Herself in the Wild: Austin, TX
The Brooklyn of Texas
Some might not appreciate this reference, but as a NY native who now lives in Houston, Austin will always remind me of Brooklyn. It is the hipper, more relaxed sister to Houston, in the same way that Brooklyn is to Manhattan. The main difference is you have to drive miles of highway to get there, but some commutes to Brooklyn might take the same amount of time (kidding, not kidding).
Where to Stay: Bunkhouse Hotels
Bunkhouse has several hotels in Austin and Houston. I have never stayed in one personally, but I have enjoyed the lobby bars and restaurants of several of their locations. I am always impressed with their design.
I've had my eye on Hotel Saint Cecilia and would happily stay there if I needed a room in Austin. It is in a great, central location and has a pool (a must if visiting in the warmer months).
What to Do: Kayak or Paddle board on Ladybird Lake
Austin is a great city for those who like to exercise outside, with its general walkability, jogging paths along the river and water sports on Ladybird Lake (not an actual lake, but a slow, large area of the Colorado that flows through Austin.
There are many kayak/SUP rentals in Austin, so just search for one that is closest to where you are staying. You can generally walk up to rent one on any given day. You just need your license and a credit card. From there, the lake is yours for however many hours you scheduled. It is a great way to see the skyline of Austin and get some exercise in. Note - Swimming in Ladybird lake is generally not allowed (see below for recommended swimming) as it has lots of plant growth, including a specific type of algae that is toxic to humans and pets. It is more prevalent in the summer months.
Where to Swim: Natural Spring Pools
Barton Springs Park is the most popular swimming spot, and it is fed by a natural spring that keeps it cool and fresh. Its popularity also means it is extremely busy, especially on warm weekends. Parking can be a hassle, and even once you find a spot, there is often a long line to get in. If you are free on a weekday or during the off-season, that is a much better time to experience this spot.
Another (usually less busy) option is Deep Eddy Pool, pictured above, which is more of a pool vibe, but is also fed with fresh spring water. This is a great place to take kids, as the front half is shallow. There is also a deeper end with lanes for swimming as well as areas deep enough for diving. I find that I prefer to be on the deep end where it is mostly adults and the water seems cleanest.
Where to Eat: So much more than BBQ
As a pescatarian, I can't give you the best advise on BBQ, but there are so many amazing restaurants in Austin for all types of food. My personal current favorite is the recently opened Austin Oyster Co. It is like a taste of New England summer in the heart of East Austin. Everything we tried here was delicious from the raw oysters (all from the Northeast coast) to the Maine lobster rolls. Wash everything down with a bottle of bubbly.
Other favorite spots are:
- Birdie's: for a delicious pre-fixe menu (get as many of the add-ons as your appetite will allow)
- Elizabeth Street Kitchen: Vietnamese; my favorites are the Spring rolls and the Cha Ca Red Fish noodles.
- Sugarwolf: a new bakery that specializes in handmade, fresh pastries using organic flours, grass-fed butter and no seed oils. Their focaccia sandwiches are also delicious.
- El Calamar - rotating menu using fresh, local ingredients, great cocktails
- Buffalina's - two locations, amazing pizza and pasta
- Cafe No Se - for brunch
- Central Machine Works - beer garden that often has live music
- Granny's Tacos - a taco truck with lots of options
Finally... What (Jewelry) to Wear:
Malachite Drop Necklace
A hand-strung necklace made with gorgeous natural malachite at 14k solid gold accents. Finished off with a teardrop malachite stone pendant.
Starry Blue Twilight Bracelet
Glittering blue sapphires and 14k solid gold beads create this versatile bracelet.
Malachite Chain Earring
Make it a set with the Malachite Drop Necklace.
Gone Dotty Silver Rings
Perfect for stacking in multiples for a more dramatic look.
Rainbow Sapphire Necklace
Emulate the vibrancy of Austin with this colorful piece.
Want more? Check out our guide to Barcelona, Spain.