The Alamo is what put San Antonio on the map, but it is also a friendly, relaxed city of about 1.5 million people with deep Mexican and Tejano roots, and Spanish is heard everywhere. The River Walk draws most visitors too, but the old Spanish missions, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are worth the time, as is the Pearl district for food. King William and Southtown are the places to see historic houses and art. Fiesta in April is the big party, and families come for Six Flags and SeaWorld.
The city is affordable, with rents falling and home prices moderate for a place this size. Summers are very hot, and flash floods at low-water crossings can be dangerous during heavy rain. Violent crime is above the national rate, mostly in parts of the East and South sides, and car break-ins are the usual visitor problem. Late at night around downtown bars and Alamo Plaza, use rideshare and keep an eye on your belongings.
