Native Texan, Native Houston Ian and yes we are very proud of our state. We fought hard for it and fought hard to keep it. Loved your video. Your a Wonderful tour guide. Welcome to Texas, ya'll 🇨🇱
The wife and I are Native Texans. We do motorcycle tours and have ridden to all 49 states. Earlier this year we undertook riding in all the counties in Texas. All 254! It took forever and some 8,000 miles! Great state. Y’all come for a visit! 👍
I wasn't born in Texas, but as they say, I got here as soon as I could! I've lived here for over 25 years now and your depiction of the Great State of Texas is Spot-on! Keep up the good work!
When I was a Marine I was stationed (technically)in Fort Bliss but lived and worked in a tiny town on the border with no paved roads. It had about six buildings. Four were homes, one was a small store and was a school during the day and a bingo hall/dance hall at night. Being a fairly conservative guy from Boston I fell in love with Texas. People walked around with guns on their hips “for all the honest world to see”. I learned an armed society is a polite society. It is my dream to be able to move there. God bless Texas! (And save it from the Californians.)
Also stationed at Fort Bliss, 1968. Originally from NJ, moved here ‘79. We would welcome you, a great place to retire away from those Nor’Easters. You may not be able to find frapes or grinders but the Tex-Mex is great.
In 1968 I was stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso Texas, being from NJ, I immediately hated hot and dry it was. I was stunned going to the Piggly Wiggley and found almost none of the foods I enjoyed in NJ. Swore Once I left I would never return. Moved to Sugar Land TX (THERE IS NO EQUAL) in 1979 for a job opportunity, been here ever since. That job opportunity didn’t work out but other, more lucrative, opportunities came my way. The only way I would move from Texas is at gunpoint, even then I think I’d rather take the bullet than move.
I do miss my home state, EXCEPT for the humidity and bugs!! Side note. Once upon a time, I read a person's comment where they stated that they wished Americans loved America the way Texans love Texas. So true, and it has stayed with me.
I was born and raised in Ft. Worth and loved your vlog of my home state. So many clips in this video brought back a ton of great memories over an entire lifetime. Big "Texas-size" smile and two thumbs up for the accuracy and positives things you had to say.
Fun fact: the distance from Texarkana to El Paso, is longer than the distance from El Paso to LA. My husband didn't understand Buckee's. . . My daughter (she lives in Texas) and I decided it was a Texas thing he just didn't understand.
Bucc-ee’s is nothing more than the Heb of gas stations. Sure they got great products for sale. But they are in the business of putting everyone else out of business. And alot of their stuff is just overpriced.
@@mah7961 And they don't allow truckers, unless they're making a delivery. Think about that. A trucker can't go to a buc-ees for fuel or shopping, but a trucker can come and deliver their over priced products.....oh the irony.
Thanks for loving on our amazing state! You’re not lying about how fast we drive, but we drive just as friendly as we speak…but pro tip…if you’re going to drive the speed limit stay in the right hand lane. Far left lane is for 15+ miles over the limit!😅
Thank you for your wonderful comments on the GREAT STATE OF TEXAS! I was born and raised in Texas. I'm now 62 y/o and I've never lived in another state. I seriously don't want to. Why would I when Texas has EVERYTHING! Some of my favorite places....Palo Duro Canyon, up by Amarillo, be sure to visit when the musical Texas is being performed at the ampitheater. The Big Bend Country, what beautiful mountains we have out there! You can't forget the beautiful town of Jefferson, in East Texas, where there are many antique shops and the home of Blackburn Jelly! Skip on over to Lake Fork for some great bass fishing. Waco has some really awesome places to visit, I think the Dr. Pepper museum is in Waco. Have you been to the Canton Flea Market? It's the biggest flea market in the world. Even tho its over the weekend - the first Monday of the month - it will take you DAYS to see it all! We are big on our Christmas Lights and Decorations also. Visit 6 Flags in Arlington during the Christmas season to see some very beautiful lights. Run over to Lindale and visit Santa Land, but be prepared to wait in line a couple of hours before ever entering the park. It's worth the wait. If you've never been to one of the Friday Night High School football games, you should really go. It's an experience like no other football game! And, as the old saying goes, if you don't like the weather, just wait 30 minutes or drive 30 minutes and it will change.....except in the summer. It doesn't change. It's just HOT everywhere! Worse than hot, it's scorching! The asphalt will melt on some roads because it is so hot! Oh, and we also LOVE BIG! Welcome to Texas, world!
An area that you didn't seem to cover is east Texas. It is really a large area that starts just a little east of the metroplex and goes from the Red River to the coast. There is dense pine forest covering a fourth of the state.They get taller and taller as you go east and south. From Jacksonville to Beaumont they're over a hundred feet high.
@steveludwig4200 ...Not true, unless you are right on the border between the two. I'm a 72-year old 4th generation native Texan. I was born and raised in Central Texas and have lived in East Texas since 1982. It was a bit of a cultural shock because it's considered mostly rural and I am a city girl at heart. I also lived for one year in Louisiana and know that culture very well. East Texas and Louisiana are NOTHING alike.
No one ever covers east Texas. Ever. Especially southeast Texas. We have a lot to offer! We have the Big Thicket National Preserve in Kountze, which offers several trails for hiking. Village Creek State Park in Lumberton for camping and canoeing and fishing. Lake Sam Rayburn and Toledo Bend. Museum of the Gulf Coast with exhibits of all sorts of Texans from the area including Janis Joplin down in Port Arthur, along with Sea Rim State Park. Beaumont has a LOT of museums, including the Texas Fire Museum which is home to the largest working fire hydrant in the world. Beaumont, home of the oil boom and the refining industry. There are historic homes, lots of fishing, check out Sabine Lake, plenty of food choices. Foodies are starting to recognize our food scene here as we attract more and more independent restauranteurs and chefs to our area. There is a lot to see and do in the Golden Triangle, and one of those things has to be a trip over the Rainbow Bridge. We are not far from Bolivar and a ferry ride to Galveston, not far from Houston, and not far from Lake Charles, Louisiana if you love casino gambling.
Love Texas ! Born and raised here, lived all of the world. Better weather elsewhere, sure. The people, particularly outside the big cities, warm and friendly.
In 1969 I got a speeding ticket for doing 130mph in a 60, racing an SS396 down I-45 with my Mustang Mach-1. We passed two DPS cars just south of Dickinson where the speed limit had been dropped, but quickly left them behind. Got to Galveston bridge and their radios has caught us, as the locals has us captured. The DPS who wrote me a ticket said he doesn't know how fast we were going, but he was doing 130 and not gaining so he wrote it for that speed. Cost me $150, which is about $1,250 in today's money. Later we lived in El Paso; I had a sister in West Covina, CA and a brother in Houston. From our house in EP, there was just 20 miles difference to drive to my brothers house (without leaving the state), or visit my sister by driving through New Mexico, Arizona and most of Southern California to get to her house. Welcome to Texas!!
I haven't been to Texas yet but I have met a lot of Texans in Las Vegas over the years. From their ten gallon hats to their larger than life personalities I bloody love them.
The biggest shock to me was The Alamo, it is smack dab in the middle of downtown. It is surrounded by kitschy shops, which are adjacent to high rise buildings. When you realize that a battle took place there it can be very deflating. Singer/musician Phil Collins believed that he was in the battle of The Alamo, which led him to buy one of the shops adjacent to The Alamo. He then did an archeological dig under the floor. He found belt buckles, knives and bullets (dead patriot bodies were gathered in burn piles by the Mexican soldiers after the battle) so, the shops are built on sacred ground. The items found by Phil are on display in The Alamo.
I understand that I may upset a few people by asking this, but then, if you couldn't tell by my name, I am not from there (not even from that continent), so I humbly ask, what's the deal with Alamo? I heard the name on a few occasions before, and from your post I understand that is has some sort of connection to some battle, but I am sorely lacking context. Care to give me a bit of a run-down on it?
@@ranekeisenkralle8265 1824-Mexico had very few tax paying citizens in Texas (at that time, Mexico owned Texas), so they invited Americans to live there on the conditions that they till the land (farm) pay taxes and swear allegiance to Mexico. 1835-Santa Anna takes over Mexico-his first act is to pass a law that if you aren't a Mexican citizen by birth, you can't own land in Mexico. This pissed off the Americans, so they stormed The Alamo (was a Catholic church, now an army fort). No one was even hurt, but the soldiers were told to return to Mexico and tell Santa Anna that the Americans were ticked off and for Santa Anna to go (you know where). Santa Anna raised an army and set off for Texas. The first place they arrived was Goliad. 700 Texans were in there. They were told to lay down their guns and come out. They did, and every last one of them was killed. Next, they arrived at The Alamo. It took two weeks, but the 2,000 Mexicans finally killed the 200 Texans inside (but it cost the Mexicans 1,000 lives). The Mexican army then set off for what is now Houston. The Mexicans were very tired and laid down for a mid day nap when they got there, unaware that they were camping just 200 yards from the Texans. The Texans attacked and literally caught the Mexican army with their pants down. It was a slaughter and Santa Anna was captured. And that is how Texas became Texas (short story version)
@@The_Dudester Thanks for the explanation, I appreciate that. That does explain a fair bit though. Especially in regards to how i saw that word used. Have to say the name "Santa Anna" would have mede me think of a Catholic saint of sorts, not a warmonger (although there may or may not have been historcal overlap between the two) Either way, thanks for expanding my knowledge a bit.
@@ranekeisenkralle8265 ah Santa Anna I feel for him actually. To have a group of farmers undermind the authority of a Mexico could not go unanswered. and when I say the Texans at the time were undermining the power that had granted them land I mean they brought their slaves with them, which was illegal in mexico. They didnt want to give them up either which made Santa Anna frustrated. from Santa Anna to his Minnistry of War "There is a considerable number of slaves in Texas also, who have been introduced by their masters under cover of certain questionable contracts, but who according to our laws should be free. Shall we permit those wretches to moan in chains any longer in a country whose kind laws protect the liberty of man without distinction of cast or color?" the entire letter is worth the read. The Alamoreally is one of those nexus points in history that had massive ripple effects all throughout.
@@adriencloud2130 Noted. Still the name makes me think of a religius figure of some sort - and not a guy either. (Because here in Europe Anna is a very common female first name) Oh well...
@@Mrblocountryballs2Why? Please take your hate for Texans and Texas culture elsewhere, literally zero Republic of Texas buildings fly foreign flags.🤦♀️
As a Texan, just a quick correction, it's New Braunfols(our proununciation) not New BraunSfel. I've lived in every region of Texas except the Valley and El Paso and you were spot on for the most part but I have to say that Corpus Christi and Galveston have awful beaches. South Padre is the only really nice beach and it's a looong way down there. The tornadoes and storms are absolutely no joke in the panhandle and North Texas. As a Tech Alum, thanks for the shout out!
We moved to Texas November 2022. Everything you say is true. We love it here and Texas culture is amazing!! But there have been a lot of challenging adjustments and the “bigness” is part of it: gigantic insects, erratic weather changes, big thunder storms, and lots of driving from one place to another. Yes, driving is very fast….
@@terilapsey first off, we live in the country near to Fort Worth. We built which disturbed the natural habitat. It’s not a deal breaker but you should be prepared. Look up wolf spiders, orb/garden spider, orchid dupe wasp, assassin beetle. All are about 3 inches long. And I’ll mention the harmless 4ft long rate snake. We’ve had them all
Oh wow. Thank you for taking the time to explain. We have wolf spiders here in Minnesota. Mostly up north in the woods. Orbs sound huge. Afraid to look them up. Assassin bugs! Yikes. What a name. Thanks again!
@@terilapsey I lived in San Antonio for 8 years, in the city. A "water bug" got into our house via a package that was delivered. I could hear it on the hard wood floors, and when i finally got him in the open, I could see the shadow under his body, and they fly. In newly built areas/suburbs you can and will see scorpions. I never saw them, but a friend of ours w/a young child did in their house they were renting. they moved a week later b/c she couldn't get the idea out of her head.
Love this, real accurate. I live in southwest Louisiana, 30 minutes from Texas, visit several times a year, all of this and more. Weve vacationed in most of Texas and love the diversity!
Texas and Louisiana are sister states. Lots of LA people in Houston as most Oilfield companies have moved their headquarters and operations to H-Town. And then those that relocated permanently after Hurricane Katrina. LA is almost like two states in one, Those south of I-10 and those north of I-10.
I love your enthusiasm for our state! Plus, you GET it! We love our state! We love our food! I love Buccee’s bathrooms! I’m a woman who loves a clean restroom when I’m on the road. Watching this made me hungry. I told my husband we have to go get a taco this weekend. 😂 My hubby will drive for hours and wait in line for hours for good BBQ. Thanks for a great video.
While the distance from Beaumont to El Paso may be "800 miles" the fact is that right before you cross the Sabine River into Louisiana, the mile marker on I-10 is 888. That means it is 888 miles from that point until I-10 crosses into New Mexico. Google says from Orange (city center) to El Paso (city center) is 858 miles, but the two city centers are not on the borders which allows for the additional mileage.
He didn't mention N to S. From Texline on the border with N. Mexico on HW87 to S. Padre is 910 miles or 14 hrs. Another fun fact....El Paso is 250 miles closer to California than to Texarkana, Tx.
I really do love Texas ❤ my cousin from Austin always said to avoid Texas in the summer though (specifically in July and August) Ironically, she decided to have her wedding right in between the two worst months, July 30 😂 But Austin, San Antonio, Fredericksburg, love love love ❤ Texas is just superb
Just got back from a 6-day business trip to TX and can’t wait to go back. So busy with work stuff i didn’t get much of a chance to explore. Great video!
@@Caderic I was in and around houston. Stayed by the galleria and worked my way out as far as Deer Park. Wanted to slide down to NASA and a good friend told me about a good spot to eat in Kemah (not too far from Deer Park) but it just didn’t happen
Love how you love Texas! Great job! Imagine my surprise when I went for Mexican food in Vegas and they had no clue what queso was? I guess it’s a Tex-Mex thing! 😂
Being from DFW area of Texas, one thing that even surprised me. 70-75 mph speed limit is common. But there is a loop around Austin that has an 85 mph speed limit. So bizarre driving 85 and not be speeding. I personally usually feel comfortable driving 5 mph over, because they’ll usually leave you alone. That’s when I found my cruise control tops out at 90mph 😝
Speed limit on I-10 between Kerrville and Junction is 85, I've been pulled over for doing 90 in this area because some DPS agents think 85 is fast enough (must not have been from Texas). The road you're talking about is 130, a tollway that essentially connects 35 to 10 while going around Austin; since Musk built his stupid Tesla factory out there, traffic gets worse by the day.
I was walking behind a huge Texas boy in our crowded church lobby letting the 6’6” giant clear a path. Then he stopped and let a bigger guy go by. He was at least 7’ tall. Im 6’2” and 250lbs and im a shrimp here in Texas. 🤣
When I moved to Texas, I was living in Irving and would commute to Dallas for work, I was driving about 65 MPH early morning Dallas traffic and several people would fly by me honking their horns, a couple of them leaned way out their window and shook their fist at me for going to slow. Lived in Texas ever since 1993.
I was recently surprised at the courtesy of the drivers in West Austin, around Lake Travis and Lakeway (probably because it is mostly retired military)
Las Trancas Tacos in Austin,Tx are the best street tacos! Also,Chicos Tacos in El Paso Tx are rolled tacos smothered in tomato sauce with cheese and green Chile sauce,super yummy! Texas is like it’s own country! Born and raised Texan,we are proud and out beautiful state, plus we are super friendly.
My grandparents are from South Texas on my way have family all over the state, I grew up going to Texas from Southern California and loved it! Although it took two whole days to travel down to South Texas, we'd stop in Marfa Texas to visit my uncles and cousins. I had the joy of taking my son to South Texas this year to see all of our cousins and relatives. He can't wait to go back!
You did SUCH a good job describing Texas. We are not native, but have lived here for many years. One thing I noticed about Texas RIGHT AWAY (meaning as we arrived in this state in a UHaul) was the very overt Christian faith here. Billboards with Christian themes, people everywhere praying about everything. Hard to explain (and I'm not doing a great job of it), but it was MUCH BIGGER than anything I'd experienced growing up in South Dakota (and later living in California, Michigan). Not to say those places are less than or cast shade at all (well, CA, maybe a little, lol), but TEXAS is a faithful place. I love that. It's been a good thing. THANK YOU for this review of Texas. Very well done.
I have to agree with this. I am a Georgia native, we had churches everywhere. Then I moved to Sacramento California and lived across the street from the largest church in town but you would not know it. Now, I have to acknowledge California is where my faith was solidified. Now, I now live in Texas where I have been amazed. The biggest one was when I was hospitalized and they were praying over the intercom. That was a first for me.
If you don't mind me asking, which part or region of Texas was this that you noticed overt Christianity? I'm a Christian (from California where it's not overt at all) so I want to move to wherever this might be! :)
As a 4th generation native Texan this video made me feel blessed that I grew up here and that I continue to live here. Like other places, it has its cons, but the pros sure out weigh them. Everyone is welcome here, just don’t “California” our Texas (to quote the latest bumper sticker) and we’ll all get along just fine. I truly wish that Americans loved America like Texans love Texas. ❤️ 🇺🇸 🤠 🐴
Couple of things. Most states you can cross with a single tank of gas. Texas. Better count on 4. Worked in Amarillo for awhile. Was fascinating to watch the dust storms roll in from a hundred miles away. Didn't take much snow there cause with the wind we had continuous snow drifts for weeks with only an inch or two of snow. Love me some Mexican food but love more me some TexMex.
Speaking of snow and ice, Texans CAN’T drive when it’s icy. I’m a native Texan and I stay off the roads when it’s icy. Everyone tries to still drive fast and there can be lots of wrecks…🙄 Luckily we don’t get ice often in Central Texas.
I live in Brownsville, the southernmost city in Texas, and the second most southern city in the continental United States, behind only Key West. Moved here after 29 years in Arkansas, and I love living “On the border, by the sea, and beyond,” which is the city motto. SpaceX is just a few miles away, by one of the last wild beaches in the area. (A wild beach is one that is not maintained by park rangers, or city or county personnel. I love south Texas!
👍I've brought my friends from the midwest to visit, and they had a hard time with the concept of salsa on tacos for breakfast! Just do it! Bean and cheese, chorizo and egg, whatever you order....ard salsa! It's a taste of heaven!
Thanks for the great review of our state! We have lived here over 25 years - military got us here and we aren’t leaving! You should consider doing a video on visiting Texas BBQ spots. There are so many great ones you will have trouble deciding which is your favorite. You could try and resolve the age old question “With or without sauce?”.
@@frednich9603everyone pronounces it ‘Waterburger’. I am almost 50 and I’ve never heard anyone say , What-A-Burger….. in a convo. The only time you would hear that is in a commercial and that old man voice over guy would say it that way. I’m glad they stopped airing it.
Texans LOVE Texas! The other parts of the country, don’t love Texans so much (we just get a bad rep sometimes) 😅 Anyways, We have learned to not eat Mexican food in any other state, just doesn’t compare! We SPLURGE on Tex Mex when we go home 😋 Born and raised on the Gulf Coast (near Houston) 😁 Always great videos you do!
there is a direct cause-and-effect process going on: Texans love Texas so much they come across as arrogant to people outside of it, and when Texans who really love Texas haven't seen anything of the world outside of Texas, they sound ignorant as well. no one likes it when New Yorkers or Californians think they're the best either, people just don't like it when someone runs around saying the place they come from is better than anywhere else.
Absolutely agree about TexMex food being eaten out of state! When I travel with work, colleagues will say - “Let’s eat Mexican food! You are from Texas.” No thanks I’ll wait until I get back to San Antonio.
As someone who grew in Georgia moved to California and now living in Texas. There’s no place like it and I had visited multiple times before I moved here. The weather can be extreme. We still tease our friends about how they tricked us with the weather. Snowed in Houston.
The size of Texas: I live in San Angelo and have people almost get upset with me because they want to know what we are close to. Well, 90 miles south of Abilene and 125 southeast of Midland. Also had some shocked people from Connection commented on how many pickup truck there are here. It’s normal.
There is one type of weather in Texas that is probably worse than tornadoes and heat. Snow. When it occurs, life comes to a pause. And keep in mind, that people in most parts of Texas don't have much experience driving on icy roads (I was a bit scared by the way people in Dallas were driving during the winter storm few years ago). So, in my opinion, the best time for travelling in Texas is during September, October, and November. The heat is not as extreme, there are fewer tornadoes, and snow is unlikely to happen in most parts of the state. However, to be honest, if you are prepared for the heat and don't plan any long walks, even summer can be a pleasant time to visit Texas. P.S. Places like the Davis Mountains in West Texas are not as hot due to the elevation, so I enjoyed traveling there at the end of July.
Why would a bit of snow be an issue? Unless nobody bothers to clear and salt the streets in winter that is. But then, I do come from the northern part of Central Europe, so we do get a fair bit of ice and snow - and comprehensive driving training to boot, so i may be a bit biased there...
@@ranekeisenkralle8265 They don't use salt in Texas. I'm from NJ originally and I can confirm that people in Texas can't drive in snow unless they come from someplace up North originally. Even then, us transplants prefer not to drive in Winter weather here because of the other people we would be sharing the road with.
@@thullraven1 Hmm.. that is a fair point I guess. Also not using salt sounds like disaster waiting to happen in addition to that. Yeah, I think I can now understand why one would be ...hesitant to drive under such conditions.
@ranekeisenkralle8265 In Texas there is almost no infrastructure for dealing with snow falls - they happen not every year. Also, in the U.S. people mostly use all-seasons tires - they are not too good on ice or snow.
I am a us state enthusiast and I have not been to this state . Everyone told me it has the potential to be a top ten for me . I may go in Apirl next year .
Very good video about my home state. I love Texas and I’m so glad you describe the food, the big swings of weather, and diversity of the landscape. Thanks for sharing!
Lived there for 8 years. late spring-early autumn is brutal. 90+ by mid morning, 10-11am, over 100 by noon, and it won't start cooling off until close to midnight. Biggest thing I had to get used to was breakfast taco's it seemed to odd to me, and I don't know why. What really got me was charizo beans and cheese breakfast taco's. Are realtor was a bit mffed showing us around when we said we were surprised how green it was. He said, what did you think the cattle ate? Valid point.
@@Steven-pu1bi no it's not. a simple, to thorough internet search says it can be made w/organ meats(not just 1) but when specified those organs never mention brain. It's ground port w/pork fat. Some more modern recipes show it's made w/beef, but again no brain.
Tex-Mex Chorizo is made from pork loin, jowls, and belly, is more like Mexican chorizo with cayenne and red chili spice mixes, but with “better” cuts of meat.
There are some small towns on Friday night, when the high school football teams play; everyone in town goes to the game, even if they don't know any kids at the schools. The whole town. It's like a ghost town everywhere besides the school stadium. It's very eerie, if you don't know what the heck is going on. I've also seen towns where it seems every 3rd building is a church...
I had to move away from Texas to take care of family. How much I miss it! I was born in Ft Worth, but grew up all over the USA due to my dad's job (aerospace industry). In my adult life I've spent years in Dallas, Houston and Austin. Probably what I like best about Texas is the attitude - especially the belief that ANYONE can "make it". Texans are very willing to give second chances to people that make mistakes. As long as a person understands where they went astray and can now look you straight in the eye and shake your hand, a Texan is willing to move forward. It is a land of opportunity for everyone. Thanks for the video!
Aww, what a nice video! Native Texan here and yes, we are VERY proud of our state and want everybody else to love it, too. Glad you got the bug. 😁 Thanks for such a terrific overview. 👍✨
Over 20 years in Texas, 4 towns/cities, week long trips to SA, Houston, Tyler, and more. Got to Google map Lubbock to OK. It's Oct 2, 95° West of Ft Worth. 90's began in May. March in SA & Houston can be very hot & humid. So much to see, taste, and do, it can take years! Never have seen a Buccees, only recently heard of breakfast tacos. Tex Mex varies by region (our tiny town has a really unique version).
I loved this ice cream chain in TX called Braums! Super affordable and HUGE portion sizes! Personally didn't like the americanized Tex Mex food however. The brisket was super good
Braums is actually an Oklahoma company - but do have many locations in north texas. They can charge such low prices since they own their own cows and dont have to buy product
@@Tennischamp10 True. I lived in Oklahoma for a while and Braums is literally a state institution! My friends and I would always hit Braums after school on Fridays in the summer.
If you want some amazing ice cream, go to the Blue Bell creamery in Brenham, Tx. Especially in April when the bluebonnets are blooming. Beautiful part of Texas!
Next time in Texas try the East Texas area or Piney Woods. Nacogdoches is the oldest town in Texas and if you make a triangle of Houston, Dallas and Shreveport La it sits in the middle. Lots to see ! Hope you had and have futur fun in Texas
I love Fredericksburg. Very nice. Auslander is a really good place to eat. I live in Abilene in West Central Texas. If you're in Texas, go to the little Mom and Pop Tex-Mex restaurants. Support the local folks, they have the best food. Most folks here are friendly and are happy to talk to you. The chicken fried steak is really good. If you come to Abilene try Krua Thai and The Beehive. And yes, I'm a foodie. 😃
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ I grew up in Texas . Recently went back to see fam and I was shocked at all the Texas pride.. it’s everywheres 😂 check out one of the many H.E.B grocery stores. They have amazing things you don’t see at regular grocery stores. I brought back stuff and my family is enjoying them now. And check out Bucees. They have some much stuff and the prices are not bad. Thank goodness we will be getting a Buc ees here in N.C next year.And Yes.. Texas has much to see but you will spend a lot of time driving. Pick and choose wisely. I wasn’t able to see all my family because they are spread out. But there’s always next time ! ❤❤❤❤
My little brother left Texas for college in Hawaii, then ended up in Alaska 25 years ago. He loves to mock the “everything is bigger in Texas” slogan. A little bit of a sibling rivalry added to the fact I was Army, he was Navy. 🙂🇺🇸
Lived in Texas (Irving) for five years back in the 70's - 80's. Not much has changed regarding the "shocks" you mentioned. We used to ferry cars for Hertz. We would pick-up cars at DFW Airport and drive them to El Paso (or Abilene, Amarillo, San Antonio, McAllen, Beaumont, etc.), then pick-up cars there and drive them back to DFW. We would start on a Friday night drive to our destination and return as quickly as possible to not miss too much partying time. We would convoy with CB radios in the first and last cars to warn of highway patrol cars, the last guy would always be expected to pull over while the rest of us (6 - 10 cars) would continue on at 90 - 100 mph. We didn't get pulled over too often as we were simply going the same speed as everyone else! (We split the cost of any ticket issued.) I remember the first winter and the nightly news talked about it possibly snowing the following day...low and behold, they actually cancelled school the next day because of the threat of snow. I think it actually snowed with no accumulation the next day. They don't understand snow in Texas.
LOL, I work at a distribution center for a massive Swiss company and when most of northern Texas got hit by the worst snow in 20 years, I was told I still had to show up for work! I guess the Swiss just bat their eyes at snow no matter how bad it is. Now the problem to me, is I've been to Switzerland in December and when it snows, it comes down in BLANKETS. it was so dense that I was genuinely terrified that I would get lost. The streets were completely covered in less than 5 minutes! I walked back to the house as fast as I could without slipping. Still, it was just frightening seeing how freaking massive the snowflakes were. It was the only time in my entire life that I was able to actually catch a snowflake on my tongue! I guess the Swiss thought no amount of snow will faze us but that was a very rare event. The managers "got the message" when most of my co-workers protested that they couldn't make it. They couldn't even get onto the main street to get to the distribution center. The managers relented and said work was optional and they would hand out holiday pay instead of normal wages.
It costs a lot to maintain salt trucks that might be used one or two days a year. So we don’t. Instead, we just shut down and enjoy the break for a couple days. Unless you’re a first responder, of course. And we have tons of love and respect for them. ❤️
I hope Mark Wolters can do a video from Houston Texas. Would love to know the donts of Houston, love and hates of Houston, 10 shocks of Houston and more.
It's whole other country! You're spot-on with what you say about TX. It's a great place,but I looooove San Antonio and El Paso the best. Had the best hot dog in El Paso,at a gas station no less, and I'm not a hot dog person, but I was hungry and in a hurry. Amarillo area is on my bucket list next. I'm torn between my love for TX and my love for Louisiana,where I live. It's a good thing TX is only about an hour drive from here.
I love Texas! My sister in law is from there (El Paso) and I have found the people so friendly, especially in Dallas and Austin. Alot of cool things to see and do.
A general rule is that the smaller towns have friendlier people. However, Texas being Texas, even the big cities are pretty friendly, maybe because a lot of small town people end up in the big cities.
I’ve never been to Texas for reasons other than visiting family and friends. If I were to visit Austin once more, it would be to head to Barton Springs pool
Looks like you ate at Hurtado BBQ in Arlington! I managed there for a bit and they’re huge now compared to when they first opened! Funny enough, I work for torchy’s now!
I moved to Texas a few years ago because of work and I love Texas. However, we are talking about moving back north in a few years for one main reason. The summers are too damn hot. I can’t do the heat like I used to. Anytime someone comes to Texas I always tell them to make a stop at Bucees. Since I'm from the northeast I describe Bucees as if WAWA and Walmart had a baby.
How could he leave out the World Series Champion Houston Astros?!! I'm a native Houstonian and find it interesting that tourists always talk about DFW because they love the tourist trap known as the stockyards. Houston is the 4th largest city in the U.S. Also, the Coogs just joined the Big 12 and Houston hosted the final four this year & Coogs always make a good showing in basketball.
Generational South Texan here. Went to the Fort Worth Stockyards a couple of months ago... HOLY SMOKES! Delicious Cooper's BBQ had all you can eat *BEEF ribs for $19.99!!!!! ❤❤❤ We watched the cowhands drive the longhorns as we sat outside eating at said restaurant while waiting for the Bill Pickett rodeo to open. LOVED IT!!
I was just there and didn’t find the bbq places that make generous proportions. Just like back home, I left hungry and $12 lighter. BUT, Texans are friendly and polite, it’s incredible! It makes it a very pleasant place to be.
This came up as a suggested video. I first came to Texas 3 years ago and fell in love with the state and have now moved here from Illinois. I can definitely identify with everything you mentioned.
The majority of children have exceptional manners, showing respect to females and their elders visibly, demonstrably, consistently, & genuinely.
Native Texan here. This entire video made me smile. I love my state!
sad
Yes, same here❤ Not one state as great as Texas❤
Native Texan, Native Houston Ian and yes we are very proud of our state. We fought hard for it and fought hard to keep it. Loved your video. Your a Wonderful tour guide. Welcome to Texas, ya'll 🇨🇱
The only thing worse than this god-awful state are the brainwashed people who defend it. @@cathyorlowski1951
Same. I left Texas *after* the military for a bit… and yeah, found myself back in Texas
The wife and I are Native Texans. We do motorcycle tours and have ridden to all 49 states. Earlier this year we undertook riding in all the counties in Texas. All 254! It took forever and some 8,000 miles! Great state. Y’all come for a visit! 👍
If you've ridden to all 49 (not counting Texas?)...how was that bridge to Hawaii? 😁😁
@@vchism712 Weird question. We have ridden all over Texas and to the other 48 that have roads to them. Is that more clear?
Would that be the other 49 states.
What's clear is your lack of a sense of humor!! Native Texan here also! Stay safe on the roads!!@@danbgt
I wasn't born in Texas, but as they say, I got here as soon as I could! I've lived here for over 25 years now and your depiction of the Great State of Texas is Spot-on! Keep up the good work!
I am a Texan. Always have been a Texan. Mama just gave birth in the wrong state…
Native here, we accept you!
When I was a Marine I was stationed (technically)in Fort Bliss but lived and worked in a tiny town on the border with no paved roads. It had about six buildings. Four were homes, one was a small store and was a school during the day and a bingo hall/dance hall at night. Being a fairly conservative guy from Boston I fell in love with Texas. People walked around with guns on their hips “for all the honest world to see”. I learned an armed society is a polite society. It is my dream to be able to move there. God bless Texas! (And save it from the Californians.)
Come on down!
I knew a man with the last name Bliss who was stationed at Fort Bliss.
You're the kind of immigration Texas welcomes! Fort Worth needs you -- we're turning purple!!
Oh,! So heartfelt & passionately articulated, you're welcome here anytime!
Also stationed at Fort Bliss, 1968. Originally from NJ, moved here ‘79. We would welcome you, a great place to retire away from those Nor’Easters. You may not be able to find frapes or grinders but the Tex-Mex is great.
Thanks for describing our great State of Texas so great and correct, we do love our great State Texas
Great...
In 1968 I was stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso Texas, being from NJ, I immediately hated hot and dry it was. I was stunned going to the Piggly Wiggley and found almost none of the foods I enjoyed in NJ. Swore Once I left I would never return. Moved to Sugar Land TX (THERE IS NO EQUAL) in 1979 for a job opportunity, been here ever since. That job opportunity didn’t work out but other, more lucrative, opportunities came my way. The only way I would move from Texas is at gunpoint, even then I think I’d rather take the bullet than move.
Agreed
@@Joshua-gx5ew Run along. The adults are talking.
Yes! 🇨🇱✨️❤️
I am a Texan, born and raised, and I certify this message!
I do miss my home state, EXCEPT for the humidity and bugs!! Side note. Once upon a time, I read a person's comment where they stated that they wished Americans loved America the way Texans love Texas. So true, and it has stayed with me.
I was born and raised in Ft. Worth and loved your vlog of my home state. So many clips in this video brought back a ton of great memories over an entire lifetime. Big "Texas-size" smile and two thumbs up for the accuracy and positives things you had to say.
I'm a Horned Frogs .....Ft Worth is my favorite city/town in Texas!
Rah! Rah! TCU!
Fun fact: the distance from Texarkana to El Paso, is longer than the distance from El Paso to LA.
My husband didn't understand Buckee's. . . My daughter (she lives in Texas) and I decided it was a Texas thing he just didn't understand.
Bucc-ee’s is nothing more than the Heb of gas stations. Sure they got great products for sale. But they are in the business of putting everyone else out of business. And alot of their stuff is just overpriced.
@@mah7961 And they don't allow truckers, unless they're making a delivery. Think about that. A trucker can't go to a buc-ees for fuel or shopping, but a trucker can come and deliver their over priced products.....oh the irony.
That's what struck me about Texas. It was so dull that people get excited about a freeway gas station.
Thanks for loving on our amazing state! You’re not lying about how fast we drive, but we drive just as friendly as we speak…but pro tip…if you’re going to drive the speed limit stay in the right hand lane. Far left lane is for 15+ miles over the limit!😅
Thank you for your wonderful comments on the GREAT STATE OF TEXAS! I was born and raised in Texas. I'm now 62 y/o and I've never lived in another state. I seriously don't want to. Why would I when Texas has EVERYTHING! Some of my favorite places....Palo Duro Canyon, up by Amarillo, be sure to visit when the musical Texas is being performed at the ampitheater. The Big Bend Country, what beautiful mountains we have out there! You can't forget the beautiful town of Jefferson, in East Texas, where there are many antique shops and the home of Blackburn Jelly! Skip on over to Lake Fork for some great bass fishing. Waco has some really awesome places to visit, I think the Dr. Pepper museum is in Waco. Have you been to the Canton Flea Market? It's the biggest flea market in the world. Even tho its over the weekend - the first Monday of the month - it will take you DAYS to see it all! We are big on our Christmas Lights and Decorations also. Visit 6 Flags in Arlington during the Christmas season to see some very beautiful lights. Run over to Lindale and visit Santa Land, but be prepared to wait in line a couple of hours before ever entering the park. It's worth the wait. If you've never been to one of the Friday Night High School football games, you should really go. It's an experience like no other football game! And, as the old saying goes, if you don't like the weather, just wait 30 minutes or drive 30 minutes and it will change.....except in the summer. It doesn't change. It's just HOT everywhere! Worse than hot, it's scorching! The asphalt will melt on some roads because it is so hot! Oh, and we also LOVE BIG! Welcome to Texas, world!
🇨🇱✨️❤️
An area that you didn't seem to cover is east Texas. It is really a large area that starts just a little east of the metroplex and goes from the Red River to the coast. There is dense pine forest covering a fourth of the state.They get taller and taller as you go east and south. From Jacksonville to Beaumont they're over a hundred feet high.
East Texas is simply West Louisiana.
@steveludwig4200 ...Not true, unless you are right on the border between the two. I'm a 72-year old 4th generation native Texan. I was born and raised in Central Texas and have lived in East Texas since 1982. It was a bit of a cultural shock because it's considered mostly rural and I am a city girl at heart. I also lived for one year in Louisiana and know that culture very well. East Texas and Louisiana are NOTHING alike.
You didn't mention Tyler roses.
@@docwil2541 The Tyler roses weren't applicable to the discussion. Besides, I prefer the Spring Azalea Trails to the Rose Festival.
No one ever covers east Texas. Ever. Especially southeast Texas. We have a lot to offer! We have the Big Thicket National Preserve in Kountze, which offers several trails for hiking. Village Creek State Park in Lumberton for camping and canoeing and fishing. Lake Sam Rayburn and Toledo Bend. Museum of the Gulf Coast with exhibits of all sorts of Texans from the area including Janis Joplin down in Port Arthur, along with Sea Rim State Park. Beaumont has a LOT of museums, including the Texas Fire Museum which is home to the largest working fire hydrant in the world. Beaumont, home of the oil boom and the refining industry. There are historic homes, lots of fishing, check out Sabine Lake, plenty of food choices. Foodies are starting to recognize our food scene here as we attract more and more independent restauranteurs and chefs to our area. There is a lot to see and do in the Golden Triangle, and one of those things has to be a trip over the Rainbow Bridge. We are not far from Bolivar and a ferry ride to Galveston, not far from Houston, and not far from Lake Charles, Louisiana if you love casino gambling.
Love Texas ! Born and raised here, lived all of the world. Better weather elsewhere, sure. The people, particularly outside the big cities, warm and friendly.
HaHaHa -- Well, "better weather elsewhere" in summer.
Retired folks from the North flock to Texas in winter for the excellent weather.
Grandfather was born in Dime Box, Texas. Texas is the Best. I moved away years ago but will always love Texas.
In 1969 I got a speeding ticket for doing 130mph in a 60, racing an SS396 down I-45 with my Mustang Mach-1. We passed two DPS cars just south of Dickinson where the speed limit had been dropped, but quickly left them behind. Got to Galveston bridge and their radios has caught us, as the locals has us captured. The DPS who wrote me a ticket said he doesn't know how fast we were going, but he was doing 130 and not gaining so he wrote it for that speed. Cost me $150, which is about $1,250 in today's money.
Later we lived in El Paso; I had a sister in West Covina, CA and a brother in Houston. From our house in EP, there was just 20 miles difference to drive to my brothers house (without leaving the state), or visit my sister by driving through New Mexico, Arizona and most of Southern California to get to her house. Welcome to Texas!!
I haven't been to Texas yet but I have met a lot of Texans in Las Vegas over the years. From their ten gallon hats to their larger than life personalities I bloody love them.
Born and raised in Texas and still living here. Yes, we drive fast because the speed limit is ONLY a suggestion. 😉😄
Definitely a suggestion. 😂
So true !!! I was raised in Texas. Though I don't live there now, I am ALWAYS a Texan ❤
Texas is a state of mind, as much as a geographical location!
The biggest shock to me was The Alamo, it is smack dab in the middle of downtown. It is surrounded by kitschy shops, which are adjacent to high rise buildings. When you realize that a battle took place there it can be very deflating. Singer/musician Phil Collins believed that he was in the battle of The Alamo, which led him to buy one of the shops adjacent to The Alamo. He then did an archeological dig under the floor. He found belt buckles, knives and bullets (dead patriot bodies were gathered in burn piles by the Mexican soldiers after the battle) so, the shops are built on sacred ground. The items found by Phil are on display in The Alamo.
I understand that I may upset a few people by asking this, but then, if you couldn't tell by my name, I am not from there (not even from that continent), so I humbly ask, what's the deal with Alamo? I heard the name on a few occasions before, and from your post I understand that is has some sort of connection to some battle, but I am sorely lacking context. Care to give me a bit of a run-down on it?
@@ranekeisenkralle8265 1824-Mexico had very few tax paying citizens in Texas (at that time, Mexico owned Texas), so they invited Americans to live there on the conditions that they till the land (farm) pay taxes and swear allegiance to Mexico.
1835-Santa Anna takes over Mexico-his first act is to pass a law that if you aren't a Mexican citizen by birth, you can't own land in Mexico. This pissed off the Americans, so they stormed The Alamo (was a Catholic church, now an army fort). No one was even hurt, but the soldiers were told to return to Mexico and tell Santa Anna that the Americans were ticked off and for Santa Anna to go (you know where).
Santa Anna raised an army and set off for Texas. The first place they arrived was Goliad. 700 Texans were in there. They were told to lay down their guns and come out. They did, and every last one of them was killed.
Next, they arrived at The Alamo. It took two weeks, but the 2,000 Mexicans finally killed the 200 Texans inside (but it cost the Mexicans 1,000 lives).
The Mexican army then set off for what is now Houston. The Mexicans were very tired and laid down for a mid day nap when they got there, unaware that they were camping just 200 yards from the Texans. The Texans attacked and literally caught the Mexican army with their pants down. It was a slaughter and Santa Anna was captured. And that is how Texas became Texas (short story version)
@@The_Dudester Thanks for the explanation, I appreciate that. That does explain a fair bit though. Especially in regards to how i saw that word used. Have to say the name "Santa Anna" would have mede me think of a Catholic saint of sorts, not a warmonger (although there may or may not have been historcal overlap between the two)
Either way, thanks for expanding my knowledge a bit.
@@ranekeisenkralle8265 ah Santa Anna I feel for him actually. To have a group of farmers undermind the authority of a Mexico could not go unanswered. and when I say the Texans at the time were undermining the power that had granted them land I mean they brought their slaves with them, which was illegal in mexico. They didnt want to give them up either which made Santa Anna frustrated. from Santa Anna to his Minnistry of War "There is a considerable number of slaves in Texas also, who have been introduced by their masters under cover of certain questionable contracts, but who according to our laws should be free. Shall we permit those wretches to moan in chains any longer in a country whose kind laws protect the liberty of man without distinction of cast or color?" the entire letter is worth the read. The Alamoreally is one of those nexus points in history that had massive ripple effects all throughout.
@@adriencloud2130 Noted. Still the name makes me think of a religius figure of some sort - and not a guy either. (Because here in Europe Anna is a very common female first name) Oh well...
As a Texas native, I love every where in Texas!
As a very proud Texan I approve this message.🤠👍🇺🇲
@@samuelhadley5556 Texas 🇲🇽🤠
@@Mrblocountryballs2Why? Please take your hate for Texans and Texas culture elsewhere, literally zero Republic of Texas buildings fly foreign flags.🤦♀️
As a Texan, just a quick correction, it's New Braunfols(our proununciation) not New BraunSfel. I've lived in every region of Texas except the Valley and El Paso and you were spot on for the most part but I have to say that Corpus Christi and Galveston have awful beaches. South Padre is the only really nice beach and it's a looong way down there. The tornadoes and storms are absolutely no joke in the panhandle and North Texas.
As a Tech Alum, thanks for the shout out!
I'm a Texan and I pronounce it New Brauns*ful
All Texas beaches are beautiful, camping on Galveston and Corpus in the spring and fall can’t be beat.🤷🏼
We moved to Texas November 2022. Everything you say is true. We love it here and Texas culture is amazing!! But there have been a lot of challenging adjustments and the “bigness” is part of it: gigantic insects, erratic weather changes, big thunder storms, and lots of driving from one place to another. Yes, driving is very fast….
How big are the bugs? Which ones are they?
@@terilapsey first off, we live in the country near to Fort Worth. We built which disturbed the natural habitat. It’s not a deal breaker but you should be prepared. Look up wolf spiders, orb/garden spider, orchid dupe wasp, assassin beetle. All are about 3 inches long. And I’ll mention the harmless 4ft long rate snake. We’ve had them all
Oh wow. Thank you for taking the time to explain. We have wolf spiders here in Minnesota. Mostly up north in the woods. Orbs sound huge. Afraid to look them up. Assassin bugs! Yikes. What a name. Thanks again!
@@terilapsey I lived in San Antonio for 8 years, in the city. A "water bug" got into our house via a package that was delivered. I could hear it on the hard wood floors, and when i finally got him in the open, I could see the shadow under his body, and they fly. In newly built areas/suburbs you can and will see scorpions. I never saw them, but a friend of ours w/a young child did in their house they were renting. they moved a week later b/c she couldn't get the idea out of her head.
@@tric5122- thanks for reply! See it’s shadow!! Yikes. Fly! Even worse. Flying monster bug at night. Oh scary.
Love this, real accurate. I live in southwest Louisiana, 30 minutes from Texas, visit several times a year, all of this and more. Weve vacationed in most of Texas and love the diversity!
Texas and Louisiana are sister states. Lots of LA people in Houston as most Oilfield companies have moved their headquarters and operations to H-Town.
And then those that relocated permanently after Hurricane Katrina.
LA is almost like two states in one, Those south of I-10 and those north of I-10.
Texans love Louisianans like a little brother❤. Sometimes we fight and are annoyed, but we are still brothers in the end and will die for one another.
There is a story about how hot it is in El Paso in the summer." I saw a coyote chasing a rabbit. and it was so hot they were walking."
🤣
😂
I love your enthusiasm for our state! Plus, you GET it! We love our state! We love our food! I love Buccee’s bathrooms! I’m a woman who loves a clean restroom when I’m on the road. Watching this made me hungry. I told my husband we have to go get a taco this weekend. 😂 My hubby will drive for hours and wait in line for hours for good BBQ. Thanks for a great video.
While the distance from Beaumont to El Paso may be "800 miles" the fact is that right before you cross the Sabine River into Louisiana, the mile marker on I-10 is 888. That means it is 888 miles from that point until I-10 crosses into New Mexico. Google says from Orange (city center) to El Paso (city center) is 858 miles, but the two city centers are not on the borders which allows for the additional mileage.
He didn't mention N to S. From Texline on the border with N. Mexico on HW87 to S. Padre is 910 miles or 14 hrs. Another fun fact....El Paso is 250 miles closer to California than to Texarkana, Tx.
Nailed it. I’m a native Texan
Thanks!!!
Our state and national parks are outstanding. Big Bend is larger than Rhode Island. Dinosaur Valley is stunning. Swimming holes galore.
I really do love Texas ❤ my cousin from Austin always said to avoid Texas in the summer though (specifically in July and August)
Ironically, she decided to have her wedding right in between the two worst months, July 30 😂
But Austin, San Antonio, Fredericksburg, love love love ❤ Texas is just superb
Biggest shock of Texas IMO is the Driving culture itself. Wild
welcome to Texas...I've been here since 2011...I love it here
by the way, hit that MILLION!! good luck and advanced congrats
Just got back from a 6-day business trip to TX and can’t wait to go back. So busy with work stuff i didn’t get much of a chance to explore. Great video!
What city did you go to?
@@Caderic I was in and around houston. Stayed by the galleria and worked my way out as far as Deer Park. Wanted to slide down to NASA and a good friend told me about a good spot to eat in Kemah (not too far from Deer Park) but it just didn’t happen
Honest truth, native Texans don’t think of Texas as being large at all. We are impressed by how tiny other states are. Especially New England, wow.
Love how you love Texas! Great job! Imagine my surprise when I went for Mexican food in Vegas and they had no clue what queso was? I guess it’s a Tex-Mex thing! 😂
Being from DFW area of Texas, one thing that even surprised me. 70-75 mph speed limit is common. But there is a loop around Austin that has an 85 mph speed limit. So bizarre driving 85 and not be speeding. I personally usually feel comfortable driving 5 mph over, because they’ll usually leave you alone. That’s when I found my cruise control tops out at 90mph 😝
I think that toll road is the highest posted speed limit in America. I've driven it several times and it's like the Autobahn of Texas. Hop on and fly.
Once you get west on both I-10 and I-20, the speed limit is 85. And if you’re going 85, people will be passing you.
You mentioned summer heat. DFW summer often has the same or higher temperatures than Phoenix does. Fortunately we don’t get over 110.
And the Odessa stadium was built to hold thousand of fans as far back as the 70’s.
Speed limit on I-10 between Kerrville and Junction is 85, I've been pulled over for doing 90 in this area because some DPS agents think 85 is fast enough (must not have been from Texas). The road you're talking about is 130, a tollway that essentially connects 35 to 10 while going around Austin; since Musk built his stupid Tesla factory out there, traffic gets worse by the day.
I was walking behind a huge Texas boy in our crowded church lobby letting the 6’6” giant clear a path.
Then he stopped and let a bigger guy go by.
He was at least 7’ tall.
Im 6’2” and 250lbs and im a shrimp here in Texas. 🤣
When I moved to Texas, I was living in Irving and would commute to Dallas for work, I was driving about 65 MPH early morning Dallas traffic and several people would fly by me honking their horns, a couple of them leaned way out their window and shook their fist at me for going to slow. Lived in Texas ever since 1993.
This was me going few years ago passing through Fort Worth and Waco in the morning. Except I was going 85 and everyone else 95-100 😅
Yes indeed, people drive very fast here in Texas. The shocker is, they don't slow down even when it's seriously raining.
Definitely not in Austin. Gotta be the slowest drivers in the country.
I bought $800 tires for my car just so I won't have to drive slow in the rain.
I was recently surprised at the courtesy of the drivers in West Austin, around Lake Travis and Lakeway (probably because it is mostly retired military)
Las Trancas Tacos in Austin,Tx are the best street tacos!
Also,Chicos Tacos in El Paso Tx are rolled tacos smothered in tomato sauce with cheese and green Chile sauce,super yummy! Texas is like it’s own country! Born and raised Texan,we are proud and out beautiful state, plus we are super friendly.
My grandparents are from South Texas on my way have family all over the state, I grew up going to Texas from Southern California and loved it! Although it took two whole days to travel down to South Texas, we'd stop in Marfa Texas to visit my uncles and cousins. I had the joy of taking my son to South Texas this year to see all of our cousins and relatives. He can't wait to go back!
Thank you for your good review on Texas the only bad thing about living here is August and of course sometimes it lasts from June to October
Yes, like this year is looking like. 😕
You did SUCH a good job describing Texas. We are not native, but have lived here for many years. One thing I noticed about Texas RIGHT AWAY (meaning as we arrived in this state in a UHaul) was the very overt Christian faith here. Billboards with Christian themes, people everywhere praying about everything. Hard to explain (and I'm not doing a great job of it), but it was MUCH BIGGER than anything I'd experienced growing up in South Dakota (and later living in California, Michigan). Not to say those places are less than or cast shade at all (well, CA, maybe a little, lol), but TEXAS is a faithful place. I love that. It's been a good thing. THANK YOU for this review of Texas. Very well done.
Plenty of religious people in CA. There is just more diversity than Texas.
I have to agree with this. I am a Georgia native, we had churches everywhere. Then I moved to Sacramento California and lived across the street from the largest church in town but you would not know it. Now, I have to acknowledge California is where my faith was solidified. Now, I now live in Texas where I have been amazed. The biggest one was when I was hospitalized and they were praying over the intercom. That was a first for me.
We are the western side of the bible belt...
@@foxbat1766 We are often referred to as the "buckle" of the Bible Belt!
If you don't mind me asking, which part or region of Texas was this that you noticed overt Christianity? I'm a Christian (from California where it's not overt at all) so I want to move to wherever this might be! :)
As a 4th generation native Texan this video made me feel blessed that I grew up here and that I continue to live here. Like other places, it has its cons, but the pros sure out weigh them. Everyone is welcome here, just don’t “California” our Texas (to quote the latest bumper sticker) and we’ll all get along just fine.
I truly wish that Americans loved America like Texans love Texas.
❤️ 🇺🇸 🤠 🐴
Native Texan here. Loved this! Keep my hill country pristine!❤
Fresh brisket on the board! Eating my tacos right now. 😂
Born and raised in Houston Tx. Welcome to our wonderful state. GOD Bless Texas!
Couple of things. Most states you can cross with a single tank of gas. Texas. Better count on 4. Worked in Amarillo for awhile. Was fascinating to watch the dust storms roll in from a hundred miles away. Didn't take much snow there cause with the wind we had continuous snow drifts for weeks with only an inch or two of snow. Love me some Mexican food but love more me some TexMex.
And how many charges for your EV???
Speaking of snow and ice, Texans CAN’T drive when it’s icy. I’m a native Texan and I stay off the roads when it’s icy. Everyone tries to still drive fast and there can be lots of wrecks…🙄 Luckily we don’t get ice often in Central Texas.
Unwritten Texas Law : 3rd lane or left lane is 80 mph+ minimum. Just a heads up😂
Here in ETX, it's the fast lane, center lane and truck lane
On the toll.lanes of IH 635 (LBJ) in Dallas the RIGHT lane is for 80 mph. The middle lane is for 90 mph, and the.left lane is for 100+ mph.
@@johnhudelson2652 Nice! I though Houston drivers were fast wew
50 yo native Texan from Houston here,... you nailed it, my man.
Great job!
I live in Brownsville, the southernmost city in Texas, and the second most southern city in the continental United States, behind only Key West. Moved here after 29 years in Arkansas, and I love living “On the border, by the sea, and beyond,” which is the city motto. SpaceX is just a few miles away, by one of the last wild beaches in the area. (A wild beach is one that is not maintained by park rangers, or city or county personnel. I love south Texas!
P.S. I am 79 years old. I love our weather, too-I am finally warmer in winter than any of the other states I have lived in. Texas is state number 8.
👍I've brought my friends from the midwest to visit, and they had a hard time with the concept of salsa on tacos for breakfast! Just do it! Bean and cheese, chorizo and egg, whatever you order....ard salsa! It's a taste of heaven!
Thanks for the great review of our state! We have lived here over 25 years - military got us here and we aren’t leaving! You should consider doing a video on visiting Texas BBQ spots. There are so many great ones you will have trouble deciding which is your favorite. You could try and resolve the age old question “With or without sauce?”.
Hey Mark, great video, but the only thing is that Texans say WATERburger instead of what a burger 😊
I've lived in Texas for 50 years. Never heard anyone say waterburger
We definitely say waterburger lol 😂
I’ve never lived in Texas. I’ve only heard Texans call it Waterburger.
Texans pronounces the word Whataburger, “Whataburger”, but it is with a very soft “h”.
@@frednich9603everyone pronounces it ‘Waterburger’. I am almost 50 and I’ve never heard anyone say , What-A-Burger….. in a convo. The only time you would hear that is in a commercial and that old man voice over guy would say it that way. I’m glad they stopped airing it.
Thank you! I shared some of your suggestions from previous videos about Texas with my daughter for her recent trip, there! BTW: On your way to 1M!!!
Texans LOVE Texas! The other parts of the country, don’t love Texans so much (we just get a bad rep sometimes) 😅
Anyways, We have learned to not eat Mexican food in any other state, just doesn’t compare! We SPLURGE on Tex Mex when we go home 😋
Born and raised on the Gulf Coast (near Houston) 😁
Always great videos you do!
there is a direct cause-and-effect process going on: Texans love Texas so much they come across as arrogant to people outside of it, and when Texans who really love Texas haven't seen anything of the world outside of Texas, they sound ignorant as well. no one likes it when New Yorkers or Californians think they're the best either, people just don't like it when someone runs around saying the place they come from is better than anywhere else.
@@perfectallycromulent I agree with that 100%
Absolutely agree about TexMex food being eaten out of state! When I travel with work, colleagues will say - “Let’s eat Mexican food! You are from Texas.” No thanks I’ll wait until I get back to San Antonio.
As someone who grew in Georgia moved to California and now living in Texas. There’s no place like it and I had visited multiple times before I moved here. The weather can be extreme. We still tease our friends about how they tricked us with the weather. Snowed in Houston.
Thank you for making this video ❤. Texas is my home and always has been. I love it here. I don't like the heat but I love everything else 😅
You sound like you fit right in here in our great state! Thanks for visiting and perhaps you might consider staying!
The size of Texas: I live in San Angelo and have people almost get upset with me because they want to know what we are close to. Well, 90 miles south of Abilene and 125 southeast of Midland. Also had some shocked people from Connection commented on how many pickup truck there are here. It’s normal.
I Moved to Texas 3 years ago I definitely don't like the weather but man the state over all pretty good.
Thanks buddy , San Antonian here and I approve this video lol ! Aggie here so don’t be embarrassed … half the state are Aggie fans ! lol
There is one type of weather in Texas that is probably worse than tornadoes and heat. Snow. When it occurs, life comes to a pause. And keep in mind, that people in most parts of Texas don't have much experience driving on icy roads (I was a bit scared by the way people in Dallas were driving during the winter storm few years ago).
So, in my opinion, the best time for travelling in Texas is during September, October, and November. The heat is not as extreme, there are fewer tornadoes, and snow is unlikely to happen in most parts of the state. However, to be honest, if you are prepared for the heat and don't plan any long walks, even summer can be a pleasant time to visit Texas.
P.S. Places like the Davis Mountains in West Texas are not as hot due to the elevation, so I enjoyed traveling there at the end of July.
Why would a bit of snow be an issue? Unless nobody bothers to clear and salt the streets in winter that is. But then, I do come from the northern part of Central Europe, so we do get a fair bit of ice and snow - and comprehensive driving training to boot, so i may be a bit biased there...
@@ranekeisenkralle8265 They don't use salt in Texas. I'm from NJ originally and I can confirm that people in Texas can't drive in snow unless they come from someplace up North originally. Even then, us transplants prefer not to drive in Winter weather here because of the other people we would be sharing the road with.
@@thullraven1 Hmm.. that is a fair point I guess. Also not using salt sounds like disaster waiting to happen in addition to that. Yeah, I think I can now understand why one would be ...hesitant to drive under such conditions.
@ranekeisenkralle8265 In Texas there is almost no infrastructure for dealing with snow falls - they happen not every year. Also, in the U.S. people mostly use all-seasons tires - they are not too good on ice or snow.
@@ExploreAmericaWithMike Well said!
I am a us state enthusiast and I have not been to this state . Everyone told me it has the potential to be a top ten for me . I may go in Apirl next year .
If you visit San Antonio in April make sure to visit while the entire city celebrates “Fiesta”. It’s about a 2 week celebration throughout the city.
Very good video about my home state. I love Texas and I’m so glad you describe the food, the big swings of weather, and diversity of the landscape. Thanks for sharing!
Lived there for 8 years. late spring-early autumn is brutal. 90+ by mid morning, 10-11am, over 100 by noon, and it won't start cooling off until close to midnight. Biggest thing I had to get used to was breakfast taco's it seemed to odd to me, and I don't know why. What really got me was charizo beans and cheese breakfast taco's. Are realtor was a bit mffed showing us around when we said we were surprised how green it was. He said, what did you think the cattle ate? Valid point.
Charizo is made from hog brains. It tastes great!
@@Steven-pu1bi no it's not. a simple, to thorough internet search says it can be made w/organ meats(not just 1) but when specified those organs never mention brain. It's ground port w/pork fat. Some more modern recipes show it's made w/beef, but again no brain.
Tex-Mex Chorizo is made from pork loin, jowls, and belly, is more like Mexican chorizo with cayenne and red chili spice mixes, but with “better” cuts of meat.
There are some small towns on Friday night, when the high school football teams play; everyone in town goes to the game, even if they don't know any kids at the schools. The whole town. It's like a ghost town everywhere besides the school stadium. It's very eerie, if you don't know what the heck is going on. I've also seen towns where it seems every 3rd building is a church...
Anyone that visits Texas should explore small towns. The people and food are great and you get a slower Texas pace.
I had to move away from Texas to take care of family. How much I miss it! I was born in Ft Worth, but grew up all over the USA due to my dad's job (aerospace industry). In my adult life I've spent years in Dallas, Houston and Austin. Probably what I like best about Texas is the attitude - especially the belief that ANYONE can "make it". Texans are very willing to give second chances to people that make mistakes. As long as a person understands where they went astray and can now look you straight in the eye and shake your hand, a Texan is willing to move forward. It is a land of opportunity for everyone. Thanks for the video!
Aww, what a nice video! Native Texan here and yes, we are VERY proud of our state and want everybody else to love it, too. Glad you got the bug. 😁 Thanks for such a terrific overview. 👍✨
You mention Torchy’s as a chain. It’s worth mentioning that it started in Austin as a food truck.
To quote an one-time travel commercial…. TEXAS, it’s like a whole other country y’all!
Over 20 years in Texas, 4 towns/cities, week long trips to SA, Houston, Tyler, and more. Got to Google map Lubbock to OK.
It's Oct 2, 95° West of Ft Worth. 90's began in May. March in SA & Houston can be very hot & humid.
So much to see, taste, and do, it can take years!
Never have seen a Buccees, only recently heard of breakfast tacos.
Tex Mex varies by region (our tiny town has a really unique version).
I loved this ice cream chain in TX called Braums! Super affordable and HUGE portion sizes! Personally didn't like the americanized Tex Mex food however. The brisket was super good
Braums is actually an Oklahoma company - but do have many locations in north texas. They can charge such low prices since they own their own cows and dont have to buy product
@@Tennischamp10 good to know! First heard about em when I went to dallas
@@Tennischamp10 True. I lived in Oklahoma for a while and Braums is literally a state institution! My friends and I would always hit Braums after school on Fridays in the summer.
Awesome burgers and even better shakes!
If you want some amazing ice cream, go to the Blue Bell creamery in Brenham, Tx. Especially in April when the bluebonnets are blooming. Beautiful part of Texas!
Next time in Texas try the East Texas area or Piney Woods. Nacogdoches is the oldest town in Texas and if you make a triangle of Houston, Dallas and Shreveport La it sits in the middle. Lots to see ! Hope you had and have futur fun in Texas
I love Fredericksburg. Very nice. Auslander is a really good place to eat. I live in Abilene in West Central Texas. If you're in Texas, go to the little Mom and Pop Tex-Mex restaurants. Support the local folks, they have the best food. Most folks here are friendly and are happy to talk to you. The chicken fried steak is really good. If you come to Abilene try Krua Thai and The Beehive. And yes, I'm a foodie. 😃
My favorite Mexican chain has to be Abuelos!
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ I grew up in Texas . Recently went back to see fam and I was shocked at all the Texas pride.. it’s everywheres 😂 check out one of the many H.E.B grocery stores. They have amazing things you don’t see at regular grocery stores. I brought back stuff and my family is enjoying them now. And check out Bucees. They have some much stuff and the prices are not bad. Thank goodness we will be getting a Buc ees here in N.C next year.And Yes.. Texas has much to see but you will spend a lot of time driving. Pick and choose wisely. I wasn’t able to see all my family because they are spread out. But there’s always next time ! ❤❤❤❤
The FUDGE at Buc-ee's is sooooo good!
My little brother left Texas for college in Hawaii, then ended up in Alaska 25 years ago. He loves to mock the “everything is bigger in Texas” slogan. A little bit of a sibling rivalry added to the fact I was Army, he was Navy. 🙂🇺🇸
When we say,.. Texas: it's like it's own country,.. we are not lying.
Love your videos! Great job on TEXAS! I'm from El Paso and you are right we LOVE Texas!😂
Lived in Texas (Irving) for five years back in the 70's - 80's. Not much has changed regarding the "shocks" you mentioned.
We used to ferry cars for Hertz. We would pick-up cars at DFW Airport and drive them to El Paso (or Abilene, Amarillo, San Antonio, McAllen, Beaumont, etc.), then pick-up cars there and drive them back to DFW. We would start on a Friday night drive to our destination and return as quickly as possible to not miss too much partying time. We would convoy with CB radios in the first and last cars to warn of highway patrol cars, the last guy would always be expected to pull over while the rest of us (6 - 10 cars) would continue on at 90 - 100 mph. We didn't get pulled over too often as we were simply going the same speed as everyone else! (We split the cost of any ticket issued.)
I remember the first winter and the nightly news talked about it possibly snowing the following day...low and behold, they actually cancelled school the next day because of the threat of snow. I think it actually snowed with no accumulation the next day. They don't understand snow in Texas.
LOL, I work at a distribution center for a massive Swiss company and when most of northern Texas got hit by the worst snow in 20 years, I was told I still had to show up for work! I guess the Swiss just bat their eyes at snow no matter how bad it is. Now the problem to me, is I've been to Switzerland in December and when it snows, it comes down in BLANKETS. it was so dense that I was genuinely terrified that I would get lost. The streets were completely covered in less than 5 minutes! I walked back to the house as fast as I could without slipping. Still, it was just frightening seeing how freaking massive the snowflakes were. It was the only time in my entire life that I was able to actually catch a snowflake on my tongue! I guess the Swiss thought no amount of snow will faze us but that was a very rare event. The managers "got the message" when most of my co-workers protested that they couldn't make it. They couldn't even get onto the main street to get to the distribution center. The managers relented and said work was optional and they would hand out holiday pay instead of normal wages.
It costs a lot to maintain salt trucks that might be used one or two days a year. So we don’t. Instead, we just shut down and enjoy the break for a couple days. Unless you’re a first responder, of course. And we have tons of love and respect for them. ❤️
Awesome video. When people visit me in the DFW metroplex, Grapevine downtown and the Fort Worth Stockyards are always on the list.
I hope Mark Wolters can do a video from Houston Texas. Would love to know the donts of Houston, love and hates of Houston, 10 shocks of Houston and more.
Stay away from the East and South sides of Houston, especially at night.
Native Austinite here, 4th generation and I approve this video! 😊
It's whole other country! You're spot-on with what you say about TX. It's a great place,but I looooove San Antonio and El Paso the best. Had the best hot dog in El Paso,at a gas station no less, and I'm not a hot dog person, but I was hungry and in a hurry. Amarillo area is on my bucket list next. I'm torn between my love for TX and my love for Louisiana,where I live. It's a good thing TX is only about an hour drive from here.
If you do make it to Amarillo, be sure to check out the Palo Duro Canyon.
I love road trips from Houston to Lake Charles.
I love Texas! My sister in law is from there (El Paso) and I have found the people so friendly, especially in Dallas and Austin. Alot of cool things to see and do.
A general rule is that the smaller towns have friendlier people. However, Texas being Texas, even the big cities are pretty friendly, maybe because a lot of small town people end up in the big cities.
Thanks for another great video Mark! Only thing you could have added was our love of God and country music!
And Texas Music.
God Bless Texas!
Everything's bigger in Texas especially the traffic jams when driving in or near dallas. 🙈
And the lonnnggg lines at the State Fair! 😂
Another good video! Really enjoyed this one. 👍
Probably the first state that comes to my mind when thinking about USA 😀still didn't have a chance to visit it but surely will do once I get a chance.
I’ve never been to Texas for reasons other than visiting family and friends. If I were to visit Austin once more, it would be to head to Barton Springs pool
Looks like you ate at Hurtado BBQ in Arlington! I managed there for a bit and they’re huge now compared to when they first opened! Funny enough, I work for torchy’s now!
I was shocked to find out that there's no basement at the Alamo.
PeeWee?
😂 "I'm a loner, Dottie, a rebel, you don't want to get messed up with a guy like me" lol
"I'm trying to use the phone!" 😆
lol
I moved to Texas a few years ago because of work and I love Texas. However, we are talking about moving back north in a few years for one main reason. The summers are too damn hot. I can’t do the heat like I used to.
Anytime someone comes to Texas I always tell them to make a stop at Bucees. Since I'm from the northeast I describe Bucees as if WAWA and Walmart had a baby.
Spot on… Just needed more details about how awesome the Greater Houston Area is 😂
How could he leave out the World Series Champion Houston Astros?!! I'm a native Houstonian and find it interesting that tourists always talk about DFW because they love the tourist trap known as the stockyards. Houston is the 4th largest city in the U.S. Also, the Coogs just joined the Big 12 and Houston hosted the final four this year & Coogs always make a good showing in basketball.
@@lwarteman *applause* :)
Generational South Texan here. Went to the Fort Worth Stockyards a couple of months ago... HOLY SMOKES!
Delicious Cooper's BBQ had all you can eat *BEEF ribs for $19.99!!!!! ❤❤❤ We watched the cowhands drive the longhorns as we sat outside eating at said restaurant while waiting for the Bill Pickett rodeo to open. LOVED IT!!
I was just there and didn’t find the bbq places that make generous proportions. Just like back home, I left hungry and $12 lighter.
BUT, Texans are friendly and polite, it’s incredible! It makes it a very pleasant place to be.
This came up as a suggested video. I first came to Texas 3 years ago and fell in love with the state and have now moved here from Illinois. I can definitely identify with everything you mentioned.