www.istockphoto.com

Doing business
The Oil Barons may have been joined by cyber-
inspired millionaires and up and coming ethnic communities, but Houston still comes with barrels
of Texas attitude. Expect plenty of reminders of how Texas has the biggest and the best of pretty much everything – take it all in good spirit though, that’s how it’s intended. A dose of southern manners and charm, mixed with typical American bullishness will make this a memorable business trip.

Cool hotel
The Alden Houston (www.aldenhotels.com; doubles from £101) is an elegant downtown hangout with plenty of modern touches. Houston’s cluster of Fortune 500 companies are just a few blocks away.

Hip restaurant
Thunderheart bison Bolognese and molasses-cured jolie vue pork chop are some of the dishes that have got Monica Pope such attention – see what all the fuss is about at T’afia (www.tafia.com) in Midtown.

Happening bar
Head for the Heights, north of the city, for live mariachi music bars and smaller, funky spots. Aim for White Oak and Studemont streets. Downtown hotel bars offer laid-back cocktails and quiet drinks.

Getting there
Houston is served by direct flights from the UK by British Airways and Continental. The city is Continental's hub so if you're spending time in a few destinations in the US then this airline is a good choice. Return flights start at around £400 including taxes. Cheaper flights with other airlines will involve a change in another US city.

Getting downtown
Most flights come into George Bush International, 22 miles north of the city centre. Buses and shuttles will get you downtown, or a taxi will be around £15. Domestic flights sometimes serve William P Hobby Airport which is only 12 miles from downtown.

The detail
Houston is five hours behind the UK and, at the time of writing, your pound will fetch you around $1.50. Packing for Houston can be a challenge – summer temperatures can be scorching, but air conditioning will be pumped up to Antarctic-like levels. Business dress with a jacket works best. As you’re in the States, tip generously and frequently to get the best service – a $20 slipped to the maitre’d when you go into a restaurant will get you super-atttentive service all night long. Unfortunately you probably won't get a receipt for that.

Must-see sights
Houston’s two biggest draws – Johnson Space Centre and recently storm-battered Galveston Island – are outside the City Limits. For an unusual afternoon off work, head for the Art Car Museum where you’ll find loads of weird customised vehicles

Insider's Tip
“METRO's Airport Direct offers a convenient, reliable service directly from the downtown Airport Direct Passenger Plaza (815 Pierce) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) Terminal C. For just $15 one-way and with departures every 30 minutes, travelling has never been easier!”
Visit houston, Texas
visithoustontexas.com

Compiled by Tom Hall on behalf of Lonely Planet. www.lonelyplanet.com

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