By: Tony Peralez (UTSA)
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With class over and everyone going their separate ways until fall returns, only a select few are left in the area to party and enjoy the summer rays. Since familiar faces are few and far between, it’s important to get friends and associates together to keep ties tight. These are the top 5 ways to do that here in South Texas.
5) The BBQ
The ever-so-sweet BBQ is one of the best ways to attract people of all different types. With hot coals cooking, great Texas meat on the grill, and ice-cold brews in the box, what doesn’t sound good about this?
All it takes is a Facebook invite just near a week in advance and expect the locals to come knocking. Burgers and hot dogs are simple to please most, but if you really want to be remembered, throw down some ribs and some grilled hot wings. Food like that will have everyone talking for weeks until your next outdoor culinary exhibition.
4) 6th Street
Since it is summertime, evenings all over the place are full of all kinds of late night parties. Drink specials, good-looking people, and A/C keep the bars and clubs packed to the street. So why not head to 6th Street, party central for Austin, Texas?
6th Street rules Austin with a gaggle of different bars of all types. There really is no better place to travel for short walks and bar hops.
3) Floating The River
Just south of Austin by 30 to 45 minutes is the little German burg of New Braunfels. Channeling through this charming town are two recreational rivers that beg for aquatic activities of the thirsty kind. Littered down the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers are tube shacks that offer rentals for a 2-4 hour tube ride.
So stock up your biggest cooler with your favorite light beer or a special drink mixture (sweet tea, lemons and rum works great) and head to New B when you have a free day.
2) South Padre Island
South Padre is the closest thing Texas will get to a “beach”. It isn’t the greatest place in the world but if you’re looking for an affordable short term get away, South Padre Island is a great spot for a few days of relaxation or partying.
The best way to go is to get a condo or find someone who has one and stay at their place. Finding a hotel is slightly difficult and can be somewhat pricey, but condos are the best choice for space and affordable luxury.
Pack a few lunches in your cooler and throw together your favorite brews. South Padre is a great spot without traveling too far from home.
1) Lake Travis, Austin, Texas
There is no other place in Texas like Lake Travis. It is an absolute must for all partygoers and water lovers alike. It’s a great big body of water full of beer, boats, and babes.
Many local big names have some sort of housing on this blue beauty because of its status as a Texas hot spot. You’ll see anything from old pontoon boats to brand new fresh water yachts and sail boats. The one thing they all have in common though is a good time.
One of the best parts about Lake Travis is that people aren’t afraid to share a good time. You can pull up to as many different boats as you like and 9 times out of 10, you’ll find people who are just as excited to see you and be out on the water as you are. That’s when you tie off together and share booze, stories, and whatever else may be a good idea at the time.
