El Paso

File:Bannerelpaso - 1280px El Paso Skyline2 - El Paso skyline

El Paso is the sixth largest city in Texas, on the United States -Mexico border. The city on the other side of the border is Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua. El Paso is often called the Sunday City. Collectively and the city of El Paso and other nearby cities, such as Juarez and Las Cruces, New Mexico are referred to as The Borderland.

El Paso Halal Travel Guide

Spanish for Travelers|The Spanish language is an important part of life to El Pasoans. It's not always necessary to know (Spanish), but it can help in some situations! To say yes is Si, No is No. Gracias is thank you in Spanish. Given that Spanish tends to be a more formal language than English, you will be even better received if can manage "Si/no, señor/señora/señorita" ("Yes/no, sir/ma'am/miss"), and "No, gracias" ("No, thank you"), rather than a curt "Si" or "no." To ask for the restroom, say ¿Dónde está el baño?. When asking for directions, you might need a mapa, or map. The calle or street you are looking for may be izquierda (left) or derecha (right). You may want to take an autobus which is cerca de la plaza, or the bus is near the town square.

And if all else fails, and communication is at a stand still, smile and say Lo siento. No hablo Español.]] El Paso is geographically divided into several parts with the Franklin Mountains and Fort Bliss cutting the city into distinct sections. Each area has its own style and culture.

• West Side is between the Franklin mountains and Mexico and New Mexico includes El Paso's most affluent neighborhoods along the side of the mountain. Providence Memorial Hospital, Sierra Medical Center, Las Palmas Medical Center, El Paso Country Club, and the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) are located here. The UTEP area ("Kern Place") is emerging as an entertainment neighborhood with restaurants and late night restaurants commonly called the "Cincinnati Entertainment District". The Sunday Bowl, Don Haskins center, and Centennial Gardens are all located on the UTEP campus.
• Downtown is in the southern part of El Paso, just below the tip of the Franklin Mountains. The streets of Downtown are often difficult to navigate for first time visitors, especially with the current construction. Parking (there are many affordable areas to park your vehicle for the day) is probably the best option. Walking through Downtown and there are many little shops reminiscent of Mexico and many small cafes. Many of the buildings are historic and very beautiful. The Downtown area boasts a beautiful plaza in the center of the city. The El Paso Museum of Art and the Plaza Theater, El Paso Civic Center and a children's science museum, Insights, are all located here. Extensive renovations are taking place in the Downtown area. Nearby on Paisano Street is the El Paso Zoo.
• North East El Paso is home to Fort Bliss Military Base. Fort Bliss is one of the largest U.S. Military bases in the world and Northeast El Paso is home to many active and retired servicemen and women. Fort Bliss located near the airport with adjacent Biggs Army Airfield has a great influence on Northeast El Paso culture. Tours of Fort Bliss can be arranged, or if you know a service member, have them give you a tour. Outside of base are many military surplus stores.
• East Side of El Paso is the fastest growing area mostly home to middle class working families. The Socorro Student Activities Complex (SAC), Del Sol Medical Center, Las Palmas Marketplace, Cielo Vista Mall and Bassett Center are all located in East El Paso. It is close to the Mission Trails area and Hueco Tanks State Historic Site.

History

El Paso was named as "El Paso del Norte" (The Pass of the North) by Spanish travelers in 1581. The area wasn't colonized by Europeans until 1598 when Don Juan de Oñate led an expedition into the territory. In 1848, El Paso became part of the United States and a military post was erected there which eventually became Fort Bliss. The city was incorporated in 1873. El Paso Public Library was the first public library in Texas.

Local Language in El Paso

El Paso is a diverse community featuring many different kinds of people. The largest language spoken at home is (Spanish), followed by English. Many older El Pasoans speak Spanish regularly in public and it is helpful, although usually not necessary, to understand the language.

Climate

Rio Bravo night - Rio Bravo, border river towards Ciudad Juarez

• Miners - Miners football is coached by Dana Dimel. UTEP has a beautiful stadium and the Sun Bowl, that looks as though it was cut right out of the mountain. Every late December the Sunday Bowl is played, where two 3rd, 4th, or 5th place teams from either the Pac-10, Big Ten, or Big 12 meet. Thit is the longest running televised bowl game in the nation.

• Rodeos | Rodeo events can be seen in El Paso around the months of January and February. Rodeo is a unique cowboy 'sport' where individuals compete in a number of events the most famous of which is bull riding.

• UTEP-Basketball | Don Haskins changed the way college basketball was played forever in 1966. He led his all-black lineup against the all-white Kentucky team featuring Pat Riley and won the National Championship. Prior to Don Haskins, black players were marginalized in college basketball. Don Haskins has the basketball arena named after him and the Don Haskins Center, that hosts Miner Basketball and concerts.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for El Paso

• Chamizal National Memorial 800 S. San Marcial Street 31.7678, -106.454 ☎ +1 915 532-7273 Opening Hours: Grounds:7AM Monday - 10PM. Cultural Center: 10AM Monday - 5PM, and opens 30 minutes before evening performances Free, but some performance groups may charge admission Chamizal National Memorial - Chamizal visitor center - A42686 Large park in the Southern part of El Paso, near the US/Mexico border. It hosts many events throughout the season, including concerts and dance performances. Information and event schedules can be found at the Chamizal National Memorial website.

• Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino 1200 Futurity Dr. Sunland Park, NM 31.8064, -106.559Just over the state line in New Mexico ☎ +1 505 874-5200 Opening Hours: Casino Hours Sunday - Thursday 9:30AM to 12:30AM and F-Sa 9:30AM Monday - 2AM Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino Sunland Park Racetrack.jpeg The casino is open every day, including holidays and has over 700 slot machines. It is easy to reach by taking I-10 West, away from Downtown. The Casino also hosts live shows and music. Most visitors report good experiences at the casino, with the exception of a few very competitive individuals.

Scenic routes and treks

• The valley of the Rio Grande
• El Paso Mission Trail A collection of the historic Spanish missions in the area, dating from the early 17th century. There are also a number of shops on the trail with artwork, crafts, and historic pieces.

• Franklin Mountains | There are many ways to enjoy the Franklin Mountains. Ranger guided tours are available by reservation.

• McKelligon Canyon - 'The Tom Mays Unit | 1331 McKelligon Canyon Road 31.8211, -106.468 Take US Highway 54 and exit onto Fred Wilson Rd. Take Fred Wilson past Dyer Road, heading towards the mountains. Merge onto Alabama, drive past William Beaumont Army Medical Center. At the top of the road, turn toward the mountains onto McKelligon Canyon Rd. ☎ +1 915 566-6441 McKelligon Canyon The road is small. This road eventually leads visitors on a winding tour of the canyon. It is truly beautiful, with many plants and colorful hills. There are picnic facilities, a park store and steep trails into the wilderness. It is very quiet and peaceful, a desert oasis in the middle of the city. Many runners and bikers enjoy the challenge of the winding, rolling roads in the canyon. Pets are allowed on leash and there are also mountain biking trails. Map of the trails are available on the website.

• Transmountain Road | Taking 375 the through the Franklin Mountains at night is a wonderful experience. The entire city of El Paso and the city of Juarez are both lit up like a galaxy of stars. There are many places to pull off and watch the artificial stars. During the day, take Transmountain Road and stop at any of the hiking areas. These places have donation boxes for hikers who are supposed to provide $3 for the use of the trails. These trails are very steep and surrounded by native cacti, yucca and agave. Travelers may also see hummingbirds, large spiders and lizards. If the trails seem too chancy for you, pull over at the small picnic and viewing areas located throughout the Eastern half of the road. The view is amazing and you can see far off into Mexico and New Mexico. Be aware that Transmountain road can be closed due to inclement weather.

Muslim Walking Tours in El Paso

A number of walking tours of various parts of El Paso are available.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in El Paso

Have a look over the military surplus stores near Fort Bliss.

• El Paso Saddleblanket 6926 Gateway East - Fine Southwest rugs, furniture, jewelry and folk art.

• Cielo Vista Mall 8401 Gateway Blvd West 31.7816, -106.391 ☎ +1 915 779-7070 Cielo Vista Mall

Halal Restaurants

• The Tap 408 East San Antonio Ave ☎ +1 915 532-1848 - An old downtown El Paso bar that serves unpretentious Mexican food. The nachos are especially good, and the crowd is a mixture of blue-collar workers and college students.

]] Chico's Tacos 1235 McRae Blvd ☎ +1 915 592-8484, 3401 Dyer St. ☎ +1 915 565-5555, 11381 Montwood Dr. ☎ +1 915 849-8777 is an El Paso Tradition. There are 5 different stores in El Paso serving these unique rolled tacos. These tacos are unlike either the "Taco Bell (Please do not support Taco Bell as Taco Bell supports Israel. Shun this restaurant group and go for alternative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned brand)" tacos many Americans are familiar with, or those served in an authentic Mexican taquería. Resembling flautas more than tacos, a single order of tacos will not cost you more than $2 and provide you with three tacos. A "double" or "triple" order will fill up those who are more hungry. The tacos are served with a red Sauce and piled high with Cheese. They don't look appetizing, but the consensus is you either love them or hate them. Chico's Tacos also serves delicious hamburgers, El Paso-style Hot Dogs (sliced franks served on a hamburger bun with chili), grilled Cheese sandwiches, and burritos. Chico's is a treasured El Paso tradition. Open late, affordable and always quick service.

• Avila's Mexican Food - ☎ +1 915 584-362 - A historic family owned restaurant, often wins citywide food and service awards. Owned and operated by four generations of the Avila family, often occupied with fiercely loyal patrons. The enchiladas and tacos are highly recommended, but the Chile con Queso is the signature dish of the restaurant. The average total meal costs about $10, with lunch specials for $5.25. 6232 N. Mesa Dr.1

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• Cattleman's Steakhouse - A steakhouse in the middle of the desert in the city of Fabens, East of El Paso. Go for dinner to enjoy a fine Steaks with a gorgeous sunset view. An outdoor balcony is available to bring your cocktail while your food is being prepared. They do not serve food or drinks in the balcony area. "The Cowboy" is their 2-pound T-bone steak--a must for the first time.

• Cafe Central - 109 North Oregon Street 31.758461, -106.488331 ☎ +1 915-545-2233 - Cafe Central is the perfect place to go to enjoy fine dining with a Southwestern flair. Originally opened in Juarez in 1918, Cafe Central moved to El Paso after Prohibition ended. This fancy restaurant is led by Chef Armando Pomales and his team. Service here is nearly perfect, but it is the food that will have you seeing stars. A true "fancy restaurant" for those looking for a place to take a date, celebrate an anniversary, eat an amazing lunch, or hold a business lunch/dinner.

• Forti's Mexican Elder Restaurant 321 Chelsea ☎ +1 915 772-0066 - A mid-price restaurant and piano bar located just barely above the border crossing. The price is comparable to that of a lot of mediocre Mexican restaurants elsewhere, but this food blows theirs out of the water. The fajitas are perfectly seasoned and the carnitas are amazing, and the margaritas are not to be missed. Fresh homemade Tortillas complete the meal. Be sure not to binge on the chips and salsa as the meals are large.

The legal drinking age in Texas, like all of the United States, is 21. However across the border in Mexico and the drinking age is set at 18.

The original Margarita recipe was invented in Ciudad Juarez-El Paso region (where Dos Lunas is headquartered) on July 4, 1942 by Francisco "Pancho" Morales. Morales was a bartender at a bar named Tommy's Place, according to the Old Mr. Boston Official Bartender's Guide (a book that professional and home bartenders alike call the "Bible of Booze"). Morales improvised the drink after a client ordered a Magnolia, a drink recipe that he did not know, other than the fact that it contained Cointreau. The drink's popularity immediately grew after Morales, who was an instructor at the local bartender's school, began teaching the Margarita recipe to his students. The name Margarita is Spanish for "daisy."

El Paso has a very active nightlife that has something for everyone.

• Union Depot area at 115 Durango street, which includes several restaurants that cater to college students and young professionals.
• Cincinnati street area near the University of Texas El Paso, includes a variety of cafes, ranging from upscale lounges to dives, as well as a variety of restaurants.
• The 500 block of North Stanton Street features a row of friendly clubs.
• Dyer Street near Fort Bliss includes a few cafes and clubs that cater to African-Americans.
• El Paso's Lower Valley and Central neighbourhoods have many small restaurants that feature primarily Mexican music, often with dancing or live music on weekends.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to El Paso

El Paso - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to El Paso, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for El Paso. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in El Paso and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to El Paso. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to El Paso. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in El Paso: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in El Paso.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in El Paso: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in El Paso, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in El Paso.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in El Paso, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in El Paso, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within El Paso and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in El Paso, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in El Paso, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of El Paso without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for El Paso is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring El Paso.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group El Paso is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in El Paso, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group El Paso Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in El Paso

eHalal Group El Paso is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in El Paso. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in El Paso.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in El Paso ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within El Paso. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in El Paso, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in El Paso are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

• El Paso International Hostel / Gardner Hotel 311 East Franklin Ave ☎ +1 915 532-3661 Beds start from $20 per day.
• Hawthorn Inn & Suites El Paso 6789 Boeing Dr 31.792533, -106.393803 ☎ +1 915 778-6789 - Hotel features spacious suites, some with full kitchens, exercise facilities, video cassette players and on-site guest laundry and valet service.

• Microtel Inn & Suites - El Paso Airport 2001 Airway Blvd 31.796124, -106.396989 ☎ +1 915 772-3650
• Microtel Inn & Suites El Paso - East 12211 Gateway West ☎ +1 915 858-1600
• Microtel Inn & Suites El Paso West/Anthony 6185 South Desert Blvd ☎ +1 915 584-2026

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• Hotel Paso Del Norte 101 South El Paso Street 31.757643, -106.489450 ☎ +1 915-534-3000 - Reopening in april of 2019 after an extensive refurbishment, this hotel promises to bring back the original luxury from when it first opened in 1912.

• Holiday Inn El Paso Airport 6351 Gateway Blvd West 31.782853, -106.404995 ☎ +1 915-772-4088
• Hyatt Place El Paso Airport 6030 Gateway Blvd East 31.780727, -106.412642 On Interstate 10 ☎ +1 915 771-0022

Stay Safe

El Paso is rated the second Most Safe City in the United States for its size. San Diego took the first spot. All records are based on latest FBI reports.

Most of El Paso is safe from violent crime, and El Paso has a very low murder rate for a large American city. El Paso is generally very quiet and peaceful during the daytime, take normal precautions at night. Areas to avoid at night may include near the international bridges, but curfews on both sides of the border have cut down on the number of aggressive, intoxicated juveniles at night.

El Paso is also has a good neighbor atmosphere, and is a military friendly city.

Environmental dangers

• Heat in the summer. During the summer months when temperatures nearly always stay around 90°-100° Fahrenheit and the biggest dangers facing visitors are dehydration and heat stroke. El Paso is in a desert and it is important for all visitors to remember to drink enough water at all times. Too many Muslim fail to take the heat seriously. The dry heat can actually feel less 'hot' than it really is to many people. Learn to recognize the signs of danger for dehydration and heat stroke. Heat stroke is very serious. Take care of yourself in the heat. And remember a cowboy word of wisdom: If you're thirsty, you're already dehydrated. For more information, consult the article for this Trans-Pecos|region.
• Sun. Not just for the heat, but the sun can be dangerous because of UV rays which are much stronger at El Paso's altitude than at sea level. Wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. It is not uncommon to see pedestrians in El Paso walking with an umbrella to shield them from the sun.
• Rain. During the rainy season (usually late June to early October) be aware that flash flooding can occur during and after rainfall. Areas closer to the Rio Grande are much more susceptible to flooding and standing water. Poor drainage and the dry desert soil ensure that even moderate rainfall can result in street flooding, especially in underpasses. Visitors who are in El Paso during the rare times of rain should remember to never drive into a flooded street. In addition, since El Pasoans are not used to driving in the rain, accidents are more likely to occur.
• Snow and ice. While El Paso winters are generally mild, cold weather can occur. In general, winter is a dry season in El Paso; however, when snow and icy conditions exist, take extreme caution, as El Pasoans are not used to driving in these conditions.
• Wind and dust. El Paso's windy season is generally from January through April. During this time, high winds and blowing dust can make breathing difficult, especially for asthma sufferers. Blowing dust and sand can also reduce visibility on roads, especially in rural areas surrounding El Paso. Area highways may close during high winds.
• Mosquitoes. Along with rain comes mosquitoes. Yes, El Paso is a desert, but many residents own pools and water gardens. These can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes. The Rio Grande area also has mosquito problems. The West Nile Virus has been recorded in El Paso. The best advice is to remember to wear a good insect repellent if you will be outdoors in the evening. The area around Hueco Tanks can be very bad, mosquito-wise. Some local weather websites will tell visitors the projected mosquito danger.

Emergencies

911 will connect travelers with assistance.

Hospitals with 24 hours Emergency Rooms

In the United States health care is private and going to an emergency room can be expensive if the traveler does not have health insurance.

• Providence Memorial Hospital | 2001 North Oregon St, El Paso, TX. ☎ +1 915 577-6551

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Veterinary hospitals that run 24 hours emergency rooms are also extremely expensive. Thit is the sort of place you might take your sick or injured pet if they are seriously injured and cannot wait for medical care.

• Animal Emergency Center | 1220 Airway Blvd ☎ +1 915 545-1148

Cope in El Paso

Consulates in El Paso

{{flag|Mexico

• Mexico | 910 E San Antonio Ave ☎ +1 915 533-8555 +1 915 532-7163

Travel Next

Don't think that just because El Paso is in Texas and the rest of the state is close at hand. El Paso is actually closer to the beaches of Southern California, than it is to Eastern Texas. Be sure to check driving times and distances before exploring other places in the state. For example, Houston is 745 miles or 1,200 kilometers via I-10.

If you must be somewhere at a certain time, don't forget the rest of Texas (except adjacent Hudspeth County and the Guadalupe Mountains) is one hour ahead (Central Time Zone). With the long travel distances and losing an hour, it can be a challenge to stay on schedule.

• Guadalupe Mountains National Park is about 100 miles to the east, with Carlsbad Caverns National Park another 30 miles beyond.
• Hueco Tanks State Historic Site, just east of town. Tall granite outcrops which created natural cisterns used by native tribes for drinking water.
• Juarez|Ciudad Juarez and the fifth largest city in Mexico, is just south across the river, although due to violence from drug cartels travel warnings have been issued advising against travel to this area.
• Presidio Chapel of San Elizario, in San Elizario, a few miles south on Hwy. 20, 915-851-1682. Built in 1877 to replace the original constructed in the 1770s.
• Socorro Mission, 328 S. Nevarez Rd. (I-10 at Moon Rd. and FM 258, south of town). ☎ +1 915 859-7718. Monday to Friday8AM Monday - 4PM. Constructed in 1682 and later destroyed by fire. The present structure was built in 1840, incorporating decorative beams salvaged from the original structure.
• Ysleta Mission, 131 S. Zaragosa Rd. (near the U.S. 800 junction, south of town). ☎ +1 915 859-9848. Constructed in 1744.
• San Elizario Historic Art District, 1501 Main St. (off Socorro road on the El Paso Mission Trail). ☎ +1 915 851-0093. Featuring 2 museums, 6 art galleries and over 21 artist studios. Also visit the Old El Paso County Jail of Billy the Kid fame and the El Bandido Restaurant and Cantina and 18 historical sites from the Old Presidio Fort era. Tours and shuttle available.
• White Sands National Monument is northeast on US-54.

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