introduction

Texas is the second largest state; located in southwestern United States on the Gulf of Mexico. It is also known as the Lone Star State and has the area of 696,241 km²

surfing

If you have the time however no real surfing trip would be complete without driving aross southern USA. Maybe stop in at Texas for some year round merchantman wake surfing in the Gulf of Mexico.

travel

There are many ways of travelling in the US: by plane, private jet, train, bus, recreational vehicle (RV), motorcycle, thumb or car.

Trains are relatively expensive; private jets can begin at around $4000 per flight hour; buses are generally dependable, safe and affordable, though not available everywhere; renting an RV is up to your personal taste; motorcycling can be a thrilling way to see the country as well as travelling by thumb.

And of course, the idea of long-distance car travel is the most appealing to the majority of Americans. The United States is covered with a convenient system of U.S. and Interstate highways. Just keep in mind that the country is huge and be prepared to travel for hours behind the wheel, so pay attention to the comfort of the car you use. By the way, many of the country's major natural attractions, such as the Grand Canyon, are almost impossible to get to without a car.

where to stay

You shouldn’t have any problems with finding a place to sleep in Texas. Motel is the most popular form of accommodation and they are usually located on the sides of the highways, so it’s very convenient for the road trippers. Don’t expect anything luxurious, but they will usually provide you with a clean room that includes the following amenities: bed, bathroom, TV, telephone. Price is also very reasonable. Motel 6 and Super 8 Motels are popular chains of motels that can be found all over the country.

Houston is the largest city in Texas with many options for you to choose from: budget (Houston International Hostel), mid-range (Holiday Inn - Airport/Greenway, Hyatt Summerfield Suites, Fairfield Inn - East, Marriott Houston North Greenspoint/Hobby Airport, etc) and splurge (Hotel ZaZa Houston, Four Seasons Hotel Houston, Omni - Westside).

Dallas has the heaviest concentrations of hotels in its north part, but if you are looking for more high-end accommodations, than go to Downtown.

Austin, being a huge city, also offers many options: budget (Austin HI Hostel, Motel 6 Austin South - Airport/Central-South/University of TX/North/Central-North, Studio 6 Austin Northwest, etc) mid-range (Radisson Hotel & Suites Austin, AmeriSuites Arboretum/North Central, Clarion Inn & Suites Central Austin Hotel, Hawthorn Suites Austin Airport/Central, etc) and splurge (Renaissance Austin Hotel, Driskill Hotel, Hilton Austin/North/Airport, etc).

what to pack

The state has highly variable weather. The southern parts are quite dry, while the eastern half of Texas has the humid subtropical climate. You’ll need short sleeved t-shirts, shorts and long trousers (pants) and probably a light jacket or pullover for the more blustery days and evenings and sun cream for days out on the water. In winter bring long trousers (pants), warm pullovers and warm waterproof coats!

Pack some basic toiletries so that you do not need to spend unnecessary money to purchase these basics. You may want to just buy a travel pack and bring it.

Definitely take along some bug repellent spray, good sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.

 

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