Reviews & Comments
Tulsa, OK
re: Tulsa is a wasteland
-
11/15/2018"Healthcare in Tulsa is terrible. There is a huge shortage in doctors. For an initial appointment you will usually have to wait months to get in to be seen. Oklahoma’s government is a joke. They have huge budget shortfalls and fail to get anything done week after week."
YES and YES, Casey. This is the absolute truth.
San Antonio, TX
re: Great place to live -
11/12/2017Agree! Excellent description.
San Antonio, TX
re: Not for driven professionals, allergy suffere -
11/11/2017While I appreciate all the uniqueness San Antonio has to offer, you make some valid points with respect to the negative, or less attractive qualities. Yes, the weather is unbearably HOT, and it's not ideal for allergy sufferers. It is fantastic for families, as SA is very much family-oriented, or for more established persons. However, for young professionals, Dallas or Houston would be best choice. This is true. La Cantera is just one of several sprawling retail centers. I'd be remiss not to mention San Antonio's decorum and high end retail shopping which can be found also at The Rim, The Quarry Market and in Alamo Heights.
Tulsa, OK
Lovely Terrain/Historic/Unprogressive/High Crime -
9/1/2017Tulsa is a lovely city in a beautiful setting with attractive qualities, but lacks the economic and cultural progress it desperately needs. Once the oil capital of the US, residual traces of the growth spurt it experienced during the oil boom still exist. Highlights of Tulsa worth mentioning are wonderful Art Deco architecture located in the heart of downtown, and the historical and famous Route 66 traverses the city allowing visitors a glimpse into the past.
If you enjoy casinos and a slow-paced lifestyle, and can tolerate menacing crime, then Tulsa is okay. Clapton's song "Living on Tulsa Time" still applies today... not much has changed in Tulsa as it has experienced little growth.
Not progressive.... I am not referring to political progressivism, but literally progressive advancement. Tattoo Art just became legal. They just now are beginning to sell wine in grocery stores. Highest proportion of young, unwed women impregnated to obtain government assistance. Methamphetamine and other drug abuse is rampant.
Tulsa does, however, have QT (Quick Trip) - it is everywhere :) This is good.
Climate is highly conducive to outdoor recreation and scenic retreats. Tulsa receives steady annual rainfall. Summers get hot, but not unbearable. The wind blows offering a cool breeze, and relief can be found in the shade... unlike in hot subtropical climates. Actually experience four seasons. Moderate to severe winters include snow and occasional ice. Downside is area is prone to tornadoes and strong, threatening thunderstorms which often wreak havoc causing damage to homes, and homeowners repeatedly suffer inconvenient and bothersome power outages.
PROs:
Beautiful terrain is made up of small rolling hills. The region is known as "Green Country" within the state and to locals due to lush green landscape.
Route 66 remains a historic landmark and offers nostalgia. Native American culture is refreshingly prominent and historically preserved.
Culture can be found in the downtown art district, which has been recently renovated to include Guthrie Green - a park and music venue - and at the famous Cain's Ballroom where legendary musicians/artists perform.
The Philbrook Museum is a desirable destination for European art lovers. Villa Philbrook (Philips Oil) is a 72-room Mediterranean style mansion which revisits the wealth Tulsa once accrued. Nearby are both the Linnaeus and Rose Gardens.
The Gilcrease Museum of Native American Art and Western History is located in Osage Hills, west of downtown Tulsa. The Gilcrease Museum truly is a treasure. It is home to numerous works - most notably CM Russell, Frederic Remington (paintings and bronze statues) and Central & South American artifacts. Currently, the largest Native American art collection in the United States is housed here. The Gilcrease also partnered with the University of Tulsa (TU) to create an elite Masters of Museum Science and Studies program.
Quaint and charming Utica Square offers sophisticated and high-end retail shops and eateries in a refreshingly beautiful setting.
Higher Education institutions are reputable, accredited and
well-respected.
College sports rule here (Good luck ignoring this one)! Although no professional sports exist in Tulsa, their surrogate NBA team is OKC Thunder.
No shortage of medical physicians in the region. Healthcare is mediocre although it improves within the University Healthcare System.
Tulsa is a good place for retirees and/or you have the luxury of traveling.
CONS:
Slow and backward/Lacks fast economic growth.
Highways and roadways are absolutely awful. The roads are littered with pot holes... two lanes instead of four. No central loop around the city makes getting to a destination impossible without treading through stop light after stop light (stoplights just now became synchronized), or jumping from one tiny, small stretch of highway to another connecting highway (poor ergonomics). Poor ergonomics creates an impediment to attracting travelers and tourists and it will cost you thousands in car repairs - a giant nuisance.
Sales Tax is relatively intrusive. In this respect, the sales tax may potentially exceed affordability in the long run. Substantial amount of tax revenue comes from Sales Tax, not Property Tax.
Small town mentality... cliquesh. Difficult to penetrate established social circles.
Professional opportunity is limited, as it lacks versatility and opportunities for growth. Competition is stiff for moderately skilled workers and blue collar jobs.
*(socioeconomic classes are not integrated well, as the city is extremely segregated).
Last, but not least, CRIME...
There is a large police presence, yet crime is increasing. Tulsa's crime rate is disproportionately high for its size and population.
For example, gangs and gang activity have infiltrated the entire city. Gangs are around every corner. Residents living further south of town experience less of this criminal element, but they still exist - do not kid yourself. Sadly, criminals victimize Tulsa's expanding immigrant community. Whether documented, or undocumented, hard-working immigrants who call Tulsa home are often exploited as they have become targets for criminals; therefore, perpetuating unreported crime.
The source of the majority of crime in Tulsa spawns from the disgustingly massive methamphetamine problem. It's pathetic.
On a personal note and as an animal lover, I would be remiss to not include the poor animal welfare and education. While the nonprofit organizations are fantastic, the city and adjacent communities are incompetent. Irresponsible breeders and puppy mills are prevalent in surrounding rural areas. It's ignorance at its best.
Tulsa hosts dangerous crime statistics - Burglary, assault, narcotics, rape, murder you got it. Fear it all in Tulsa. Most alarming, law enforcement in Tulsa is LOSING their battle with crime in general and the rampant illicit drug trade and abuse.
Buyer BEWARE! Protect yourself and don't get complacent in Tulsa. No joke! Please do consider investing in an alarm system and exterior lighting for your home.
San Antonio, TX
Cultural, Unique, Educated, Family-Oriented -
8/29/2017San Antonio is one of the most, if not the most, unique and culturally infused city in America. No other city of its kind... anywhere. It is important to note, culture does not necessarily translate into diversity. SA is less culturally diverse than Houston and Dallas, but still multicultural and highly integrated. The city's rich, diverse history is impeccably preserved and interwoven with Texan heritage and Mexican culture, while maintaining an independent identity as an amalgam of mutual respect, much like that of the entire state. You see this in every day life from the shared history and humility which defines San Antonio. There is a symbiotic and respectful relationship among Hispanics, Whites and Blacks. We are not "Black," "White," "Brown," we are TEXANS. SA is all-inclusive. I say that with the utmost honesty and truth. I have been a transplant, a newcomer, I have lived in multiple locations within SA, and it didn't take long for SA to grow on me.
San Antonio is very much a family-oriented city comprised of professionals and hardworking people who take pride in their community.
SA is a modern city with an old world veneer. Steadily growing. Currently the 7th largest city in the US, 2nd in TX (metro).
San Antonio's driving economic source is tourism and the hospitality industry. Second to none.
Military presence is large and revered due to the numerous & heavily populated military bases (Air Force, Army) and world renowned SAMMC, formerly BAMC
Catholic missions throughout the city display the origins of refuge offered by religion and the foundation on which SA was built.
Ritualistic annual festivities such as Fiesta, NIOSA (Night in Old San Antonio), Battle of Flowers Parade are all taken very seriously in their rites; however they are celebrated with pride. Families and individuals alike can take part in the entertainment and array foods, drinks, incomparable festivities/parties and philanthropic events...
Food: wonderful TexMex and authentic Mexican food...
TX Hill Country (Kerrville, Boerne, Fredericksburg): offers beautiful scenic sites in a natural setting where one can enjoy a multitude of activities on the rolling hills and rivers...
Guadelupe River: tubing/canoeing/rafting...
Coastal beaches within driving distance (within +/- an hour and a half)...
The city of New Braunfels lies adjacent to SA where a large German population resides and in which the rich culture is maintained. New Braunfels features the famous, Schlitterbahn - a giant water park incorporated in the natural setting of the Guadelupe River. Fredericksburg is also nearby where German heritage still celebrates its original settlement. It's renowned for its peaches and tasty food...
Museums galore from Institute of Texan Cultures, McNay Art Museum, Witte, to the fantastic Children's Museum, much, much more...
One of a kind, Majestic Theater, resides in the heart of downtown. Further culture and art includes the SA Symphony and Orchestra and Performing Arts...
Breckinridge Park, SA Botanical Gardens, SA Zoo, Sea World, Fiesta Texas...
Historic King William District, Pioneer Baking Mill, Pearl Brewery & District...
For sophisticated, high-end retail shopping and entertainment, one can visit The Quarry Market and/or Alamo Heights (centrally located, just north of downtown). Whether it's a movie you want to catch, shop, dine or golf, you can find it here. Additionally, there is La Cantera and/or The Rim, offers huge retail outlets and more shopping.
Market Square (next to downtown) is a 3-
block market where one can purchase hand crafts, apparel, and novelty items. Fun shopping, entertainment, and family activities galore...
The Riverwalk: self explanatory! Stunning atmosphere, fun and lively shops and multitude of restaurants flank the sinuous river. The cobblestone streets above are lined with shops, hotels, entertainment venues, museums, fine dining, and historical sites...
Old Catholic missions are beautifully preserved and can be toured by visitors...
San Antonio is a growing metropolis that is very livable and highly navigable with excellent highways (as most Texas roadways & interstates are). Although laid out not in a grid, but in a circular pattern as thoroughfares wind around & outward from the focal point, the center of town - downtown SA and famous Riverwalk.
Last, but not least, it is home to the San Antonio Spurs, the city's adored NBA professional sports team.
To be fair, San Antonio's less-than desirable qualities would be the intense year round heat, higher cost of living, and being such a family-oriented city, it does not lend itself as well to the more independent, young, single professional seeking nightlife or commraderie. San Antonio may not be suitable for one's personality, but one would be hard pressed not to find it a unique and livable environment for a city its size and lively atmosphere.
As a native Texan, Houstonian by birth, former resident of Austin, and long-time resident of San Antonio, I am happy to call San Antonio home. After relocating back to Texas from New York, it took me a year or two initially, but San Antonio quickly grew on me. While I am biased to some degree, I have resided outside of Texas as well, including Oklahoma and New York for a total of 12 years combined. San Antonio is incredibly difficult to describe, because words don't do it justice. It doesn't fit into just one category. It is multidimensional - It is a gem.
That said, each city in Texas is so different from one another, because the state is so huge and covers a massive area. Personally, I love the great state of Texas, because Texas is like 5 states in one. Every region is like a state in its own right offering diversity and a variety of opportunities and can meet almost anyone's needs.