Remember the Alamo

The Lone Star State has not traditionally been high on our dream destination list but the start of new air links opens up a world of Texan getaway possibilities.
Direct flights between Auckland and Texas will begin in July, with Continental Airlines launching a non-stop service to Houston. My favourite Texan destination is the Hispanic hot spot of San Antonio. This picturesque city of one million, three hours west of Houston, has an important past because it was central to the 1835-36 Texan War of Independence.
The central Spanish Mission, the Alamo, built in 1724, was the site of a ferocious siege by Mexican troops intent on quelling the growing Texan appetite for independence.
Mexican general Santa Anna and his forces massacred the San Antonio rebels at the Alamo. A month later, Texan freedom fighter Sam Houston routed the Mexican troops with the immortalised battle cry, "Remember the Alamo", giving birth to the independent Republic of Texas.
The well-preserved stone fortress and Spanish Mission, the Alamo, is one of North America's top-tier visitor attractions, drawing several million tourists a year. The missions, which still pepper San Antonio, were established by the Spanish settlers in the 18th century for territorial defence as they set about the religious conversion of the indigenous people.
San Antonio has one of the highest Hispanic concentrations in the United States, totalling 60 per cent.
Informally known as Tex-Mex culture, this city's restaurant, bar and shopping scene is studded with spicy cuisines, colourful fiestas, superb artisans and eye-catching craftwork.
Be sure to explore Market Square, where Talavera pottery, paper flowers, ponchos and high-octane Mexican liqueur are just some of the trademark offerings. Another essential segment to a San Antonio foray is the Riverwalk. Initially created as a flood control project in the 1920s, this man-made waterway wends its way through the centre of the city. In the past few years, hundreds of millions of dollars have been spent beautifying the waterway, which is a triumph of recreational urban design.
Two recommended stops along the way are the Pearl Brewery shopping centre and the Art Museum. For culture vultures, the King William Historic District, south of the city centre, is a must-see. Following the Spanish settlers, wealthy German migrants rolled into town, building a sumptuous collection of grand 19th-century colonial mansions in leafy surrounds. Lap up their legacy.
TOP TIPS
A novel experience is to stay at the spacious Hilton Nasa Clear Lake Hotel, a neighbour of the  Johnson Space Centre. This roomy hotel exudes a warm, relaxed atmosphere, brimming with charming Texan hospitality. The 243-room establishment is packed with every comfort imaginable.
All rooms feature floor to ceiling windows  with panoramic views of Clear Lake. For a dreamy Texan stay, this hotel is in a league of its own. www.hilton.com/Houston
For an authentic taste of
Tex-Mex culture and  the rich Hispanic influence in San Antonio, treat your tastebuds to La Margarita in Market Square, San Antonio. Fajitas, oysters and margaritas are served with flair and passion.
Enjoy the Riverwalk by foot or jump on a Rio San Antonio Cruise to ply the full length of the river, complete with a fact-filled on-board commentary of this delicious city's action-packed history.
www.riosanantonio.com