We left Big Bend and headed to El Paso, which seemed a reasonable place to spend a work week between National Park destinations. We managed to have a perfectly normal workweek, wherein we did chores, went to the gym daily, cooked meals, and did all the regular day-to-day activities of an average week.

El Paso was a great landing spot for work. The rental home was roomy and comfortable and in a quiet and safe neighborhood. The YMCA was welcoming and wonderful for all our needs. Food prices were reasonable and the quality was good. As serviceable and approachable of a city as it was, I don’t think El Paso makes the cut for a destination spot on my list. A city to start your life? Sure. Nice neighborhoods. Every amenity and store you could want. But it’s very sprawly; it can’t help but have a fair amount of liter with the constant wind. I took the free and adorable trolley for its loop through the city, but didn’t feel terribly inspired to get out anywhere and explore. As we moved about the area it is clear that there is an effort to add elements of decoration and charm, and the lights in the evening are absolutely charming, but honestly I was not able to scratch much of a personality out of my few days there. Maybe it’s unfair to come to El Paso with any expectations after spending time in Austin. But for all that, I would absolutely stop over here again on my way west. It’s stable, reliable, predictable, and navigable. And I know where to get incredible tacos.

Our intention was to have one dinner out on Thursday night, our planned last night in the city. Larry chose Cónico Cocina Mexicana and it was exceptional! But by the time we were heading to dinner, we knew the weather was not going to let us leave on Friday. And sure enough, a terrible wind storm whipped through the area, blowing an unhealthy amount of dust, over turning semi trucks and wreaking havoc. Our sweet Louie would not have fared well. So we made the choice to hold back for one day in our comfortable and safe airbnb. And that meant we got to try one more El Paso Restaurant. This time we walked to Taconeta and were completely blown away. I mean, completely. Almost literally with the winds, but metaphorically with the food. There’s a reason they were nominated for a James Beard Award. We basically ate the entire menu and went back for more. We even managed to cajole the sweet server to find us a serving of cereal milk tres leche cake, even though they were sold out.

Here are pictures from the week in El Paso.