A Weekend of Bliss: Exploring San Antonio!
- Lorna
- Aug 29, 2023
- 3 min read

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Hi there!
Andrew and I recently celebrated our 4-year anniversary and decided to spend the weekend in San Antonio. We've been wanting to explore San Antonio for a while now, and even though we live close by, it's something we never got around to.
Let me just say... I love San Antonio. This city has so much more to offer than a hot tour of the Alamo. If you're craving a quick escape filled with history, delicious cuisine, and a touch of luxury, look no further than this beauty that is San Antonio.
Where to Stay:
My home away from home for the weekend was the Hotel Havana. Nestled along the quiet section of the River Walk, this boutique gem blends Cuban-inspired decor with Texas hospitality. With its cozy yet stylish ambiance, I instantly felt transported to a different era. Originally built in 1914, this historic hotel kept its color and charm.
The Hotel Havana also includes a beautiful restaurant, Ocho (see notes below), and an intimate, basement bar, Havana Bar.
Andrew and I loved our getaway to the Hotel Havana. It was definitely different than your swanky, corporate hotel. Staying at the Hotel Havana was different than any other hotel I've been at-- so fun and adorable! You can book your weekend at Hotel Havana here.

Things to Do:
Bike the Mission Trails:
This was my favorite activity! We woke up early and drove from Austin to San Antonio to start riding by 7 a.m. If you're planning this activity in the summer, definitely start early! There's not a ton of shade, so be smart!
The Mission Trails is a network of picturesque pathways that wind through centuries-old missions. The trail starts at the Alamo and follows the San Antonio River for about nine miles. Each mission is about 2.5 miles apart. The trail is well-maintained with a lot of signage.
The weathered walls and beauty of the missions gave me such a sense of serenity. If you want to explore some history of San Antonio, this bike ride is an absolute must.


Lunch Break at Ladino
After the bike ride, we cleaned up and went to the Pearl District for lunch at Ladino, which was a recommendation from my sister. Ah, soooo good!
This modern Mediterranean grill is delicious! The vibrant colors of the dishes were a feast for the eyes and an explosion of taste in every bite. We shared the Spicy Feta, Summer Melons, Shishbarak, and Saffron Chicken. Every dish was delicious, but the Shishbarak was unlike anything I've ever tried. Loved!
Drinks at Hotel Emma
Website | 136 E Grayson St
After lunch, we headed to the iconic Hotel Emma for a fancy drink. The elegant ambiance of the hotel's cozy bar offered the perfect backdrop for sipping on the BEST margarita and the inventive Three Emma's cocktail.

This hotel is flat-out gorgeous and is THE place to be. I love its industrial elegance, and would love to stay here one day-- hell, maybe for our 5-year anniversary!
Dinner at Ocho
Website | 1015 Navarro St
This restaurant, situated in the Hotel Havana, captivated me with its intimate atmosphere and delectable fusion of Texan and Cuban cuisine. This restaurant, situated in a glass conservatory overlooking the River Walk, could not be more beautiful.
This fancy meal was fantastic. We enjoyed the Tacos De Carnitas, Molotes Cubanos, and Calle Ocho.

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking some relaxation, San Antonio offers experiences that will leave you yearning for more. Pack your bags and let the magic of San Antonio put its spell on you.
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