At 8,778 square miles, the Greater Houston Area covers more
ground than any other major city in America. In fact, Houston
is as large as the entire countries of Israel and El Salvador.
That’s a lot of space filled with a vast number of educational,
business, cultural, and recreational opportunities. Houston
is America’s fourth largest city. It has over 80 foreign
consulates, the third largest consular corps in the nation.
A closer look reveals more.
The natural beauty of Houston is enhanced by its proximity to
several waterways. Called the Bayou City, Houston is home to
more than ten winding waterways that not only irrigate the lush
landscape, but serve as green spaces for fitnes
s
d nature enthusiasts. Several lakes and bays also provide pleasant
scenes of fun in the sun as well as a feast for the eyes.
Beyond beauty, it is the business opportunities provided by
Houston’s waterways that are the primary reasons for the
city’s existence. The Port of Houston still thrives today,
thanks to the dredging of Buffalo Bayou to form the famous Houston
Ship Channel, connecting the city with the Gulf of Mexico. The
port area is just one of the manany business districts that
have branched out from the inner city. Other areas such as the
Uptown/Galleria area, Greenway Plaza, Interstate 10’s
Energy Corridor and the Texas Medical Center are booming with
economic development and services for residents. Public transportation
and Houston’s excellent freeway system connect Houston’s
4 million-plus people to a revitalized and thriving downtown
business and entertainment district.
Houston’s strong economy has brought with it a diverse
population, which has worked to enhance high standards of excellence
in two critical areas — education and worship. The Houston
area consistently leads all of Texas in the number of exemplary
schools, and because of our cultural diversity, the Houston
Independent School District — just one of the many school
districts in the area — serves students who speak dozens
of languages.
The international city is also home to 45 religions, from African
Methodist to Zoroastrian. For all the far-reaching influences
brought together in Houston, neighbors still share a common
goal — the quality of life found in close-knit communities
located within one metropolitan melting pot. For more information,
visit: www.houston-guide.com
Weather and Your Clothing
Summers in Houston are generally hot and humid. Winters are
mild. A couple of thick sweaters, a coat and a pair of gloves
should be ample for the winter months. Light cotton casual wear
is recommended for most months. You also will need to prepare
for rainy weather. For more information on the climate, visit:
www.weather.com
Links for Local News and Weather
KUHF (UH campus station): http://www.kuhf.org
ABC: http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/
CBS: http://www.khou.com/
NBC: http://www.click2houston.com/index.html
Houston Chronicle Newspaper: http://www.houstonchronicle.com
