The Texan capital of Austin is well-known for its thriving festival scene, with the music, film and interactive media shindig South by Southwest (pictured above), which took place in March, at the forefront.
But should you not find yourself there for a festival, the city’s ever-evolving music, film, arts, food and drink scenes are turning it into the southern US’ most happening destination.
For a great way to discover Austin, spend 90 minutes with AO Tours (www.aotoursaustin.com), uncovering live music spots, as well as restaurants, local hangouts, historic monuments, shopping districts and green spaces. Those looking for an alternative afternoon should head to the aptly named Museum of the Weird(www.museumoftheweird.com) in the heart
of the music bar district of 6th Street, with its star attraction – a frozen neanderthal, the Minnesota Iceman.
Food fans who haven’t the stomach for this, or a several-hour wait for a taste of the famous fare at Franklin Barbecue
(www.franklinbarbecue.com), should head to Hillside Farmacy (www.hillsidefarmacy.com), which serves up farm-fresh sandwiches, salads and healthy breakfasts alongside craft hops. And if you need somewhere to flop after all that excitement, a room at the trendy South Congress Hotel (www.southcongresshotel.com) should be on your rider.
Emirates flies to Austin via New York from Dhs4,710. www.emirates.com.
