Samantha Saenz - The Austinot

5 Austin Film Directors You’ve Seen at SXSW Over the Years

March 13, 2019 by Samantha Saenz Leave a Comment

Austin film director Richard Linklater discusses his film “Boyhood” (Credit: LBJ Library via Flickr CC)

For 10 days, SXSW is the epicenter of entertainment, making it the perfect place for filmmakers to unveil their cinematic masterpieces. While many come from all over the world to do so, homegrown Austin film directors don’t have to go far to take advantage of the festival’s opportunities each year.

Here are five local directors who have premiered films during SXSW over the years. You’ll recognize some of the names, but hopefully you’ll also uncover a new favorite to follow.

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14 Free SXSW Events That Don’t Require a Badge

March 7, 2019 by Samantha Saenz Leave a Comment

Credit: Ryan Loughlin

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “I didn’t shell out money for a badge, so why should I care about SXSW?” Well, because there are tons of free things to do! Things like panels, film screenings, and parties–all of which are accessible to those with no badge. So, read on to join in on all the free SXSW festival fun! [Read more…]

6 Local SXSW Twitter Accounts to Follow for Instant Updates

February 4, 2019 by Samantha Saenz Leave a Comment

Credit: Rock Studios

Soon, 100,000 extra people will descend on downtown Austin for 10 days of music, tech, and film. Whether you’re a badge-slinging festival goer looking to stay informed on conference happenings, or a local looking to attend unofficial parties and find free food, Twitter can help! Here’s a roundup of the best Austin-based Twitter accounts to follow during South by Southwest Conference & Festivals.

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7 Austin Animal Shelters Where You Can Find Your New Best Friend

January 18, 2019 by Samantha Saenz Leave a Comment

The author’s dog, Trooper, is a prime example of the many loving adoptees that are waiting for you in Austin

Austin proudly became a No Kill city in 2010. A few years later, The Huffington Post named Austin one of the safest U.S. cities for dogs and cats. Great work, Austin. I’m proud to call you home!

When you’re ready to let a furry friend invade your heart and home, help us stay No Kill by adopting a dog, cat, or even bunny from an Austin animal shelter. Below are seven local rescue groups that will help you get matched to your perfect animal companion. And don’t forget to spay and neuter, like Bob Barker always said!

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Activities, Shopping, and Dining on Christmas Eve in Austin

December 20, 2018 by Samantha Saenz 1 Comment

Spinning under the Zilker Tree is a memorable way to spend Christmas Eve in Austin (Credit: Over Austin)

While a good portion of the country is enjoying a white Christmas bundled up by the fire, sippin’ hot cocoa, some Austinites are still enjoying margaritas on patios.

Spending the holiday season that way may not put you in the Christmas spirit, but it’s still the most wonderful time of the year. If you need a break from that 24-hour Christmas movie marathon or want to snag a last-minute gift, then head out on the town to partake in (mostly) family-friendly events with this ultimate guide to Christmas Eve in Austin. [Read more…]

Ciclo Restaurant Dances With Latin Flavor Downtown

November 28, 2018 by Samantha Saenz Leave a Comment

Ciclo is located inside The Four Seasons Hotel downtown (Credit: Galdones Photography)

Introducing Ciclo restaurant and neighboring Live Oak inside Four Seasons Hotel in downtown Austin! Ciclo is the latest concept from world-renowned restaurateur Richard Sandoval, led by Chef de Cuisine James Flowers (TRIO, Wink, Asti Trattoria, Cipollina).

Ciclo and Live Oak dance with Latin flavor, with the latter taking menu inspiration from Guadalajara, Mexico. I had the pleasure of experiencing both concepts. The way they complement each other makes Four Seasons a superb destination for dinner and drinks.
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Savor the Flavors of Argentina at El Gaucho Winery

November 7, 2018 by Samantha Saenz 1 Comment

Wine Tasting at El Gaucho Winery in Spicewood TX

Kick back, relax, and savor the flavors of El Gaucho’s Argentinian wines

Head out in any direction from Austin and you’re bound to come across a winery. In Spicewood, you’ll find El Gaucho Winery–a little piece of Argentina tucked away in the rolling hills near Lake Travis. Check it out the next time you’re looking to kick back in the Texas Hill Country, sip on full-bodied Argentinian wines and savor authentic cuisine.
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5 Canned Cocktails You Can Conveniently Sip Anywhere

October 9, 2018 by Samantha Saenz Leave a Comment

It’s easier than ever to take adult beverages along

Adult Austinites consume an average of 14.6 drinks per month. On any given day, there’s a plethora of hike and bike trails, swimming holes, tailgating events, and backyard barbecues to frequent, so maybe that’s why.

Here are five locally canned 21+ beverage options you can take with you, and responsibly enjoy anywhere, any time.

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10 Stories From Locals That Prove ACL Is the Best Music Festival Ever

September 19, 2018 by Samantha Saenz 1 Comment

Get ready for two weekends of music, food, and fun! (Credit: Flipintex Fotos)

Two weekends, 130 bands, eight stages. Austin City Limits Festival is the official end-of-summer party. Accordingly, festival-goers can expect lots of day drinking, dancing, and picturesque sunset moments with 70,000 ~~strangers~~ close friends.

Nothing brings people together (or sets the stage) for a good story quite like live music and local booze. To celebrate the return of the festival for another year, here are 10 quotes from Austin locals that perfectly explain why ACL is the best music festival ever.

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6 Refreshing Mojitos to Beat the Heat in Austin

September 4, 2018 by Samantha Saenz Leave a Comment

You won’t find a better view or mojito than at The Hula Hut on Lake Austin

Austinites love margaritas, but it’s time we talk about the perfect patio sipper we’ve all been neglecting…the mojito.

You just can’t go wrong with this rum, mint, and lime cocktail that hails from the Caribbean! So go on and give your palate a break from the marg with these six mojitos in Austin, sure to save you from the scorching Texas heat.

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