Houston, Texas: The Land of Sweat and Cowboys

Houston, Texas – the city that never sleeps, unless it’s too hot to move. Nestled in the armpit of America, this sprawling metropolis is known for its never-ending traffic and absurdly humid weather. Despite being the fourth largest city in the United States, Houston is often overlooked in favor of its more glamorous counterparts like New York City or Los Angeles. But don’t let that fool you, Houston has plenty of quirks that make it one of a kind.

The Weather

If you love the feeling of sweat dripping down your back, then Houston is the city for you. Situated in the middle of the Gulf Coast, Houston is blessed (or cursed) with a subtropical climate that results in year-round humidity. It’s not uncommon for the “feels like” temperature to reach well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making even the simplest of activities – like breathing – a challenge. You might start your day feeling like you’ve just stepped out of a refreshing shower, but by the afternoon, you’ll feel like you’ve gone for a swim in a sauna.

The Cowboys

You can’t talk about Houston without mentioning the cowboys. While not everyone in Houston owns a pair of cowboy boots and a Stetson hat, there is a noticeable presence of Western culture in the city. Whether it’s attending a rodeo, line dancing at a honky tonk bar, or just enjoying some delicious barbecue, Houstonians embrace their Texan heritage with pride. And if you’re lucky enough to catch the annual Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, you’ll witness cowboys and cowgirls from all over the country competing in events like bull riding, barrel racing, and calf roping.

The Food

Houston is a foodie’s paradise. From traditional Tex-Mex dishes like fajitas and queso to Vietnamese-Cajun fusion like crawfish pho, there’s something for every palate. And don’t forget about the barbecue. Houston is home to some of the best brisket and ribs in the state, if not the country. Whether you’re looking for a fancy dinner or just a quick meal from a food truck, Houston’s got you covered.

The Traffic

Houston is known for its traffic – and not in a good way. Rush hour can last for hours, and accidents and construction only make things worse. But Houstonians have adapted to the chaos. They know the best routes to take, the power of carpooling, and the value of leaving early. If you’re planning a trip to Houston, be prepared for a slow, bumper-to-bumper ride, but trust that you’ll get to your destination eventually.

The People

Houstonians are a friendly bunch. They’ll strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere, anytime. At the grocery store, on the street, in a waiting room – no place is off-limits for a chat. They’re also incredibly diverse. With over 145 languages spoken in the city, Houston is one of the most culturally rich places in the country. And despite being home to over 2.3 million people, Houston still manages to feel like a small town at times.