One of the greenest in America, Austin also tops polls for the least stressful and most friendly city in the country. Southern hospitality meets a lively student culture, while Town Lake in particular is regularly host to top class performers as the city has styled itself the ‘live musical capital of the world’. The ‘Keep Austin Weird’ bumper stickers are perhaps the best measure of the local mindset – Austin is a city proud to be different.
There’s a great deal to explore beyond the city as well, as the local area is blessed with a number of hiking and biking trails. It’s not all green boulevards and leafy suburbs, though; this is a major centre for high-tech industry, often referred to as the Silicon Hills, with the University of Texas feeding a number of large internationals such as Dell, Apple and Hewlett Packard with a stream of skilled employees.
Where to stay
Austin has a great number of excellent mid-range hotels, including two Super 8 guesthouses and the Staybridge Suites near the airport. The AT&T Executive Education and Conference Centre is better catered to business users, however, as is the Wyndham Garden Hotel.
Where to eat
Much of the nightlife, including many of the city’s best restaurants, are clustered around Sixth Street. Ushi is a fantastic themed restaurant serving a range of Asian delights centred on a Japanese menu. Wink Restaurant is a favourite with locals and visitors alike serving a wide-ranging and eclectic mix of dishes.
What to see
The University of Texas has an impressive history and is well worth exploring. The Elizabeth Ney Museum is home to a fantastic collection of sculpture. In the early spring, many people visit often to witness the bats, an impressive sight as they fill the early evening sky.
