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- [South Texas Plains] Historic missions and theme parks, river walk cafes and
- mariachis, working ranches and golf resorts - these are just a few
- examples of how the diversity of South Texas has created a uniquely
- rugged yet romantic culture all its own. Born out of the rich
- heritage of Mexico and influenced by the pioneer spirit of Texas
- settlers, South Texas has its feet firmly planted in both the old and
- new worlds. In San Antonio and other South Texas cities, historic
- battle sites of Texas independence reside side-by-side with
- metropolitan shops and night clubs.
-
- [The Hill Country] Lakes, spring-fed rivers, and rolling hills provide just some of the
- natural beauty of the Hill Country landscape. River rafts, canoes,
- and sailboats are as common a sight as cowboy boots in this part of
- the state, also known as the Hill Country. The State Capitol in
- Austin, built with Hill Country pink granite, is a perfect place to
- begin exploring. In addition to the natural beauty, small communities
- steeped in European tradition are a great source for antique shopping
- and wonderful cuisine, including fine Texas wines. Those with a more
- adventurous streak can enjoy one of the many dude ranches found in
- the region.
-
- [Big Bend Country] Larger than several states combined, Big Bend Country offers
- 19th-century U.S. Army posts that once guarded the pioneers' westward
- trail and mountain communities that feature a rich blend of Mexican,
- Native American, and Anglo cultures. The city of El Paso is living
- proof of this rich mixture of cultures. Visitors to Big Bend Country
- can also hike the state's tallest mountain in the Guadalupe
- Mountains, float down the Rio Grand River or camp in the untamed
- paradise of Big Bend National Park's colorful mountains and desert
- floors. It is also possible to glimpse the heavens from a
- mountain-top observatory.
-
- [The Gulf Coast] Cool Gulf waters, sand dunes covered in rustling sea oats, emerald
- marshlands, wildlife refuges, and cosmopolitan glamour define the
- Gulf Coast region, better known as the Texas Riviera. Major cities
- and hide-away resorts dot the more than 600-mile (969 km) stretch of
- beaches that feature water sports, plus unique historic and cultural
- attractions. The city of Houston hosts performing arts and concerts,
- sports events, and family amusement parks as well as a major
- international airport. The resort islands and coastal cities, such as
- South Padre Island, Corpus Christi, Galveston, and Port Aransas offer
- relaxing beach vacations.
-
- [The Piney Woods] The Piney Woods of East Texas, with its millions of acres of pine
- forests and wetlands, has an unique appeal all its own. Texas' four
- national forests, which offer wonderful camping, hiking, and fishing,
- are all located in this densely wooded area of the state. History
- buffs can visit the 1800s via quaint historic towns and replica
- pioneer settlements. Many of the Victorian buildings double as
- charming bed-and-breakfast inns. A steam-powered locomotive carries
- visitors through sky-scraping pines. Blooming dogwoods, magnolias,
- and roses add a touch of southern charm to this region.
-
- [Prairies and Lakes] While the Prairies and Lakes area is home to miles of grassy prairies
- and lovely lakes, this description belies the excitement available in
- the cities that anchor this part of the state ╤ Dallas, Fort Worth,
- and the surrounding communities also known as "The Metroplex." Dallas
- offers its visitors a healthy helping of "Cowboy Chic"- exciting
- night life, outstanding cultural arts and more shopping centers per
- capita than anywhere else in the United States. Fort Worth appeals to
- those interested in a more authentic flavor of the Wild West, but in
- a big city atmosphere. And in between the two cities are several
- exciting cities like Irving and Arlington that provide sports buffs
- and families all types of professional sporting teams, amusement
- parks, and shopping opportunities. South of the Metroplex one can
- find a variety of cities that are steeped in history and home to
- major industrial companies and internationally recognized
- universities.
-
- [The Panhandle Plains] Better known as cattle country, the Panhandle Plains offer big skies,
- sweeping sunsets, great plains, and breathtaking vistas. Adventurers
- can climb the majestic multicolored cliffs of Caprock Escarpment and
- explore rugged Palo Duro Canyon on foot or horseback. Area cities
- complete with cowboy customs as well as cultural sophistication are
- exciting destinations. Visitors to the Panhandle Plains, around
- Lubbock, will enjoy wineries and museums honoring the pioneers of the
- Old West.
-