Austin, United States

• Austin is the capital of Texas and a university town, known for live music and a lot of time spent outdoors. Strangers chat easily, eating or drinking alone is normal, and plenty of visitors come on their own. The city is spread out, with distinct areas: a compact downtown, the shops and restaurants of South Congress, the galleries, breweries and food trucks of East Austin, and the parks and swimming holes around Zilker.
• Crime is mostly petty and concentrated in the nightlife strips. Downtown's Sixth Street and the Rainey Street bars get rowdy late at night, with heavy drinking and the occasional fight. After midnight, stay with a group or take a rideshare rather than walking between venues alone. Daytime and early evening in most visitor areas are fine.
• Austin is built around cars, so work out how you will get around before you arrive. Public transit covers the airport and a few corridors, but most other trips are easier by rideshare or taxi. Summer heat is serious, so carry water and keep outdoor plans to the morning or evening.
• Texas has permissive gun laws, so you may occasionally see someone openly carrying a firearm. It is legal and rarely an issue, but avoid arguments with strangers. Tipping is expected in restaurants and bars, usually 18-20 percent.

English is the main language and Spanish is widely spoken. Call 911 for police, fire or ambulance. If you can't speak safely, the operator can still send help, and text-to-911 works in many areas. Interpreter services are available on request.

• Texans tend to be friendly and talkative, and small talk with strangers, servers and neighbors is normal. A polite No thank you is enough to end unwanted attention.
• Dress is casual everywhere. Shorts, sundresses and boots are common, and even upscale restaurants are relaxed. Bring a layer, since air conditioning is strong and indoor spaces can be cold.
• Tip 18-20 percent at restaurants and bars, and a dollar or two per drink at a counter. Rideshare drivers are usually tipped too.
• Keep your drink in sight in busy bars and don't leave it unattended, since drink spiking does happen.

The first hour after landing is when you're tired, carrying everything, and easiest to take advantage of. Three things to sort before you fly:

• Your ride from the airport. A driver who meets you in arrivals, at a price fixed before you fly — no haggling at the taxi rank.

  Book an airport pickup

• Data the moment you land. Maps, ride apps and a way to call for help as soon as you switch your phone on. An eSIM installs at home.

  Get a good eSIM

• The emergency number. Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 911. Save it in your phone, not just on this page.

  All emergency contacts

• Austin is spread out and built around cars. Uber and Lyft are widely used and are the safer option at night. Check the plate and driver name before getting in, and share the trip with someone.
• CapMetro runs local buses, Rapid lines, a commuter rail line and an airport bus (Route 20) for a low flat fare. Buses work for daytime trips along main corridors, but service thins out in the evening and on Sundays.
• Downtown, South Congress, East Austin and Zilker are each walkable on their own, and the Lady Bird Lake trail is popular with runners and cyclists by day. Electric scooters and bike share are available, but avoid riding after drinking or in heavy traffic.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.

Explore Austin with local guides and curated experiences.