Insiders Guide To Living In Texas
Texas is a massive state and Austin is one of its largest cities. If you find yourself planning a trip to this sprawling metropolis and looking for a place to stay in Texas anywhere in the area, then you are in for a real treat.
Regardless of whether you are moving to the state for work, family, or just traveling for a quick change in scenery, Texas has plenty of interesting sights, sounds, and activities to offer. So if you want to make the most out of your stay in the Lone Star State, you may want to try to get started on the right foot with some insider knowledge. Here are some tips and tricks to getting settled in quickly.
Immerse yourself in the local culture
Cowboys are a popular trope in television and cartoons. When you move to Texas, feel free to dive right in and become one yourself. Don a pair of cowboy boots, grab a hat, and attend a barbecue or wolf down some Tex-Mex cuisine. There are tons of interesting traditions and customs that you can only find in this state.
Texans also have a unique way of speaking. They are known for using slang and colloquialisms that are not used elsewhere in the country. If you invest a little time into picking up these common phrases and slang, you can communicate more effectively with the locals.
When it comes to clothing, you do not need to dress up. The locals are known worldwide for having a laid-back and casual approach to life. You will often see people wearing jeans and boots, even to super fancy events.
Participate in community activities
Texans are famous for being warm, friendly, and hospitable. Moving into a new place can be a little intimidating and you may feel strong pangs of homesickness in your first few weeks. The best and fastest way to overcome this is to get to know people. Look for local events and activities, as well as clubs and organizations that align with your interests. Texas will start feeling like your second home in no time.
Football, in particular, is a huge thing in Texas. In the fall, you will see people proudly wearing their team colors and attending games. It’s enough to hype anybody up, even if you are not necessarily a sports fan.
Texans also love music, and the state has a vibrant music scene with a variety of genres. This is your chance to jam to some live music at a big concert venue or just vibe in a small dive bar.
Eat to your heart’s content
Texas is famous for its food: barbecues, Tex-Mex, and Southern comfort food. Don’t be afraid to ask your local friends for recommendations. Go all out and try a variety of restaurants and dishes. This is definitely a good place to expand your taste buds, try new food, and find your new comfort food.
To wash down all that good food, make sure you try the local liquor as well. Texas is known for its craft beer and wine scenes.
Prepare for the ups and downs in the weather
Texas is definitely going to keep you on your toes, especially if you are someone who enjoys staying outdoors. From scorching summers to winter storms, make sure that you have stocked up on all the supplies you need for these conditions. You will need to buy the appropriate clothing and gear, get into the habit of buying non-perishable goods and keep a steady supply of drinking water. This way, you will be ready to take on intense heat waves during the summer and the possibility of getting snowed in throughout the winter.
Don’t forget to go outdoors
There are plenty of breathtaking outdoor spaces around the state: national and state parks, lakes, and beaches. If you have lived your life surrounded b the hustle and bustle of an urban jungle, Texas is the perfect state for reconnecting with the great outdoors and getting a little physical exercise in as well. Use this opportunity to go hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, and more!
Plan your commute ahead
Beat the traffic and rush hour that Texas is famous for by planning your commute ahead. This involves researching the method of transportation you will take to get to and from work, adjusting your schedule so that you can get a head start on the road, and mapping out any shortcuts or side roads you can take to avoid getting stuck.
In larger cities such as Houston, Dallas, and Austin, you will be spoiled with extensive highway systems, bus lanes, and the light rail. Some forward-thinking cities have also constructed bike-sharing programs and bike lanes to encourage greener commutes. However, if you are moving to one of the rural areas then cars will be the primary mode of transportation.
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