Did you know that the United Kingdom is the largest overseas market for travel to Texas and the US? Even with restrictions on and the expense of air travel, people from the UK are still jumping on Flights to USA.

The main purpose for visits from the United Kingdom to Texas are categorized as leisure & visiting friends and relatives, with popular destinations being (1) Houston, (2) Dallas/Fort Worth, (3) San Antonio and (4) Austin. Visitors from UK love shopping, dining, visiting historical sites and small towns, touring the countryside and sightseeing in cities. (Texas Travel Research 2006).

What is the one thing I would do if I flew in from the UK to Texas? I would visit the musical capital of the world, Austin, Texas. While Houston, San Antonio and the D/FW metroplex offer many worthy attractions, there is no place like Austin.

During the day, there is the natural beauty of the Wildflower Center, the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail and the spring-fed waters of Barton Springs to enjoy.

For shoppers, the West End offers an eclectic collection of art, antiques, and collectible shops in cottages and storefronts built in the 1930s and 1940s. There are restaurants, bakeries and coffee houses in the area.

Sixth Street, a seven-block stretch of Victorian-era buildings once known as Pecan Street is lined with cafes, nightclubs, pubs, dance clubs, live music venues, restaurants, galleries and shops. On the weekend, the street is closed as the district explodes with music.

Welcome to Texas!

The price of gas and diesel has skyrocketed, effecting the future of RVing for many people. It is time to rethink, resize and refit.

One option might be to change fuel source, to increase energy efficiency and to supplement energy from solar and wind sources. Purchasing a lightweight trailer, downsizing from a Class A RV to Class B or C, or loading a camper on your truck (instead of towing anything) are other choices.

As RVers have started to demand more from RV manufacturers, some have stepped up and provided choices we did not have ten years ago:

• Foldable, expandable and hybrid trailers;
• RVs with 4-wheel drive, high-clearance chassis and alternative energy sources;
• New materials, high technology and innovative designs used in all new RV construction.

So, do not despair. Take another look at possibilities:

Another entry into the lightweight category is manufactured by Coachman RV. The Capri Micro pictured below is impressive in features, storage, use of interior space and weight. MSRP starting At $13,930.

Coachman also make a Captiva Ultra Lite (floorplan below). While lighter than traditional trailers, they are heavier than a small van or truck can pull, except for the 175RDQ model. Other models have slides and bunk beds, affording more interior space. MSRP starting At $18,620

Buc Days

Corpus Christi, Texas
April 22-May 4, 2008

During the War of 1812, Jean Lafitte and his band of pirates helped General Andrew Jackson and his troops defend New Orleans against the British. For this service, U.S. President James Madison gave Lafitte a full pardon for his crimes of piracy. Legend has it that Jean Lafitte then moved his band of pirates and established headquarters on the present site of Corpus Christi.

Buc Days Celebration begins on Friday, April 25, 2008 at 6 pm when the Pirate Queens sail into the Yacht Basin and capture the mayor. The mayor surrenders the city and the pirates raise their flag, complete with skull and crossbones, over Corpus Christi. Buc Days includes an illuminated night parade, PRCA Pro rodeo, BBQ challenge, Folklorico competition, carnival, Music and Fire on the Bay, 5k Run, live music and, new for 2008–Bikes, Bulls & BBQ . . . Check out the schedule of events.

So, start practicing your pirate talk. Arrrr, Matey!

For RV parks in the Corpus Christi area, please visit the TACO website.