Trip hosts: ACVB, Fredericksburg and BA
Purpose of trip: Educational
How many on trip? Nine
How long was the trip? Four nights
Getting there
We flew with British Airways. The whole flight experience was outstanding. I felt like a VIP from the moment we checked in to the spacious, comfortable lounge at Heathrow, right through to the excellent service and unexpected Club World upgrade. The seats were very comfortable, making it easy to sleep.
Trip itinerary
We spent two nights in Austin at the Radisson Hotel & Suites Austin Downtown, visiting music venues, taking the Austin and Hill Country tour with AO Tours and enjoying a VIP experience at the Circuit of the Americas. We spent one night at the Archer Hotel at The Domain, and another at the Inn on Barons Creek
in Fredericksburg.
Trip highlight?
The Live Music Crawl with Detours. We visited two of the city’s many music venues and experienced a totally different music scene in both. Our guide was marvellous and as a local musician, he gave us such a great insight into all that Austin had to offer.
Favourite hotel?
The Archer Hotel at The Domain. This newly opened hotel is just so much fun and really reflects the Austin vibe, plus the beds are beyond comfortable.
Most fun night?
Rainey Street in Austin is a definite must-do! Formerly a residential street, the houses have now been turned into unique bars, giving the feeling that you have been invited to a massive street party. Each bar has a different music vibe and if you get hungry, you can stop off at one of the food trucks for a snack.
Best meal?
Every meal was outstanding, but it was lunch at Vaudeville in Fredericksburg that topped it for me. Farm-to-table fried chicken with cornbread, gravy, greens and mash: full of southern goodness!
Biggest surprise?
I didn’t realise how walkable Austin is. When you think of most American cities you assume you’ll need a car to do anything but in Austin there was so much to see and explore on your doorstep.
Funniest moment?
When we were checking in to the Archer hotel one of the girls decided to sample the free biscuits, which were at the reception desk. Two bites in, she asked if they were ok to eat and the front desk lady advised that technically they were dog biscuits. At least they were organic!
Final thoughts?
Austin, and Texas in general, is definitely a growth area for us and has something to offer for all guests, from its beautiful outdoor spaces, museums, and thriving culinary scene to the wonderfully inescapable live music. Seeing it first-hand has definitely opened my eyes to just how much there is to see and do here.
UK trade contact: Melina Collie
E: melinac@mdsideas.com
