From the beginning Texas has been a force to be reckoned with. The people of Texas started fighting for their freedom and independence in 1836. At that time key Texas leaders signed a declaration of independence from Mexico. This started a war with Santa Ana who was the president, and dictator, of Mexico. The war between Mexico and the Republic of Texas raged until 1845. On December 29, 1845 Texas became the 28th state accepted into the United States of America. The admission to union brought about a treaty between Texas and Mexico's Santa Ana.

Texas is the largest of the continual continental states and the second largest overall. Alaska is the only state larger than Texas. The population of Texas is currently estimated at more than 22,000,000. Mexico boarders the southern portion of Texas, which has lead to the state having a larger Mexican-American population than most states. It was estimated in 2003 that the 32% of the population in Texas was Mexican-American; the U.S. average is only 12%. This has created a cultural atmosphere unique to Texas. Festivals honoring the states Mexican heritage are held each year. Texas is also the place where Tex-Mex food was created. Tex-Mex cuisine has all the flavor and spice of authentic Mexican food, but it's covered with cheese and sour cream.

Being such a large state, Texas is a vacation destination with something for just about everyone. Cowboys and cowgirls will find no shortage of country living in Texas. There are several working ranches that geared toward giving guests the true cowhand experience. Urban cowboys can shop and dance till their hearts content in Dallas, Houston and many other larger Texas cities.

Texas shares the Mexican Gulf Coast region with several other American states as well as Mexico. The Gulf Coast offers shopping, dinning and art gallery browsing to the traveler looking for a leisurely vacation. Enjoy some time in San Antonio by strolling along the popular Riverwalk. This cultural and shopping mecca is truly a city within a city. The city of Galveston has 54,790 foot seawall that was built to protect the city from the dangers of hurricanes. It was constructed after the city barely survived the devastating storm of 1900. While in the Galveston area spend a day at Galveston Island State Park.

The Texas shore is the perfect place for swimming, surfing and sunbathing; so plan to spend some time playing on the miles and miles of beautiful Texas beaches.

There are several cruise lines that depart from the many coastal port cities in Texas.