Sunday, July 22, 2012

Place Post: San Antonio River Walk (Paseo del rio)


The San Antonio river walk is well-known for the notorious odor of recycled water, the loud raucous and vibrant setting, and the inebriated crowd. The River walk of San Antonio also referred to as “Paseo del Rio” was constructed in 1949, and consists of shops, bars, restaurants and is a thriving tourist attraction that is synonymous with San Antonio. Along the river, there are sidewalks on both sides, with numerous bridges leading to the streets of San Antonio that line the River Walk. The nightlife of the River Walk is invigorating with resounding music filling the atmosphere, and world renowned Restaurants such as Casa Rio lining the river with tables standing over the tranquil water front. During the night time, everything is festive, loud music, people are enjoying a night out, eating with their families, partaking in the festivities with their comrades, or out on a romantic date with their significant other. The small spaces invoke an intimate setting amongst the people, the bright, colorful umbrellas represent the vibrant culture of San Antonio, and the beautiful landscape and abundant foliage represent the life of the river can provide. Here, a crowd of people have gathered to enjoy a late night dinner, a congregation of different people clad in casual and formal wear. Here, the atmosphere is fun and boisterous with people just enjoying each others company, and eating the delicious food the river walk has to offer. Above the restaurant lies many hotels overlooking the river, although it isn’t visible from here, many people adorn the balconies of these hotels enjoying the exuberant environment the Riverwalk has to offer. There’s a rich blend of both Latin and modern day music, and if you look down into the river you can see the wildlife (ducks and fish) the river sustains, as well as the beautiful ponds and streams that adorn the river. The picture here is of the restaurant Casa Rio, as one can see all the tables are along the edge of the river and are covered by umbrellas which serve as shade during the day time to protect against the blistering heat of San Antonio, and at night are colorful decorations. The restaurant is surrounded by beautiful large trees, and beautifully lite terraces that provide amorous setting. Overall, the atmosphere here is enchanting, alluring, and fun and is the epitome of what of San Antonio Texas has to offer.

1 comment:

  1. Nice! I lived in San Antonio for a year and love the river walk. While I don't remember a smell (maybe I was just use to it), I think you captured what is like down there well because one of the best things about the walk is people watching! It's amazing how relaxed and care free people become with dim lights, latin inspired restaurants and trinkets, romantic architecture and a dolce river.

    Ada White

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