Padre Island, TX (USA)

Up at 0615 - had class today. The seminar lasted until after 1600 (with a short break for lunch). That was alright - the training was worth it... I even had enough time to drive over to Padre Island National Seashore before the visitor's center closed. What a place! It reminded me of some other beaches I've found over the years, but there was NO ONE there at all! It was even warm enough for swimming. I spent about an hour walking on the beach, enjoying the stiff breeze and the quiet... Later, I drove around on the paved roads nearby - exploring beach access points and local establishments. I recently read a story in "American Way" (American Airlines magazine) about how vacations in South Texas were better than Florida - and I can believe it! Saw very little wildlife - except for birds (including a hawk, perched on a power pole) but I learned a lot about the annual turtle hatching season (would be worth it to return for that!). Later discovered a few hole-in-the-wall restaurants and bars - mostly closed for the season. Dinner was at Bangkok Star, a Thai restaurant. Food was very good - and people were friendly (although it turned out they originally mistook me for a frequent guest). Drove back to my hotel (NAS Corpus Christi Navy Gateway Inn) at around 2000. More emails and "homework" before bed.