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Killing time in Austin, Texas
When I say Texas, the pictures that come into your mind are probably along the lines of cowboys, rodeos, tumbleweeds, etc. Although that is truer than I like to admit, there is so much more to the Lone Star State than we, Jakartans, know of.
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Austin, Texas. (Shutterstock/File)
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fter almost a year now since I first encountered Austin, Texas, I think it’s safe to say I’ve learned quite a bit about the ins and outs of Texas.
Growing up, I never thought I would be spending the four years of my college life in Texas. However, due to changing circumstances and deadlines, I found myself in the second-largest state in all of America. Needless to say, I don’t regret a single thing.
When I say Texas, the pictures that come into your mind are probably along the lines of cowboys, rodeos, tumbleweeds, etc. Although that is truer than I like to admit, there is so much more to the Lone Star State than we, Jakartans, know of. The heart of Downtown Austin has easily become one of my favorite places on the planet. The spectrum of personalities you meet on South Congress, the Dirty Sixth that reeks of many mistakes and memories made, Ladybird Lake, Darrell K Royal, the lack of sleep that is the 5th Floor Perry-Castaneda Library during finals week—Austin is starting to grow on me.
Despite the gorgeous outdoor scenery and animated city life, I know what you all are really curious about. And yes, Austin has one heck of a culinary scene. Texas barbecue, breakfast tacos, fried chicken, breakfast for dinner, shrimp tacos, fish tacos… to say the least, the Freshman 15 quickly turned into the Freshman 30, and I have discovered a newfound appreciation for tacos.
From a college girl’s perspective, here are some of my favorite ways to spend whatever free time I have in between classes and assignments.
Peter Pan Mini Golf
My boyfriend came to visit Austin a couple months ago, and while waiting for our dinner reservation, we decided to play some mini-golf. The building itself can be hard to spot but there is a huge T-Rex statue you are sure to spot from miles away. Peter Pan Mini Golf is a great way to show off your competitive side, while killing an hour or two. Open until late, be sure to take your special someone for a thrilling date night, or your squad for a fun GNO.
(Read also: Why traveling to Slovenia is a rewarding discovery)
Kayaking on Ladybird Lake
I’ve never done this myself, but from what I’ve seen on my friends’ Snapchats, this is one of the best ways to take advantage of the Austin sunshine. As summer weather quickly takes over, what better way to burn off those extra calories than to kayak on our very own Town Lake? Definitely putting this on my to-do list for when I get back to Austin!
Fall in love with the city skyline
Many people will tell you to watch the bats on Congress. I’m here to tell you that although the bats are definitely something Austin-y you should do, when the sky turns dark and the bats have long gone, be sure to enjoy the city skyline. One of my favorite sights is the huge crowd that gathers along the bridge as the bats begin their flight. Many boating companies offer all sorts of bat-watching tours, and most of them for less than US$10. Riding on a medium-sized, open-air boat, be sure to bring a camera and live the moment.
Picnic at Zilker
I think one of my favorite things about America thus far, is the countless number of public parks. I love Jakarta with all my heart, and I will always be a city girl, but there is nothing quite like relaxing days at Zilker. Zilker Park is famous for hosting the Austin City Limits music festival, but when the park is not a crowd of thousands of dancing feet, it is the place to be on a beautiful day. Come for a run or a picnic, or even to take part in a cute dog play party.
(Read also: Why American tourists don't come to Indonesia)
Catch the latest blockbuster at the Texas History Museum
We Indonesians pride ourselves on our amazing movie-going experience. While the many movie theatres in the States could hardly compare to Cinema XXI, the 3D iMA at Bob Bullock does a pretty good job. With one of the largest screens I’ve ever been to, you are sure to leave the theater satisfied. Best part? Students get a discount!
In the several months that I’ve spent in Austin, I’ve experienced so many things I never thought I would have had the chance to—this list is only a small preview of my favorite memories and a snippet into my Austin bucket list. If anything, I’ve learned to take many pictures, to always be a friendly face, and to constantly sightsee around the city in which you live. There is so much left the city has to offer, and I can’t express how excited I am for the years to come.
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Claudia loves meeting new people, adorable penguins and laughing so hard she can barely breathe. One day, she hopes to travel the world. You can find her on Instagram.
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