The Little Things That Count

The Strand is a section of historic Galveston that has shops that are geared toward people who just like to hang out and shop. I have a wife, daughters, and nieces who love to shop. If you are in the same boat that I am in, I suggest you save a few dollars and go to Galveston, Texas, and shop with your ladies. I can only say the rewards are much greater than the few dollars it will set you back. I love my kisses and hugs; I give anything to see my ladies smile.

Quick Tips:

Visit the Strand and bring some money!

Best Way To Get Around:

Personal car is the best way. But park and get on the trolley for a favorable time.

Best Things Nearby:
Endless private beach, Galveston Sea Wall Boulavard, shopping and shopping, Houston, TX

Best Things About the Resort:
Out away from the noise of the town. Very private resort, but close enough to play when you want

Resort Experience:
Seaside is a small resort that is building continually and is very quiet. It’s a perfect getaway to be with family and friends on the shoreline. I recommend staying there for a nice getaway. Request a lower floor if you have someone who doesn’t climb stairs well, because all the units sit high on stilts, and the resort doesn’t have elevators. The beach area is perfect for a private gathering, and the water in Galveston isn’t the prettiest, but it's very soothing.

• Unit Type: 2 Bedroom
• Activities: Good
• Amenities: Fair
• Unit Satisfaction: Very Good
• Family Friendliness: Very Good
• Service: Very Good

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is one of our must-stops when we are in Galveston, Texas. This place is a diet buster, and who cares if you come out smiling? Our favorite are the numerous types of candy apples available. I normally stay with the same, but my family tends to try a different type of candy apple every time we come to the Strand.

Suggestions: Please watch the tab, as the candy apples and the chocolate come at a weighty price. Spending $40 to $50 on candy apples and/or chocolate wasn’t my plan, but you could find yourself in that position. Sugar fixes cost, I know!

Personal time with the family is priceless and timeless. I have found the fountain of youth, and it’s always there--family time! Spending an afternoon on the beach was as much fun as you can ask for. What a joy to see my girls play and laugh. Can’t wait to go back and spend some time together.

It’s so priceless to be able to get away and enjoy your family. Cruising around Galveston, Texas, and just listening to my girls is as soothing as you can ever imagine. I believe my pictures say a thousand words, and I’m sorry I cannot put more pictures on the journal. Make sure you go to the historic sites on the Strand. Make sure you take a ride on the trolley and maybe a ride in a horse buggy. Make sure you pay your parking meter, or you will be getting an unexpected bill. Just get away with your family and enjoy.

The Curiosity Shoppe (fine papers and gifts) is a nice little store that sells things my wife and daughters love to buy. The Curiosity Shoppe has a large collection of items for the house, the office, and gag-type gifts for friends. I particularly liked the variety of THINGS this shop offers, and it goes on my recommendation list for places to shop on the Strand. Again, watch your pocket book, because if you have daughters like I do, you might need to stop by the bank first. Wow, can they shop!

Gracie’s is another little store my family enjoys shopping in. I really didn’t see the difference between Gracie’s and the Curiosity Shoppe, but my girls did. This is part of my learning the fine art of shopping and being closer to my girls, as I did give in and shopped. Shopping is what we do. I pay, they shop! I recommend this place also for you people who like the little things.

Tola is a store with a Caribbean feel to it; I guess the Caribbean music they play as you shop helps to put you in the mood. You can find your Caribbean attire, baskets, and other items for the beach in this store. I particular liked the laid-back atmosphere in this little market on the Strand. Maybe next time I can fit into those shorts I liked so much.