Sultry San Antonio

San Antonio, located in south central Texas combines the conveniences of a big city with the charm and ease of a small town. In addition, San Antonio is affordable, easy to get to, and filled with history and culture. In short, it's a perfect place for a honeymoon.

History

San Antonio was once home to a variety of Native American tribes. In 1691, Spanish traders and missionaries began to arrive. The catholic explorers first arrived on the feast day of St. Anthony, thus giving San Antonio its name. Once a part of Mexico, San Antonio became part of the US when Texas joined the Union. Today, San Antonio is a fast-growing metropolis, the seventh largest city in the United States.

Attractions

San Antonio's mix of Mexican and American heritage has left a wealth of sights and cultural events that visitors – as well as residents – can enjoy. What's more: most of the attractions are located in the central part of town, ideal for visitors without a car.

• Riverwalk – El Paseo del Rio, or Riverwalk, located in the heart of the city, is a series of stone pathways lining the river that lead to restaurants, shopping, and night clubs. In addition, there are always street performers to add to the festive mood and you can take a leisurely along the river in one of the many dinner or sightseeing cruises.

• The Alamo – The Alamo, actually the San Antonio de Valero Mission, was the sight of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, where 200 brave men stood against the legions of General Santa Anna's army. Today, the sight is a museum and a part of the National Register of Historic Places.

• El Mercado – San Antonio's historic Market Square boasts dozens of shops, restaurants, art galleries, and food shops – all promoting the art, culture, and cuisine of Mexico.

• The Spurs – The San Antonio Spurs, recently crowned NBA champions for the three times in five seasons, are the pride of San Antonio. See Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and the gang give a lesson in how basketball is played.

• Festivals – There's always something going on in San Antonio, but the most popular events are Fiesta San Antonio, a ten-day celebration featuring over 100 events, and Fiestas Navidenas, a holiday celebration that features a market, festive holiday lights, live music, and a river parade.

Visiting San Antonio

San Antonio is easily accessible from all over the US – and the world – via connecting flights from Houston and Dallas. Accommodations in San Antonio range from the luxurious, such as La Mansion del Rio, located on the Riverwalk to smaller bed and breakfast inns, such as the Alamo Street Inn, a gracious Victorian mansion just two blocks away from the Riverwalk. Visitors can get around easily in the city without renting a car.

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