So I dipped my toe in the water today on my Texas trip… and happen if I stay to the end of the week I’ll be joining the Friday nighters’ splash in San Antonio.
I got my feet wet but never my trademark Bandana with an early-morning swim in the open-deck pool at the Westin Riverwalk Hotel.
Before taking to the Riverwalk again… on foot.
Obvious you might think but weekend revellers have been known to end up in the drink.
Which we discovered on our excellent Go Rio Cruises jaunt down the San Antonio River.
Margarita time
Most of which I’ve forgotten… you’ll forgive me but booze had been taken, Margaritas in one of those plastic yard glasses.
So beloved in Sin City Vegas.
Now despite being named for a saint, San Antonio’s citizens and visitors here know how to sin with bars hugging the riverfront.
Just as well then that the river was named and blessed by a priest.
With its bridges a favourite vantage point for weddings and Jennifer Lopez and Sandra Bullock chickflicks.
Feathered chicks proliferate on the river, sleepy ducks, well you would be in this 30C heat.
And if you’re lucky you might get to see Mother Turtle and her offspring.
Or the caricature version for the kiddies.
Cruise San Antonio
The riverboat cruise is an absolute pleasure with the knowledgeable guides breezing through San Antonio history.
And pointing out buildings which were physically moved from one point to another on stilts.
This being a river then naturally it has been at the mercy of the elements.
And you’ll learn of the challenges of a flood which rose to 10ft.
It pays then to have God on your side.
And San Antonians built ornate churches by the river complete with gargoyle grotesques carved into the exterior.
Some of which look like me after a night of post-partying at IPW, the American Travel Fair, more of which later.
Fun on the water
And with that I must return to dry land, another riverside bar or restaurant.
And listen to another mariachi band and keep an eye out for a floral parade which is sure to pass by.
Now taking a bend in thus here tale, much like the San Antonio river did I not set you some homework.
To tell me about a famous fortification where we will bring this party to an end tonight.
The Friday nighters’ splash in San Antonio will have to wait.
Tonight, I’ll get someone to hold my drink, I’m off to fight at the Alamo.