Texas is the second largest American state by area and population, and Fort Worth is known as the place ‘where the West begins’. Open-range cattle drives took place during the 19^th century when more than 10 million head of cattle were herded along the Chisholm Trail, which was named after Jesse Chisholm who established a wagon route in 1864. Following the American Civil War, the Chisholm Trail enabled the mass movement of cattle from southern Texas, through the Red River into Indian Territory and onto Kansas.

Today, Fort Worth, known as ‘Cowtown’, attracts 9.4 million visitors annually. On arrival and bursting with enthusiasm I headed for the luxurious Crescent Hotel located on Camp Bowie Boulevard. Recipient of the 2024 Condé Nast Traveller’s Reader’s Choice Award for the No. 1 Hotel in Texas and a 2025 TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Award, the property sits at the crossroads of downtown and the vibrant Cultural District.

Check-in procedures were swift and efficient and my luggage was whisked away in a jiffy. I was escorted to a luxurious one bedroom metropolitan suite measuring 717sq.ft. Features include floor to ceiling windows flooding the separate living room with natural light. I was delighted to make use of a Nespresso coffee machine and as I sank into the plump sofa I felt at home in an instant.

Keen to take advantage of the Crescent Hotel’s spa, I made my way post haste to the tranquillity of the Canyon Ranch, which covers 11,000 square feet and includes steam and treatment rooms, steam showers and a plush private seating area. The opportunity to relax in the steam room was my first priority and after spending quite some time in the warm and soothing waters of the Jacuzzi I whiled away more time in the luxuriant relaxation room.

I was then guided to an opulent and spacious salon for my first class manicure and pedicure. Feeling suitably preened and deeply pampered I was ushered into an exquisite massage room and my first rate masseur ensured that all the stresses and tensions of my long journey vanished. Feeling at ease amid the soothing aromas of the essential oils and the gentle strains of the surrounding music, my energy was restored and I was ready to explore the city.

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