Tent camping: April 2012

Friday, April 27, 2012

in dallas for 2 nights (25th & 26th April)

Hello,

A bit of a far reaching question really but i was wondering if anyone had any good suggestions for something for me to do in Dallas for a couple of days. I arrive on saturday the 25th in the late afternoon and leave on the monday the 27th in the evening. I am on my own and on the way to jazz fest in New Orleans. I like sports, music and anything a little out of the ordinary. My flights are in and out of DFW. At the moment i haven%26#39;t booked anything in terms of hotels, restaurants or activities so any help in this area would be appreciated. I am a 34 year old man on a reasonable budget to help narrow down the possible options.

Many thanks,

London.

in dallas for 2 nights (25th %26amp; 26th April)

I would suggest staying at the Grand Hyatt at DFW Airport. Here is the link to the website:

http://granddfw.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/

I have stayed here and it is fabulous. On the weekends it is quieter as it is primarily for business execs. If you are flying into DFW direct from London..Customs and Immigration is pretty much below the hotel. So all you have to do is to go up the elevator to the terminal level and take the elevator on up to the Hotel.

I was checking the schedule of sports for that weekend and FC Dallas and Texas Rangers both are playing games away from home. Sorry I am not much of a sports fan so perhaps others can chime in.

What you might enjoy in Dallas is going to the Sixth Floor Museum in Downtown Dallas. Here is the link for them: www.jfk.org

You might actually enjoy Fort Worth by going over to the Fort Worth Stockyards. You will get a more Texan feel over in Fort Worth. Basically in a nutshell Dallas has the best shopping and better restaurants..Fort Worth has more of the honkey tonk and actually world class art museums.

Another great website for what is going on is: www.guidelive.com

If you do go to Fort Worth to the Stockyards you have to go by Leddys http://www.leddys.com/

It is world famous for western boots etc..

Welcome to Dallas/Fort Worth sorry I am not much help. If you were a gal I%26#39;d say go shopping your pound is strong against our dollar!

in dallas for 2 nights (25th %26amp; 26th April)

Many thanks Kate.

I think staying close to the airport makes a lot of sense given the short amout of time I will be in Dallas. I like the sound of Fort Worth and the Stockyards. I%26#39;ll definitely head to Leddys and buy a hat. I had a look at www.guidelive.com and found a Rodeo in Mesquite. I think this is something I should do as I%26#39;ll never see anything like this at home. Do you know the Mesquite Rodeo? It doesn%26#39;t appear to be too far from the airport/hotel. I was wondering if I should book a ticket now or if it was something I could just turn up and get on the day? I don%26#39;t know how busy it gets or if it (Mesquite) is the best one to go to.

Thanks again for you help so far,

JB.

If, as katetx actually suggests, you are going to the Stockyards for that Texan and honky tonk feeling on Saturday night, you could go to the Stockyards rodeo rather than going all the way over to Mesquite.

www.cowtowncoliseum.com

www.fortworthstockyards.org

hi poodleone,

which is further from the grand hyatt dfw? Mesquite or Stockyards?

best regards

According to Mapquest, Mesquite is about 35 miles from DFW, the Stockyards are about 25 miles.

And I was also going to suggest, if you want to have things to do on Sunday and are going to the Stockyards Saturday night, why not look into staying in downtown Fort Worth in the Sundance Square area? Embassy Suites, Courtyard by Marriot, Etta%26#39;s Place B%26amp;B, Worthington, etc for hotels. Lots of bars, restaurants, access to the museums.

www.sundancesquare.com

Actually the Mesquite Rodeo is world famous but I would stick to Fort Worth.There is a Rodeo every Saturday night..here is link http://www.cowtowncoliseum.com/

It will be convenient as it is in the Stockyards. Also one thing I forgot is Billy Bobs which had its heydey when Urban Cowboy came out in the 70%26#39;s. It is also down in the stockyards. Here is a link for Billy Bob%26#39;s.

www.billybobstexas.com

I would stick to the airport..it really puts you right in the middle of the two cities. Here is the link for Dallas Area Rapid Transit (also known as DART)

http://www.dart.org/riding/dfwairport.asp

The TRE (Trinity Rail Express) can take you to either Dallas or Fort Worth. However with it being the weekend you might want to look at schedules to see how frequently they run.

If you do decide to do some shopping...Northpark Mall is the best in Dallas and has the most comprehensive shops. You can actually take the DART train to the Park Lane station and there is a shuttle that will take you to nearby Northpark. Here is a link for Northpark and they also have a duty free program. The concierge desk is very helpful and they are located just inside the mall right beside Neiman Marcus.

www.northparkcenter.com

Tax Free Shopping information

taxfreetexas.com/Participating_Retailers.html

HTH

I called the Mesquite Rodeo. They are having a festival that weekend at the Arena. They will have a rodeo that night. She did not say it was necessary to buy tickets in advance. But that is up to you.

Here is a link if you stay at the Grand Hyatt of how far is it...

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d%26amp;source=s_d%26amp;saddr=2337+South+International+Parkway+Dallas,+Texas,+USA+75261-9045%26amp;daddr=1818+Rodeo+Drive,+Mesquite,+Texas+75149%26amp;hl=en%26amp;geocode=%26amp;mra=ls%26amp;sll=32.83427,-96.65284%26amp;sspn=0.235396,0.604248%26amp;ie=UTF8%26amp;ll=32.825942,-96.832123%26amp;spn=0.235417,0.604248%26amp;t=h%26amp;z=11

(If it doesn%26#39;t link just copy and paste in new browser)

You will need a car to go to the rodeo however you can rent one at the airport. I think you need to decide if you want to go through all the trouble to go to the Mesquite Rodeo. It is up to you.

thanks for all your help katetx and poodleone - amazing.

i%26#39;ve booked the grand hyatt now, it looked great and i heard some good things about it. Also for ease, as I%26#39;m not there for all that long and should cut down on any unnecessary traveling.

I%26#39;ll probably end up going to the stockyards for the rodeo.

once again guys thanks for your invaluable advice.

JB.

Things to do with kids

What are the 10 best things to do with toddlers (ages 4,2,1) in the Austin area? Looking for any of the non-typical responses (i.e., we know all about Zilker, etc).

Things to do with kids

Here%26#39;s my list - it includes the typical things because they really are good things to do with kids.

Austin Children%26#39;s Museum www.austinkids.org/

Barton Springs Swimming (there%26#39;s Plenty of shallow parts) www.ci.austin.tx.us/parks/bartonsprings.htm

Zilker Park - Playgrounds and miniture train ride http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/zilker/

Deep Eddy Pool - more swimming http://www.deepeddy.org/

Austin Nature Center http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/ansc/

Boggy Creek Farm http://www.boggycreekfarm.com/

Congress Street Bridge - Bats

Amy%26#39;s Ice Cream http://www.amysicecream.com/

Along with all of the regular kids things - pizza restaurants, toy stores, ice skating, roller skating

Then there are day trips - New Braunfels, San Antonio, etc.

Things to do with kids

Here%26#39;s a few other things -

Austin Zoo - It%26#39;s semi-rural and an animal rescue facility, but it%26#39;s small enough they don%26#39;t get whiny

Capitol grounds - They may get bored seeing the building, but they love running around on the Capitol grounds, rolling down the hills, climbing trees etc.

Outdoor free music events - Let them run around, dance, bring a big blanket %26amp; plenty of snacks.

McKinney Falls State Park - it%26#39;s just outside of the city, but there%26#39;s some good trails.

Wildflower center - see if the Little House is open. They have activities for young children.

City Hall for the great art.

(I was just there yesterday with my five year-old for work.) Your kids should go to the elevator area for a fun interactive surprise. I could not drag my daughter away. She also liked the sheep on the second floor balcony and the bird in the snack room. My daughter loved goofing around outside, too.

Forgot about Bats - duh!

There are very few places in the US where you can witness millions of bats leaving their roosts to go hunting for food. San Antonio (Austin) is lucky to be near two very easy spots:

One is the Congress St. Bridge in Austin. Advantage - Austin is fun, lots of shopping, restaurants, live music. Downside - it%26#39;s an urban setting, noise and traffic.

The other is the bat cave at Old Tunnel Wildlife Management Area 鈥tate.tx.us/huntwild/鈥?/a> near Fredericksburg. Upside - cool wilderness setting, shopping, and restaurants nearby in Fredericksburg. Disadvantage - viewing area has limited capacity and they close off the area when it reaches capacity (get there early.)

OK here%26#39;s a secret about the bats (at either location.) While it%26#39;s way cool to watch them leave at dusk, it%26#39;s even more cool to watch them come back in the morning. Arrive about 30 minutes before sunrise. Yes I know it%26#39;s early, but it%26#39;s worth it! As you approach the roosts, you%26#39;ll hear this vibrating noise, sort of like paper tearing. It sounds so close. As it gradually gets lighter, you%26#39;ll start to see them, thousands of bats diving down and into the tunnel or under the bridge. It%26#39;s so cool! The bats feed at up to two miles high, when they are ready to come back to roost, they tuck in their wings and start a freefall. As the get close to the ground, they open their wings to navigate back to their spot, that%26#39;s the noise you hear.

powder coat bmx frame

Wrestlemania XXV - out of town visitors

It appears that several are attending this event all across the globe - quite a few from UK and around the states. There have been lots of questions and hopefully most were answered.

To help the next event and for others coming to enjoy Houston - please post back after the event (good and bad). Give your opinions - stick to the facts (opinion and facts can be two different thinks - but you know what I mean) and let the next person decide for themselves.

Enjoy Houston

I will re-post this so it will move to the top after the event - but this way those that are willing can plan to take notes.

Wrestlemania XXV - out of town visitors

HI KW,

Bump! This is a great idea!:)

ciao, ciao,

cupcake

Wrestlemania XXV - out of town visitors

Now that the event is on - bump

Anyone that attended want to give your thoughts comments about Houston (not about the event itself)?

Hi everyone just came back from Houston a few days ago from my WrestleMania journey!I will give my time to write this as everyone that has helped me plan this has been excelllent,so it%26#39;s the least I could do!

What I liked about Houston,I loved the Galleria shopping it included everything that you could think off.I really like the amount of places where you could eat in food court like the chinese takeaway was lovely and give too much which is great.The Cheesecake factory is an excellent restuarant with great service to.I loved how everything was close together like Minute Maid Park,George R Brown and Toyota Center were just minutes from each other!Went to the Toyota Center and it was a lovely stadium and just looking out the window was breathtaking with DownTown in the background!I also visited Reliant Park for all WWE events and Reliant Stadium was brilliant and so easy to get from one part to another on Metro which is really cheap!I also visited the ZooNASA,Aquarium,Houston Museum Of Natural Science the dino exhibit was the best thing in my oppinion,so intresting!

What I didn%26#39;t like,well I think the nightlife seemed a bit bland as everywhere was dead at 9pm and apparently does not start until 11:30pm and the bars didn%26#39;t seem upto much apart from the Sport Bars and Molly%26#39;s in Downtown that had a good atmosphere with wrestling fans mixing with Basketball fans!There was alos some other things,ut nothing too major

It was awesome! I stayed in the Hilton which was a beautiful hotel. I used the rail to get around which was free. Took the bus for a buck from IAH to the hotel and back. No complaints at all; Houston was great!

colon cleansing

Vacation in April

I am exploring options for a family vacation in May. We have an 8 and a 4 year old. We went to Disney last year, but can%26#39;t afford something as big this year due to the economy. What is the weather like mid May? Are there any family resorts that have things for the kids to do that are also close to a nice beach? TIA

Vacation in April

May will be getting quite warm with temperatures possibly in the 90%26#39;s.

Here are some things to do locally:

Corpus Christi Area Attractions

General information from CC Convention and Visitors Bureau

http://www.corpuschristicvb.com/

USS Lexington Museum WWII Aircraft Carrier

http://www.usslexington.com/

Texas State Aquarium

http://www.texasstateaquarium.org/

Museum of Natural History with Columbus ships replicas

http://www.ccmuseum.com/museum/index.cfm

Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce

http://www.portaransas.org/

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge -- Home of the Whooping Cranes

www.fws.gov/southwest/REFUGES/texas/aransas/

Padre Island National Seashore

http://www.nps.gov/pais/

The King Ranch

http://www.king-ranch.com/

Resorts I can recommend:

Sandcastle

www.portaransas-texas.com/sitepages/pid42.php

Holiday Inn Sunspree

www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/ss/1/en/hotel/pdino

Port Royal

http://www.port-royal.com/index.html

Vacation in April

The enire family can enjoy a sightseeing tour on Captain Clark%26#39;s Flagship in downtown Corpus Christi. The Selena memorial is on the corner of Peoples Street. The Nina Columbus replica ship is in the marina and the Flagship, 3 deck, paddle-wheel style sightseeing boat is around the corner. www.captclarksflagship.com

We were recently in South Texas and ran over to Corpus Christi and Padre Island for a day to scout it as a possible future spring break option. It is definitely off the list of consideration. My kids are older (teens) but I wouldn%26#39;t go there for any family vacation.

Coming into Corpus Christi you go past miles of oil refineries which is OK but not real attractive for a vacation spot. The bigger issue was when we got to the National Seashore beach. At the Padre Island visitor center the first thing we saw were signs warning about trash on the beach. Ocean currents meet there and collect “the world’s trash” on the beaches (their words). The signs warned to look out for medical syringes, hazardous chemicals and oil tar. As we walked the beach we found that they were definitely right about the trash. Even though they said the beach was cleaned daily, there was much trash mixed in with the wide band of seaweed at the high tide line. The waves looked great but we lost our interest in the water – we may have been better off not seeing those signs.

Anyway, when it comes time for that next trip south for spring break we will be turning left and heading back to Florida.

The pp was correct. The Padre Island National Seashore does have trash. It is about 80 miles of

natural beach, not the manacured sort one finds in front of beachfront hotels in Florida. After hurricane IKE there was miles of trash from the upper gulf coast washed ashore here. Maybe not as pristine as some but it is a beach with a personality all its own. And nesting Kemp%26#39;s Ridley sea turtles.

Padre Island National Seashore is a National Park. It is purposely kept is a natural state and because it is 100%26#39;s of miles of beach difficult to keep pristine. I am sorry that you found our area uninviting. Did you visit the beaches along Mustang Island? Did you visit Port Aransas, Rockport, Fulton? Did you see Bob Hall Pier and JP Luby Surf Park? How about Corpus Christi Beach? I hope your opinion of our area wasn%26#39;t based upon driving by the refineries and visiting one small area of the National Seashore? Yes, we cannot compare with the beaches of California or Florida but we do have great fishing snd watersports, are much less expensive, and have some of the greatest people you will ever meet. I hope you will give us a 2nd look!!

I think the Holiday Inn Emerald Beach downtown corpus Christi is nice for kids that age. Great pool, right on the beach, ping pong and shuffle board and other games indoors. Downtown Corpus Christi offers a sightseeing cruise on Captain Clark%26#39;s 3-deck paddle wheel boat where numerous birds and the bottle nosed dolphin can usually be seen. The museum is good. Accross the harbor bridge is the Texas State Aquarium and the USS Lexington. Whereever you stay, you better hurry to make reservations.

Wyndham La Cascada

Does anyone know anything about the La Cascada on the riverwalk. We are not able to find much information on them and have rented a condo for vacation the week of the 4th of July.

Also, if their are no fireworks on the riverfront for the 4th is their somewhere else we can go see a fireworks show ?

Wyndham La Cascada

Sorry I do not know much about it, although I am from San Antonio...... I have an interview scheduled with them on Tuesday so I will get some info and try and return back to you.....But if not they normally have fireworks off of the tower of America. It is the tallest building in San Antonio with a restaurant on top that rotates as your dining it%26#39;s quite nice they just renovated it this year. .....Also at the Hemisfair park and Fiesta Texas.....Well I hope you have a wonderful time when you come down.

~Crystal~

Wyndham La Cascada

4th of July Fireworks -

Woodlawn Lake - City%26#39;s display, food booths

Theme Parks - Both Sea World and Fiesta Texas will be open late and have displays. There are many spots around Fiesta Texas where you can just park and watch the fireworks.

Mission%26#39;s Game - I%26#39;m not sure if there is a home game on the 4th, but they usually have fireworks after the game when it%26#39;s on the 4th or the next home game after.

Small towns nearby - One of the best displays I saw was New Braunfels%26#39;. We were at Schilterbahn and the fireworks were at Prince Soloms Park.

CSTREVINO and OCTOBOY thanks for your reply. CSTREVINO if you have time to reply again it would be so appreciated, we are a little worried since we can%26#39;t find any info on the location we rented. I have heard it is new. Do you know if that is true ??

I JUST MADE RESERVATIONS AT LA CASCADA,for the fourth of july week also. i haven%26#39;t had any luck either.i called the hotel and they said that they are working on that at this time to post pictures of the hotel.i think some of the theme parks at san antonio will have fireworks.

I am also staying there the week of July 22nd and yet I have not seen any pictures. I am just curious of what it looks like, Please someone email pictures or something

This is a brand new beautiful resort that just opened up. I%26#39;m positive that you will have a wonderful stay there.

Wyndam La Cascada is a vacation ownership(timeshare) resort...just opend on 5/29/07. It is part of the Wyndam Fairfield family and you can visit www.efairfield.com and click on resort search to find more info or call the resort at 210-228-2900. I%26#39;m a Fairfield owner and their newer resorts are usually very spacious, comfortable, well maintained and stocked with everything you need. All you need to do is bring grocery items, which is not a bad idea since most units have full kitchens....we usually find the nearest Walmart Supercenter for grocery items or go to the nearest grocery store. This will really cut down on your dining expenses.... They will try to get you to attend a 1 1/2 - 2 hour timeshare presentation but they do offer some kind of free gift even if you don%26#39;t buy.

The fireworks from the Tower can be seen from a long distance. So if this place is downtown you should be able to see it from where you are staying. You should call La Cascada and ask them if the fireworks can be seen from there and if they have an area where you can go and watch it from. It is beautiful to watch with such great display. Besides the places that the others have mention, Fort Sam and Randolfh AFB have a show. I hope you have a great time while in the SA.

Try this site

lacascadaluxury.com/鈥?/a>

I am going down 7/1-7/8.

This is an add to sell condos at 230 wryer Ave.

We are at 226 Dwyer Ave

The luxury condo with an opportunity to build a highrise luxury address second to none in San Antonio, the development team behind La Cascada saw to it that no corners were cut in bringing a first-rate Riverwalk living experience to this dynamic city. with it%26#39;s 12 stories perched a short stroll from downtown%26#39;s cultural, entertainment and shopping hotspots, life here is as fast or languid as you wish. spacious floorplans bring to mind more custom-home than highrise, and the many accommodations within mean you only go out when you see fit. a fitness center, business center, multiple balconies and a rooftop pool and spa make home a fabulous alternative to going out. inside each residence, you%26#39;ll find sumptuous hardwoods, granites, tile and marble finishes. separate tubs and walk-in showers in large bath areas, and walk-in closets. the building also features private, gated parking and a lobby staff to help maintain your privacy. best of all, buying here doesn%26#39;t require making a reservation and placing your highrise desires at the mercy of construction schedules or cost overruns. you can tour La Cascada today, and close on your new home in days, not years. visit us today to see for yourself, what living this life in downtown San Antonio is all about. luxury has a home above the city and next to the river: La Cascada.

LIMITED NUMBER

OF RESIDENCES REMAINING FROM THE 650K-1MIL

For additional information, please contact our on-site

sales experts.

230 Dwyer Avenue

Try this site

lacascadaluxury.com/鈥?/a>

I am going down 7/1-7/8.

This is an add to sell condos at 230 wryer Ave.

We are at 226 Dwyer Ave

LIMITED NUMBER

OF RESIDENCES REMAINING FROM THE 650K-1MIL

For additional information, please contact our on-site

sales experts.

230 Dwyer Avenue

Grand Hyatt Parking

Is there any reasonably priced parking lots near the Grand Hyatt?

Grand Hyatt Parking

I cant answer for sure. My guess is that you will have to pay but I would call the hotel and get specifics for the hotel guest.

The place is just huge!

Grand Hyatt Parking

The parking is $30 for overnight parking at the hotel. So, I was wondering if there are any other parking options near the hotel?

There are several enclosed garages in the immediate downtown area which are cheaper..There also are several open parking lots..Parking meters are free after 6 PM...There are some choice meters right before the Marriott Riverwalk but will fill up fast...One of my fave open parking areas is on Durango behind La Villita Near what used to be Plaza San Antonio(I believe it is a Marriott property now..

To check out parking garages here is a website that may help you out I hope

www.visitSanAntonio.com click on area maps on the lower side of the website then downtown for parking.

Check out the info at tripadvisor.com/Travel-g60956-s301/San-Anton…

While it%26#39;s a little dated and prices may be up a little, the general info is correct.

Thanks to all.

One more question. What restaurants are near the Hyatt Place on Jones Maltzberger rd?

What part of Jones Maltsburger near the airport or the Quarry???????

I think the Hyatt Place is closer to the Quarry.

Ponchitos, Canyon Cafe, Water Street Oyster Bar, Piate, Paesanos, Florios, Flemmings, PF Changs, Panera, Chili%26#39;s, Joe%26#39;s Crab Shack, Stoneworks, Whole Foods, Freddies Frozen Custard, Sushi Zushi, La Posada Del Rey, Order Up, Pei Wei are all within a mile or so.

Near the airport.

It%26#39;s one and the same - close to the airport but closer to the Quarry.

Public transportation?

We are going to San Antonio in October and staying in the Medical Center area. We would like to visit downtown/Riverwalk area for one or two days of our trip. Would we be better off taking public transportation to the Riverwalk area or taking our car and parking nearby?

Public transportation?

I would say taking your car %26amp; park nearby %26amp; then use the streetcar to get around in the downtown area.

Here is a website to find parking lots or garages.

www.visitSanAntonio.com on the lower part of the page is Tools that has Maps click on it then what you are looking for.

Here is the website for trolley/streetcar www.viainfo.net/Busservice/Streetcar.aspx

Here is the website for public transportation if you decide that%26#39;s what you want to do. www.viainfo.net/Busservice/schedules.aspx

Hope this helps you out in what you are looking for.

Public transportation?

driving your car would give you more freedom...immediate parking meters run for 2 hours..but if you find meters just a few blocks away..you can park cheap for 8-10 hours. / You should only need to park your car once when you go downtown...downtown is walkable or you can take the trolley.

cant install webcam

Any glaring problems? Weekend in Austin

Hi everyone

I am travelling from Australia to a conference in San Antonio for the last week of April. I have a weekend spare after the conference and was thinking of doing the following - any advice on any glaring issues with this plan would be much appreciated!

Please note, I am trying to do this travel on a seriously low budget, hence the use of public transport etc. If you think the greenback is struggling, you should try the Aussie dollar!

Saturday am: take train from San Antonio to Austin, arrive 9:30am.

Saturday %26amp; Sunday: sight-see Austin, stay at Extended Stay America Austin Downtown Townlake (http://bit.ly/IUbDZ)

Monday: take coach from Austin to Houston, arrive at 10:45am, for 5:50pm departure back to Oz.

Thanks in anticipation

Any glaring problems? Weekend in Austin

Austin has a reasonably good bus system, so you can do well there, if you stay near downtown. From that side of the river, it is a little hike to the center of town, but nothing unmanageable by foot. 6th street is walkable, and a few clubs have live music and no or little cover.

You can also walk down to Barton Springs for a dip in the natural spring pool, and get up to the Capitol building, and walk the nice trails around Town Lake.

Think of it this way: it is a large college town. Many students get by on $20 per week (their food %26amp; housing being prepaid)...

Any glaring problems? Weekend in Austin

Kavya, you%26#39;ve chosen a great place to stay. Very conveniently located on w. 6th at Guadalupe and economical at that!

It%26#39;s a short walk to lots of restaurants, clubs and such on 6th, 5th, etc. And there will be some places where there%26#39;s no cover charge.

On arriving in town pick up an Austin Chronicle (free alternative newspaper at stands around town) to get a feel for what%26#39;s going on.

The Austin Visitor%26#39;s Center is at 209 E. 6th and open 7 days a week. Good place to get a free visitor%26#39;s guide and maps. Get the Chronicle here too.

Welcome to Austin!

Thanks to you both for taking the time to respond to my query. I have gone ahead and booked everything now, and will be sure to rate the hotel here on Trip Advisor, to give back some of the love!

colon cleansing

austin bats

A group of 4 couples are visiting Austin at end of the month...besides just hanging out on the lawn, is there a primo way for watching the bats at Congress St. bridge? We%26#39;ll be there from 4/30-5/3

austin bats

Lots of people hang out on the bridge. There are walkways along both sides of the vehicle lanes, so people just stand and wait for the bats to emerge. If you want to eat while waiting or watching, the TGI Fridays at the Radisson Hotel has out outdoor patio with a great viewing location.

austin bats

There is a boat that goes under the bridge and shines lights on the bats - a little different from jsut sitting on the lawn and they do dinner cruises too. http://www.capitalcruises.com/bat-watching/

We like to take visitors on Lone Star%26#39;s informative boat tour. They are BYOB. Reservations are a very good idea.

http://www.lonestarriverboat.com/

Port Aransas daytrip with kids

We are going to Corpus in June with a daytrip to Port A. Me, my husband and our two girls ages 3 %26amp; 6. Its our first trip to the beach with the kids and since our honeymoon to Cancun. My husband has no other beach experience and its been years since I%26#39;ve been. So the real issue though is parking and restrooms. I%26#39;ve found where there%26#39;s free parking at Horace Caldwell Pier and restrooms/showers at IB Magee Park. But we don%26#39;t mind paying to park if its better and if there are restrooms. So, what%26#39;s the best spot on the beach for the day with the kids?

Port Aransas daytrip with kids

In Port A you can park (and drive) on the beach. This is great if you have little ones because you don%26#39;t have to lug all you belongings out of the car.

You%26#39;ll need to buy a parking sticker (around $10) that%26#39;s good for all season.

As to restrooms - I%26#39;d simply use a restaurant or store%26#39;s before I head to the beach. With 3 and 6 year olds you can change in the car.

2009 Seaworld Fun Pass

Wondering here if anyone else has used or will use the 2009 SeaWorld ';Fun Pass';, where you pay for a single day online and get the rest of the year free. It%26#39;s the same price as a regular day pass. Adults $54 and kids $47 but you can come back the rest of the year unlimited.

If anyone has done this or will do this before June 29 or 30 we%26#39;d be interested in ';sharing'; these passes with you. We need 2 adults and 1 kid.

We%26#39;ve ';shared'; these passes before at Seaworld San Diego and it does work. They electronically finger print you but its used for only that day. Anyone can use them after that day.

South Padre in Winter Months

Does anyone have any recommendations for condo or hotel lodging at reasonable rates for 2-3 winter months on South Padre? Would need some kitchen facilities, does not have to be fancy.

South Padre in Winter Months

What would you consider reasonable? How many bedrooms? or and efficiency?

South Padre in Winter Months

If being on the beach or bay is not a priority, check out my post under the ';houses or condos?'; thread for some rental agencies. Also, motels like Super 8, Travelodge, Ramada, Comfort Suites and Knightsbridge Inn all have kitchenettes, continental breakfasts and have monthly rentals. Anything on the water will be substantially more expensive.

suite my skin tone

Macy's

Can someone suggest the best Macy%26#39;s in the Dallas area? I%26#39;ve never been to Dallas and wanted to check out my favorite department store while I%26#39;m in town.

Thanks!

Macy's

I would think North Park.

Macy's

I%26#39;m a huge shopper and would agree the best Macy%26#39;s is at North Park.

Another vote for NorthPark - also has Nordstrom, Nieman Marcus, Dillard%26#39;s, and Barneys.

What is a really good mexican restaurant near pizza hut park

Thank you in advance.

What is a really good mexican restaurant near pizza hut park

Either Manny%26#39;s or Mattito%26#39;s

www.mattitos.com

www.eatatmannys.com

What is a really good mexican restaurant near pizza hut park

how near are you wanting?

Because i can give you a short cut into Pizza Hut park to bypass crazy traffic if going on a big concert night and tell you about my favorite mexican food location with great views.

if interested, it is Angelinas on Main Street in The Colony. Eat there, fresh homemade tortillas and a large covered/screened patio overlooking Lake Lewisville. Excellent fajitas and the chimichangas are great too! Then, when you leave Angelinas, turn left out of the parking lot, heading North on Main street. Continue until you pass Albertsons on your right hand side...about 6-7 miles down. Turn right onto Main Street (Frisco%26#39;s Main Street) and continue on until you come to Pizza Hut park on your left about 3-4 miles down. This is a great way to bypass the traffic, and leave that way too.

That is so helpful! Thank you! We will have a driver taking us to the concert - but I wanted a good Mexican meal prior to Margaritaville!!!!

You are great - thank you!

enjoy Jimmy!!!!

I have been to many concerts at PH park...I leave nearby and I have learned it%26#39;s a mess with traffic in and out. Most people use the obvious routes into the park. There is a route in/out behind the park too, but right now that road is under construction and we tried it once and it backfired on us lol...

Angelinas is a great place and moderate priced.

I hope you enjoy!

err...i should say i ***LIVE*** nearby lol...

There%26#39;s a Canatina Laredo near the Westin at 121 and Legacy Dr. A Mi Cocina at the Shops of Legacy. And a Cristina%26#39;s near Stonebriar Mall. None of those should disappoint.

i hope you had a great time at the concert!

So sweet - thank you - but I had to surrender the tkts - dh was out of town -(I couldn%26#39;t go w/out him!) it was me, Radio Margaritaville and a swirl in hand, tear in my eye!

Thanks for remembering and for your wonderful advice.

TX1

New Stadium

Hi, I am driving in from out of town and will be all of the games. Can anyone tell me how far of a walk or drive it is? And will there be a shuttle. My hotel is on Brookhollow Drive.

New Stadium

Although you posted in the Dallas forum, are you actually staying at one of the hotels in Arlington on Brookhollow Plaza Drive? From that area it is over 2.5 miles, closer to 3 mile walk, mainly along Ballpark Way. As you can see from some of the threads on the Arlington forum, it is still a mystery whether anyone has it together for some sort of shuttle system to the Cowboy venue.

There is a trolley system for 20 of the Arlington hotels that currently go to Six Flags and the Ballpark but haven%26#39;t yet found any mention as to whether it will go to the football stadium.

If you contact your hotel and find out some shuttle info, please post back. Inquiring minds want to know

New Stadium

When I contacted my hotel, the Comfort Suites near the new stadium, they told me the shuttle would not go to the new stadium.

I will post my adventures after my trip, June 6-7.

Actually, I just checked with Arlington....they say there is no public transportation to the stadium, some hotels may offer shuttle service.

There is NO public transportation in Arlington at all (remember my mantra- largest city in the US with NO MASS TRANSIT)- maybe this first football season will put some pressure behind the issue. You would hope they could learn something from the mess that was Texas Stadium in Irving for so many years.

I hope for all those who look forward to going to this new stadium that either jerry will step up or some entrepreneur(s) have a plan up his/her/their sleeve.

colon cleansing

what age??

My family is traveling to SPI in July. We have two 19 year olds coming with us this year. Are there any nightlife hot spots for 18 and up?

HELP- I need a room with trendy/sexy decor...

In or near Dallas or northern suburbs. I am looking to book something where I can have some pictures taken in the room. (nothing too racy, but fun for my soon to be husband) In the past my photog. has used the NYLO but they are now saying no to this sort of thing which really stinks! So something with similar decor and with good architecture or elements in the room. We are planning for July but there are so many choices I have no idea where to start or which hotels would be uptight about this sort of thing. To be honest I am not sure why the other hotel has issue with it as she is not selling the photos.

Can anyone help or suggest something??

HELP- I need a room with trendy/sexy decor...

If you%26#39;re taking photos in the room how would they know? Not familiar with the Nylo--very definitely mixed reviews from what I casually glanced at.

Would check out the Belmont, the Magnolia, or the Hotel Indigo.

HELP- I need a room with trendy/sexy decor...

You would think they wouldnt know but apparently they found out she had done some before for a few brides, similar type photos, and while she was doing some a few weeks ago they called the police and issued them each $750 tickets!

Don%26#39;t know what your budget is. Hotel ZaZa has an ';Erotica Suite'; very sexy!

I second Hotel ZaZa.

3rd - ZaZa is exactly what you are looking for.

4th on Hotel Zaza. I remember during a Rachel Ray episode she stated it was so sexy she%26#39;d marry it or some such.

control panel buttons

Metro rail in Houston

Hi I am stopping at the Holiday Inn near The Galleria Mall,just wondering how far is the metro rail from the mall?I am planning on going to reliant park,Toyota center and zoo etc does the metro connect to all of these places?Where is the best bar near the Galleria as well,looking forward to coming here for the 1st time for WrestleMania,thanks

Metro rail in Houston

ridemetro.org/SchedulesMaps/RailSched.aspx

Above is the site for metro rail. You cannot get it from the Galleria. You may take a bus to downtown and then take the rail to relaint, the zoo etc.

The closest bar (to the Galleria) that I can think of is Roxy%26#39;s. I am not much into the bar scene - so other can give you better input.

Metro rail in Houston

The rail line does not go to Toyota Center, it is about 5-6 blocks from the rail line.

You might be better off staying downtown where you can ride the rail to reliant, walking distance to toyota, rail to the zoo and just catch a cab to the Galleria. Lots of bars in Midtown (near downtown) and a few new ones opening up in Downtown - including House of Blues and across from it Cork Wine Bar, The Flying Saucer Pub. Also a lot of new bars on Washington Avenue but you%26#39;d need a cab to go there - but it is near downtown as well so would be a short cab ride. If you want to stay downtown check into the Residence Inn or Courtyard by Marriot - both are right on the rail line.

Hey all. Is there a way to get the locations or addresses of the Metrorail areas? I%26#39;m trying to find places to eat but I want to make sure they are within walking distance of the nearest rail. The schedule %26amp; map really doesn%26#39;t seem to help, unless I%26#39;m reading it wrong (which is quite possible, lol).

Soda, here is a link that might help you out

www.visithoustontexas.com/HVGSPRING09_Eng.pdf

Public transit in Houston stinks. Rent a car. Parking is widely available and usually free or cheap.

For light rail in Houston, especially around the Galleria, is expected to be up and running I think around 2014. Otherwise, it would take the ride on the Westheimer bus to downtown where you can catch MetroRail.

Rental Homes in Galveston

I%26#39;m looking for a small home to rent either on or near the beach. I do have a dog so it would have to be pet friendly. I%26#39;ve been looking on the internet but all of the places are so big and expensive. It is only myslef and my friend going so we don%26#39;t need a big house. I wouldn%26#39;t mind a big place as long as it was moderately priced and near a good beach. Does anyone have any suggestions of places you%26#39;ve been before?

Rental Homes in Galveston

www.sandnsea.com is a good agency to try, we%26#39;ve booked thru vrbo.com and you look for the paw for pet friendly. I like the west end for beach and quiet relaxation.

Sunny Beach is a small area just past the end of the seawall, Pirate%26#39;s Beach and Pirate%26#39;s west are nice areas about 5 minutes past the seawall; there was some beach erosion from the hurricane so keep that in mind. 5 min. further west is Jamaica beach, I like their grocery store and the restaurant next door to it but haven%26#39;t stayed there. Terramar Beach is further west.

Rental Homes in Galveston

Homes on the water are expensive - I have booked also through both sandnsea. com and vrbo.com. The farther away from the water, the least expensive it will be. Also, there are several condos along the seawall that are pet friendly. You would have to cross Seawall Blvd. to get to the water, but condos are cheaper than homes. Love Galveston - going back again in August.

Thursday, April 26, 2012

ACL 2009 advise, please

Well, after years of saying we are going to attend ACL, I think this may be the year we can actually pull it off! I have so many questions, I%26#39;ve been reading the ACL web site and old posts here but I still need some advise and hope someone has answers for me.

Tickets: how much of an advantage is having the VIP tickets rather than the regular admission tix? Looks like you get shade, food, drinks and an a/c bathroom, is it worth it? I mean, how much food and water can you consume in one day to make it worth $850? (I confess, I melt in the hot sun) When you are in the VIP area, can you see any of the stages? Is it off to the side or in the thick of things? Do they give you a meal voucher or how does that work? Do you always have to purchase the 3 day passes or can you get a one or two day pass?

Bands: how are they scheduled? I%26#39;m trying to imagine and all I have to draw on is how they do the multi band events here... Are the lesser known bands scheduled early in the day saving the better known bands for later on? If so, would it make sense to come later on in the day (when it%26#39;s not so hot) or, are all the good viewing spots taken by then? At what point do they actually post which bands will be performing?

Times: I must be blind... I can find the dates but not the times the park is open! How late does Zilker Park stay open?

We are going to try to find a hotel right in town so we can walk to the free shuttle(I realize we have to book very soon). If we can%26#39;t, how hard will it be to depend on taxi%26#39;s and is there a web site that posts rates?

Also, what is the best way to get to a hotel from the airport if we do not get a rental car? Is there a shuttle or is taxi the best way?

Thanks for any and all responses, this is a little overwhelming having never attended and not knowing anyone who has!

ACL 2009 advise, please

Wow. Lots of questions!

I%26#39;ve been there the last several years, but have never bought the VIP tickets. It%26#39;s a BIG jump in price for a few extra comforts. I do think they%26#39;re including preferred parking with the VIP this year, but if you%26#39;re not planning on having a rental (really no need) there%26#39;s not much added benefit to this. The VIP area is not where you can see the stages. The last few years it%26#39;s been off to the back side, kind of between 2 stages, but not where you can see them.

Currently 3-day passes on are on sale. If you plan to attend the entire festival, this is normally a better buy. Single day tickets go on sale after they announce the line-up. The line-up is to be announced April 28. With the 3-day passes you can leave %26amp; return, with single day tickets, once you%26#39;re in you need to stay.

I can%26#39;t remember what time the park opens in the morning (I%26#39;m thinking 10 or 11), but the last show is over at 10PM (sound ordinance).

The bands are generally scheduled as you say, with the big names later in the day. However, I know there%26#39;s always bands I want to see at 2PM. It also always starts with Asleep at the Wheel around noon on Friday.

The benefit to arriving early is you can try to set up a ';base camp'; in the shade. There are several areas with trees near the main stages. I take an old blanket, set it down and leave it for the day.

If you can get a hotel just south of the river from downtown (around Congress %26amp; Riverside) you should be able to walk to/from the festival. The shuttle buses are efficient, but there%26#39;s 60,000 people trying to leave the park at the same time. If you%26#39;re downtown, and not too far north of 6th street, walking is also a possibility.

For hotel/airport taxi may be your best bet. There is a city bus that runs from the airport to downtown (depending on where you end up with lodging). Depending on how many are in your group, Super Shuttle is also an option. Once you figure out where you%26#39;re going to stay, go to …austin.tx.us/austinairport/transportation.h… to see what your options are.

ACL 2009 advise, please

They did change the festival to October in hopes the weather will be cooler. If you do not get under a tree and you melt in heat, you may want to spend the extra $ for VIP. I have friends who have done this and the VIP is a welcome respite if it%26#39;s 100 degrees out. You get a special badge and that provides access to the VIP tents. I believe they have food and stuff available in the tents.

The big bands play in the evening, usually they close the show. There are a lot of really good bands that play during the day. If it%26#39;s hot out, it%26#39;s not going to cool down that much in the evening. They%26#39;ll post the band times well before the festival, you%26#39;ll have plenty of time to figure out who you want to see.

They have a place to stand in line and catch a taxi. We%26#39;ve done both (taxi and bus). The lines take about the same length of time. However, if you need a taxi from the bus dropoff point, that%26#39;s a little tougher.

I don%26#39;t think VIP is worth the extra bucks. The big disappointment about them is that they do NOT give you stage seating. There are seats to the side of all the stages, but the are reserved for the sponsors (I assume) NOT VIP ticket holders.

Setting up ';camp'; is great advice. A larger group of folks (say six or more) make this much easier, that way someone can stay with your stuff, though I have left chairs unattended and had no problem. Try to find a place near a stage and that will be in the shade in the afternoon.

Free bus service is great. Though, If I didn%26#39;t have a car, I%26#39;d probably use a taxi, at least for the ride back. Another tactic is to leave about the time the last big act starts (usually not a problem for me.)

The other and biggest piece of advice I can give is to take care of your feet! Prepare like you are going on a long hike - socks that will wick moisture away from your feet. Good supportive shoes. It is very easy to get blisters.

THanks for your replies and suggestions! I think the VIP would be a waste of money. We are looking at the Homestead because of locaion. Any comments about that motel?

The lineup will be posted on April 28.

Splashtown Spring - Horrible

We bought season passes to Splashtown in Spring, Texas and went on 05/12. It was so crowded that we could not move. We didn%26#39;t even ride one ride due to the lines. As we were leaving (after only staying 2 hours), we counted the number of school buses in the parking lot. We stopped counting at 87. That%26#39;s right, there were probably 100 school buses of kids in the park, not to mention the individual families that attended. A fistfight broke out right near our chairs and there was tons of foul language being used. The cost of food was incredible.... a small sausage on a stick was $6 and a small dippin dots (about 1/3 to 1/2 cup%26#39;s worth) was $5. Locker rental was $9 and then if you really wanted to be able to use a tube you had to rent one. We will not be going back and will be demanding a refund for our money. Greed has overtaken Splashtown and capacity control is out the window.

Splashtown Spring - Horrible

Sorry to hear your experience was horrible. I went to their website and found that they were having a high school music festival the weekend that you were there. Splashtown is no longer a Six Flags property either, and I wonder how much that could have affected things.

For future Splashtowners...look at their website to check for events www.splashtownpark.com/calender.php.

Also, if you have younger kids, I hear the Adventure Bay, off the Southwest Freeway somewhere, is more family friendly than Splashtown

Splashtown Spring - Horrible

I looked at the calendar on the website as you offered, and I saw nothing about some event going on for the kids. I did however see that this weekend they%26#39;re having a Christian Lock in, this might be something more appropriate for the kids if your concern is the foul language and the fighting. I myself hate being in a crowd and paying 30.00 and not being able to ride a ride. I%26#39;ll have to check out Adventure Bay, but Splashtown should have some rules against the fighting, and should have some type of occupancy limit.

do you know where I can find discount tickets on nice for splashtown?

I had a horrible experience at Splashtown this weekend (8/11). The power went out in Spring and everyone had to get out of the water. It would not have been as bad but no one could retrieve their items out of the lockers since they are electronic. We waited almost an hour and a half to get our items out of the locker. Worst of all, one of the lifeguards stood on top of a table laughing that she was ';going to have to have a picture of this';........of all of the 50-70 people standing outside of the locker room in the 100 degree weather while she is going at it with her digital camera. Would not to expereince this again.

Absolutely horrible!

My family have been season pass holders for 6 years. we go every Sunday after church. There is never a huge crowd, the rides are very accessible. Maybe instead of bashing a place after one trip you should give them another try and take into consideration it%26#39;s one of the only water parks around and Saturdays are a prime day for crowds AYWHERE. We pack a picnic lunch and after a couple hours of rides we go out and eat and rest. We enjoy every trip we take and our family looks forward to it all year.

colon cleansing

2 airports, 1 hotel

We have international visitors flying into Houston--George Bush Int on Air France, staying overnight, and flying onward early the next morning from Hobby--Southwest Airlines. Can anyone recommend a good hotel that would have complimentary transportation to and from both airports?

2 airports, 1 hotel

Apparently there are no complementary transportation that serves both airport. Those that do are hotels near the airports, but the airports are on opposite ends of each other.

Your best bet would be to take SuperShuttle to either a hotel in the Galleria or Texas Medical Center from IAH, and then call them to take you to HOU the next morning.

2 airports, 1 hotel

None of Houston%26#39;s hotels will meet your needs, unless your visitors are Rock Stars, and since Rock Stars rarely fly on Southwest . . .

If the visitors are comfortable driving a rental car, then that will be the most economical local transportation. Most of the large rental companies allow pick up at IAH and drop at HOU without any additional charges. If not, local transport options are taxis, car service, Shuttle or public bus. Public bus is only recommended for experienced and mobile travelers.

Best option is to stay in central Houston if the visitors have an interest in exploring restaurants, the movies or the theatre the day of arrival. Taxi trips from there to HOU take about 40 minutes %26amp; rental car drive and drop takes 60 minutes.

If visitors just want a hotel to sleep that afternoon and evening, another option is the Houston Hobby Marriott Hotel on the South (I45) Freeway. There is little nearby entertainment here for visitors, but the hotel has an adequate restaurant and also has a shuttle bus to HOU.

Ditto with the above post. Best is to rent a car - other than that - well same as what he said.

school myspace

Breakfast in Houston

We are going to be up in Houston for an Astros game Saturday night, staying near Minute Maid and looking for a good place for breakfast Sunday on the way out of town. Not IHOP, nice.

Breakfast in Houston

I can only think of LaPeep as a %26#39;breakfast%26#39; place, but I have heard a lot of good places such as the Four Seasons (Quattro) and Breakfast Klub (on Travis) mentioned here. I am sure others with first hand expereience will give their input.

Breakfast in Houston

You can take MetroRail to BreakfastKlub, which is very good, especially their chicken %26amp; waffles! The lines maybe long, but worth it. Also, Saturday mornings there%26#39;s a Farmer%26#39;s Market there which have some good treats and stuff.

You can pick up the Preston or Main Street Square station and take it to Ensemble/HCC Station. When you get off at Ensemble, just spot the people and cars parked on the side of the Continental Club.

Bistro Calais has a great Sunday brunch from 11am-2:30pm. Their salmon and made-to-order crepes are delicious. They also have traditional breakfast items. http://www.bistrocalais.com/

Riverwalk

Will the Riverwalk have anything extra for this Fiesta 2009?

Riverwalk

That%26#39;s a pretty loaded question - Tonight there was a parade on the river - somewhere around 200 thousand people. Part of Night In Old San Antonio (NIOSA) is on the river.

For Fiesta information, you best bet is www.fiesta-sa.org/

Riverwalk

There are usually mariahci groups from the various schools floating-playing on the river barges..a few blocks away is NIOSA...a Night in Old San Antonio..lots of different types of food...lots of people!! Tues-Fri evenings

.....

If you are not staying downtown already, then I would suggest taking park and ride from the San Antonio bus system.

.....

Along the RW there will be Fiesta activity %26amp; of course Fiesta spirit. You should check out the website that Octoboy gave you, it has lots of info.

We will be there on a Saturday. I am getting the impression there won%26#39;t be anything extra on Saturday?

You are correct about Saturday. That is the night parade.

Yes Saturday is the Flambeau Parade know as the parade of lights it starts at 7:45 but the Junior Vanguard begins at 7:00 pm. There will be thousands of people at the parade so the downtown street will be crowded %26amp; lots of street will be closed for the parade.

Have a great visit in SA!!!!!!

Specifically on the RW itself there are no extra activites..just people in a festive mood...bring/wear your most colorful clothing! find an old at and decorate it in some fashion...

There are plenty of activites going on dowtnwon all day Saturday.

Dallas in Sep

Hi guys any help appreciated! I and a few mates thinking about visiting Dallas in Sep we are all 23 years old and looking to have a good laugh. Does Dallas have a good nightlife scene or is it better maybe to go nearer to a university?

Thanks

Dallas in Sep

The Knox-Henderson/Uptown areas are fairly close to SMU. Lower Greenville is also a fairly walkable bar area.

If you are in Dallas from September 25- October 18, check out the Stae Fair of Texas, lots of fun.

If you haven%26#39;t settled on Dallas as your destiination, check out Austin and Fort Worth as alternatives- lots of things to do, live music, bars/restaurants in easily walkable areas.

Best Park for a Couple to Hike

My boyfriend and I will be visiting Austin over Memorial Day weekend. We%26#39;d love to spend an afternoon hiking and having a picnic lunch, etc...What is the best area to do that? I know there are many different hiking trails, but we are looking for something a little more rugged and natural. Thanks!

Best Park for a Couple to Hike

There are so many... Maybe Hamilton Pool, since you will be on a bit of a date? The main attraction there is, of course, the pool itself, but there are also some nice trails.

Best Park for a Couple to Hike

I%26#39;m assuming you%26#39;ll have a car?

www.texasoutside.com/austinparks.htm

This should be a good web site for you to find some hiking. Enchanted Rock is one of my favorite parks/hikes.

Welcome to Austin!

Commons Ford Park...shh its my secret!

wildtexas.com/texas-parks/commons-ford-park-…

which hotel for first timers -watermark or la mansion del ri

Two 50 year old ';young'; married couple going away together--I have narrowed my choices down to La mansion and the Watermark.--here is what I am thinking: la mansion is romantic and has charmed as a ';older'; hotel--but with that I know it can

broken down (I hate old bad bathrooms)--have a riverview --but I think its only a stand at the doorway.--Watermark has seats outside with the riverside view--and its bathrooms are new and beautiful. --But it misses the charmed of the historic older hotel.---anybody stay in either one to give ideas to me.--we dont go away that much so I want it nice for my husband and I.

which hotel for first timers -watermark or la mansion del ri

Have you considered Hotel Valencia..The two Hotels you mentioned were better before Omni took them over..You have pointed out the differences in the two Hotels yourself..Depends what you would prefer..Both are fine Hotels with the La Mansion a little dated(A grand dame in her time)..

which hotel for first timers -watermark or la mansion del ri

As you said they are both very nice but it does depend on your personal preference %26amp; which meets your criteria better.

I do feel that Wathermark has the better spa, it%26#39;s superb, just love it. It%26#39;s also consider the 50th best hotel in the country. It has a beautiful marble bathroom %26amp; a jacuzzi tub with a separate shower.

The Mansion del Rio has been recently renovated in Sept 2007 which also has a marble bathroom with antique style furnishing, the balcony has insulated double paned glass doors. They have an excellent restaurant Las Canarias that has a Sunday champagne brunch.

They both have a great location on the river %26amp; great hotel amenities %26amp; superior service so you can%26#39;t go wrong with either so it all depends on which meets your personal preference better. No wrong choice here!!!!!

Which one gives you a better price maybe could be the deciding factor if nothing else.

BTW here is the website for both to see which may meet your criteria better.

The Watermark www.watermarkhotel.com

La Mansion www.omnihotels.com

Also a website that has hot Hotel deal is

www.visitSanAntonio.com click on SAVE then hotels for some great rates.

blackheads

no head control

Drury Inn or Plaza for fiesta?

Hi ----

I made reservations for this Friday through Sunday before I realized the Fiesta was going on. I know the Inn is more in the middle of things than the Plaza, which normally appeals to us. Will the fiesta make it too crazy? Also, should I be lining up restaurant reservations? We arrive around 3:00PM on Friday. Will we have difficulty driving to our hotel?

Thanks!

Drury Inn or Plaza for fiesta?

Friday 3:00 pm should be towards the end of the parade. It will be crowded but not super crazy. There are a lot of visitors so if a restaurant accepts them I%26#39;d make %26#39;em. Fiesta is spread out so there are areas of town that will relatively quiet. There are also some events that are more subdued.

I like the Pooch Parade and King William Fair

Check out the website www.fiesta-sa.org/

Drury Inn or Plaza for fiesta?

The riverwalk and Fiesta are two different worlds. If you are on the riverwalk, you almost will not note the Fiesta events on street level....as mentioned, if they accept reservations, it would be good but, don%26#39;t sweat it, I think you%26#39;ll be okay.

...

You should take your time getting downtown. I would probably not attempt getting downtown before 5. The parade will be over but there will be some residual traffic and the cleaning of the parade route.

...

mind you, on Saturday night%26#39;s parade you%26#39;ll be among 400-500,000 people...so, keep a tab on everyone but enjoy....there will be grandstands (ticket) in Alamo Plaza or you can stand and watch the parade.

(again, if you are on the Riverwalk Saturday night..there is almost no sense of a parade going a few blocks away- it might be an advantage to visit the RW then)

.....

On Saturday morning there is the King William Fair. If you dislike crowds I would not suggst it. The morning parade will be throngs of people. I would suggest visiting the fair on Sat. afternoon..there is some entertainment, jazz etc..some junk food, artist type vendors and the best thing is walking around the old German neighborhood looking at the historic house. (Sunday would be good-breakfast at the Gunther house...the area will still have remnants of food booths etc on the street but still worth a visit to the neighborhood?

The RW won%26#39;t be to bad due to the fiesta is on the streets %26amp; carnival is at Alamodome so you should be fine but there will be lots of people in the downtown area due to Fiesta. The Battle of Flower parade will be over around 3 so you%26#39;ll have the traffic that is leaving the area %26amp; some street still close due to clean up of the parade but overall it should be ok.

10th street river festival

Does any one know what this 10th street river festival will be like?

10th street river festival

www.vfwpost76.org/index.php…

The location is the site of the oldest VFW post in TEXAS.

There is no admission so maybe worth a look. Mostly bands for entertainment, patio area...A neighborly atmosphere..just not sure how much there would be for children or teens to do.

10th street river festival

This is a GREAT old VFW very friendly. It%26#39;s only a couple of blocks from the parade route. I like that whole general are for watching the parade - it%26#39;s near the beginning.

It%26#39;s a nice place to hang out %26amp; to listen to the bands %26amp; try different food at the food booths a simple event.

smoke free apartment

My husband is going to a new job at Fort Hood, and I will not be able to join him except for visits for awhile due to elder care. We are both extremely sensitive to smoke. Does anyone know of apartments with smoke free buildings? Up to 30 or so miles away is acceptable...even more if necessary. Alas, Austin is too far. Tons of smoke free complexes there!

Planning a San Antonio weekend gettaway - help!

My boyfriend and I are 24 years old and we enjoy wine, great food, the Riverwalk, and we%26#39;d like to visit the Botannical Gardens and SA Zoo.

1.) Where the the best hotel for the price on the Riverwalk? (We are looking to spend no more than $100 per night on Priceline) Westin, Watermark, and Contessa look nice - but yikes!!!

2.) We%26#39;d like to know about the best happy hour deals at hotels and areas on the Riverwalk, please!

3.) Restaurant recommendations for lunch/dinner?

4.) How far is the Riverwalk from both the Botannical Gardens and Zoo?

Thanks in advance. I really appreciate your help!

Planning a San Antonio weekend gettaway - help!

The Hyatt Regency has recently been gotten with a Priceline bid of $70.00, Hilton Palacio del Rio $88.00, Omni La Mansion $105.00 and Marriott RiverCenter for $75.00. These are all very recent bids. It all depends upon the dates you will be visiting...Go to www.biddingfortravel.com to check Riverwalk hotels which provide rooms to Priceline and recent successful bids. You can also research bidding strategies. San Antonio DE%26#39;s can best answer your other questions.

Planning a San Antonio weekend gettaway - help!

Thanks, I actually ended up getting Hyatt Regency for $99, hope it%26#39;s nice! Appreciate the response. Anyone know of any good dining on the Riverwalk?

We just came back from our first trip to San Antonio. If you like Italian food, we had a really good dinner at Paesanos on the River Walk.

The Zoo and Botanical Gardens are about 3 miles from downtown. Follow Broadway north for about 3 miles, zoo on left, Gardens to the right.

Thank you guys, I%26#39;m so excited about this weekend. Anyone have any fav restaurants? I heard Budro%26#39;s on Riverwalk is good. Happy hour recommendations for Saturday?

Don%26#39;t think there are man happy hours on the weekend. Exception - Silo has $5 specialty drinks and appetizers www.siloelevatedcuisine.com but it%26#39;s not downtown.

You do know that you%26#39;re going to be in the middle of Fiesta?! Fun and interesting if you%26#39;re in the right frame of mind. King William Fair and Saturday%26#39;s evening parade would be suggestions, but there%26#39;s tons more check out www.fiesta-sa.org/

From my list of Restaurants, here%26#39;re some downtown ar close:

Boudro%26#39;s - best food on the Riverwalk, get the guacamole made at your table

Rosarios - Mexican close to the Riverwalk, a SA institution.

Taco Haven - Tex-Mex, a lunch favorite, try Ralphies Special - shredded chicken on a soft corn tortilla topped with shredded cabbage and fresh lemon.

Casbeers - Hamburgers, Enchiladas, Live music, great venue

Schilos - German Deli just off the Riverwalk, Daily plate specials, homemade root beer.

Guenther House - great breakfasts featuring Pioneer Mill products

Mad Hatters - In King William area - sandwiches, flavored teas, great spot for Sunday morning

Blue Star - brew pub and grub. Interesting galleries in the same complex.

Caparelli%26#39;s On Main - great Italian, lunch specials with linen napkins and table cloths.

Justin%26#39;s On Main - mom and pop gellato

Liberty Bar - great bread and interesting twists on classics. Great bar, only place where I can get my single village Mescal

Josephine Street Cafe - our first choice for a great reasonably priced steak. We always get the wilted salad with our steak

La Frite Belgian Bistro - Great mussels and fries in the Southtown area

Oh gosh I had no idea I booked during Fiesta. Lack of research, lol. Is it going to be a mad house down there? I guess I have no choice I booked with Priceline. Thank you for the restaurant recommendations!

I would embrace it - check out the web site. Wander around and check out the festivities.

Are you going to be there? I%26#39;m 24 so I%26#39;m sure it will be fun, I also like live jazz. Thanks again, you%26#39;ve been so helpful!!

If you like jazz here is a couple places to check it out for jazz!!!!!

Jim Cullum%26#39;s Landing at the Hyatt Regency

Delores del Rio has jazz music as well

If you are looking for a fun place to hang out you may want to check out Howl at the Moon www.howlatthemoon.com

If you want an excellent meal with superior service %26amp; a gorgeous spectacular view of SA at dusk go up the Tower of the Americas www.toweroftheamericas.com

For lunch try Boudro%26#39;s www.boudros.com %26amp; have the guacamole prepared tableside with a prickly pear margarita or go to La Margarita www.lamargarita.com or go to the Republic of Texas Restaurant bar on the RW which can be fun.

For some excellent Mexican food that%26#39;s more authentic try Piedras Negras De Noche at 1312 S. Laredo the food is something else %26amp; so many great choices %26amp; well worth the trip. It%26#39;s just a couple blocks from the downtown area, not really walkable but a short drive.

Where to buy Cowboy boots?

Any good tips on where to get a pair of cowboy boots? My sister has her heart set on a pair. We are near Riverwalk, and we have a car. We%26#39;ll be heading to Austin over the weekend if that would be a beter bet.

Thanks!

Where to buy Cowboy boots?

There are a couple of places where you can buy cowboy boots to take with you.

I believe there is 1 in the Rivercenter Mall which may be a little expansive due to it caters to tourist. www.shoprivercenter.com

There are 3 Cavender%26#39;s in SA that are more reasonable here is the website to check them out plus you can put SA in locator%26#39;s to find the locations or if you want I can list them for you. There is one on IH 35 which you%26#39;ll go by if you are going to Austin plus 2 on the NW of SA. www.cavenders.com

There is a Sheplers that also has good choices. You can locate by locator%26#39;s or ask %26amp; I can get you the address. www.sheplers.com

If you are looking for Custom Made just ask %26amp; I get you info on that as well.

Have a great visit in SA %26amp; PLEASE write a TR when you get back %26amp; let us know how it went %26amp; if you got the boots you wanted.???

Where to buy Cowboy boots?

The best off the rack boot are Lucchese. Company store at The Quary Market, sold at other store too.

Cavenders +1, numerous locations in SA and AUS..location at outlet mall (San Marcos) in b/w SA/AUS

....

Shepler%26#39;s is also in Austin

...

selection at Rivercenter mall is very small and over priced

Luch. boots if you are wanting more expensive/ something more exotic

.....

in Austin, there is Allen%26#39;s Boots

allensboots.com

north and a south location

......

just for grin%26#39;s you should stop by Paris Hatters

downtown..at the beginning of Broadway.

';Family owned and operated since 1917, Paris Hatters is world famous for our expertise in providing quality custom-fitted and custom-shaped hats.';

http://www.parishatters.com/indexie.html

Their is a Shepler%26#39;s in SA as well on the NW by Ingram Park Mall %26amp; a Cavender%26#39;s is also out in that area plus other areas.

definitely Lucchese.

I cannot thank you guys enough for your advice! I ended up searching Cavenders and found that there was one sort of on our way from SA to Austin.

We typed the address in to the GPS and we were off! Only the GPS took us to the South East 410 Loop address and not North West 410 Loop! GPS took us to a field... our fault for not double checking that it understood our directions.

Thankfully we were able to borrow some wifi in a medical parking lot and used my laptop to find directions to the North West 410 Loop. After a half hour of driving we got there.

Cavenders was great. The woman who sold us the boots, Jeri, was very friendly and extremely knowledgeable. Much too knowledgeable for us city girls :) Anyway we found a pair my sister liked and she bought them.

Here is a photo of her and her boots. (She did not wear her $10 Riverwalk cowboy hat into the store ;)

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Thank you guys again for your suggestions. We both really appreciate it.

I%26#39;ll try to write up a full trip report soon...

Glad you found what you where looking in boots but sorry to hear that you took a long drive to get there that was out of the way but I guess you got to see a different part of SA.

Will be waiting patiently for your trip report, can%26#39;t wait!!!!!!

Your sister looks very happy with her boots.

web hosting sites

A fantastic trip to Fredericksburg!!

Hi everyone,

My husband, I and our little girl took a 3 days trip to Fredericksburg last week. It was one of the most wonderful vacations we%26#39;ve ever had. The town was historic yet so full of life. Loved the main street and its boutique shops. There is plenty to do for age type.

We ate at the Auslander, loved its Ruben sandwich,Silver creek, Fredericksburg brewing company and Bejas. Bejas has an awesome patio and food was great.

We visited Woodrose winery and Beckers. They both were different but we loved both of them. People at Woodrose were very friendly and served wine in their wooden patio.My little girl enjoyed the Wild seed farm. Its a must for everyone. It was beautiful!!

I was so excited to be there that I wanted to buy a home in Fredericksburg !! lol

Thanks to all the forum guys who helped me plan a lovely trip specially %26#39;Lemma%26#39; we took your advice and went 281 instead of I-35 it was worth it. Did stop at Marble Falls to eat at the blue bonnet cafe.

Would go back again there is still a lot to do.

A fantastic trip to Fredericksburg!!

So glad your trip turned out well. Sounds like your took full advantage of being there for a short trip. The drive down 281 and the stop at BBC are well worth it!

blackheads

Precruise during Mardi Gras - with kids

I have been reading all about the different hotels and areas (strand..seawall..etc) in Glaveston. We are 3 families, with 3 kids total, coming in for a cruise out of Galveston in Feb. 2010. We usually like to be in the middle of everything - will not have a car. That being said, I am usually partial to Hilton and another family partial to Marriott brands.

With the festivities going on, is it worth the Wyndham? The Hilton Galveston resort - how far is this from the parades and %26#39;excitement%26#39; in general?

My son is the youngest at 6 so we plan to enjoy a day at the Houston NASA museum and then head to Galveston for another night. Will get any sleep with all the revelers that weekend?? :-)

Precruise during Mardi Gras - with kids

There are 2 Wyndham properties in Galveston, The Tremont and the Hotel Galvez.

The Tremont is located in the Strand, the Galvaz is on the Seawall. The Hilton is also on the Seawall.

If you want it quieter, avoid the Strand area.

There are trolley buses that run along the tourist areas, so getting around shouldn%26#39;t be too big a problem.

Precruise during Mardi Gras - with kids

How %26#39;far%26#39; is the HIlton from the Strand area? The trolleys runs there too? Are there nice places to eat or shop or things to see around the Hilton area? I understand it will not be beach weather and we will not have a car so want to make sure we are close to things. Many thanks!

Here is information on the trolley system, along with a map showing the route.

http://www.galveston.com/galvestontrolley/

There are all kinds of restaurants around the Hilton. Not certain what is around for entertainment, you%26#39;ll probably find more to do around the Strand or in the historic areas.

Galveston.com is also a good place to find things to do, etc.

Bad areas of Killeen, Texas

I just stayed at the Best Western on E. Veteran%26#39;s Memorial Hwy in Killeen, Texas. There%26#39;s nothing like being woken up at 3 a.m. by the sound of gunfire. I called down to the front desk, but no one answered. So I called 9-1-1. I went out and met the police and we noticed that there was no one in the management office--despite the claim that someone is on the premisis 24/7. The officer told me that this part of Killeen is pretty bad. She said that the better part of the town is along the 190 Freeway..near the Killeen Mall. Ironically, this is where I was slated to move, as the Best Western was booked for the remainer of my three-week stay.

Bad areas of Killeen, Texas

Yeah, that whole area around the Rancier/Veterans Memorial area isn%26#39;t the greatest. During the day it%26#39;s not too bad but at night it%26#39;s best to stay away from those parts.

Bad areas of Killeen, Texas

great please let me kno what im goin to im off to killeen on may 5th never been b4 but my mate is posted at fort hood at the moment im going for a week im staying at the rodeway inn please someone let me know what its like thankyou

Salado, TX B&B's

Ive read some nasty stuff about hotels and dining in Salado . Can anyone recommend somewhere great to stay and a half way decent dinner place?

Salado, TX B%26amp;B's

We really enjoyed this B%26amp;B:

http://www.innatsalado.com/

Can%26#39;t remember the name of the restaurant we liked, but it was Mexican food in an old house on top of a hill.

Salado is a pretty cool town -- enjoy!

Salado, TX B%26amp;B's

How about this place?

http://www.therangerestaurant.com/

The Mexican restuarant on the hill might be the Salado Mansion... does that sound about right?

You will find beautiful little separate cottages and native landscape at Stonecreek Settlement (stonecreeksettlement.com). The Inn on the Creek has historic buildings right on Salado Creek. Treat yourself to a gormet dinner at Inn on The Creek on Friday or Saturday evening. Make a reservation! The Range is a Top Ten Restaurant by Texas Monthly. The Ambrosia Tea room is a great place for homemade soups and to die for desserts (lunch and tea time only).

Unfortunately, the Mexican food restaurant on the hill, The Mansion is closed due to retirement.

Don%26#39;t know if this infor is too late for you, but Johnny%26#39;s Bar-B-Q on the west side of I35 has good food, and great breakfasts. May not be ';heart-healthy'; but sure is good We also like the Limestone Cafe for breakfast IF it%26#39;s still open--do know it was for sale in the past. Can%26#39;t help with accomodations--we always stayed at my parents%26#39; house when there.

Do not let some of the negative comments discourage you. We have made numerous day trips to Salado and have also stayed at some of the B %26amp; B%26#39;s.

It has always been worth while. Our favorite places to eat are Cathy%26#39;s Cafe for lunch and Stagecoach Inn for dinner. Johnny%26#39;s is another good spot for casual lunch or dinner. The Range is great for special occations. The Inn at Salado has the best location. That would be our choice for where to stay. It is very old and has a great history. The rooms are clean and the breakfast can keep you going through lunch.

We ate at The Inn on the Creek last night. Excellent food. My sister stayed there for her honeymoon. Only good things to report.

I haven%26#39;t been to the Stagecoach in several years because it seemed to have gone downhill. Funny thing is my husband was a bus boy there about 25 years ago...his stories weren%26#39;t as bad as the one I just read. Glad to hear that the new owners are trying hard to improve.

Salado is a great little town. Enjoy!!

The Range has good food too!

Just stayed at the Yellow House B%26amp;B. Cathy was a fantastic hostess, and an incredible cook! Very nice and quiet, since it is a couple miles outside of town. Back porch with rockers, gliders and hammocks on the property. Homemade cookies when we arrived. Coffee/tea/soft drinks plus snacks available 24/7.

Dallas or Fort Worth as a base?

Hi folks

We are looking at a four night stay in either Dallas or Fort Worth as part of a longer US trip in Sept/Oct this year. Can I get some thoughts about which of these two places would be the best bet to make a base? (We%26#39;d plan to take the train (Trinity Railway Express?) from one to the other as a day trip depending on where we stay).

We won%26#39;t have car until the day we leave, and on our ';must do'; list is 6th Floor Museum and related stuff, Cowgirl Hall of Fame, and Stockyards area. Not really interested in rodeos or cattle drives (have em here!)

Would also welcome some suggestions as to accommodation. As we will have been away for a while we%26#39;d also ideally like to find somewhere where you can cook an evening meal, but realise that these types of self catering places are scarce in the US. Alternatively, somewhere where you can walk out to a good choice of casual (not fast food) restaurants or bars would be great.

I guess I should repeat this post on the Dallas Forum!

Many thanks.

Dallas or Fort Worth as a base?

I suggest staying in Fort Worth since the Sundance Square area does have more easily accessed food/bar options. As you mention, you can take the TRE over and explore Sixth Floor, downtown, etc- but NOT on Sunday.

www.sundancesquare.com

Look at Embassy Suites for more of a ';kitchenette'; option- only microwave and refrigerator, no stove, but a nice place, includes breakfast and managers reception.

In Dallas, Springhill Suites in the West End also has more of a kitchenette type set up but again, no stove.

Dallas or Fort Worth as a base?

I also rec Ft Worth as your base as opposed to Dallas. If you stay in Sundance Sq, you%26#39;d be very near the TRE-walking distance since it%26#39;s downtown. Sundance has cool shops and several dining options including Mi Cocina which is quite good Mexican food and the Reatta which is Texas cuisine in a slightly upscale way-but not too fancy to enjoy. Uno%26#39;s has very good pizza, The Fox and the Hound Pub has good bar food and lots of TV%26#39;s for sports viewing, Billy Miners has good burgers and cold beer, The Flying Saucer has tons of beers to choose from as well as good bar snacks and a great patio.

You can easily cab to the Stockyards where you should check out Billy Bob%26#39;s as well as the shops. My fav place in the Stockyards is the Bull Ring, it%26#39;s the best Texas art collection and has cheap cold beer as well as great ice cream-A.C. and his daughter Charlene run it and they%26#39;re very interesting folks. Riscky%26#39;s barbeque isn%26#39;t the best but the food is good and they have a great patio and cold beer in the Stockyards with a relaxing atmosphere. The Love Shack has good burgers and is a great place for a beer, some people watching and some live music on a pretty Saturday afternoon.

Just SW of downtown Ft Worth is the museum district with the Modern as well as the Kimball and the Amon Carter (mostly Texas and Western art); just a short cab ride away. On the way back to downtown from there is Montgomery Plaza with Gloria%26#39;s central American food and Boomerjack%26#39;s sports grill with great steak fingers (a Texas tradition).

Ft Worth also has a great zoo, lovely botanical gardens, and Trinity Park very near downtown. There%26#39;s a kiddie train (that will hold adults, too) that goes from the bottom of the hill by the zoo into Trinity park where you can walk across University to the botanical gardens and then walk back to the park and ride it back to the zoo if you%26#39;re into an outdoors day.

Have a great trip!

Fort Worth is my suggestion too. However I would avoid the Omni. Just stayed there this past weekend %26amp; I was not impressed. If you decide to stay somewhere in between I highly recommend the Gaylord in Grapevine.

Considering what you%26#39;re looking for I%26#39;d say Fort Worth/Sundance Square as well. I%26#39;m a ';Dallas first'; guy when it comes to my entertainment options. I just think it%26#39;s more sophisticated. Like I tell people '; I live in Denton, office in Fort Worth, and party in Dallas';.

That being said, Saturday night my wife and I had dinner ad Cafe Italia in Grapevine, had wine and dessert at Into the Glass also in Grapevine, looked at our entertainment options and went to Scat%26#39;s jazz club in Sundance Square and had a great time. Just walking around Sundance on a Saturday night is a heck of a lot of fun. Good steet scene. Well patrolled. Lots of options for dining, drinks, even entertainment. Dallas simply has nothing quite like it.

Sundance Square is WAY underappreciated by the Dallas set.

Well said, dentonjohn. I like to encourage folks to visit both Dallas and Fort Worth. I believe Dallas downtown has come a long way and don%26#39;t think Deep Ellum is dead- just revamping. However, Fort Worth and Sundance Square offers so much for such a small area- it%26#39;s what most visitors hope to experience when asking about bars/restaurants/entertainment in an easily accessible, walkable area. When I lived in Tarrant county, I was amazed at folks from Fort Worth who NEVER visited Dallas and people in Dallas who would NEVER drive all the way to Cowtown- what missed opportunities!

Thanks to everyone who answered...sounds like Fort Worth close to Sundance Square (always liked Butch Cassidy and the Kid!) is the best bet.

Now that that%26#39;s sorted, any suggestions for accommodation...since the Aussie dollar went south, i guess we%26#39;d be looking for something under $200 US. A place with a kitchenette would be a bonus.

Many thanks!..

Rates will mostly depend on when you travel but there are several places in downtown FW that are under $200. Sounds like your main decision will revolve around convenience, transporation and desire for a kitchenette.

A choice in the museum district, not far from downtown, in Trinity Park, is Residence Inn. They provide dishwasher,microwave oven, pots, pans, serving dishes, refrigerator with icemaker, silverware, stove, table and chairs, toaster and toaster oven.

marriott.com/hotels/travel/dfwrw-residence-i…

The kitchenette concept in downtown hotels has evolved more toward a microwave and a coffee maker- (maybe a small refrigerator- for a charge). Most motels with real kitchenettes are older, located on a highway and rent by the week/month.

In Fort Worth (and Dallas), your choices for downtown hotels will not involve a full kitchenettes. As previously mentioned, the Embassy Suites is nice. Check out Etta%26#39;s Place, a B%26amp;B, with several large rooms that have full sized refrigerators, sink area and microwave.

…hilton.com/en_US/es/hotel/FTWESES/index.do

www.ettas-place.com

Paying a little more to stay downtown would be worth it in my opinion, because there is so much to do and lots of good places to eat. Our public transportation leaves a lot to be desired, and cabs can get expensive. The Embassy Suites is pretty nice. The Marriott Courtyard next to it is overpriced in my opinion, for what you get.

Cabo Grande, Riscky%26#39;s, Corner Bakery, Billy Miner%26#39;s are all good places to eat close to there. 8.0 and Flying Saucer for bars.

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