Riverwalk San Antonio,Texas

Posted on January 26, 2014 by Nicki

Just down the road, as they say in San Antonio about Austin… and it is convenient.

Riverwalk Photo by Ncki Hurd

Going to the Riverwalk from ours is just a few turns and about one and a half hours travel time.

Grand Hyatt San Antonio, Texas Photo by Nicki Hurd

The Grand Hyatt was our accommodation this time. After dinner and cocktails the room was just a a lift away. Riverwalk’s convenience gives us a welcome break from driving in the Austin traffic.

Grand Hyatt San Antonio, Texas Photo by Andrew Leggett

A pool area on the 5th floor offers a view of the city at night. There are tenants on the upper floors. No roof access for hotel guests.

Riverwalk San Antonio, Texas Photo by Andrew Leggett

All of the eateries and hotels are close by, but we still managed to get a lot of steps in.

Riverwalk San Antonio, Texas Photo by Andrew Leggett

It is generally busy with tourists, but there are various retreats along the way.

Riverwalk San Antonio, Texas Photo by Andrew Leggett

Exploring historical hotels along the walk was part of the adventure.

Drury San Antonio, Texas Photo by Andrew Leggett

We inspected numerous rooftops, lounge areas, and holiday decor.

Hotel Photo by Nicki Hurd

Hemisphere Park is adjacent to the Riverwalk.

Hemisfair Park San Antonio, Texas Photo by Andrew Leggett

December 27 2013

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine: San Marcos, Texas

Posted on August 8, 2013 by Nicki

Just around the corner from Purgatory Creek Park, and it was nice and cool inside.

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Nicki Hurd

The atmosphere was simple but nice.

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Nicki Hurd

It appeared to be a family operated business.

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Nicki Hurd

I had a beef noodle dish…

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Andrew Leggett

Andrew had a curry…

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Andrew Leggett

The food was scrumptious…

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Nicki Hurd

The price was very agreeable…

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Andrew Leggett

And a very kitschy bog roll in the men’s room.

7-2013

San Marcos, Texas

Posted on August 7, 2013 by Nicki

Depending on your interest, San Marcos is known for its outlet malls- the University- or the spring fed river and 850 acres of natural areas.

Purgatory Creek Park Photo by Nicki Hurd

A sinkhole along the greenbelt caught our attention.

Purgatory Creek Park Photo by Nicki Hurd

It was bloody hot….

Purgatory Creek Natural Area Purgatory Creek Park Photo by Andrew Leggett

without sufficient shade…

Purgatory Creek Natural Area Purgatory Creek Park Photo by Andrew Leggett

an interesting bridge…

Purgatory Creek Natural Area Photo by Nicki Hurd

but we did not last long…

Purgatory Creek Natural Area Photo by Andrew Leggett

gave up and went to lunch….

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Nicki Hurd

at Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine…a good choice.

7-2013

San Marcos River: San Marcos, Texas

Posted on August 7, 2013 by Nicki

The river here is spring fed with clear water in most parts…making it a big attraction for fishing, boaters, tubers, and those that just want to float unencumbered.

San Marcos River Photo by Nicki Hurd

San Marcos river stretches for 75 miles and hundred of springs flowing into it keep it from drying up.

San Marcos River Photo by Nicki Hurd

It offers festive sections, serene quiet time, and a home to a few endangered species in the Aquarena Springs.

San Marcos River Photo by Nicki Hurd

The river water, a constant 72º felt wonderful, and a lovely variety of trees; anaqua, cottonwoods, mesquite, pecans, and sycamores shade the river and beyond.

San Marcos River Photo by Nicki Hurd

Although Andrews kayak was full of water after going through a rapid… and he sank down a long section instead of floating…it was a great adventure. We look forward to exploring more of the beautiful river.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar: Gruene, Texas

Posted on August 5, 2013 by Nicki

Below the Gruene Water Tower is the Gristmill, a historical landmark; formerly a cotton gin that processed the crops of the local farmers until 1922.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Andrew Leggett

It is always busy but the wait is never too long … and the beer garden under the oak trees has plenty of seats.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Nicki Hurd

The food is nice and the drinks are delicious!

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Andrew Leggett

We always sit among the trees on the multi-level terrace facing the Guadapule River.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Nicki Hurd

The company is invariably good.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Nicki Hurd

There are several great eateries in Gruene, but stopping here quickly became our tradition.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Nicki Hurd

7-2013

Gruene Apple B&B: Gruene Texas

Posted on August 4, 2013 by Nicki

The Breakfast was as delicious as the perfectly ripe Gruene Apple.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

It is not a historical inn but still charming and Gruene. A gourmet breakfast of more than you ever need to eat is presented by the Inn keepers, the family that build it.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

The kitchen is beautiful, and the room adjoining it looks over the back garden that leads to the river.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

The B&B has a nice balance of being serene but fun.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

Just steps from the town square, and on the Guadalupe river, makes it a perfect location.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

It is set up for adults only, allowing it to be quiet but still fun.

Gruene Apple B &B Photo by Nicki Hurd

The bottom floor has a movie theater and game room…

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

and also a sun room that faces the garden at the back over the river. The staff leave at 8:00pm and the first time we stayed here I went out to the car at night and did not take my room key (which also opens the front door) or mobile….luckily, there was someone playing in the game room that let me in. 😉

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

It has 14 rooms that are themed. Mimi’s Attic was available. We booked late and were happy to get one that had a balcony facing the river.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

Mimi’s is a bit festive for us…

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

but the Inn is well maintained and relaxing.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

It has a library.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

A pianola playing cues you that the complimentary wine is served in the lobby.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

We enjoyed our wine on the Lanai and look forward to the next time.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

7-2013

Gruene, Texas

Posted on August 3, 2013 by Nicki

Gruene is on the National Register of Historical Places just at the edge of New Braunfels. Founded in 1845 by a German immigrant called Ernst Gruene.

Gruene Mansion Inn Photo by Andrew Leggett

Ernst and his family built their home and many of the first buildings in Gruene . The Gruene Mansion was his son Henry’s house.

Gruene River Grill Photo by Andrew Leggett

We decided to visit for July 4th. Generally we are reluctant to venture out for the busy holiday but Gruene was an excellent choice for us; a great location, only one hour down the interstate from Austin, although, we took a little longer on the country roads from San Marcos after floating down the San Marcos River on kayaks.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Andrew Leggett

The family used a variety of architectural styles, and their constructions included the Gristmill, formally a cotton gin before it burned down, now functioning as a favorite restaurant of many, including us, and the Gruene Hall, still standing and maintaining its purpose as the local dance hall.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Andrew Leggett

The family and Gruene flourished, then struggled, but no unhappy ghosts linger here. It has returned to being a vibrant place. It has a historical but relaxed and easy feel to it… touristy without being too busy.

Since I first found Gruene myself, I stop in any chance I get when traveling by. We always eat at the Gristmill and stop at Winery on the Gruene to pick up a couple of bottles to support the local business.

Gruene River Grill Photo by Andrew Leggett

This time our first meal was at Gruene River Grill. It was very nice, not as busy as the Gristmill, a bit more expensive but not a problem for us, family friendly so not necessarily quieter…. and we ordered too much. Lovely space outside to recover in after.

Gruene River Grill Photo by Andrew Leggett

This was our second time staying at the Gruene Apple B&B.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

From the pool area we were able to see the New Braunfels fireworks. It was nice to relax and watch while avoiding the crowds and traveling.

New Braunfels Fireworks from The Gruene Apple B&B

The Gruene Apple is right on the edge of the town square…steps away but quieter and it is only for couples. We booked late but were lucky, Mimi’s Attic (the rooms have themes) a room with a balcony that faces the Guadalupe River was available.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

After a nights sleep we had a delicious breakfast and ventured to Landa Park in New Braunfels.

Landa Park New Braunfels Photo by Nicki Hurd

Made our way around by bicycle and train. The conductor did not seem to mind that our car’s bottom was sinking and scraping the tracks.

Landa Park New Braunfels Photo by Andrew Leggett

Beautiful birds were posing throughout the park.

Landa Park New Braunfels Photo by Andrew Leggett

After returning to the Gruene Apple…

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

we were greeted by an equally enchanting creature..

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

7-4-2013

Possum Kingdom Lake: Graford, Texas

Posted on June 3, 2013 by Nicki

The Cliffs Resort on the Lake Front was a nice stop for us on or way to Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

The Cliffs Resort on Possum Kingdom Lake Photo by Andrew Leggett

The drive from Austin on HWY 183 was pleasant. Mostly two lane highway filled with lengthy green grass and wildflowers with an occasional burnt tree standing among them making an interesting contrast. We wondered if they had been burned in controlled fires.

The Cliffs Resort Photo by Andrew Leggett

Our corner room at the inn was nice. It was lovely to eye the lake while perched on our balcony 200 feet about the water with a panoramic view. Well worth it to get a lake view room.

The Cliffs Resort Photo by Andrew Leggett

I was told the lake is 10 feet low this year, which is not surprising for Texas, a drought- ridden state. Bicycling during the day did not work out. It was sunny and in the 90°s during our visit. We tried the PK hike and bike trail but did not last long, and optioned to ride around the golf course in the evening. Another time of year perhaps.

The Cliffs Resort on Possum Kingdom Lake Photo by Andrew Leggett

Meals at Cliffs Chaparral Grille were nice and quiet, as we were nearly the only ones there. The food was good but not exceptional.

The Chaparral Grille at the Cliffs Resort Photo by Andrew Leggett

We ate at Selina’s on the peninsula. We were desperate for a/c after trying a ride. It felt good to be inside but the food was average Tex-Mex.

Possum Kingdom Lake Photo by Nicki Hurd

The drive around the lake was pleasant.

Possum Kingdom Lake Photo by Nicki Hurd

There was no shade around the lake to escape in after a swim so we took advantage of the pools at the Cliffs, which were nice.

The Cliffs Resort Photo by Andrew Leggett

To get some relief from the heat, it seems you would need to be out on a boat to make full use of the lake. The marina has a beach but we did not stay without shade to hover in.

The marina at the Cliffs Resort Photo by Nicki Hurd

We look forward to exploring the trails another time of year.

May 2013

Kayaking In Little Bay: Rockport- Fulton, Texas

Posted on September 17, 2012 by Nicki

We often cycle around the Key Allegro area when we visit, and this time it was nice to get a perspective from the water.

Key Allegro Canals Photo by Nicki Hurd

We parked on the outside of the gate of the parking lot to prevent our Kia from getting locked in at 5:00 pm, as instructed by Anna from Rockport Birding and Kayak Adventures, who was a great help. I was happy that clouds were overhead saving us from basting in the sun. After loading our water bottles in and carrying the kayaks into position to set off …. the local watching over the domain approached us to warn us that a storm was coming in and it would be best if we wait until it passes. He was getting frustrated between staying with the call on his mobile and convincing us. We waited out the storm, and were eager to set off once we returned and re-positioned the Kia

Key Allegro and Rockport Beach Park seperate Little Bay from Aransas Bay. It may have been quiet on the water because of the storm that had passed. We only encountered the power boats in the bay as the kayaks swept through the tranquil waterway across Little Bay to the canals. We stayed along the sides to avoid contact and the wake. At the edge of a long pier in Little Bay, a man was casting his rod out a great distance from where he stood…the look on his face and perhaps his overenthusiastic effort hinted that he may not have been too successful that day.

The next angler was calling out enthusiastically to someone, and gave the impression there was something to see at the end of his hook. A couple of poised Herons posed themselves so well that at first it was difficult to tell if they were real or a statue until they changed positions. As we stroked through the canals, we could see very large jellyfish at the surface, but they must have caught our eyes; they would retreat and sink as soon as we spotted them. My seat was soon soaked from splashing in a significant amount of water while paddling… may have to work on my technique. It was a nice cooling effect but I was grateful that I brought clothes and would not have to be dripping as we gathered the items from the market for our dinner later.

Dolphin Cruise: Rockport, Texas

Posted on September 13, 2012 by Nicki

Their fins are as unique as our finger prints.

Bottlenose Dolphin photo by Andrew Leggett

Generally, I am awake very early on holidays and bouncing off the door anxious to get out and about, but I was still waking up as we set off on the Sunday 9:00am Dolphin Cruise from Fulton Harbor on the Skimmer with Caption Tommy. He also does a Whooping Crane Tour when the cranes are wintering on the coast, and enjoying the Blue crabs. If you would like a ride it is best to call. The morning jaunt was not listed on the site when I looked. 877-892-4737 361-729-7409 http://whoopingcranetours.com/

As we headed out to the gulf, it was clear that captain Tommy, a naturalist, knew what he was doing… find a shrimp boat and there would be dolphins following. We spotted the fins of an adult and calf jumping and playing. Within minutes we were surrounded by these lovely mammals, including at least two different species.

It was a challenge to catch the face of these Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) as the boat rocked. I decided to visit the loo but soon changed my mind when I realized that when I wasn’t looking out… I began to feel nauseous and then understood what he meant by “hold on to your kittens”. Fortunately we were at the end of the stalking. The agitating stopped as we jetted back to shore. September 1, 2012

perspectives on travel

Tag Archives: Texas

Riverwalk San Antonio,Texas

Just down the road, as they say in San Antonio about Austin… and it is convenient.

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine: San Marcos, Texas

Just around the corner from Purgatory Creek Park, and it was nice and cool inside.

San Marcos, Texas

Depending on your interest, San Marcos is known for its outlet malls- the University- or the spring fed river and 850 acres of natural areas.

San Marcos River: San Marcos, Texas

The river here is spring fed with clear water in most parts…making it a big attraction for fishing, boaters, tubers, and those that just want to float unencumbered.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar: Gruene, Texas

Below the Gruene Water Tower is the Gristmill, a historical landmark; formerly a cotton gin that processed the crops of the local farmers until 1922.

Gruene Apple B&B: Gruene Texas

The Breakfast was as delicious as the perfectly ripe Gruene Apple.

Gruene, Texas

Gruene is on the National Register of Historical Places just at the edge of New Braunfels. Founded in 1845 by a German immigrant called Ernst Gruene.

Possum Kingdom Lake: Graford, Texas

The Cliffs Resort on the Lake Front was a nice stop for us on or way to Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

Kayaking In Little Bay: Rockport- Fulton, Texas

We often cycle around the Key Allegro area when we visit, and this time it was nice to get a perspective from the water.

Dolphin Cruise: Rockport, Texas

Their fins are as unique as our finger prints.