This time (November 18-26, 2006) my base in the Lower Rio Grande Valley was an Alamo Inn B&B located in Alamo, Texas http://www.alamoinnsuites.com.

Keith Hackland, the Innkeeper, is also a well known nature writer, very knowledgeable birder and activist who constantly fights for the welfare of birds and wildlife living in the Valley. This historical Bed and Breakfast Inn (building was built in 1919) was recently completely remodeled and is centrally located in the Valley. Keith himself is a gold mine of information about local birds, butterflies and other wildlife. His hospitality is becoming legendary. All of his efforts are aimed towards helping birds, birders and nature lovers. His expertise also includes considerable knowledge about optics, maps and books. My shooting schedule did not allow enough time to capture the charm of The Alamo Inn and its owner in the shots I was able to take. On the last day, just before the rush leave, I took a few snapshots that do not show the true spirit of the place but will give the reader an idea of how it looks. The suite was in immaculate condition when I arrived, any mess visible in the photographs is mine. Every suite is different. On this visit I stayed in a suite decorated with antiques from the Wild West era. All of the features mentioned above are included in the price of the suite and there is a discount available for birders. I am hooked; hope see you there next time I visit the Valley.



Also, when staying in Alamo Inn, you will have a chance to meet another very interesting person, Grover Terry Beaman. Grover is a local artist who has a studio in this building. Often very early in the morning, even before sunrise, he will drink his coffee and smoke a cigarette when sitting on the bench in the front of the building. With little luck you will catch him working on the new sketch.

There is no other place like the Valley, and no better place to stay in the Valley than Alamo Inn