Half way through the flight the chap sitting next to me and I decided we were on the same holiday, from there on we sat together daily on the coach, we were in fact the only smokers on the holiday so naturally that brings us folks together !

The first stop in Dallas was very nice as was the first welcome meal together. The tour of Dallas the next day was great, with time to have a nice lunch, before setting off for Fort Worth. Fort Worth stockyards was very cowboy...... I loved it all, plenty of time to wander and catch live music, and shop in the many gift shops. The rodeo is a must.

Austin was billed as being the music capital of the world. I disagree. Having split from the group (I am a retired pro musician entertainer) I went in search of these pastures. I was told by a local that the outskirts had many a good band , but for me a stranger it was 6th street. The famous street on a Sunday night was disappointing with the street market packing up, I walked up and down in search of special world class music ? I did find a bar or two with musicians but nothing out of this world. I was however given a list of good places to eat by our tour leader, and found El Vs on 5th street, first class, with a fair jazz band.

Next stop San Antonio, great hotel with three nights to wander, the Alamo is interesting. And the silver spur ranch is a must, however I wish they would issue riding hats, if you go maybe look at your own insurance about NOT wearing a riding hat as you may not be covered. The ranch does a nice lunch.

Then off to a brief stop at Baton Rouge, very nice, before our visit to Nasa. Fantastic place to visit, I loved it. Then onto a Houston hotel and a fab night at cheese cake factory. Various jokes about cheesecakes followed on the coach home, as this place makes 39 different types, the portions are so big, some people shared.

Next day up earlier than most days, long drive to New Orleans, it did not disappoint. What a city, the French quarter was the focus for the opening night with a walking tour, the guide was engaging and shared local history and culture. The hurricane drink is a must I had two and I was wasted ! One it seems, would have served me better, however, it did make it to preservation hall to see the real deal jazz. The streets were lined with drinkers and loud music when I left the world famous venue, so I flagged a cab back. The city tour the next day talked about Katrina and was most interesting as was the paddle steamer trip, with an amazing jazz trio on board who I can tell you can play any requests, without the need for dots ! Real pros.

So all in all a good trip, Jackie our tour leader was delightful, I enjoyed her company.