Just flew in from Houston, Texas last night. It was quite a change in scenery, coming from New York.
First, the temperature. I was miserable! I don't see people walking around because it was just sweltering at around 99 degrees. And it was so dry. I kept on hydrating myself. My relatives all have inventory of power drinks (gatorade, powerade, etc). I left New York with a jacket (When I left, we had a high of 60 and a low of high 40s). Never needed it in Houston.
There is not much public transportation because people in general would have cars. So for a New Yorker used to subways and buses that transport people to any spot in NYC, there's a bit of culture shock.
One thing I noted, though. Roads are constantly widened, and a slew of flyovers and bridges continue to be built. The highways are abuzz with construction. That's a good thing, I guess, as the population (of people and cars) might increase in the coming years (as can be seen in new housing developments along the freeways). That's a foresight and good governance that could be lacking in some cities in the Philippines.
The good things though. I love that Texans in general seem to be happy. The pace of life is actually ideal for people with families. Prices are generally cheaper than in New York (including gas prices). They have good school systems, relatively cheaper real estate and good neighborhoods. They also have good hospitals (The medical center is a CITY of hospitals)
And San Antonio -- I loved the place! The river walk was just such a cool hangout - with the flowing water, the towering trees, the delectable selection of food, the beautiful crowd. Although we were there in the afternoon, I could only imagine how beautiful the place is at night time - lights and all. Only it was such a long drive from Houston. :)
It's only too bad that I wasn't able to stay longer to explore Austin and Dallas. That would have to wait till the next time I visit. Though probably it won't be in the summer.
Side note: On my way to Houston from JFK, I had to go through Washington Dulles and wait. But the trip from IAD to IAH was just wonderful. United Express/Chautauqua has this new plane, the Embraer 170 regional jet, that was such a pleasant experience. The leather seats, the good air conditioning, the ample leg room. And it was so clean! Kinda wished there were more planes like these (though I don't know how viable it would be with only 18 rows of seats)
