HOUSTON: BRINGING TOGETHER THE OLD AND THE NEW The Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau has designated Houston as "The Real Texas." At least that's what it says on their stylish souvenir tee-shirt, and they may be right. Houston has the perfect blend of quaint San Antonio's traditions and upscale Dallas' metropolitan modernization. Throw in the beaches of Galveston, which are a short ride away, and you have a great destination for a vacation! You might want to schedule your trip around an event; there are plenty available in Houston! Right now you can catch the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo at the Astrodome (February 19-March 6); you will see Texas recreation, western outfits, and country stars at their best. You might want to follow the Azalea Trail or St. Patrick's Day Celebrations in March. In April the Houston International Festival featuring a Salute to Italy will take off, and June will feature the Asian Performing Arts Gala. July will really be jumping with the Freedom Festival, the Harambee African American Arts Festival, the Shakespeare Festival, and the Houston Symphony's ViennaFest! But you don't have to wait for a special occasion to visit "The Real Texas." You can "explore the urban jungle" at the Houston Zoo year round; their latest exhibit is the Wortham World of Primates. The Houston Museum of Natural Science provides education and entertainment for visitors of all ages. Astronomy, space science, gems and minerals, Texas wildlife, and dinosaurs are just some of the attractions. The Russian Gems and Jewels of Faberge are on display through July 10, and the butterfly/tropical rainforest center will open later this year. Or you can walk the beautiful gardens of Bayou Bend created by Miss Ima Hogg (her father was the first native-born Texas governor). The beloved philanthropist collected some of the finest artifacts of American heritage, and her estate has been made into a fascinating museum. Houston night life is just as diversified with opera, ballet, theatre, symphonies, and a plethora of bistros, restaurants, and lounges. La Griglia is a restaurant featuring mouth-watering Italian entrees, delectable desserts, Gulf seafood, and an atmosphere full of Texas fun. For a true taste of Texas in a casual surrounding, Chuy's should not be missed--Tex-Mex food, a decor gone wild, and the recommendations of Texans in the know make this a popular spot. Heading out for a professional production at Theater Under The Stars in the downtown district means you can have dinner at the Bistro Lancaster. Located in the landmark Lancaster Hotel, here you can sample Gulf Coast Cooking (ingredients and recipes from the regions bordering the Gulf Coast) in a charming and intimate setting. And for a brunch guaranteed to impress even the most jaded diner, the attractive Omni Hotel can't be beat. Show up on Sunday, and bring your appetite; Omni does the rest. There are several places you can call home while you are in Houston. My preference would be the luxurious Ritz-Carlton. Rated one of the top five hotels in the country by the Zagat US Hotel Guide, this elegant establishment is nestled in a wooded park and only minutes away from the Galleria and Pavillion malls and the downtown central business district. Beautifully decorated and spacious rooms, conscientious and friendly service, amenities and benefits galore, fine dining opportunities, and a very active bar will welcome you to the Houston area. A real bonus for those guests desiring additional privacy is The Club. Accessible only by private key, an exclusive concierge staff and lounge is available throughout the day and evening. This includes complimentary food and refreshments, continental breakfasts, cocktails, and afternoon teas. So polish up your western boots, shine your belt buckle, and come on down to Houston. Or come as you are. Either way you are going to have a great time in "The Real Texas!" Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau (713) 227-3100 or (800) 231-7999 Galveston Island Convention & Visitors Bureau (800) 351- 4236 in Texas (800) 351-4237 (others) The Ritz-Carlton 1919 Briar Oaks Lane Houston, TX 77027 (713) 840-7600 or (800) 241-3333 Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens (713) 520-2600 Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera, Theatre District, and Theater Under the Stars (713) 227-ARTS Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (713) 791-9000 Azalea Trail (713) 523-2483 St. Patrick's Day Celebration (713) 630-0486 Houston International Festival (713) 654-8808 Asian Performing Arts Gala (713) 526-1709 Freedom Festival (713) 665-1912 Harambee African American Arts Festival (713) 524-1079 Shakespeare Festival (713) 520-3292 Houston Symphony's ViennaFest (713) 363-3300 Houston Museum of Natural Science (713) 639-4600 Omni-Houston Hotel (713) 871-8181 Bistro Lancaster (713) 228-9502 La Griglia (713) 526-4700 - Laurie Lawson-