (although Chloe might contest that statement after discovering the Texans like to put beef in everything, even refried beans). The only two downsides were our failed attempt to go bowling - rather hilariously making that failed attempt number four - clearly bowling being a significant part of American popular culture is an outdated myth; and the weather, dropping to around 20 degrees the first day we were there, we even wore jeans - quite a shock to the system!

South Texas, in contrast, has not only gifted us with glorious weather, but even more beautiful cities and more intriguing historical sites - although no real cowboys, which I'm a little disappointed about.

Austin, buzzing with students and with a plethora of bars and live music venues, plus plenty of shops and nice cafes is the sort of place I'd want to live. And it's impressive state capital building, tower blocks and beautiful university structures provide a lovely setting.

We loved Houston; the Flying Saucer bar in downtown with it's multitude of beers was a great place to meet local businessmen and women. And we were fascinated by the NASA space station.

But for me it is San Antonio, home of the Alamo, which has been the stand out city. The battle cry, 'Remember the Alamo' is one we've all heard, made famous across the world by John Wayne and Davy Crockett, even if our knowledge of the Alamo itself is somewhat vague. Not only is San Antonio's architecture and history stunning (even if the Alamo is a lot smaller than I'd envisaged), but it's river walk, more reminiscent of the likes of Venice than something you would expect to find in Texas, is out of this world. Lined with lovely restaurants, which light up the river at night, the walk has a mini theatre (which we were all excited to realise featured in Miss Congeniality), an abundance of pretty bridges, and great boat tours. 

Plus it leads to La Villita, a cute little village where the Mexican Commander surrendered to the Texans during the Texas War for independence in 1835; today overflowing with arts and crafts, and the best icecream I've had in a long time.

Now we're at Houston airport waiting to board our plane to Cancun, and I can't help but feel a bit sad; not only are we leaving Texas, the first leg of our trip is over. But as we head to Mexico, I'm sure much more adventure awaits.