Introduction
Welcome to Houston, Texas—a dynamic hub for energy, healthcare, aerospace, and international trade. As the fourth-largest U.S. city, Houston blends Southern hospitality with global business sophistication. This guide equips foreign professionals with practical insights for a productive trip.
✈️ Getting Here & Transportation
- Airports: Fly into George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) or William P. Hobby (HOU). IAH handles most international flights.
- Transfers: Use Uber/Lyft (most convenient), official taxis, or the METRO shuttle to downtown (~$30 USD from IAH).
- Getting Around:
- Downtown/Uptown: Walk or use the METRORail (light rail). Avoid rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–6 PM).
- Districts Beyond: Rent a car (enterprises like Enterprise offer corporate rates) or rely on rideshares. Note: Houston is sprawling—distances are vast!
🏨 Accommodation: Where to Stay
- Downtown: Ideal for finance/legal meetings. Top picks:
- Marriott Marquis (connected to convention centers).
- The Post Oak (luxury, Uptown).
- Energy Corridor (West Houston): Near oil/gas giants. Try Omni Houston or Hilton Westchase.
- Medical Center: Close to hospitals/research institutes. Consider Houstonian Hotel.
- Pro Tip: Book early during major events (e.g., Offshore Technology Conference in May).
💼 Key Business Districts
- Downtown: Skyscraper hub for banking, law, and startups.
- Energy Corridor: ExxonMobil, Shell, and Chevron offices.
- The Woodlands (North Houston): Corporate campuses (McKesson, Huntsman).
- Texas Medical Center: World’s largest medical complex (1,000+ facilities).
� Dining & Networking Etiquette
- Business Meals:
- Breakfast/lunch: Quick, agenda-focused (try Truth BBQ or The Breakfast Klub).
- Dinner: Relationship-building. Opt for upscale spots like Pappas Bros. Steakhouse.
- Cuisine Tips:
- Tex-Mex: A must-try (fajitas at Ninfa’s).
- Southern Fare: Gulf seafood, BBQ (brisket is king!).
- Diverse Options: Vietnamese (in Midtown), Indian (Hillcroft Ave).
- Tipping: 18–20% at restaurants; $1–2 per bag for porters.
🤝 Cultural Nuances
- Dress Code: Business formal (suits) for traditional industries; business casual (slacks/blazers) in tech/energy. Always confirm with hosts.
- Communication: Direct but polite. Small talk (weather, sports) breaks the ice. Avoid politics/religion.
- Gifts: Optional—company-branded items or sweets from your home country are appreciated.
⚠️ Practical Advice
- Weather:
- Summer (Jun–Sep): Humid and hot (35°C+). Pack lightweight suits.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Mild (10–15°C) but unpredictable—layer clothing.
- Safety:
- Downtown/Uptown are generally safe; avoid isolated areas at night.
- Use hotel safes for passports/valuables.
- Connectivity: Buy a local SIM (AT&T/T-Mobile) at the airport. Free Wi-Fi is spotty.
🌟 Downtime Essentials
- Must-Visit:
- NASA’s Space Center Houston (book ahead).
- Museum District (13 museums, including Fine Arts & Natural Science).
- Networking+Leisure:
- Attend an Astros (baseball) or Rockets (basketball) game.
- Unwind at Memorial Park or explore Buffalo Bayou trails.
💡 Final Tips
- Time Zone: Central Standard Time (UTC-6).
- Language: English is primary, but Spanish is widely spoken.
- Emergency Numbers: 911 (police/ambulance).
- Power: 120V/60Hz; Type A/B plugs (U.S. standard).
Houston’s “can-do” spirit fuels its business scene—be prepared for ambitious deals and warm handshakes. Safe travels! 🚀