by Mike Hoenig
Imagine yourself experiencing Texas as it was 100 years ago, sniffing exotic plants in a rain forest, eating delectable seafood, and enjoying outdoor theater all in one day. By joining us for this year's pre-convention tour to Galveston, you don't have to imagine. You can do each of these things, and more, for less than $100!
We'll depart the Adam's Mark Hotel at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, June 29. Our enthusiastic tour guides will keep you awake with interesting information about Galveston as we journey approximately one hour via air-conditioned motor coach.
We will begin our day in Galveston by taking a trip back in time. Our first stop will be the railroad museum. Recorded narrators will tell us the fascinating story of the quick rise to prominence of this elegant city, nearly destroyed overnight by a turn-of-the-century storm. As you "walk through" the 20th century, you can feel the determination which Galvestonians experienced as they rebuilt their city into the proud tourist attraction it is today. You can then relive an era gone by, as you walk through old railroad cars and visit a true-to-life railroad station as it might have looked 100 years ago. You'll even have the chance to eavesdrop on conversations as passengers and their loved ones anxiously await the train.
We will then transport you forward in space and time with a brief stop at the airplane museum. You'll have a chance to learn about several old war planes which are still operational. We'll set aside time for you to get "up close and personal" with these flying machines.
Next, we will return to 2002 as we travel the short distance from the airplane museum to Moody Gardens. Reflect for a few moments on what you've already experienced as you enjoy a light, balanced lunch. Prepare yourself for an afternoon of experiences which will awaken all the senses.
After lunch, let a Moody Gardens employee delight you with her firsthand knowledge of life in the tropics. She will pass around plants and spices for you to examine, then invite you to take a walk in the rain forest. For those totally blind persons out there who might think that there would be nothing for you to experience in a tropical rain forest, think again! I can tell you from personal experience that this is a sensory treat which you won't want to miss. Now that your senses of touch and smell are heightened, you'll want to stroll through the fragrant herbal garden. Our Moody Gardens experience will culminate with a program on plants in the beautiful IMAX theater, which we hope will be accompanied by audio description.
Need to relax? We thought you might, so we're going to let ourselves be entertained for the rest of the day. We'll enjoy some of the best seafood which Galveston has to offer, before traveling to an outdoor amphitheater for an evening performance. We will provide specific details on these two events just as soon as they are available.
We expect to arrive back in Houston around midnight. You'll have just enough time to rest up for the Saturday Houston City Tour. So, start packing, and until next time, bon voyage.