Michael Da Costa: My First Taste of Texas: Three Weeks in Houston!

Well, here I am, back on English soil, nursing a serious case of wanderlust after three incredible weeks in Houston, Texas! As a recruiter used to the rather more… temperate climes of England, this trip was an eye-opening, mind-expanding, and thoroughly enjoyable adventure.

From the moment I stepped off the plane, I was hit by two things: the wonderfully warm air (a welcome change from our perpetual drizzle!) and the equally warm welcome from my new Houston colleagues. Seriously, I've never felt so immediately at home. The team here is not just friendly, they're genuinely fantastic – a real "work hard, play hard" crew who made my transition seamless and my days productive (and often hilarious!).

And speaking of "work hard," the reputation of American work ethic is no myth! There's a palpable drive and energy in Houston, and it's infectious. I was buzzing with new ideas and strategies by the end of each day, fuelled by copious amounts of coffee and the sheer enthusiasm of the team. Individually the guys are so knowledgeable and their customer orientated approach really helped me to raise my game. 

Now, let's talk about the driving! Oh my goodness, the driving! Coming from London where roundabouts are an extreme sport and motorways have a gentle suggestion of a speed limit, navigating Houston's sprawling highways was an experience in itself. My rental car quickly became my trusty steed, and I definitely logged some serious miles. But hey, it’s all part of the Texan experience, right?

And the food! Where do I even begin? Tex-Mex became my new obsession. Tacos, Tamales, Quesadilla, and the most incredible Fajitas you could ever imagine – my taste buds are still doing a happy dance. And the BBQ! Slow-cooked brisket, ribs falling off the bone… I might have to invest in a bigger belt! 

But it wasn't all work and eating (though a significant portion was, happily!). Houston truly surprised me with its vibrant culture and diverse attractions. I managed to squeeze in a few incredible experiences that really showcased the city's unique charm:

• Houston Astros Baseball: Catching a game at Daikin Park was an absolute blast. The atmosphere was electric, the fans were passionate, and even though I'm still figuring out the intricacies of baseball, I was swept up in the excitement. Go, Astros!
• Johnson Space Centre: Walking among rockets, seeing mission control, and learning about the incredible history of space exploration was truly awe-inspiring. You can't help but feel a sense of wonder and pride in human ingenuity.
• The Menil Collection: This was a fantastic surprise. Tucked away in a beautiful, serene setting, the Menil Collection is an absolute gem for art lovers. The diverse collection, from ancient artifacts to surrealist masterpieces, was a peaceful and thought-provoking escape from the hustle and bustle.
• The Strawberry Festival - I even ventured out to the Strawberry Festival, at Pasadena Rodeo Ground. Big shout to @kevinkinzie for sharing his unique insight into a joyous and delicious celebration of all things Southern – who knew a fruit could inspire such a rapturous event?

Leaving Houston felt like saying goodbye to old friends, even after just three weeks. The warmth of the people, the buzz of the city, and the sheer scale of everything made a lasting impression. Big thank you to Ross MacKay and Mark Donnison for giving me the opportunity and trusting in me to contribute and experience a new place and new people. I only hope I was able to match what I gained from the visit by my contribution to the business operation and to the team, who I dearly enjoyed spending time with and learning from. 

I came to Houston for business, but I left with so much more – a newfound appreciation for Texan hospitality, a belly full of incredible food, and a head full of unforgettable memories.

Texas, you were truly grand. I'll be back!