In 1990, Bergstrom Air Force Base, which was the primary military facility in the Travis County area, was considered as a site for possible closure, at which time it was also considered as a possible site for a new international airport, since Robert Mueller Airport was no longer big enough to support the population and numerous flyers as Travis County expanded. A study was conducted, and in August of 1991, the Austin City Council officially announced the site as the home of the new international airport to be built.

Mount Bonnell is one of the most historic as well as highest parks in the Austin area, and has been a popular spot for hikers, nature lovers and campers since the mid-1800s. The "mount" for which the park is named is a natural limestone formation and the park is also called Covert Park and is situated alongside and above Lake Austin, and offers panoramic views of the lake and the city from its numerous cliffs overlooking the lake and hills below.

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Central Texas is Hill Country, a scenic region with amazing natural attractions, quaint country towns and lovely hills and valleys. Austin is the gateway to this fantastic recreational area steeped in history and Southern charm. The Texas Hill Country welcomes more than 5 million tourists each year, and the clear rivers, towering forests and abundant wildflowers are just a few of the reasons they return again and again. From water sports and outdoor activities to shopping and golfing, Texas Hill Country provides a wealth of activities for all ages and interests.

Austin’s mild winter temperatures ensure that golf enthusiasts will be able to play on the greens all year long. The city has plenty of quality courses to inspire even the most beginning golfer, and the diverse natural beauty of the area provides a perfect backdrop to head outdoors. Austin has more than 20 golf courses in and around the area. From resort courses to public courses and driving ranges, the Austin golfer will be able to find something that is perfectly suited to his needs.

In 1987, South by Southwest started as a weekend long music festival run by a handful of people, and today has grown into a 10 day long music, film and interactive festival with a full time, year round staff, and 1500 volunteers. The number of musical acts has increased ten fold, and attendance has gone from 700 people to over 10,000.

The 2nd Street District in downtown Austin has grown rapidly, and Austin is reaping the benefits. Besides the nightlife bar scene of 6th Street, and a smattering of shops on Congress Avenue, downtown Austin lacked a hub for shopping, eating, and entertainment that the 2nd Street District is now providing with a vengeance.

If you are looking for some fun activities for the whole family to round out the summer, I have assembled a top ten list of places to go to have some fun. As a local Aurora Illinois resident, all of these activities often make up a yearly outing for my family. If you are interesting in the Aurora area, you can also visit my website to find out more about the Aurora Community.

While the public transportation systems in many international destinations are safe, clean, cheap and reliable, many seasoned travelers prefer having their own transportation, and in many areas it is necessary to rent a car to get from place to place. There are a number of thing to remember to make renting a car internationally less costly and less of a hassle.

Many first time travelers make the incorrect assumption that a European vacation is beyond their means, but this is often not the case. One of the biggest costs associated with any vacation, including travel to countries in Europe, is lodging, but it is possible to fund budget accommodations that are clean, safe and centrally located.

Travel is meant to be enlightening and broadening to the mind, and there are few things that enlighten and broaden the mind as well as stepping off the beaten path and exploring those areas of the world where few tourists have ventured. Another important benefit of this "road less traveled" approach is that these un-touristy areas tend to be less expensive, often considerably so, that the same old vacation.