The Handbook of Texas Online (www.tsha.utexas.edu/handbook/online): The Handbook is an encyclopedia offering concise entries that explain who's who, what's what, and where's where in Texas. It's easy to use and has information on just about everything, from the locations of towns and counties to explanations of some of the state's legends, to biographical data on the many characters who left their mark on Texas history.
Texas Department of Transportation (www.traveltex.com): The state's official tourism website is practically the only site you'll need to type in -- everything else will be a link. I especially like the section that offers easily printable discount coupons, primarily for lodging and attractions.
Texas Outside (www.texasoutside.com): This is a great resource for planning outdoor activities for just about anywhere in the state. It breaks Texas down into different regions and has separate pages for Texas's largest cities. You'll find maps and information on all sorts of outdoor sports, such as hiking, hunting, fishing, biking, and canoeing.
MySanAntonio.com: The website of the city's only mainstream newspaper, the San Antonio Express-News, not only provides the daily news, but also links to local businesses such as dry cleaners and florists (via its Power Pages) and to movie, nightlife, and dining listings and reviews.
www.sanantonio.gov: The City of San Antonio's website offers timely information on such topics as traffic and street closures. Most of the other sections that would be of interest to visitors, such as the city-sponsored arts events and public parks, can be found in the "Recreation" section.
www.visitsanantonio.com: You're not going to get honest critiques of hotels and attractions on the San Antonio Convention and Visitors Bureau's website; however, you are going to get useful links to many of them. The "Discounts" section is especially good if you're looking for discounts on everything from accommodations to theme parks. This is not the easiest site to navigate, but once you click on "Visitors," you should be able to find what you need.
www.sanantonio.citysearch.com: I don't always agree with this site's reviews, but it's always good to have a variety of opinions about dining, nightlife, and shopping (even if mine are ultimately right). And there are a few things I can't do -- such as provide you with an up-to-date weather report or Yellow Pages information -- that this site can.
www.texasmonthly.com: You won't necessarily find San Antonio stories on the Texas Monthly site, but the state's best magazine offers in-depth treatments of lots of interesting topics, so you'll be keyed into a Texas mindset. And the site sometimes highlights hot new San Antonio dining spots.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
