CC Rider 69

Maybe that's why they are doing seasonal sailing for a couple of years. CCL and RCL hasn't had a problem filling their ships with each now sailing 3 out of the port. You are right about travel from IAH through Houston to get to the island. I always suggest for people to fly into HOU (Hobby). It's on the southside of Houston making it closer to the island. That being said, the Gulf Freeway has been an ongoing project since the late 60's, and we always expect a slowdown somewhere. Luckily for us it's an 1 1/2 hour drive using the backroads.

Moody Gardens Festival of Lights, it's on the west end of the Island, you can Google for directions. It's not hard to find. Galveston Brewing Co. is also in that direction and are both kid and pet friendly. Go to The Strand tomorrow, two CCL ship arrive on Saturday plus you can do some tacky t-shirt shopping. There are some decent restaurants on Post Office Street (2 or so blocks south of the Strand). There are a couple of seafood places at Pier 21, Katies is my preference, not as touristy, but it's your vacation, eh. A fan favourite of ours for breakfast is The Sunflower Bakery and Cafe on 14th Street, but it is pricey $$$, and usually a wait to be seated. And if you have time, go to Pleasure Pier if it's open. It too can be pricey, and not all the rides are running, at least when we were there earlier this year and this month. Sorry for the rush writing but off to do the dreaded Christmas shopping thing.

Welcome to Texas.You picked a Chamber of Commerce weekend to visit, next weekend have ayour Canuck gear it will be Texas cold. That's the RV park we stay at when we visit Galveston. We're on the Ruby in March, maybe sooner, so we'll are looking forward to your review of the ship.

Tips as if you are dining at a land-based restaurant.