[Portland, OR –> Austin, TX, Apr 25, 2026]

It was time for my annual conference again, which took place in Austin, TX at the end of April. The University of Texas at Austin was hosting, which meant that I stayed close to campus. UT Austin hosted the conference back in 2012. Back then, I added a couple of extra days to visit San Antonio. I didn’t have the opportunity for an extension this time, but I still looked forward to checking out some sights close to campus that I didn’t have time for before.

The conference started on Sunday, so I left Portland on Saturday. Living in the PNW has converted me from an isle person to a window person, at least on short flights. All the mountains were out and I enjoyed the views on this gorgeous sunny day.

The 4-hour flight and the 2-hour time difference meant that I arrived in Austin just in time for dinner. I connected with my good friend Reena and went out to dinner with her and a friend of hers. We chose a table outside at La Condesa, a Michelin Guide recommended and James Beard award nominated Mexican restaurant in downtown Austin. The food was great but I could have done without the heat and humidity! My clothes were sticking to my seat!

On our walk back towards campus, we happened upon the Calaveras de la Calle 5 exhibit at Republic Square. This large-scale art installation honored the 5th Street Mexican American Cultural District in Downtown Austin. It featured six monumental skull sculptures, each designed to celebrate the rich cultural influences that have shaped Austin’s identity.