Shark In Depth Exhibit, Houston - Courtesy farm1.static.flickr.com

On for the past nine months, the Sharks In Depth Exhibit is to conclude on May 24, 2009. I’d been regularly keeping tabs trying to figure out when exactly I’d be able to time my escape. When the opportunity presented itself I enjoyed this Houston detour in the wake of my scheduled trip to Downtown Houston.

The year-long exhibit has been on in Moody Gardens, in Galveston. It took me precisely an hour from Downtown Houston to reach the venue. Located in the Aquarium Pyramid I was overwhelmed to learn so much more about these ancient predators. The show has it all – shark history, myths and legends along with a series of hands-on activities besides several live species!

It was fascinating to explore shark fact versus fiction. To learn all about the mysterious and often-misunderstood world of sharks. Where they live, what they eat and how they are designed for their environments. Visitors might even learn how a shark survives without a swim bladder, how they sense prey through vibrations and smell. Yes, I also understood what currently threatens shark populations!

The Caribbean emerges as the largest and most remarkable exhibit in the Aquarium Pyramid. Sharks, sea turtles, eels and thousands of beautiful tropical fish swim overhead as you navigate through an underwater tunnel completely surrounded by the exhibits one-million gallons of water. You literally go under the sea!

The Shark Exhibit is included in the admission price of the Aquarium. So if you have the time check out the South Atlantic Exhibit, Caribbean Exhibit and the North and South Exhibits too! They are all great fun. You might have to extend your stay as I did. Decidedly it was worth it.

The Way to Go- Courtesy archives.zinester.com

Like any other port city in Southern US Houston swelters in the summers. But if you’re well equipped you can handle the humidity and might just glow profusely! Its true you learn to adapt quickly once you are game to enjoy the outdoors. It really doesn’t seem so overwhelming, especially when you move about the countless parks and open spaces of the city that mark it out as lush and green.

Houston is a well planned city and not just a bunch of buildings trying to compete with each other. With two impressive skylines, downtown and uptown, the city blends the old and the new with amazing harmony. Wisecracks may gag about Houston having no tourist industry – just the Texans! However in reality the huge port and strong petro influence draws people from all over. Not until you get into the midst of downtown that you come across the multifarious globetrotters.

In Houston you are much more likely to meet some friendly folks. People are really really warm. The old world charm and lack of affectation are the hallmark of the Houstonian. Immediately you feel part of everything thats going on. Houston landed the No. 1 spot on Kiplinger’s Personal Finance list of “10 Best cities to Live, Work and Play” in its July ’08 issue.

This come-back-kid city has it all – world-class museums, incredible living standards, and some of the biggest liquor stores found anywhere on the planet. True, the watering holes are a blessing in summertime. Houston, better known as the Energy Capital of the World, is a progressive city that is environmental conscious too. Additionally, it has an appeal all its own to visitors of all ages. Summertimes are great for kids with special events lined up for them. There are a great many ways to relax and unwind in this city if you happen to be here on a vacation, a business conference or a special event where you have been invited. Specially planned vacations do not entail much hassle and are a good idea for the much needed break.

From topnotch shopping and museums to bustling nightclubs and restaurants, Houston offers an array of things to do. There are plenty of outdoor options despite the warmth and the humidity. The highlights of the Armand Bayou Nature Center are a good place to begin your jaunts. The boardwalk here travels through forest, marshes, live animal displays, butterfly gardens, and a hands-on 1800s farm site. The center also offers sunrise and sunset cruises along Armand Bayou.

A nice way to do Houston is to follow a suggested itinerary that makes sure you don’t miss any of the must-see attractions. The city is really spread out. Watch out for ear marked special events, attractions and entertainment. Enjoy the city architecture, landmarks, arts & culture, shopping and nightlife entertainment. While at it, explore the flavor of the city in the 6.3 miles of tunnel having 55 entrances displaying underground commerce arcades and taverns. Subsequently check out the stage at Miller Outdoor Theater, the city-owned stage that hosts plays, musical productions, the symphony, and multiple cultural events throughout the year.

Visiting Houston would be incomplete without a trip to Space Center Houston. Located in Clear Lake it is a 45-minute drive from Houston. Besides the bustling boardwalk the awesome sunset is a reason to hang on here. The Port of Houston is one of the busiest ports in USA and there are options to tour some portions of the 25-mile long waterway in air-conditioned comfort in a free 90-minute cruise. Just make sure you arrive early and don’t carry large bags as security is tight.

The shimmering modern skyline of Houston downtown juxtaposes stunning skyscrapers along with older structures providing a wonderful blend. The downtown features the business district, sports and performing arts center, nightlife destination and more. The 17-block Theater District hosts virtually every type of performance year-round, including, opera, ballet, classical music, Broadway shows and classic theater. For a rollicking summer spree you might be keen on having a comfortable room replete with traditional Southern hospitality. It would be an altogether good idea to get the right information on the Downtown Houston hotel site that will be sure to add to your sense of delight.

You might just be like to be part of the events lined up for August that include the Annual Blessing of the Fleet, Make Mine Music Fest, Houston International Jazz Festival, Houston Tidelanders Barbershop Show, and the Houston Shakespeare Festival.Throughout the month, the famous playwright is hailed with free performances of his work at Miller Outdoor Theater in Hermann Park. This summer is going to be laced with crafts, food and plenty of attractions for both kids and adults. Houston’s certainly not just hot humid and flat. The H-City is sizzlin’ with things to do and enjoy.