Texas in Montreal: A Destination that Celebrates Diversity and Hospitality

Guests had the opportunity to interact directly with representatives from the different regions of Texas in an intimate and welcoming format. This exchange encouraged fluid conversations, allowing each destination to share its identity in a personal and authentic way. The Travel Texas  delegation was composed of Autumn Martinez (Lubbock Economic & Business Alliance), Dee Dee Poteete (Visit San Antonio), Debra Bustos (Austin), McKenna Dowdle (Houston First Corporation), Rosalyn Hunter, representative of VoX International Inc., Nora Ochoa (Destination El Paso), and Joel Vázquez (Laredo Convention & Visitors Bureau).

Laredo: Living History, Border Culture and Authenticity

As part of this initiative, we spoke with Joel Vázquez, assistant director for the Laredo region, who introduced a border city shaped by history, Hispanic identity and a deep cultural connection with Mexico.

With a predominantly Spanish-speaking community and strong ties to Canada through tourism and trade, Laredo positions itself as a welcoming destination for Spanish-speaking travelers. “We see each other as family,” he noted, highlighting the closeness between Mexico, the United States and Canada, especially in a region through which a large portion of continental trade passes.

Laredo will soon celebrate 271 years of history, a legacy that, according to Vázquez, even predates the United States itself. “We are a city full of history,” he explained, recalling that the territory has flown under seven different flags throughout its past, one more than the state of Texas. Among its emblematic sites is the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum, a symbol of its historical heritage.

Culinary identity is another of the city’s great sources of pride. Unlike traditional Tex-Mex cuisine, Laredo embraces what is known as “Mex-Tex” cuisine, deeply rooted in its Mexican heritage. The city has nurtured local chefs who traveled throughout Europe, Mexico and North America before returning home to open restaurants offering authentic culinary experiences.

Beyond gastronomy, Laredo also stands out for its natural richness. Its ecotourism offerings include birdwatching featuring species from northern Mexico and Central America, hiking trails, cycling routes and green spaces where nature coexists with urban life. Even around the university area, visitors may encounter wildlife such as deer and wild boars, the result of conservation policies promoted by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and educational initiatives.

As for the climate, the city enjoys pleasant conditions for much of the year, with warmer summers and more than 300 days of sunshine that encourage outdoor activities.

Finally, Vázquez invites travelers to discover the authenticity of the destination: “We invite everyone to visit Laredo, Texas, to become part of our history and explore a city where Mexican and American cultures coexist in perfect harmony.”

San Antonio: Tradition, Warmth and Authentic Experiences

Located in south-central Texas, San Antonio enjoys a strategic location: approximately a four-hour drive from Dallas and Houston, with flights of only about 45 minutes. One of the most significant recent developments is the launch of a new nonstop flight from Toronto operated by Air Canada since May 1, offering service three times a week throughout the season extending to October.

“We are delighted to welcome our Canadian friends,” said Poteete, emphasizing especially the connection with the Hispanic community. With nearly 60 percent of its population of Hispanic origin, San Antonio offers an environment where many visitors immediately feel at home. “Our history is deeply connected to Spain and Mexico. When travelers arrive, they sense that familiarity: the music, the architecture, the gastronomy… there is a warmth that makes everyone feel welcome.”

This cultural connection is complemented by the renowned Texan spirit of hospitality. “The word Texas means friendship,” she noted, underscoring the welcoming character of its residents.

From a travel perspective, San Antonio also stands out as an accessible destination. Its airport is located only twelve kilometers from downtown, and many of its major attractions are free, including The Alamo, the San Antonio River Walk and the city’s historic missions. In addition, its urban design allows visitors to explore much of the city on foot, with accommodations available for every budget.

For travelers seeking sunshine and outdoor activities, the city enjoys nearly 300 days of sunshine each year. From hotel pools, many located on rooftop terraces, to kayaking adventures and excursions to the nearby Hill Country for tubing on rivers and lakes, the options are both varied and appealing. Added to this is the proximity of Schlitterbahn Waterpark, considered one of the world’s top water parks.

“We invite everyone to come and discover San Antonio. It is a place where history, culture and hospitality are experienced in an authentic way,” Poteete concluded.

Closing of the Gathering: A Creative Pause and a Shared Memory

At the close of the luncheon, the event offered a delicate creative activity inspired by nature, where guests crafted ornamental plant arrangements guided by a horticulture specialist. Through soil, textures and harmonious compositions, the gathering became a moment of pause and connection. Later, prize drawings added a festive and convivial atmosphere, leaving each participant with a lasting memory of the hospitality and authenticity of Texas from the heart of Montreal.