Music, music, music

"The music capital of the world" is the slogan by which Austin, Texas, likes to be known.  The other is "Keep Austin weird". Either one really would apply.  Austin is so incredibly different to other Texan cities.  It doesn't have that cowboy feel or 'big Texas' feel about it.  Instead, its a little funky, a little cosmopolitan, and a little 'West Coasty' in that its a pretty liberal lifestyle when compared to the rest of Texas.

Austin has its origins in the 1830s when pioneers began settling along the banks of the beautiful Colorado River which runs through the heart of the city.  It then quickly became the capital of the Republic of Texas and was named after Stephen F Austin; that's the 'father of Texas', and not the bionic man.

Today, Austin is the capital of the State of Texas and is home to many Fortune 500 companies, universities, and of course, musicians and artists.  Its an eclectic city that promotes and protects small and unique businesses, many of which you can potter through along South Congress, or SoCo as the locals call it.  You don't see many 'chain' stores here.  Its also a passionate 'green' community, promoting high environmental standards and health standards.

What I loved most though, was the brilliant live music that you can enjoy on street corners, bars and restaurants.  You don't have to wander far at all to hear practically all forms of music.  I happened upon a venue called Latitude 30 on San Jacinto Boulevard.  Brilliant blues!!

Make Austin a stop if coming to Texas!