I stepped off the plane into a small, one-room airport with just six gates. Before I knew it, I found myself in the blistering heat and humidity of South Texas. I was just seven miles from the Mexican-American border. The air smelled of grilled meat and chiles. Where was I?
This summer, I had the privilege of spending 2 weeks in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas. Due to its close proximity to the border, the area is often misconceived as cartel-ridden, drug-afflicted, and dangerous. On top of that, many warn about the unforgiving climate—hurricanes are not uncommon, and temperatures over 100 degrees occur weekly.
Despite these challenging stereotypes and the harsh climate, I had an amazing experience. Never once did I feel in danger. In fact, the people were among the nicest I’ve met. Although I was an outsider, I felt welcomed and embraced by everyone—from my RA to the food servers. On the other hand, the heat was no exaggeration. I adapted quickly, however, thanks to AC, acai bowls, and Mexican cokes.
Even though it isn’t actually a valley, the region is still beautiful. From dense thorn scrub forests to vast salt flats and tropical beaches, the Rio Grande Valley has a lot to offer. My favorite spot was the Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge, where I witnessed the true beauty of the region’s forests. Long strands of Spanish moss drape down from native oak trees, giving the trails an eerie yet stunning look. Besides the landscape, the Rio Grande Valley boasts diverse wildlife. Parakeets fly overhead, tarantulas scurry across the ground, and ocelots catch the eye of lucky hikers.
Beyond the welcoming people and stunning scenery, the food left a lasting impression on me. Due to the region’s location, there is heavy influence from Mexico. I must’ve had tacos every other day. Besides that, I enjoyed tamales, mar y tierra, and the best birria on earth. It was still in Texas though, so of course there was barbeque. The brisket sandwiches were to die for and the sausages were scrumptious.
All things considered, my time in Texas was an eye-opening adventure filled with unexpected enjoyments. The welcoming atmosphere, breathtaking landscapes, and mouth-watering food all came together to create an incredible experience. As I boarded the plane to return home, I carried with me a newfound appreciation for the Rio Grande Valley—a place where the heat and hospitality are equally unforgettable.
