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The Poise Guide to Austin:

by Lauren Williams
To be honest, I’ve never been shy about voicing my distaste for the Lone Star State. Hot and humid summers spent at my grandparents house in Houston have served as reason enough to avoid the entire state at all costs! That is until now. After my spontaneous trip to Austin to visit two of my close friends, I’ll definitely be back for more.

Grub:
Texas is known for it’s cowboy boots, pick up trucks, and as home of the (in)famous Bush Family. So it was only right to swing by Chuy’s - the very spot the notorious under aged Bush twins got arrested - for some mango marguerites and blue tortilla special ($9.99) (It was an agonizing decision between the Chuy special and the Elvis Presley Memorial Combo, but I think I made the right decision in the end). Be prepared for a wait that can last well over an hour, but with delicious drinks and unlimited fresh chips and salsa, it goes by fast.

If you like Chuy’s you’ll love Hula Hut - also a favorite among locals and tourists alike - this Hawaiian/Mexican fusion has a beautiful lake side view. You can enjoy the view and the Haleakaladas, a coconut concoction “erupting with 151”, both inside and out.

Magnolia Cafe, was my favorite eating spot of the weekend. The thought of their 3 Alarm Breakfast Tacos ($5.45) still leaves me salivating. If you are going for brunch make sure to claim your spot in line early; their delicious brunch specials are no secret to the south Austin locals.

You may think you have had great tex-mex, but honestly, until you’ve been to Texas, you haven’t tasted anything yet.

Shop:
Being the window shopaholic I am, I couldn’t very well pass up the opportunity to browse the local shops on South Congress. South Congress, also known as SoCo has a small strip of shops and restaurants. While it is no SoHo, there are several trendy spots to shop for antiques and adorable over priced tees.

The red suede couches and mahogany furniture lured us into Maya, which is actually a jewelry store. Their wide selection of sunglasses and wide brimmed hats kept us entertained for quite some time. If you are looking for antiques, stop by Uncommon Ground and be overwhelmed by their collection of old school goodies. They have a stunning collection of 1950’s jewelry and antique collector glasses from every state.

You may be asking yourself “what is different about Texas fashion”? Cowboy hats, that’s what! It sounds cliche, but we didn’t find a store without them. And if you aren’t sure whether to splurge on that ribbed tank top or dated pearl necklace - try it on with a “designer” cowboy hat and you’ll have no problem making a final decision.

Rock n’ Roll:
They don’t call it the Music Capital of the World for nothing . More than once I dragged my friends into a bar to jump around to classic rock hits like “Jesse’s Girl” and “My Sharona”. Bourbon St. Bar (6th Street) won’t disappoint with $2 shots and an open air bar/deck area. The live band takes it to the next level. If live music is your thing make sure to stop by Courtyard in the Warehouse district. It’s name says it all - an open air courtyard with 150 people singing along to “I love Rock n’ Roll”. It’s irresistible.

Shake it:
The downtown scene is hoppin’ every night (I should know, we were out every night, and that includes Sunday). With the roads blocked off on 6th Street, it feels like a true summer festival I think block party would be a better comparison every night.

Lavaca St. Bar (on Lavaca St.) is a nice spot for a larger gathering. This is where we kicked off our Saturday night. If you want to get a little wilder, brave the line (and possible rejection) at Spill. The hip hop is loud and the crash of drunk co-eds falling off dancing bars is even louder, and riot to watch! Submerge yourself in the rhythms of the dirty south hip hop scene at Eternal night club and bar.

Logan’s is the favorite party finale for the frat boys and UT Austin law students. They play movie clips of Ali G and Dumb & Dumber on flat screens around the bar between cheesy rock and hip hop beats. Hilarious if you’ve had a few, if not, ask the bartender for a $3 Lone Star.

If you are feeling competitive, like we were on Sunday night, go to Buffalo Billiards. Not only do they have pool and darts, but also the largest number of shuffleboard tables in town. Yes, shuffleboard - it’s not just for retirement homes! Thursday night is championship night - this is something you can’t find in New York.



Okay, so maybe it was just my popular belief, but I figured a pedicure in Austin had to be cheaper than a pedicure in New York City. Well, it’s not. And furthermore, my pedicurist decided to give me two over-sized white, glittery flower designs on my big toes against my will. I know she was just trying to offer up some of that southern charm . but I think I’ll stick to New York nail salons from now on.

Pack:
So pack your own nail lacquer and flip flops. The weather is divine at this time of year - high 70’s to mid-80’s and breezy. You can’t go wrong with a few skirts and tank tops. Don’t forget a light jacket for the evenings and you’ll be ready to go.

** Check out jetblue for round trip tickets under $200.
Lauren Williams is a graduate of New York University with a degree in Psychology, and was last seen in a psychotherapy session with friend and business partner, AiLun. Currently, Lauren works for a Fortune 500 company developing and implementing training, and planning training events across the country. A misfit to Wall Street, she channels her non-conservative energy through tap dancing, bargain hunting, and the POISE blogs.