A special edition of The Daily Texan
February 6, 2015
D AT E FA S H I O N
LOVE TRENDS
Pages 6-7
Pages 8-9
DINNER SPOTS Page 10
Longhorn Life
Page 2
Friday, Feb. 6, 2015
EDITOR’S NOTE
W
e all do it. We all fear it. We all enjoy it, get worked up over it, try to avoid it and then get pulled back into it. Dating – it’s a complex compo-
nent of life. Whether you’re 14 and falling in [what you believe is] love for the first time with the boy you met at the high school football game like a scene out of “Friday Night Lights” (talking about you, Matt Saracen), or you’re a 40-year-old single parent rehearsing for your second act, dating is never simple – mainly because nobody ever gushes over a dull love story. Jack and Rose. Noah and Allie. Ross and Rachel. Let’s face it: we all have our problems. I’ve had my fair share of frustrations, wanted to throw in the towel and had a few “I was right when my kindergarten
STAFF
self thought boys were stupid and gross” time periods. However, I have also had my “fivetime wardrobe changes, smiling from ear-to-ear, ignoring my painful heels because of a special someone” scenarios as well. And in my 22-anda-half years, I am still by no means near expert level. I’ve had some good times and some bad. Some laughs and cries. I’ve been in love; I’ve been heartbroken. I’ve had dinner-for-two and Ben & Jerry’s for one (Loreli was right, Rory; we all need to wallow sometimes). And I’m OK with it because so has everybody else. Even though we make
our lives more complicated by conversing with and giving in to our attraction to another person, even though we know it’s tough and we know it might kick us when we’re down, we never call it quits. Because just when you’re confident you’ve encountered physical, gets-under-your-skin evidence men and women should not coexist; it hits you. He or she appears out of nowhere and suddenly you’re that awkward, wide-eyed, incoherent moron who is a born-again believer. And the cycle repeats itself – you’re just hopeful you can move on to the next phase this time. And after a few trial and
errors, you will. Maybe it’s the years of memorizing scenes from rom coms or cruising to country love songs or witnessing my parents’ 42-year-old-and-counting success story; I will back up every cliché in the book and take every experience as a lesson learned. I encourage you to do the same – keep your head in the clouds, make mistakes, put yourself out there, but remain smart, remain calm, layoff the “Elite Daily” and live for yourself. Take a gander at where that gets you.
Gayle Bustamante Special Editions Editor
C O N T E N T S COURT US ONLINE Date-night films
pg.5
Check these infamous romantic comedies off your datenight movie list.
Styles for the ages
pg.7 pg.8 pg.10
Explore these Austin restaurants to plan the perfect date night for any occasion.
Outdoor romance
pg.12
Find out how you can enjoy the great outdoors with your significant other.
The single life
pg.14
No date? No problem. Enjoy this Valentine’s Day by giving
back.
Designers Daniel Hublein, Jannice Truong, Jessica Lin Writers Jasmine Barnes, Kelly Coles, Victoria Garabedian, Nancy Huang, Emma Ledford, Jenna Million, Hayden Pigott, Anshuman Singhal Photographers Taylor Harton, Victoria Garabedian, Chansey Liu, Lac Hong Pham
TSM ADVERTISING & CREATIVE SERVICES Director Gerald Johnson Operations Manager Frank Serpas Advertising Manager Denise Twellmann Broadcast & Events Manager Carter Goss Advertising Sales Rep Robert Meute Advertising Assistant Shukree Shabazz Student Manager Rohan Needel
Special Editions & Production Coordinator Stephen Salisbury Senior Graphic Designer Daniel Hublein Cover Designer Jessica Lin
Travel back in time to see how generation’s dating habits have changed throughout the years.
Dine-out options
Associate Editor Jennifer Townzen
Student Account Executives Andrea Avalos, Keegan Bradley, Danielle Lotz, Destanie Nieto, Xiaowen Zhang
Discover how you can use old trends in today’s dating fashion.
Revolution of dating
Special Editions Editor Gayle Bustamante
Subscribe for updates, photos and more.
longhornlifeonline.com
@txlonghornlife
@LonghornLife
Longhorn Life is an advertising special edition of The Daily Texan produced by students in Texas Student Media’s special editions office. Reach us at txlonghornlife@gmail.com. Copyright 2014 Texas Student Media. All articles, photographs and graphics are the property of Texas Student Media and may not be reproduced or republished in part or in whole without written permission. CONTACT TSM: We are located in the Hearst Student Media building (HSM). For advertising, call 512-471-1865.
Longhorn Life
Friday, Feb. 6, 2015
Page 3
TEXAS UNION THEATRE All free film screenings are shown in the Texas Union Theatre, UNB 2.228, unless otherwise specified.
02/11 02/12 02/19 02/25 03/05
The Lego Movie @ 9 p.m. The Book of Life @ 6 & 9 p.m. John Wick @ 6 & 9 p.m. Hot Fuzz @ 9 p.m. Horns @ 6 & 9 p.m.
03/11
The Grand Budapest Hotel @ 9 p.m.
03/12
Interstellar @ 6 & 9 p.m.
EVENT CALENDAR
FILM SCREENINGS
WHAT’S HAPPENING CAMPUS EVENTS 02/06
Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles, 8 p.m., Texas Performing Arts
02/12
Refugia, 7:30 p.m.(Feb. 12-14), 2 p.m.(Feb. 14-15), B. Iden Payne Theatre
02/16
Symphony Orchestra, 7:30 p.m., Bates Recital Hall, Music Building (MRH)
OFF-CAMPUS EVENTS 02/10
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Harry Ransom Center
02/15
Austin Marathon & Half Marathon, 7 a.m., Downtown Austin
02/28
Carnaval Brasileiro, 7:30 p.m., Palmer Events Center
STUDENT ORGANIZATION EVENTS 02/09
Masquerade in the Park, 6 p.m., SAC 2.41NS
Name: 3421/SleepUT.com c/o Preiss Co; Width: 60p0; Depth: 5 in; Color: Process color, 3421/SleepUT.com c/o Preiss Co; Ad Number: 3421
Longhorn Life
Page 4
Sun.
Mon.
Tue.
Wed.
Friday, Feb. 6, 2015
Thur.
FEBRUARY / MARCH
Fri.
Sat.
2/6
2/7
Wale
Enrique Iglesias and Pitbull
8:30 p.m. @ Emo’s
7:30 p.m. @ Frank Erwin Center
2/8
2/9
2/10
2/11
2/12
2/13
2/14
Sonny Wolf
Chelsea Barbo
Lloyd Cole
Kat Edmonson
Alice Cooper
Brian Wolfe
Shinyribs
2/15
2/16
2/17
2/18
2/19
2/20
2/21
Echosmith
John Waters
Paul Walker Trio
Marcus Rios Duo
Clint Manning Trio
Taking Back Sunday
Jagged Luck
9 p.m. @ Dizzy Rooster
8 p.m. @ Emo’s
7 p.m. @ Bungalow
6:30 p.m. @ ACL Live, Moody Theater
8:30 p.m. @ Cactus Cafe
9 p.m. @ The Thirsty Nickel
6:30 p.m. @ ACL Live, Moody Theater
7 p.m. @ Bat Bar
6:30 p.m. @ ACL Live, Moody Theater
8:30 p.m. @ The Nook
4 p.m. @ The Thirsty Nickel
6:30 p.m. @ Emo’s
10:30 p.m. @ Grune Hall
8 p.m. @ Amped Austin
2/22
2/23
2/24
2/25
2/26
2/27
2/28
Mike Valliere
The Nightowls
Stanley Smith
Treble Soul
Desert Noises
Glen Collins
Fred Spence Duo
3/1
3/2
3/3
3/4
3/5
3/6
3/7
Fleetwood Mac
Peterson Brothers Band
Ryan Bingham
Chingy w/ Big Reeno
Up on the One
The Swingsters
The Naked Maja
5 p.m. @ Chuggin’ Monkey
7:30 p.m. @ Frank Erwin Center
9 p.m. @ The Highball
6:00 p.m. @ The Continental Club
6 p.m. @ Elephant Room
7:30 p.m. @ Gruene Hall
9 p.m. @ Amped Austin
8:00 p.m. @ Stubb’s
8 p.m. @ Stubb’s
7:15 p.m. @ Sahara Lounge
8 p.m. @ Buddy’s Place
11:30 p.m. @ East Side Showroom
10 p.m. @ CU-29
9:00 p.m. @ Rattle Inn
Name: 3392/The Ridge Apartment Homes; Width: 60p0; Depth: 5 in; Color: Black, 3392/The Ridge Apartment Homes; Ad Number: 3392
Longhorn Life
Friday, Feb. 6, 2015
Classic films for classy evenings By Jenna Million STAFF WRITER
W
hen it comes to date nights, sometimes staying in and cuddling up in front of the TV is better than going out. And what better way to spend the night than with rom-coms? Here are some of our favorite romantic movies—from classics to contemporaries. 1. Love Actually (2003) Chronicling the lives of several people’s romantic endeavors, “Love Actually” is a heart-warming movie about the human condition. Set in England during the winter holidays, some find love in unexpected places, while others struggle to balance their love lives with their work. Featuring Alan Rickman, Colin Firth, Hugh Grant, Keira Knightly and many other British actors, what’s not to love about “Love Actually?” 2. Sixteen Candles (1984) One of John Hughes’ infamous ‘80s classics featuring Molly Ringwald and Anthony Michael Hall, “Sixteen Candles” follows the life of a teenage girl whose own family forgets her birthday because her sister’s wedding overshadows her. She contends with grandparents staying in her room, an odd foreign exchange student, the pressures of high
school and the incessant romantic advances from a “geek.” And all she really wants is a date with her crush and brunette dreamboat Jake Ryan. 3. The Princess Bride (1987) This is a tale of a princess forced to marry against her will, and her one true love conquering all odds to save her. From pirates to fire swamps to terrifyingly large rodents, this movie has surprises around every corner. There might not be a better romantic adventure comedy; “The Princes Bride” is a classic that should be on your datenight list. 4. Grease (1978) A classic tale of lovers caught up in different social groups; Sandy the good girl and Danny the greaser fight for their love in this playful ‘50s musical. “Grease” will undoubtedly have you singing along to “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightning” and “You’re the One That I Want,” while John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John steal
your hearts. 5. The Notebook (2004) Viewers beware: “The Notebook” will leave you in tears with its passionate story of star-crossed lovers. Starring Ryan Gosling as Noah and Rachel McAdams as Allie, the two meet over the summer and quickly grow close. Torn apart by Noah’s enlistment in the army during World War II, Allie struggles to move on with her life, while Noah never stops fighting for her. 6. Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist (2008) A new-aged love story, based on the novel by David Levithan and Rachel Cohn, “Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist” follows two strangers’ adventures across New York City to find their favorite band. The two meet at Nick’s band’s show in a bar and soon end up on the date of a lifetime. From bar hopping to running into psycho exgirlfriends to taking care of drunken friends, Nick and Norah’s night is one to remember.
Copyright 1987, 20th Century Fox Anybody want a peanut? The Princess Bride will leave you with quotes you can’t get out of your head.
Page 5
Name: 3399/The Ion at East End; Width: 29p6; Depth: 10 in; Color: Black, 3399/The Ion at East End; Ad Number: 3399
Longhorn Life
Page 6
STYLE
Friday, Feb. 6, 2015
By Hayden Pigott STAFF WRITER
F
Photo courtesy of Express-O
ashion is not new. Although society constantly changes, fashion has remained the same for generations. This is not to say the latest looks on the Chanel runway are not fresh, but they are borrowing from trends that have been around for years. Fashion timelines clearly show that as a society we borrow from the old to create the new. Some trends fizzle out and never come back, and we should be happy about that (no one ever advertises that “vintage middle school” look). However, other styles are timeless, and when one fashion designer drops the trend, another will be happy to pick it back up. Why not use one of these classic trends to create the perfect look for your next date? Floral prints, for example, are classic! Every year, specifically on the spring runway, we see hundreds of looks sporting flowers in all shapes, sizes and colors. Where did the trend start? Was it the 1960s when flower power was at its highest? Or was it further back? It all started with Japanese Kimonos. Geishas took inspiration from delicate flowers and had them stitched onto their silk robes. Then as the world became more traveled, women from all over saw the Geisha’s flowers and thought “why not us?” Thus, the floral trend began. Florals have stayed with us because of their
versatility. They can be put on anything to create a more feminine look. Whether one pairs florals with trousers or maxi dresses, flowers will remain a common thread throughout the fashion industry for years to come. For your next date, throw on something with flowers to look feminine and chic. In the 1920s, one of the most famous fashion designers brought hats to the stage. That’s right, Coco Chanel started her empire by selling headgear. From there she branched out into another trend that is still huge today – menswear. When more and more women began entering the workforce, Chanel realized that they needed new clothing to work in. This era introduced ladies trousers, along with other pieces like cardigans and jackets that were borrowed from menswear but cut for women. Katherine Hepburn further popularized the trend by mainly wearing trousers during her motion picture Designed by Alexandra Dieck
career. Menswear still survives due to its versatility and comfort. If you are headed out on a date where you need to be comfortable, do exactly what they did back then and opt for an Oxford shirt with an oversized blazer. During both the first and second World Wars, another fashion trend became popular and has remained a staple for fashion houses across the world – militarism. Designers like Burberry became famous because they clothed the soldiers fighting in trench coats and Wellingtons. On the home front, women also chose to wear militaryinspired clothing because of its simplicity. Lauren Hutton made it even more popular by wearing a Burberry trench coat in public. Military-inspired fashion is always popular because of its neutral colors and clean, simple lines. We wear military-inspired capes and boots today for the same reasons, so put on some OD (olive drab) pants and a military style jacket and you are ready for your next date. In the late 1940s, Christian Dior broke into the fashion world with a new idea for women – poise. She introduced Grace Kelly’s and Audrey Hepburn’s classic A-line dresses with low heels and bows. The frocks were extremely simply done in all colors from black to pastels. They showed off
Designed by Lilia Beaman
Everlasting trends: Perfect pieces for every date
women’s curves and were perfect for the workplace or for hosting a dinner party. The trend never went away and women today look to Kelly and Hepburn for inspiration. This trend might be the most inspiring for a date ensemble because of its simple femininity and its ability to transcend so many generations. Dress in a pastel A-line dress by Oscar de la Renta and you will look just as good as Grace Kelly in “To Catch a Thief.” Overall, fashion trends remain the same with some slight twists and turns. We constantly borrow from decades long past, holding on to what remains the best of the best in the fashion world, especially when dressing for those anticipated date nights. Photos by Daniel Hublein
Longhorn Life
Friday, Feb. 6, 2015
Wardrobe check: Dating attire for both men and women By Anshuman Singhal STAFF WRITER
A
ttire plays a key part in nailing a satisfactory first impression. For men and women alike, finding acceptable attire to wear on a date can often be troubling. One has to take the level of formality into account– that is to say you wouldn’t want to be caught wearing a chartreuse evening gown to a simple coffee date, nor a pair of loose-fitting denim jeans and a frumpy tshirt to an upscale dinner at a steakhouse. Whether it’s a first date out to coffee, drinks, lunch or dinner, one has to hold him or herself to the highest of standards, presenting him or herself in a manner that is well put together, yet not over the top. Casual Meet-ups In the event of an uncomplicated first coffee or lunch date, the key to executing a somewhat laidback, albeit polished, look is simplicity. One has to firmly remember the fine line between overt casual under-dress, and the simple, yet effortless done-up look. Women: Opt for a casual blazer with the sleeves cuffed-up, atop a chic blouse and ankle-length cropped pant combo, with simple leather or suede footwear to finish. Alternatively, try a simple daytime dress, but be sure not to make this a gaudy or informal number. It will work wonders in accentuating your
inner beauty and creating a playful, yet polished ensemble. Men: Opt for an ironed button-down shirt with a classic print and color, tucked into a pair of well-fitting denim or twill pants with, again, leather or suede footwear to boot. Keep accessories (for both sides of the sex spectrum) minimal and classic looking – a simple watch, a dainty pair of stud earrings or a simple chain-necklace is all you need. Formal Soirées For the more formal, more ceremonious parts of the dating game, one has to consider the atmosphere of the date before heavily adorning themselves with apparel and jewels. Women: Gauging the level of formality before dressing in elegant attire is key. When attending a venue, such as an art gallery or upscale restaurant, one can get away with wearing edgier, more flirty pieces, such as sleek rompers and jumpsuits paired with a well-tailored blazer. Additional options include an alluring blouse and skirt combination, finished off with sleek, yet impactful jewelry and dainty high heels made of materials, such as leather, snakeskin or suede. For a more upscale setting, such as an expensive steakhouse or
theatre performance, an elegant evening dress or a sleek menswear-inspired pantsuit combination are stunning. Men: It should go without saying to wear a well-fitting, ironed button-down shirt, paired with a crisp, clean pair of dress pants and blazer to boot. Finish it off with a sleek pair of oxfords or lace-up dress shoes in leather or suede. If the venue requires more formality, such as a theatre or upscale restaurant, wear a welltailored suit with a classic tie, and accessorize with a well-made watch for an expertly-executed ensemble. Having read this, realize that only you are aware of what pieces fully expresses your personality to its greatest potential, and only you are able to perceive the level of formality your date expects, based on the context of your plans. Take caution; thoroughly enjoy the process of planning an outfit for your date, but keep these humble guidelines in mind to achieve a phenomenal first impression and ensure many more dates to come. Designed by Kinni Song
Name: 3403/The Zone at East End; Width: 29p6; Depth: 10 in; Color: Black, 3403/The Zone at East End; Ad Number: 3403
Page 7
Page 8
Longhorn Life
Friday, February 6, 2015
Longhorn Life
By Jasmine Barnes STAFF WRITER
What exactly is “hooking up”? Scholars and confused teenagers continue to debate this question and many other topics concerning contemporary relationships. As the years progress, dating jargon becomes more and more ambiguous. Relationship norms continue to change. Dating may be more complex and confusing than ever. Are we better or worse at forming relationships now in a culture of individualism and virtual interactions? Reviewing history is always the best way to find answers. Looking at dating norms in the aftermath of the Women’s Rights Movement, the Sexual Revolution and the birth of the Internet proves to be interesting, to say the least. Before any of these major changes in the United States, dating in the early 20th century was called “courting” and often occurred in the presence of an adult supervisor. Young men and women would meet at social events or blindly be paired up and “court” over a long period of time with the intention of marrying each other. The pressure for dating to result in marriage intensified after World War II created a decade-long pause in relationships after many young men went to war. In the ‘40s and ‘50s, teenagers began creating their own social rules with boys giving girls letterman jackets and pins to signify that they were “going steady” in a serious relationship. When the ‘60s came along, everything changed. The Women’s Rights Movement made huge advancements for women equality in the workforce. Because so many women were now able to support themselves financially, marriage was no longer a necessity and dating quickly became optional. The Sexual Revolution also introduced birth control to the masses and coined the term “free love,” which encouraged people to explore their sexuality outside of traditional relationship structures. With the Civil Rights Movement happening simultaneously, dating whomever you wanted no matter their race or sexual orientation became more socially acceptable than ever before. The 21st century transformed dating with the recent invention of the Internet and the widespread availability of cellphones. Millennials grew up never really knowing life without individualized technology. Teenagers and young adults have made dating much more transactional with the popularity of online dating websites like eHarmony and social events like “speed dating.” At a point in history where people can be almost entirely independent from each other, interpersonal relationships are still just as desirable but seemingly harder to secure. Since the beginning of time, relationships have explored love, like and every emotion in between. While these feelings and emotions still exist, the social dynamics around dating have changed in so many ways. Ultimately, the paradigm for a happy relationship has changed amongst today’s young people. Dating is no longer an investment in future monetary benefits or social status. Instead, individuals seeking serious relationships desire unconditional love and genuine partnership unlike ever before. The casual act of “hooking up” may be on the rise, but a new kind of courtship based on respect, equality and genuine love also has a chance to reign supreme in our post-modern world.
Page 9
Longhorn Life
Page 10
GOOD EATS
Friday, Feb. 6, 2015
embrace your inner foodie
Date and dine: Austin eateries that whip up the perfect evening By Emily Caitlin Moore STAFF WRTIER
W
ith Valentine’s Day coming up, couples all over are looking for the perfect spot to spend their night. Austin has too many good places to choose from, so I have the perfect guide for picking the best place, depending on how you see this Valentine’s Day (or any date night after) going. Romances If you’re looking for a place with romantic lighting and a more intimate feel, there are a number of places to choose from. Hillside Farmacy on the east side is in an old pharmacy with an array of classic items on their menu and fantastic nightly fish specials. Winflo on West Sixth has a similar atmosphere but with a bit more bustling feel and a great outdoor patio that’s perfect no matter the weather condition. First Dates For some, Valentine’s Day is also their first date. The best places for these instances are ones with an exciting and fun atmosphere. Searsucker on Colorado and Fifth has rustic décor with vintage marquee signs on the walls. The place is huge with a more casual feel in the front and a more formal ambience in the back. I recommend starting at the bar with some
of their specialty cocktails and a few of their best appetizers. When you’re ready to sit down for a meal, depending on how the night is going, you all can sit at a table near the bar for a more relaxed setting or you can take it to a table near the back for a more intimate evening. Perla’s on South Congress is another great choice and, with its amazing seafood, offers something different from the typical Americanstyle dinner. The food is a bit pricier, but this spot is a very fun place to go and is accompanied with a nice patio out front. Bufalina is another option, and one of the best pizza places in Austin. With a fancier scene than most pizzerias, but still with the casual feel, this has great first-date vibes. This eatery has long shared tables, so some
couples may be on the other end celebrating an anniversary. Anniversaries Anniversaries should be special and therefore should be celebrated at a special restaurant. Some nice, but relatively pricey, places to go to include Olive and June, LaV and Jeffrey’s. All are intimate restaurants with fantastic food. Changes of Pace If you’re looking to try something new and different, Clarke’s Oyster Bar is perfect for that. On West Sixth, and with a small, East Coast feeling, this place has some of the best seafood and drinks. If you want to spice things up, there are plenty of places perfect for just that. Clay Pit is a casual Indian food place and Elizabeth Street Cafe is a cozy French and
Vietnamese place. Ranch 616 has great drinks, including the Ranch Water, a margarita-style cocktail, and offers blankets to wrap around you and your date if you decide to sit outside. Odd Duck on Lamar is small-dish style, perfect for sharing a number of different dishes that they offer. Casual If looking for something casual and/or cheap, I recommend Foreign and Domestic, Fresa’s or Licha’s Cantina. All are fantastic places to eat, and different in their own ways. Fresa’s actually has a pick up window, and would be a great place to grab food and take home for a casual night in. No matter what you choose to do on your date, any of these places I’ve listed above will make it a night to remember.
Photo by Rebeca Rodriguez The intimate Hillside Farmacy offers a variety of classic items as well as nightly fish specials on its menu.
LONGHORN LIFE RECOMMENDS: Hillside Farmacy
1209 East 11th Street Austin, TX 78702 (512) 628-0168
Winflo Oysteria
1315 West Sixth Street Austin, TX 78703 (512) 582-1027
Searsucker
415 Colorado Street Austin, TX 78701 (512) 394-8000
Perla’s
1400 South Congress Ave. Austin, TX 78704 (512) 291-7300
Bufalina Pizza
1519 East Cesar Chavez St. Austin, TX 78702 (512) 524-2523
Clarke’s Oyster Bar
1200 West Sixth St. Austin, TX 78703 (512) 297-2525
Clay Pit
1601 Guadalupe St. Austin, TX 78701 (512) 322-5131
Elizabeth Street Cafe
1501 South First St. Austin, TX 78704 (512) 291-2881
Ranch 616
616 Nueces St. Austin, TX 78701 (512)479-7616
Odd Duck
1201 South Lamar Blvd. Austin, TX 78704 (512) 433-6521
Fresa’s
915 North Lamar Blvd. Austin, TX 78703 (512) 428-5077
Licha’s Cantina
1306 East Sixth St. Austin, TX (512) 480-5960
Friday, Feb. 6, 2015
Longhorn Life
Name: 3408/Rio West; Width: 29p6; Depth: 5 in; Color: Process color, 3408/Rio West; Ad Number: 3408
On Stands Feb. 11 Name: 3412/Crest at Pearl; Width: 60p0; Depth: 5 in; Color: Process color, 3412/Crest at Pearl; Ad Number: 3412
Page 11
Longhorn Life
Page 12
EXPLORE
Friday, Feb. 6, 2015
discovering the city
Take It Outside: Austin’s Most Romantic Outdoor Activities By Victoria Garabedian STAFF WRITER
T
he city of Austin has all the features of urban life, but the never-ending supply of natural beauty is what makes this city so unique. Here are a few activities provided by Mother Nature that can add even more romance to the most romantic day of the year. Watching the sunset at Mount Bonnell The only way to make a sunset more breathtaking is by seeing it atop Mount Bonnell, one of Austin’s most popular hill country sites. Take your significant other on a short hike
Photos by Taylor Harton Left: From hiking along the side trail to paddleboating and canoeing, Lady Bird Lake is a fun idea for a date anytime of the year. Right: Zilker Park is the perfect spot for a variety of dates, from strolling to picnicing.
Hiking these trails is a wonderful way to spend the day and embrace the natural beauty that Austin has to offer.
to the summit at Covert Park and enjoy the scenery of Lake Austin surrounded by endless hills as the colors of the sunset add an extra touch of charm. Paddle boarding on Lady Bird Lake There are few places where one can see a city
skyline while experiencing watersports. Stand-up paddle boarding is the newest trend at Lady Bird Lake as well as a fun and simple activity to do with your significant other. It is also a great way to enjoy the water without having to get in it during this chilly time of the year. Several companies offer hourly rentals at the
lake, but make sure to do this activity during the day since most rentals end at dusk. Hiking the Greenbelt The Barton Creek Greenbelt offers miles of trails that showcase Austin’s waterfalls, cliffs and swimming holes. There is always a new hideaway to discover and explore.
Exploring the Cathedral of Junk Located in a South Austin suburban backyard, the Cathedral of Junk is a manmade masterpiece. Vince Hannemann began building his collection of 60 tons of old trash and parts in 1988, interweaving it with trees. It is as sturdy as the house that sits in front of it, yet contains more allure than any building ever could. Relaxing at Zilker Zilker Park contains
more than 350-acres of pure outdoor bliss. From biking trails to beach volleyball courts, the endless open space gives couples plenty of room to enjoy some fresh air and their favorite outdoor activity. Savor the sunshine while having a view of the Austin skyline. A quaint picnic here never fails. Strolling through the Botanical Garden A part of the park, Zilker Botanical Garden offers visitors stunning plants and ponds that add an enchanting aura to any date. Romance is promised with such a peaceful environment and lovely scenery. It is also a per-
fect location to take nice couple photos. Catching a live show Thanks to living in the “live-music capital of the world,” there are always concerts happening around the city. Some of the most popular outdoor venues include Stubb’s, The Mohawk and Cedar Street Courtyard. If you and your significant other both love music, then there is no shortage of opportunities to listen to talented bands while outdoors. Plus, you can save money by seeing local bands since many perform free shows, especially on the weekends.
Friday, Feb. 6, 2015
Longhorn Life
Name: HOUSE RECRUITMENT; Width: 29p6; Depth: 10 in; Color: Black, HOUSE RECRUITMENT; Ad Number: -
Name: 3401/The Edge at East End; Width: 29p6; Depth: 10 in; Color: Black, 3401/The Edge at East End; Ad Number: 3401
Page 13
Longhorn Life
Page 14
FEATURE
Friday, Feb. 6, 2015
How to Be Single and Still Love Valentine’s Day By Kelly Coles STAFF WRITER
tionship!
alentine’s Day has a history of making people without a significant other feel singled out, but why should a major holiday be celebrated by only a few? Valentine’s Day is not about flaunting romance. Valentine’s Day is about showing people that they are loved and appreciated, and that should not be limited to romantic relationships. Here are some tips for making the most of your Valentine’s Day whether or not you are in a rela-
Buy valentines for some friends Embrace the Valentine’s Day tradition of buying
V
candy and flowers. It will make a friend’s day
to know that you have been thinking about him or her, and what better excuse is there to buy a valentine? Pick out some festive cards and chocolates to show your friends that you value their friendship. Write a note in the card telling them what you love most about the influence they have in your life! Surprise your mom or dad Mother’s Day is three months away and Father’s Day is four months away, so why not surprise your parents early? Send Mom some flowers and Dad some candy! Or write a personal letter
to your parents to show your appreciation for all they have done. Parents deserve more than just one day of appreciation. If it comes as a surprise to them, it is sure to be a good one! Treat yourself Take a mental break from your studies and enjoy yourself. Buy yourself some candy, a Frappuccino or your favorite meal. Go read a good book or watch a good movie. Invite a friend to join you in your Valentine’s Day veg! Go explore a place you haven’t been to before. Show yourself some appreciation by doing what you want to do.
Dress up/Be festive You can celebrate the entire day by dressing up! Wear something nice for the day or dress up in festive pinks or reds. Break out the cheesy heartshaped jewelry or heart printed graphic tees. You won’t find a better day to make use of them! Other people are sure to have their day brightened by your festivity! Go to dinner with a friend Maybe you have a friend who you haven’t spent quality time with in a while. Ask him or her to get dinner with you! Use Valentine’s Day as a time to see what is going on in
your friend’s life. Make an adventure out of it by trying a new restaurant or coffee shop or reminisce by going to an old favorite spot. Philanthropy Show the world some love by finding an event that gives to the community! There are many events on Valentine’s Day that provide an opportunity to serve others. Find something that you are passionate about and contribute on Valentine’s Day. Look into participating in a fun run or volunteering at an animal shelter. There are endless opportunities!
Photo by Victoria Garabedian
Name: 3396/JLB Partners; Width:ECHO, 60p0; Depth: 5 in; Color: ProcessLUXURY color, 3396/JLB Partners; Ad Number: 3396 AUSTIN’S NEWEST APARTMENT COMMUNITY,
OFFERS RESORT-STYLE AMENITIES MINUTES OFF CAMPUS.
Call 1.888.450.1182 today to find out how you can take advantage of our special offer for UT Austin students! 4527 North Lamar Boulevard • Austin, Texas 78751 • info@LiveAtEcho.com • www.LiveAtEcho.com
Friday, Feb. 6, 2015
Longhorn Life
Page 15
Name: 3476/West Campus Partners (The ; Width: 29p6; Depth: 10 in; Color: Black, 3476/West Campus Partners (The ; Ad Number: 3476
Longhorn Life
5Page 16
Want more
TRAVESTY AD
Friday, Feb. 6, 2015
Name: 3386/Sherwood Forest Fair; Width: 29p6; Depth: 5 in; Color: Process color, 3386/Sherwood Forest Fair; Ad Number: 3386
?
Go online for updates, photos, and more. longhornlifeonline.com
@txlonghornlife
@LonghornLife
Name: 3493/CWS Apartment Homes/Regent; Width: 60p0; Depth: 5 in; Color: Process color, 3493/CWS Apartment Homes/Regent; Ad Number: 3493