May 2016 Travel Roundup: Austin Adventures, Southwest Road Trip, and What's Next
In my monthly travel roundups, I reflect on the past four weeks' journeys—what excelled, what faltered, and upcoming plans.
Where I’ve Been
This month, I divided my time between three beloved U.S. cities: New York, Austin, and Tucson. I also embarked on a Southwest road trip, visited Dallas for the first time, and connected with inspiring people. It was an outstanding month overall.
May Highlights
Nearly a Month in Austin
Austin had long topped my travel list, but I wanted ample time to immerse myself, beyond a quick weekend. Renowned as a foodie haven, the city offered endless restaurant and bar recommendations. When a four-week housesitting opportunity arose, I seized it. Austin swiftly became one of my top U.S. favorites—I can envision returning for longer (though saying so feels like betraying NYC!). Discover what captivated me in Polaroid of the Week: Wonderfully Weird Austin.
First-Time Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Visitors in Austin sparked extensive sightseeing: kayaking the river, museum tours, hiking Barton Creek Greenbelt's trails, bar-hopping nightlife districts, food truck feasts, Texas Hill Country wine tasting, bat-watching, and live music. My standout? Trying SUP—a thrill I've craved. I'll integrate it into future travels and eye ocean sessions (tougher than Austin's serene Colorado River). California awaits this year, perhaps even SUP yoga (balance permitting).
Southwest Road Trip
Instead of flying Tucson to Austin, a last-minute road trip with a companion (900 miles) unfolded over three days: Day 1 to White Sands, New Mexico; Day 2 to Big Bend National Park for Santa Elena Canyon hike; Day 3 to Austin.
Though plans shifted (details in What Went Wrong), the barren Southwest landscapes enthralled me. Revisiting White Sands delivered magic, and great company eased the monotonous I-10 stretch from El Paso to Fredericksburg—the dullest part coast-to-coast.
Returning to White Sands
I adored White Sands' dunes during my 2013 New Mexico trip, and this visit reaffirmed it. The endless white sands, solitude, and tranquility awed me anew. This time, I sledded dunes and caught sunset—missed previously. Third visit? Definitely!
Discovering Dallas
Dallas wasn't a priority, but I never skip new cities. A weekend visit pleasantly surprised me—far cooler than expected. I regretted the short stay, especially loving Deep Ellum's trendy clubs, bars, and eateries. Eager for a return.
What Went Wrong
Road Trip Setback
En route to Big Bend on Day 2, post-I-10 boredom nearing the Mexican border, a surreal Prada store appeared roadside. We stopped for photos—then realized my camera bag was missing, left under the Las Cruces hotel desk. Three hours in, two from Big Bend.
We backtracked three hours to retrieve it (essential gear, post-Mexico City robbery replacement), enduring I-10 thrice. Costly time, but better than losing gear or discovering in Big Bend (five-hour detour). Gratitude prevailed.
Shattered iPhone Screen
Electronics challenge me—lost, broken, even washed. This month, my iPhone screen fully shattered after repeated drops.
Emotional Rollercoaster
Keeping it brief: Taylor Swift's 'Heartbreak is the national anthem' resonated deeply this month.
Financial Hurdles
Freelance travel life glamor hides realities—low earnings amid high adventures. May tested finances.
What's Next
Sudden Plan Shift
Brief NYC stint before Germany—unscheduled until October, but life-altering events intervene. Details soon, perhaps next roundup or July. Disappointed to miss NYC summer, but Europe beckons with Berlin fun (another summer favorite) and a visitor.
