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We've combined the perfect mix of cities on this taste of Texas. Enjoy the musical vibe of Austin, historic San Antonio and the world capital of space exploration - Houston. With low mileages and plenty to explore in between, our Lonestar State itinerary is the perfect first time Texas holiday. Been before? Well, there is always something new to discover!
You'll finish your Texas road trip in Galveston where you'll board Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Allure of the Seas for a seven-night cruise around the Western Caribbean. With seven unique neighbourhoods, four pools, 25 dining options and endless facilities onboard you'll not want to return to land!
Per person includes:
*Allure of the Seas operates November - April/Liberty of the Seas operates the rest of the year. Ports may vary. Other cruise company options may be available.
Known as the Live Music Capital of the World® , Austin boasts more than 250 music venues featuring rock, blues, jazz, hip hop and other genres nightly. However, Austin’s universal appeal extends well beyond music – with outstanding dining experiences, world-class sporting events, an oasis of outdoor activities and other unique happenings......like nightly bat watching!
Yes, Austin is home to North America’s largest population of urban bats. They nest under Congress Bridge and each evening, typically from March to October, they fly on mass at sunset from the bridge. It’s a sight to behold for sure!
Much like the live music scene, Austin takes eating and drinking very seriously. The culinary and cocktail scene has exploded over the past couple of years and is home to many global cuisines, but Tex-Mex takes the crown as the local favourite. This blend of Mexican and Texas-style comfort food can be found on just about any street, often in family-run restaurants, like Tamale House East, or off the beaten path at places like South Austin’s Polvos. But no trip to Austin is complete without trying some true Texas barbecue. Like the legendary, family-run Terry Black’s BBQ, with their tender brisket, peppered pork ribs, smoked turkey and juicy sausage.
With an average of 300 days of sunshine a year, it makes it perfect for exploring the city’s many parks and crystal clear lakes. Make time too to check out the many colourful murals around the city, perfect for selfies!
You can’t not visit Texas and not treat yourself to a pair of genuine cowboy boots, the perfect souvenir for any holiday to the Lonestar State! Visit Boot Heaven and take your pick at Allens Boot Store, an enormous warehouse with shelves 8 foot high adorned with every type of cowboy boot imaginable!
Distance: 125 miles
Take the day to travel from Austin to historic San Antonio with a detour through Texas Wine & Hill Country. In charming Fredericksburg you'll find over 40 wineries and boutique tasting rooms. Whilst in nearby tiny Luckenbach, population 3, you'll discover a stage and bar under a 500 year old tree that attracts country singers from all over the world. There are daily 'Picker Circle' performances from local musicians of all abilities at 5pm and larger events with country music greats throughout the year.
The most historic city in Texas and once home to the Comanche Indians, this riverside area drew the attention of the Spanish missionaries who founded Mission San Antonio de Valero in 1718. Later this mission converted into a military outpost and was renamed The Alamo, the site of a pivotal event during the Texas Revolution.
Only steps from The Alamo, San Antonio’s famous Riverwalk is a 15-mile urban waterway full of sightseeing opportunities, boutique shopping and an endless choice of bars and restaurants. At night it's adorned with pretty lights and is a magical place to dine.
When you’re not strolling along the Riverwalk, mooch the King William Historic District, the Villita Historic Arts Village and the Historic Market Square (the largest Mexican Market in the USA). The trendy Pearl District has a reputation for unique stores and hip restaurants and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a fairly flat 16-mile bike trail.
In the evening head for the Roman Catholic San Fernando Cathedral, the burial site of the heroes of the Alamo and one of the oldest cathedrals in the USA. The cathedral is on Main Plaza and in the evening it becomes the stage for one of San Antonio's most visually compelling attractions, known as The Saga.
Fancy a stay on a Texan Ranch? Bandera, 'the cowboy capital of the world' is only a short drive from San Antonio, speak to Bon Voyage about adding this experience to your holiday,
Distance: 180 miles
Along the way to Houston, consider a stop in San Marcos. Bag a bargain in its outlet malls or stroll along the Downtown Historic District and explore the restored 1909 Hays County Courthouse, Dick’s Classic Garage Car Museum or browse the eclectic boutiques.
No visit to the Lonestar State is complete without a visit to the
In the evening catch a baseball game at Minute Maid Park, go stargazing in Brazos Bend State Park or listen to live music in one of the countless venues across the city.
Return your car hire and enjoy private transfers from Houston airport to the cruise terminal on Galveston Island this morning. Before you board your cruise, drop off your luggage at the terminal and take a short uber ride to the city's historic Strand District. In the 1880s, this area was dubbed “The Wall Street of the South.” At that time, Galveston was one of the richest cities in the world.
Your Western Caribbean cruise departs at 4pm, enjoy cocktails on the deck as you watch the Texas coastline fade into the distance.
You've a whole day of relaxing ahead! Lounge on the deck with a good book, try your hand at zip lining, or treat yourself to the spa.
In the evening get ready to party on board with live music in the Bow & Stern English pub. Sing along as a pianist plays all your favourite barroom tunes at Schooner Bar. Or raise a glass as the Rising Tide Bar gently elevates you three decks up. Make sure to end the night on a high note with a karaoke session at On Air Club, or enjoy some show-stopping Broadway-style performances.
Wake up this morning in Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula! You’ve got from 7am to 4pm to explore;
Perhaps opt for a excursion to the ancient Mayan ruins at Tulum, enjoy world class diving at Cozumel’s Santa Rosa Wall to view the enormous grouper fish, or head into town to shop for Mayan-inspired trinkets. Want to discover ‘authentic Mexico?' Check out the San Miguel Cathedral or learn about the local ecosystem at the Museum of Cozumel Island.
You'll tender today off the island of Grand Cayman from 10am to 6pm. Known for famous Seven Mile Beach, you'll adore every minute of this 'Caribbean's Best Beach' winner.
If you can bear to tear yourself away from this slice of paradise, check out the Stringray City or enjoy world-class scuba diving or snorkelling. At Starfish Point you simply need to wade into the sea to discover over 2,000 species of tropical fish.
When you're not in the sea, head for a stroll around the vibrantly decorated town or take a stroll in Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. Or take to the saddle and feel the Caribbean wind in your hair with a horse-ride along the beach.
Sail into the port of Falmouth, Jamaica, where you'll have the whole day to explore the third largest island in the Caribbean.
Take an excursion to experience the famous waterfalls at Dunn’s River Falls, head to Burwood Beach for some quiet time on this beautiful part of the coastline, or jam with the locals to live reggae in Water Square, Falmouth. Culture vultures will adore a high tea at the historical Good Hope Estate overlooking the Queen of Spain Valley.
Foodies will adore the local eateries where you can sample the local specialties, fiery jerk chicken and mouth-watering rum cake. And, for some of the best duty-free shopping in the Caribbean, visit Rose Hall for luxury goods such as designer watches and jewellery.
Make the most of your last day at sea.
Your private transfer will collect you from the ship after breakfast for the short journey back to Houston airport for your flight home.
Want to extend your trip? How about a few days in Galveston? Or Las Vegas? Time in New Orleans? All Bon Voyage holidays are tailor-made, call our team of experts on (0800) 316 3012 to discuss your Taste of Texas!
