TURNER knows
Austin, Texas. We represent three of the city's best hotels —
Aloft Austin Downtown,
Element Austin Downtown and
JW Marriott Austin. We turned to our Austin-based insider,
publicist Cara Caulkins, for insight into this vibrant city.
You’ve traveled all over the world – what was it that drew you to Austin? My sister was living in Austin (UT grad!) and I found it had similarities to other cities that I loved — Chicago, San Diego, LA and New York — but yet had this refreshing new and creative energy. There were people from all over, but with a fun artistic, quirky and Texas spirit.
We know about the live music, the BBQ, and the Congress Ave. bats. What’s one great thing about Austin that people don’t know? One of the things I love most about Austin is the creative community. There are so many talented artists in a variety of fields (visual arts, ceramics, graffiti, jewelry, fashion) and Austin still feels like a place where #shoplocal is king. People support local businesses and creative endeavors!
Let’s say a friend is visiting Austin for the first time – what’s the first place you take him or her and why? Probably
South Congress (SoCo): I love the mix of new and old Austin establishments, the shopping, food and of course people watching ...
What’s your outdoor adventure of choice in Austin? I really enjoy running around
Lady Bird Lake. It feels so removed from city life even though it is literally downtown!
What are your Austin food & drink favorites? We have so many amazing restaurants, I can't choose one! I definitely always take guests to
Torchy's Tacos and it is a personal weekend favorite.
Garage Bar has really innovative cocktails. And you can't go wrong with a spicy margarita in this town — my recent favorites are from La Condessa, TNT and Native Hostel.