(State of Texas)

General Information:

Location: South-central United States
Capital: Austin
Language(s): English, Spanish
Population: 28,995,881
Total Area: 696,241 sq km
Curious Alcohol Fact: Mexican beers are available in various parts of the state.
Most Popular Drink(s): Beers, iced tea, margaritas
Nickname(s): The Lone Star State
What You Must Do in Texas: Visit the Johnson Space Center.

Texas Travel Video

The State

In many ways, the state of Texas is a unique state and a special one too. The state is the largest in the contiguous United States and is second only to one state in terms of the area –Alaska. To the south of the state lies Mexico while it is bordered by New Mexico to the west.

Texas is bordered by Oklahoma to the north, Louisiana to the east and Arkansas to the northeast. It is very interesting to know that this mighty state was not even part of the United States initially but belonged to Spain instead. But, it must be stated that the LoneStarState was part of Mexico and till date, one can still see the influence of the Hispanic heritage in various parts of the state.

The name ‘Texas’ was derived from teyas which is the Caddo word for ‘friends’. It was admitted into the Union in 1845 as the 28th state and had remained a republic until that period. The climate and landscape of the state vary from one part to the other.

The People

Texas is said to be home to one of the largest populations of illegal immigrants in the country and many of them stream in from the Mexican border. Aliens aside, around 70% of Texans are Whites with many of them having German, Irish and English roots. However, as expected, Hispanics (or Latinos) form a significant portion of the population as they make up more than a third of the state’s residents.

But, there are other ethnic groups in Texas and they include the Blacks (African Americans), Asians, Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders. In addition, the state falls within the Bible Belt and that implies that the predominant religion in the state is Christianity with the Roman Catholic Church being the largest denomination.

Eating in Texas

In discussing the fantastic meals of Texas, a popular term frequently used is Tex-Mex. I had heard of the renowned Tex-Mex cuisine for years, but it wasn’t until I indulged in a meal at an upscale Houston restaurant that I truly appreciated dishes infused with impressive Texan and Mexican flavors. In addition, typical Tex-Mex meals comprise enchiladas, burritos, fajitas (grilled meat), and chilies rellenos.

In addition, these meals are typically served with salsa. Additionally, in virtually all parts of the state, locals can be seen devouring massive chicken-fried steaks. There is truly no resisting a bite of this delightful meal. However, other popular meals in the state include chili (very hot) with beef and barbeque (made principally using beef).

Drinking in Texas

It is only logical that after devouring some of the hottest meals in America, you should have enough to drink. For example, in the state, many residents prefer to finish a meal with cold tea or a mug of cold Texan (or Mexican) beer. Margaritas (made mainly with tequila) and fruit juices are also common –like wines.

Sports in Texas

Above all, while staying in Texas, I noticed that the most popular sport is football. However, there are some other sports enjoyed throughout the state and these include basketball, baseball, auto racing and college athletics.

Interesting Things About Texas

• Texas has an incredible 254 counties!
• The state is one of the largest in the country –in population and area.
• Texas was once part of Mexico but not many know this.
• President Lyndon Baines Johnson is an indigene of the state.
• It is home to the iconic Johnson Space Center.
• The Alamo is one of the most popular sites in the state and in the country.

Texas souvenirs

Above all, Texas, with its multitude of iconic symbols and landmarks, has always been and remains one of the most popular places to purchase souvenirs. Among the many options of Texas-themed souvenirs, shot glasses are considered particularly and intriguing items for collecting or gifting.

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Special thanks to our contributors:
Adebayo Ahmed Adebola (Ilorin, Nigeria).