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Houston Travel Resources

Houston Travel Resources

Houston Texas, USA Travel Guide

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

  • Google Maps/Apple Maps/Waze

    Navigation, with detailed directions for driving, walking, and public transit. Waze gives real-time traffic updates.

  • Uber/Lyft

    For convenient ride-sharing services throughout the city.

  • METRO Q Mobile Ticketing App

    For purchasing public transport fares and planning routes on Houston's METRORail and bus system.

  • Yelp/OpenTable

    Useful for finding restaurants, reading reviews, and making reservations.

  • Local Weather App

    To stay informed about Houston's often variable climate, important for managing heat and rain.

Useful Websites for Additional Planning

  • Visit Houston (visithouston.com)

    The official tourism website for Houston, with comprehensive listings of attractions, events, dining, and accommodation.

  • Houston First (houstonfirst.com)

    The city's official destination marketing organization, with information on major events and cultural happenings.

  • RideMETRO.org

    The official website for METRO, with detailed route maps, schedules, and fare information.

  • Space Center Houston (spacecenter.org)

    The official site for visitor information, tickets, and exhibit details for NASA Johnson Space Center's visitor complex.

  • Museum District Houston

    Information on all 19 museums within Houston's Museum District, including links to individual museum websites.

Print Resources

Guidebooks

Various reputable publishers offer general Texas guidebooks that include substantial sections on Houston. Specific Houston guidebooks may also be found.

Maps

A good quality Houston road map can be useful for self-driving navigation, complementing digital navigation for the city's expansive layout.

Local Publications

Houstonia Magazine covers Houston's food, culture, events, and local news. The Houston Chronicle is the major daily newspaper.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers & Contacts

  • Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): Dial 911 for immediate emergencies.
  • Non-Emergency Police (Houston Police Department): Call 713-884-3131 for non-urgent matters.
  • For medical emergencies, 911 connects to ambulance services.
  • Fire emergencies also go through 911 for rapid response.

Hospital & Clinic Locations

  • Texas Medical Center: A concentration of world-class hospitals.
  • Numerous other hospitals and urgent care clinics are throughout the city.
  • High-quality care is available at these facilities.
  • Easily locate medical help across Houston.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • Seek out documentaries or films about NASA and space exploration.
  • Explore documentaries highlighting Houston's diverse culture.
  • Discover films that capture the city's unique food scene.
  • Find content exploring Houston's complex history.

Music & Art

  • Explore Houston's influential hip-hop scene.
  • Discover its blues roots and country music contributions.
  • Local radio stations can introduce you to these genres.
  • Familiarize yourself with major artists in Houston's museums.

Online Communities

  • Subreddits like r/Houston and r/travel have Houston-specific tips.
  • Various travel forums and Facebook groups a source of current information.
  • Gain local recommendations and advice from residents.
  • Connect with fellow travelers for shared insights.

Safety & Important Information

Critical Safety Guidance

Emergency Protocols

  • Dial 911 for all immediate emergencies.
  • For non-urgent police matters, call 713-884-3131.
  • Be prepared to provide your location and situation.
  • Use these numbers for life-threatening situations.

Document Security

  • Report lost or stolen passports to local police immediately.
  • Contact your country's embassy or consulate for emergency travel documents.
  • Call your bank or credit card company to report lost/stolen cards.
  • Keep copies (digital and physical) of all important documents.

Natural Disaster Preparedness

  • During hurricane season (June-November), monitor local news and weather.
  • Follow any instructions from local authorities regarding evacuations.
  • Sign up for local emergency alerts, like AlertHouston.
  • Have a plan for shelter-in-place orders.

Travel Resources & Local Insights

Language & Engagement

  • If interested, learn some basic Spanish phrases.
  • Language apps like Babbel offer introductory lessons.
  • It enriches your experience with Houston's large Spanish-speaking community.

Cultural distinctions

  • Expect friendly interactions and "Southern Hospitality."
  • Be prepared for heavy traffic, especially during rush hour.
  • Dressing up for nicer dinners or theater performances is common.

Information & Contacts

Essential Contact Info

  • Keep 911 for emergencies and 713-884-3131 for non-emergencies readily accessible.
  • Note down locations of Texas Medical Center hospitals.
  • Have your country's embassy or consulate contact information.

Documentation & Safety

  • Always keep digital and physical copies of important travel documents.
  • Report lost passports and credit cards immediately.
  • Stay informed about weather advisories, especially during hurricane season.

Pre-Trip Reading & Community

Recommended Reading

  1. "Houston: A History" by David McComb offers a comprehensive historical account.
  2. "Texas" by James A. Michener gives rich context for the state.
  3. Look for fiction set in Houston by local authors.
  4. Explore documentaries related to NASA and Houston.
  5. Discover films highlighting Houston's diverse culture.

Online Communities & Media

  1. Subreddits like r/Houston and r/travel share Houston-specific tips.
  2. Various travel forums offer current information.
  3. Follow @VisitHouston on social media for updates.
  4. Tune into local news outlets like @HoustonChron for real-time alerts.
  5. Explore Houston's hip-hop, blues, and country music scenes.

Essential Print Resources

Guidebooks

Reputable Texas guidebooks or specific Houston guides for detailed city insights.

Physical Maps

A quality road map is useful for understanding Houston's expansive layout, complementing digital tools.

Local Periodicals

Houstonia Magazine and the Houston Chronicle offer deep dives into local life and events.

Safety Alert

Prioritize personal safety in urban environments. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.

Pre-Trip Checklist & Logistics

Planning Your Journey

Early Preparations

  • Confirm Passport Validity

    Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay.

  • Apply for Visa or ESTA

    Submit applications if required for your nationality, starting early.

  • Book Flights & Accommodation

    Secure your flights and hotel or vacation rental, especially important for high season.

Mid-Term Actions

  • Reconfirm Reservations

    Double-check flights, hotels, car rentals, and any pre-booked tours.

  • Notify Bank/Credit Card Companies

    Inform them of your travel dates to avoid fraud alerts or card suspensions.

  • Download Essential Apps

    Install navigation, ride-sharing, and public transit apps. Arrange mobile phone service.

Arrival & Departure Insights

Arrival Steps

Clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow instructions from CBP officers, present your passport and visa/ESTA.

Baggage & Transport

Collect your checked bags from the baggage claim area. Locate ground transportation: your pre-arranged shuttle, taxi, or ride-share pick-up zone.

Orientation Strategies

Once settled, orient yourself using a map of the immediate area. Identify nearby METRORail stations or bus stops and essential services.

Financial Planning

Currency & Purchases

  • If needing cash, withdraw USD from an ATM for immediate needs.
  • Consider purchasing a METRO Q Card for extensive public transit use.
  • Pack souvenirs carefully, especially fragile items.
  • Be aware of your airline's baggage weight limits.

Payment Methods

  • Keep receipts for eligible purchases for tax refunds.
  • The United States does not have a nationwide VAT refund program.
  • Texas has a limited "TaxFree Shopping" program for international tourists.
  • Visit a designated refund center (e.g., at The Galleria) before departure.

Home Security Before Travel

Property Safeguards

  • Secure your home by locking all doors and windows.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics to save energy.
  • Adjust your thermostat before departure.
  • Ensure your home is protected and energy efficient.

Utilities & Pets

  • Arrange for mail or newspaper collection, or a mail hold.
  • Make arrangements for pet care or house sitting.
  • Water plants or arrange for someone to do so.
  • Confirm all home-related tasks are complete for peace of mind.

Final Checklist Summary

A travel planning checklist helps track all tasks from visa applications to packing. Remember to keep copies of all important documents.