There is a lot of extra energy in Houston. Oil was discovered in Houston in 1901 and with the “black gold” came a boom. By the 1930s, there were 40 major oil companies in Houston. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) arrived in 1961 and Houston quickly became the center of exploring the frontiers of space. When Middle East oil prices escalated in the 1970s, Houston energy future looked bright. When the boom became a bust in 1980s, Houston had to redirect its economy. Although oil is still identified with Houston, healthcare, biotechnology, aerospace and transportation industries brought new energy to town. Houston is an international hub. It ranks in the top three U.S. cities for foreign government consulates. Ninety-six countries have business or government offices in Houston. International banks from 12 countries have operations in the city. The Port of Houston and nearby Galveston account for almost 7% of major cruise line embarkations and leads the Gulf of Mexico in containerized cargo traffic. And, the Texas Medial Center (TMC) is the largest medical complex in the world.
Over 31 million business and leisure travelers come to Houston each year. The Houston Airport System consists of three airports: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) and Ellington Field (military, civilian and NASA use). Ground transportation from IAH and HOU is available by rental cars, taxis, shuttles, limousines, courtesy cars and METRO public buses. Houston transportation offers public bus and light rail transit service. However, getting around Houston is easiest by car. The Greater Houston Metropolitan Area sprawls across over thousands of square miles and attractions are wide spread.
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