Surprisingly cool Houston

Wow, I was so surprised that I enjoyed this city so much.  The hotel was spectacular (go to photos).  Hotel Icon is a renovated bank and the decorator gets an A+ from me.  Everything was so well appointed and the design was total class.  I really enjoyed the luxurious bathroom that even had a rubber duck on the tub ledge.  How cool is that.

The baseball game at Minute Maid Field was perfect.  Seats behind home plate and in the club level.  The ball field is also really well designed and domed.  Yeah, my hot flashes appreciated that.  The Astros beat the Pirates in a really fun and exciting game.

My second day in Houston was visiting the Houston Museum of Natural Science.  There were two special exhibits on display.  The terracotta warriors from the Chinese emporers tomb.  The second exhibit was all about diamonds.  I especially loved that one.  Two highlights from these exhibits made them quite memorable.  Besides seeing fabulous diamonds I was tickled to see a sample of modern iconic jewelry design included “Diamonds by the Yard”.  This is something mom bought in the 70’s.  She was so hip with the times.  The second special feature was the restored terracotta warriors.  In fact, one fully restored warrior was so perfect.  Until you approached and he reached out to shake your hand.  What a little make-up and costuming can do.

I walked part of the way back from the museum to photograph some great public art.  The downtown area is filled with cool restaurants, nightclubs and newly renovated loft type buildings for residences and offices.  LOVED IT.

My final taste of an impressive stay was a little snack that I had at the Italian restaurant down the street from the hotel.  Sea scallops with a special sauce and braised scallions.  I have to give this appetizer the big 5 O’s.  What a great place to visit.