Monday, August 29, 2016

San Antonio, Texas


I really enjoyed my time in San Antonio, Texas. I met a lot of wonderful people and I don’t say that about every place I visit. Southern hospitality really does exist. The people here are friendly whether you are coworkers, neighbors or just passing them on the street. San Antonio has over 1.4 million people in it yet, there is still a kind of small-town-feel to it. The traffic here is horrible but name a big city where traffic isn’t horrible. The people and culture are pleasantly diverse. One can pretty much be whatever they want in this city: a ballet dancer, a big-shot business man, a farmer, a trophy wife, a Mariachi singer… you name it and San Antonio has a place for you. The state itself is giant. One can fit most of Europe in it. The pride and patriotism here is unmatched. Apparently Texas is the only state in American allowed to fly their flag at the same height as our nation’s flag. (Who knew) The state itself however is “constantly trying to kill you” I once joked with my sister. Everything here is poisonous: snakes, bug, spiders, toads, scorpions even caterpillars and if the critters don’t get you the weather will. If it’s not flash flooding a monsoon then it’s 105 degrees of the most stale, stagnant heat I’ve ever experienced. Oh let’s not forget to mention the alligators and the flesh-eating bacteria in the local lakes and rivers. There’s a reason the saying “Texas Tough” exists. I also noted a high level of illiteracy here and the stray dog population was a bit astounding. But all the same, every city has a good and a bad side. Equality is the balance of life. I still really liked San Antonio. The Riverwalk, the Missions, the history, the Mexican food, the Retama Horse Park, the Majestic Theater and so much more. I had a wonderful time in San Antonio would recommend it as a place to visit.
(Music in video is "So Alive" by the Goo Goo Dolls)