Travis Club is redefining Hill Country living. From days on the water to racquet sports, wellness, lakeside dining, a Beau Welling-designed 18-hole course, and 30+ miles of private trails, every moment invites connection and adventure. Now, with our latest Phase 2 release, we’re unveiling some of our most exceptional homesites yet — estate properties up to two acres, set on elevated terrain with panoramic views of the 15th and 18th fairways, Lake Travis, and the surrounding Hill Country.
Houston Methodist Hospital
#1 HOSPITAL IN TEXAS FOR PATIENT CARE & QUALITY
Houston Methodist Hospital has been named the Best Hospital in Texas for 13 years in a row by U.S. News & World Report and recognized on the Honor Roll eight times — with 10 nationally ranked specialties. For more than 100 years, we have provided patients with the highest quality care, the most advanced technology and the best patient experience. That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it.
houstonmethodist.org/bestintexas
713.790.3333
Where eminence meets exclusivity.
For more than 85 years, it’s been our privilege to assist the most prominent members of Houston society in establishing their legacies to become part of our city’s extraordinary heritage. Only at Geo. H. Lewis & Sons can you create a remarkable final tribute that exemplifies your place in Houston’s history, guaranteed.
Summer State of Mind
“Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
Welcome to our Explore issue—your personal invitation to soak up the magic of summer! This edition is bursting with sun-drenched adventures and whimsical escapes designed to inspire you to wander, discover, and delight in the season.
We’re kicking things off with a dreamy getaway to the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort, where gentle trade winds and golden sunsets will have you planning your next tropical retreat before you’ve even finished reading. Trust me - you’ll be packing your bags in no time!
Closer to home, we head to the Houston Museum of Natural Science to uncover all the interactive exhibits and family-friendly wonders waiting right in our own backyard. There’s something enchanting about exploring your own city through fresh eyes.
Need a girls’ getaway? We've got you. Our Round Top Girls Trip guide is packed with insider tips for treasure hunting, stylish stays, and memory-making with your favorite crew.
And of course, this issue is sprinkled with even more summer favorites—hidden gems, cool treats, and warm-weather fun to help you slow down, savor the moments, and explore both the familiar and the new.
Whether you’re reading this poolside, beach-bound, or cozied up in your favorite nook, we hope this issue brings a sense of wonder and a spark of joy. After all, summer is a state of mind—and there's no better time to get out and explore.
Jennifer Kahlden | jennifer.kahlden@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Arielle Alston | arielle.alston@citylifestyle.com
SALES SUPPORT COORDINATOR
Savannah Schakett
INTERN
Antonio De la Rosa
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Diane Cowen
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Cristian Arriondo
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Membership Benefits
MEMORIAL LONGEVITY CLINIC
MEDICAL DIAGNOSTICS
Our members receive advanced, proactive screening to detect the earliest signs of heart disease, cancer, dementia, aneurysms, and more. By focusing on early detection and intervention, we empower you to take control of your health—extending both your lifespan and your quality of life.
LABS & GENETIC TESTING
Our cutting-edge lab and genetic testing goes beyond the basics to uncover critical insights about your health. From identifying genetic predispositions to analyzing biomarkers for early disease risks, our precision approach empowers you to make informed decisions and take charge of your health.
LIFESTYLE
We believe lasting health begins with sustainable lifestyle changes. Our personalized nutrition counseling, exercise guidance, and wellness strategies are tailored to your unique needs, helping you not only prevent disease but thrive. Take control of your lifestyle, and unlock your full health potential.
inside the issue
Color Must-Haves
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Eli, Levi & Liz Foster
the Make-A-Wish ball. 2: Ali, Amber & Adonis
the Make-A-Wish ball. 3: Sue & Randy Sim at Asia Society Texas’ inaugural Runway to Asia. 4: Divya Brown, Kathryn Mujezinovic, Theresa Le, Rekha Muddaraj at Asia Society Texas’ event. 5:
Ahmed snuggles with the chocolate lab at the 13th annual CrawFest. 6: Pete Bell, Foster Thompson at the 13th annual CrawFest. 7: Founders Gracie & Bob Cavnar at Fashion in the Fields at Hope Farms benefitting Recipe For Success.
at
Braithwaite at
Zinat
COURTESY OF COTTON HOLDINGS
JACOB POWER
JACOB POWER
COURTESY OF COTTON HOLDINGS
WILSON PARISH
WILSON PARISH
WATSON
business monthly
STEM Adventures Await at Space Center Houston’s Explorer Camps
Get ready for lift-off into STEM-powered fun! At Explorer Camps, kids engage in hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math challenges that bring space exploration to life. From programming robots and designing space habitats to launching rockets and solving real-world engineering problems, each day sparks creativity and critical thinking. Perfect for curious minds in Pre-K through 10th grade, our camps inspire future astronauts, engineers, and innovators. spacecenter.org
La Cantera Resort & Spa Unveils $40 Million Room Refresh
Perched at the highest elevation point in San Antonio, Texas, La Cantera Resort & Spa unveils its newly updated guest rooms. The design of the $40 million refresh draws inspiration from Texas’s iconic King Ranch Estate, blending historical elegance with contemporary sophistication. New and returning guests will still enjoy La Cantera’s signature hospitality, with an emphasis on modern comfort that incorporates the natural stones, warm woods, and colors seen amongst its stunning 550-acre backdrop. lacanteraresort.com
ELEVATE YOUR EVENT.
Luxury furniture • Custom installations Seamless service
Photography courtesy of Space Center Houston
Photography Courtesy of La Cantera Resort & Spa
Meadow Sage Court
Michelin-Recommended Late August Unveils New Taco Omakase Menu
Michelin-recommended restaurant Late August is introducing a new rotating taco omakase tasting menu, The Aztlan Experience, available for dinner Monday through Wednesday evenings. Curated by Executive Chef Sergio Hidalgo, the menu reimagines taco traditions through an Afro-Mexican lens, blending innovative ingredients and flavors. Weekly offerings will rotate, with early examples including options like the Ahi Tuna with avocado mousse in a jicama shell; Smoked Salmon and Caviar on a chayote squash tortilla, and more. lateaugusthtx.com
Photography by Rebeka Flores
Artechouse Unveils its Second Seasonal Exhibit
Building upon ARTECHOUSE’s recent announcement of the Houston debut of Rolling Stone Presents: AMPLIFIED, the organization opened a companion exhibition for the summer - BLOOMING WONDERS. The two exhibitions will run simultaneously through September, with tickets for AMPLIFIED available in the evenings starting at 5pm and BLOOMING WONDERS being open during the daytime. Ticketholders for each show will have access to all 26,000 square feet of ARTECHOUSE’s immersive digital and multimedia galleries.
ARTICLE BY DIANE COWEN
A well-designed career
Smallish firm lets architect Stephanie Millet play a bigger role
Architect Stephanie Millet was part of the team that created the award - winning Levy Park in the Upper Kirby District in Houston. Photo by Ayala Vargas
Architect Stephanie Millet loves residential projects, turning lines and curves into rooms and homes as clients dream out loud about the places they want to live.
A native of California, Millet earned her bachelor’s degree in architecture at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo and worked for a residential architecture firm in California before moving to Houston to earn a master’s in architecture at Rice University. Once here, she decided to stay and found a work “home” at Natalye Appel + Associates Architects, where she became a partner in 2010.
In July, Millet – who lives in Houston’s East End with her 10- and 13-year-old sons – was named a Leader In Design by the Houston Design District.
“Natalye has been a huge inspiration and mentor to me,” Millet said. “When I came to Houston, I thought about how I would have a family and a career and they seemed like conflicting ideas. When I saw Natalye doing it, all blended together … it allowed me to say ‘I don’t have to fit in this box, I can design my own box, my own life.’”
Appel’s office culture is collaborative, so everyone has input on a lot of projects. In addition to high-profile residential work, they’ve done the Saint Arnold Brewery, award-winning Levy Park as well as Woodchase and Pine Cove Parks and the recently finished Camden Park.
The city park projects were done with the Office of James Burnett, which was hired as landscape architect, then OJB hired the Appel firm for pavilions and outdoor structures.
“We just finished Camden Park in April and I’m excited about that one,” Millet said. “That park had unique challenges because the canopies and buildings are egg-shaped, so there were no corners in the project and we had to make sure all of the edges met. We also have this big metal screen that wraps around the building like a ribbon.”
Stephanie Millet, a partner at Natalye Appel + Associates Architects, created a guest house/entertaining space on Vassar Street. Photo by Claudia Casbarian
Architect Stephanie Millet was part of the team that created the recently - opened Camden Park in Houston’s Westchase District. Photo by Stephanie Millet
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THE TEN!
An inspiring evening honoring ten women leading with purpose and dedication to our community.
Memorial Lifestyle Magazine’s inaugural The TEN! 2025 event was a beautiful celebration of ten women changing the face of Houston through leadership, service, and dedication to the community. Held at Cuvee Collective, guests arrived in their summer best and enjoyed light bites and cocktails.
What made the night meaningful was how each honoree was introduced, not with a resume, but by someone
who knows them personally. It gave guests an intimate and emotional glimpse into their journeys. From bold takes on entrepreneurship and philanthropy to honest reflections on balance and confidence, their stories left a lasting impression. To cap it off, each woman received a custom-engraved glass keepsake, a thoughtful acknowledgment of their lasting impact on the Houston community.
ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRISTIAN ARRIONDO
The inagural group of women honored at The Ten!
Carol Measom, Marthann Masterson and Suzanne Schakett
Diane Cowen, Suzanne Schakett
Dina Jo Kuhn, Angela Childs
Dr. Jacquie Baly, James Craig
Ellie Mehdi, Aliyeh Mehdi
Victoria Jones, accepting an award on behalf of Brittany Hebert Franklin
Sam Jaoude, Sherry Campbell
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEX MONTOYA
IF YOU EAT ONE THING
Something about the taste of meat grilled over an open flame goes hand in hand with summer. Father's Day, Fourth of July, and time spent poolside are often accompanied by a tasty grilled dish. The Pit Room, recognized by Michelin Guide as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, takes the hard (and hot) work out of at-home grilling. Well known for its Central Texas-style smoked meats, The Pit Room Memorial City also offers a Grill Menu with chicken tenders, chicken wings, brisket egg rolls, fried pickles, burgers, a T-bone steak, and more. Guests can beat the heat with one of their homemade ice cream desserts, allowing them to create their own treats by choosing from several cookies, ice creams, and toppings. July wouldn't be complete without a grilled burger and barbecue, and Michael Sambrooks, owner of Sambrooks Hospitality Group and The Pit Room, takes us through why their BBQ Burger is a must-have this month. thepitroombbq.com
THE BURGER
The perfect burger at The Pit Room starts with an eight-ounce 80/20 ground beef and brisket chuck blend patty. The patty is
grilled over 100% post-oak and seasoned with the restaurant's signature housemade burger seasoning.
THE BRISKET
The patty is topped with four ounces of prime smoked brisket that is chopped and mixed with The Pit Room's housemade barbeque sauce.
THE BUN
"We use the challah bun from Cake and Bacon bakery because it's the best," said Sambrooks. "The sweetness of the challah pairs really nicely with the burgers."
THE TOPPINGS
Sambrooks says thick-cut chopped onions are the key to a great-tasting BBQ Burger. In addition to onions, the burger is topped with cheddar cheese, housemade habanero dill pickles, and a small amount of mayo on the bun.
A SMOKY, BRISKET-TOPPED BBQ BURGER FROM THE PIT ROOM IS SUMMER GRILLING PERFECTION.
The Pit Room Memorial, BBQ Burger
Summer Must-Haves COLOR
3 4 5
Dive into summer fun with this season’s essential product picks.
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA
K’LANI HAIR TIE BRACELET 1: K’lani hair tie bracelets that are cute enough for your wrist and strong enough for your hair. $19.99. wearklani.com
LAURA GELLER WONDER BALM 2: The lightweight, tinted balm melts into skin effortlessly without settling into fine lines. $32. laurageller.com
BIRDIE JETSETTER 3: Perfect for a weekend getaway, making a statement with functionality and style. $355. consuelastyle.com
HUMDRUM PAPER DIE CUT BOOKMARKS 4: Humdrum’s die-cut bookmarks add a playful touch to any summer read. $6. humdrumpaper.com
GLOSSIER BALM DOTCOM 5: Available in a variety of colors, balm dotcom is a cult favorite. $16. glossier.com
WANDERFULL HYDROBAG 10: This summer, stay hands-free and hydrated on the go. $69. wanderfullbrand.com 6 7 8 9
WILD RYE PARKER ACTION DRESS 6: The Parker Action Dress is lightweight, breathable, and quick drying, built for movement but styled for spontaneity. $95. wild-rye.com
TRULY BEAUTY GOLDEN GLAZE SHIMMER BODY BUTTER 7: A luxurious shimmering body butter that restores skin with a blend of vitamin C and argan oil. $36. trulybeauty.com
CHARLOTTE TILBURY BIG LIP PLUMPGASM 8:
Get fuller, plumper, and volumized lips in seconds. $35. charlottetilbury.com
DASHING DIVA SEMI-CURE GEL NAIL STRIP 9:
Treat yourself to salon-quality nails—no appointment needed. $14-$16. DashingDiva.com
Adventure Awaits
DISCOVER UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURES AT HMNS WITH EXHIBITIONS THAT WILL SPARK CURIOSITY THIS SUMMER.
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HOUSTON MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE
The Eternal Garden: Titanium Art by Aka Chen. Photo by @AKACHEN
Death by Natural Causes.
Photo by Mike Rathke
Audubon's Birds of America. Photo courtesy of National Museum of Scotland
This summer, escape Houston's sizzling temperatures while delving into the worlds of science, culture, and art. Spend a day with family and friends at one of these must-see summer exhibitions – where every type of visitor will discover something fascinating.
AUDUBON'S
BIRDS OF AMERICA
This summer, HMNS is giving visitors a chance to check out Birds of America by John James Audubon, first published between 1827 and 1838. The show features 46 prints from a rare unbound set from National Museums Scotland. These life-sized bird illustrations helped shape ornithology. Along with the art, the exhibit dives into the story behind Audubon's legacy—both the impact of his work and the conversations it still sparks today.
NATURE'S HIDDEN HAZARDS
Nature is full of surprises, both beautiful and deadly. From rainforests filled with colorful creatures to hidden dangers such as venomous snakes, toxic plants, and creepy crawlies, the wild can be just as risky as it is fascinating. By popular demand, HMNS reopened Death by Natural Causes; the exhibition is a crowd
favorite that explores animal, vegetable, and mineral threats, including what may have driven Van Gogh mad and why tomatoes once terrified people.
EXTREME ANIMALS ALIVE
This summer exhibition invites visitors to explore the wide range of animal adaptations found in nature. The exhibit features animals such as whip scorpions, savannah monitors, prehensile porcupines, fennec foxes, and others. Guests will learn about adaptations that help animals shape-shift, glow, survive extreme temperatures, and even influence the behavior of other animals.
THE ETERNAL GARDEN: TITANIUM ART BY AKA CHEN
The exhibition presents 20 sculptures that blend jewelry design with Chinese brush painting using titanium and gemstones. Visitors will experience the intersection of art, science, and culture through Chen's creations. The works range in size from small vases to a 30-foot-wide polyptych, demonstrating Chen's skill in turning a strong, complex material into striking visual pieces. hmns.org
Extreme Animals Alive.
Photo by Mike Rathke
In The Know
DAILY SUN PROTECTION MATTERS: PREVENT SKIN DAMAGE, AGING, AND CANCER.
ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ESPIEVE
Sun protection is not just a seasonal concern. It is a daily necessity. Dermatologists agree that sunscreen should be applied every day, regardless of weather. Harmful UV rays can penetrate clouds and even car windows, increasing the risk of skin damage and cancer. An SPF of 30 or higher, reapplied every two hours when outdoors, offers essential protection. Experts also recommend mineral-based sunscreens for broad-spectrum coverage, especially for individuals with acne-prone skin.
Recognizing the need for a clean and effective sun care option, esthetician Jamie Ortiz created Espieve. A Southern California native and mother to a child with eczema, Ortiz wanted a non-toxic sunscreen that rubbed in quickly without leaving a white or greasy finish. Drawing on over 20 years of skincare experience, she developed Espieve to meet those needs.
Espieve offers tinted and non-tinted sunscreens, sheer lip sunscreen, body spray, sunscreen brush, and an anti-aging treatment. All products are broad spectrum, reef-friendly, cruelty-free, photostable, and made in the USA. They contain no chemical filters, oils, dyes, fragrances, or preservatives. espieve.com
The Big Picture
Sunscreen is a vital part of a complete sun protection strategy, but it is not the only one. When used as directed, sunscreen can reduce your risk of skin cancer and precancers, including a 50 percent lower risk of melanoma. It also helps prevent premature aging like wrinkles, sagging, and age spots caused by sun exposure. Combine with shade and protective clothing for best results.
Reimagined ISLAND TIME
Unforgettable moments, island adventures, and cultural charm make this Kauai getaway the ultimate tropical vacation.
Deciding which beautiful Hawaiian islands to visit is often challenging for travelers. However, each island has a unique personality and top-notch offerings, making any choice the start of a memorable adventure.
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SHERATON KAUAI COCONUT BEACH RESORT
For those looking for a quiet, lesser-known destination, Kauai, referred to as the Garden Isle, is a great place to start. It is the oldest of the Hawaiian islands, and much of
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort blends culture, comfort, and adventure.
Infinity pool, beach hammocks, bike paths, and yoga—relaxation and adventure blend effortlessly at the resort.
its natural beauty is intact, because only a small portion of the island is accessible by road.
Visitors can enjoy diverse experiences, from exploring lush mountains and peaceful beaches to fun, family-friendly activities and romantic getaways. Kauai's combination of scenic landscapes and relaxed atmosphere makes it an excellent destination for travelers looking for a tranquil getaway.
WHERE TO STAY
Located on the east side of Kauai, just ten minutes from Lihue Airport, the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort is a convenient home base for exploring the island while offering an experience that stays close to its island roots. The Coconut Coast is just steps away, and the Na Pali Coast is nearby, making it easy for guests to find themselves at the center of it all without spending hours traveling.
The resort features 314 rooms, including oceanfront suites and guest rooms for groups of all sizes. Each well-appointed room has a balcony with stunning ocean, beach, and garden views.
DINING
There is never a reason to eat the same meal twice, as the resort has five dining options to choose from. Daybreak Restaurant begins the morning with items like the crowd favorite, ube mochi pancakes and papaya parfait. First Light Coffee and Juice Bar offers drinks and light bites starting before sunrise, with items such as macadamia nut lattes and smoothies. Crooked Surf is a casual poolside restaurant, with poke bowls and mai tais served throughout the day, while Moa Moa, the resort's upscale option, highlights fresh seafood and a robust wine list. Launched during the pandemic, Fire Hen serves chicken wings, tenders, and sandwiches with various flavorful sauces that make creating the perfect dish easy and delicious.
RECREATION AND AMENITIES
In addition to time spent with toes in the sand and a drink in hand, the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort offers recreation options ranging from lounging by the zero-edge infinity pool to
From ube pancakes to fresh poke, five diverse dining options satisfy every island craving.
Luau Ka Hikina dazzles with hula, torch lighting, and Hawaiian music beneath the island stars.
biking along the eight-mile coastal path just outside the property. For those wanting to explore, the resort offers complimentary bicycles to get to nearby Kapa'a or to enjoy a ride along the Coconut Coast.
There is no need to leave the fitness routine behind as classes, including beachside sunrise yoga and a 24/7 fitness center, are available. Kids and families can enjoy lawn games and an arcade before settling in for s'mores by the fire pit for a relaxing evening under the stars. Early risers have an extra incentive to watch a beautiful sunrise as the resort offers comfortable beachside hammocks and loungers for peaceful relaxation.
CULTURAL PROGRAMMING
Hawaiian traditions and cultural pride are at the forefront of this island resort. It finds a way to incorporate culture in unique ways throughout the property, not only
in its decor and food but in much of the programming to keep guests engaged. Offerings include weekly hula and ukulele lessons, lei making, Hawaiian language classes, and Ohana crafts. Guests can enjoy a twice-weekly Luau Ka Hikina, which consists of a torch lighting ceremony, traditional hula dance, and live music.
EXPLORING BEYOND THE RESORT
For those wanting to explore beyond the resort, there is snorkeling at Lydgate Beach Park, hiking on the famed Sleeping Giant trail, and visiting Wailua Falls. Golf is available at the Ocean Course at Hōkūala, which offers the longest stretch of oceanfront play in Hawaii. Mountain tubing and zipline tours are available for more adventurous travelers through nearby backcountry areas. The resort's concierge service is available to help guests make the most of their stay and arrange activities on and off the resort.
Ocean, beach, and garden views greet guests from every balcony.
ROUND TOP IS THE ULTIMATE GIRLS’ TRIP DESTINATION WITH CURATED SHOPPING, DINING, LODGING, AND CUSTOMIZABLE EXPERIENCES THROUGH ROUND TOP UNLOCKED.
Round Top Unlocked
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA
A group of women relaxing at The Frenchie Boutique Hotel. Photo courtesy of The Frenchie Boutique Hotel
Not every girls' trip makes it out of the group chat, but when one finally does, Round Top is the place to go. Just a short drive from Houston, it offers a blend of city sophistication and small-town charm, making it the ultimate girls' getaway close to home.
RETAIL THERAPY
Begin the weekend with treasure hunting across Round Top's sought-after shopping scene. Explore Kemo Sabe, Sapana, Modern Marla, Humble Donkey, and the Round Top Antiques & Design Center in Henkel Square. For a look at the antiques Round Top is known for, visit The Big Red Barn and Marburger Farm, historic spots filled with antiques, rare art, jewelry, and glassware. During the tri-annual antique shows, Blue Hills at Round Top curates goods from more than 60 vendors.
SIP AND SAVOR + OVERNIGHTS
After a full day of shopping, relax with handcrafted cocktails at Ellis Motel or Il Cuculo. For dinner, enjoy a refined Italian meal at Lulu's or Boon and Company, where seasonal dishes are thoughtfully prepared in an elevated setting.
by Duc Huang
Photo
Round Top has accommodations for every taste. Choose The Frenchie Boutique Hotel for modern farmhouse comfort, Round Top Inn for historic charm, Red Antler Bungalows for a secluded creekside escape, or Hotel Lulu for a boutique stay complete with a pool, herb gardens, and cocktail bar. Wander Inn by Junk Gypsy offers a bohemian atmosphere with homemade biscuits and pet-friendly rooms. The Cotton Pearl Motel features a pool, a pickleball court, and The Rabbit Hole lounge for an energetic and social stay.
EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES
Groups visiting during the week when many businesses are closed can utilize Round Top Unlocked, which makes accessing exclusive experiences easy. This luxury concierge service creates personalized itineraries that can include private shopping tours, cooking classes, spa retreats, wine or beer tastings, and chuck wagon dinners under the Texas sky. Planning is simple. Select your preferred shops and activities, complete a short form online, and the Round Top Unlocked team will begin crafting your group's custom experience. Whether celebrating a birthday, planning a bachelorette weekend, or escaping for a well-deserved break, Round Top Unlocked turns any trip into something unforgettable.
Women shopping at Cisco Village.
Photo by Alex Montoya
Grounds of the Cotton Pearl Hotel.
Photo courtesy of Cotton Pearl Hotel
Guests can enjoy a meal or cocktails al fresco at Red Antler Bungalow. Photo courtesy of Red Antler Bungalow
U NMATCH E D BE UT Y
If Switzerland is not on your bucket list, put it on there now! Switzerland is awash in beautiful mountains, hiking trails, the alps, villages and lakes. It truly captures the heart the second the plane lands. The train system is easy and affordable and a great way to see the countryside, so be sure to plan some day trips using their easy transportation systems. Don’t be afraid to visit with the locals to hear where they would go to base some of your day trips on their recommendations. They are generally spot on every time.
ARTICLE & PHOTOGRAPHY
BY JANIE JONES
WHERE TO EXPLORE:
• Appenzell and Lake Constance is surrounded by Switzerland, Austria and Germany. An easy and short train ride to Appenzell and a quick gondola ride up the mountain boasts a beautiful view of the lake and surrounding areas.
• Ticino is where the locals suggest to visit and holiday. It is known for its waterfront promenade, bridges, castles, historical buildings and stunning landscape.
• Take in the sights of Zurich and its magnificent lakeside views. This spectacular city boasts amazing views, food and locals.
• Take a short three hour train ride to Paris to explore the gorgeous city and delectable French food.
WHERE TO EAT:
• To indulge in the traditional treat that Switzerland is known for, visit Sprungli which serves the best chocolate in Switzerland.
• To treat yourself to a Michelin restaurant, head to Zurich and eat at Kronenhalle.
• Aperol spritz and local craft beer is readily served at almost every cafe to enjoy.
• When in doubt, ask the locals, as they are happy to suggest their favorite eateries.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS JULY
events
JULY 4TH
Miller Outdoor Theater: Star Spangled Salute
Miller Outdoor Theater | 8:30 PM
Enjoy a free evening of music under the stars to celebrate the Fourth of July at Miller Outdoor Theatre! Enjoy a host of patriotic favorites; all topped off by a spectacular fireworks display.
JULY 4TH
Freedom Over Texas
Eleanor Tinsley and Sam Houston Parks | 6:00 PM
For decades, the Mayor's Official Fourth of July Celebration has recognized our nation's birthday by attracting more than 40,000 people into the heart of Houston along the Buffalo Bayou for the city's signature tribute to patriotism. The family-friendly interactive outdoor festival features fun activities, live musical entertainment, and a traditional spectacular fireworks display.
JULY 6TH
Outlaw Music Festival
Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion | 4:00 PM
Back for its 10th Anniversary and biggest year yet, country music legend Willie Nelson's Outlaw Music Festival tours North America with an incredible and exciting line up. So far, musicians including Willie Nelson & Family, Bob Dylan, Billy Strings, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Sheryl Crow, Turnpike Troubadours, The Avett Brothers, Wilco, and many more have been announced.
JULY 12TH
The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires + Prokofiev 5
Miller Outdoor Theater | 8:30 PM
Be transported to the balmy summers and snowy winters of Argentina as violinist Gabriela Lara performs Astor Piazzolla’s Cuatro Estaciones Porteñas (The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires). Composed at the height of World War II, Prokofiev’s Fifth Symphony was proclaimed by the composer as “a symphony of the greatness of the human spirit, a song of praise of free and happy Man.”
JULY 26TH
Houston Symphony: The Music of Journey
Hobby Center | 7:30 PM
Prepare for an exhilarating night as the Houston Symphony presents The Music of Journey! Combining full rock lighting, an amazing rock band, extraordinary vocalist Juan Del Castillo, and the sonic power of the Houston Symphony, you’ll hear one mega-hit after the next—from “Any Way You Want It” and “Wheel In the Sky” to “Faithfully" and “ “Don’t Stop Believin’”— as we celebrate one of the biggest bands of all time.
JULY 27TH
The Fray
Bayou Music Center | 7:00 PM
By pitching their music somewhere between the arena-friendly style of U2 and the mature, piano-driven pop-rock sound of bands like the Counting Crows and Coldplay, the Fray have earned themselves a devout fan following around the world.
HAS YOUR CHILD BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH AUTISM, PANDAS, ADHD,
CONTINUED
JULY 29TH
Chris Isaak in Concert House of Blues | 7:00 PM
With over 30 years of performing behind him and twelve albums to boot, Chris Isaak is still every bit a star today as he was in the 1980s when he emerged onto the scene as country music's blue-eyed boy. Best known for his sultry track Wicked Game, with its iconic, black and white video, Isaak is also an occasional actor.
JULY 29TH
A. R. Rahman in Concert
Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land | 7:30 PM
Awarded the accolade of the world's most prominent and prolific film composer by Time Magazine, critically acclaimed composer, musician and producer A.R. Rahman has been shaping the face of modern Indian cinematic music for decades. Since then he has garnered two Academy Awards, two Grammies, a Bafta and a Golden Globe for his astounding body of work.
JULY 31ST
Counting Crows
Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land | 7:30 PM
Formed in San Francisco in the early 90s, it was Counting Crows' 1991 debut August and Everything After which shot them to fame. Overseen by uber-producer T-Bone Burnett, it featured the monster hit Mr. Jones, which turned the band into a household name overnight.