Galveston, Texas: More than it's cracked up to be...

Our view from The Galvez Hotel

Granted, it's no secret that the Texas Gulf Coast will never be mistaken for Palm Beach, but if the sound of the sea beckons you - and you live in Texas - Galveston is not so bad. A five-hour drive from Dallas (and only 45 minutes from Houston) means your basic Texan can pack up a couple of beach chairs, an umbrella, some sunscreen and before long you're listening to the sound of waves crashing ashore.  Sure, the horizon may be obscured by a cruise-ship or oil-tanker on occasion but again, it's no Palm Beach.

On the Galveston Beach

We stayed at The Galvez, a historic old hotel on Seawall Boulevard. Built in 1911, it has been refurbished and is just lovely now.  Very reminiscent of The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island albeit on a much smaller scale, The Galvez is not only beautifully decorated with classical music piped in the common areas of the first floor but it as an added extra...it's reportedly haunted.

'Word' has it that there has been a whole lot of Paranormal Activity going on at The Galvez, including a well-known haunting by the “Ghost Bride” of Room 501 who will spook the entire 5th floor on occasion.

As far as we could tell...we were all alone in Room 611.

The Galvez Pool

Next year, I plan on returning in October when for the low, low price of $35, you can participate in The Galvez' Ghost Tour and Dinner package. The tour-guide just happens to be the hotel's Concierge, who brings along an electromagnetic field detector and infrared thermometer - just in case.   

Historically, if ever there was a reason to be haunted, Galveston has every right to be. In 1900 Galveston was prospering as a major US port. Sadly, it was struck by a devastating Hurricane that year, killing up to 8,000 residents. Eventually rebuilding, Galveston bounced back in the 1920-1930's but gained a reputation for gambling, alcohol and prostitution and became known as "Sin-city of the Gulf". 

Galveston Beach

Remnants of Galveston's colorful history can be seen through the beautiful Victorian architecture of The Strand, the vibrant art scene, the funky un-Starbucks coffee shops and most importantly, the residents of the city.


Thanks Galveston.

We'll be back.