Rolling Daily Volume 10 by Deliverabilities

ROLLING DAILY FIRST CLASS IN EVERY WAY

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

ISSUE 10 JANUARY 2019

10 BEST HIKES IN BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK

Ask anyone who’s spent time in Big Bend National Park what the...

THE EASIEST CASINO GAMES TO WIN BIG Coming into a casino for the first time can be a daunting...

10 STEPS TO FAMILY REUNION SUCCESS Planning a family reunion? Follow these 10 steps to a fun reunion for the...

Many people will be visiting a casino this summer, whether on a trip...

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: CAMPING IN BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK Being based out of Austin, Texas, most of the team here at RoverPass has...

TOP 10 STATE AND NATIONAL PARKS IN TEXAS Texas’s vast and spectacular landscape is...

BEFORE YOU GO GAMBLING: THE BEST AND WORST CASINO GAME ODDS

HERE ARE THE 12 BEST KEPT SECRETS IN TEXAS Texas has enough hidden gems and secret spots that you could spend a lifetime exploring the...

HOW TO INCREASE YOUR ODDS AT A SLOT MACHINE Picture yourself dropping a coin into a slot machine and winning the “big one.” That may....

10 TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH FRIENDS Travel is awesome. Travelingwith friends is even more awesome…

PRODUCTION Production deliverabilities layout&design: Phone: 360.468.3699

Email: info@deliverabilites.com www.deliverabilities.com

ADVERTISING First Class Tours

opportunities:

Phone: 281.590.8800 Email: info@firstclasstours.net www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

FIRST CLASS IN EVERY WAY

ENJOY THE 2019 HOUSTON LIVESTOCK SHOW AND RODEO WITH YOUR GROUP! First Class Tours seeks to provide the finest bus transportation experience for their customers through the best employees in the industry. Enjoy curb to curb drop-off, professional drivers, comfortable spacious seating all while being able to travel with your group to and from the fun. Let us show you the First Class difference.

COMING FROM WOODLANDS COMING FROM LOCATIONS AROUND HOUSTON

BOOK ONLINE AT FIRSTCLASSTOURS.NET OR BY CALLING OUR OFFICE AT 281.590.8800 www.firstclasstours.net

DISCOVER BIG BEND “LEARN MORE ABOUT ONE OF OUR FAVORITE TEXAS NATIONAL PARKS.”

We have compiled a few articles about staying in Big Bend and some fantastic hiking suggestions.

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

10 BEST HIKES IN

BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK

BY: GARY FORD 6

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

Ask anyone who’s spent time in Big Bend National Park what the experience was like, and you’ll likely hear a lot of words that sound like hyperbole. “Mind-blowing,” “otherworldly” and “humbling” are a few of the terms often used to describe the 800,000-acre expanse of desert, river, and mountains that comprise one of the most bio-diverse spots in the United States. That’s because the blend of cool mountain climate, arid desert heat, and river valley gives life to more than 1,200 types of plants, 450 species of birds, 56 kinds of reptiles, and 75 different mammals, all within one proudly preserved space. The harsh beauty of the desert mingles with the majesty of mountain peaks and the lushness of the land surrounding the great bend in the Rio Grande, from which the park and its surrounding region derive their names.

www.firstclasstours.net

Here’s an overview of ten hikes to choose from while planning a trip to Big Bend. There’s something for everyone, from simple, wheelchairaccessible nature paths to a three-day backpacking experience for hardcore outdoor enthusiasts. Take a look to see which ones spark your imagination. 1. Window View Trail Not to be confused with the similarlynamed Window Trail hike, the Window View Trail provides a great, short, mountain hike for beginners. The paved, wheelchair-accessible trail spans just 0.3 miles, starting at the Chisos Basin Trailhead and offers impressive views of the peaks surrounding the basin. There are plenty of benches where visitors can sit and watch the sunset in the distance as it baths the mountains in a golden glow.

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

2. Lost Mine Trail This moderate mountain hike covers 4.8 miles round trip, beginning on the Basin Road and moving toward the breathtaking vistas of Juniper Canyon and Casa Grande just one mile in. A fairly steep climb encounters swaths of forest and leads to a ridge overlooking Pine Canyon and Mexicoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sierra del Carmen. 3. South Rim Best attempted by experienced hikers,

this strenuous hike gains 2,000 feet from beginning to end and spans 12 to 14.5 miles, depending on whether you ascend from the South Rim through the steeper Pinnacles or the more mellow Laguna Meadows Trail. Portions of the trail close when falcons are nesting, so be sure to check with the park before planning this particular trek. 4. Panther Path The most beginner-friendly walk through Big Bend Park is easily this 50-yard wheelchair-accessible loop,

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

great for families and folks who want to experience the area’s abundant eye candy without physical strain. A Panther Path brochure is available at the Panther Junction Visitors’ Center, giving context to the desert flora visible along the path, much of which has cultural and medicinal significance. 5. Chimneys Trail A 4.8-mile round-trip hike with a moderate degree of difficulty due to its distance, this scenic hike begins, appropriately enough, at Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive and leads through the sort

www.firstclasstours.net

of volcanic formations that most readily come to mind when most people think of the American southwest. The “chimneys” visible from the trail feature Indian rock art and the path offers a handful of “choose your own adventure” endings, from a simple return the way you came to a 7-mile add-on that leads farther into the expanse of hoodoos, cacti, and other desert delights. 6. Mule Ears Spring Trail Spanning 3.8 miles from start to finish, this moderate hike starts from

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive and traces through the mountain foothills, skirting around Trap Mountain, and crossing a handful of arroyos. Pass an overgrown spring filled with cattails, ferns, and shrubs (but no visitors, as bathing is strictly prohibited) before returning to your starting point. 7. Rio Grande Village Nature Trail At 0.75 miles, this easy loop offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, birds in particular. After 100 yards of wheelchair-accessible pathway beginning at the Rio Grande Village

Campground, the trail crosses water and climbs a limestone hill, delivering expansive views of the Chisos and Del Carmen Mountains as well as the Rio Grande itself. Pro tip: embark just before sunset for incredible views of the fading day and galaxy of stars. 8. Santa Elena Canyon Trail Cross Terlingua Creek and ascend paved steps to a beautiful vista before dipping back down toward the water and into Santa Elena Canyon. This trail is known as a quintessential Big Bend experience. A moderate 1.7-mile hike,

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great for beginners who want to stretch themselves just a little, with magnificent views providing a wellearned payoff. 9. Hot Springs Historic Trail Considerably more difficult in the summer than other times of year due to its complete lack of shade, this one-mile riverside hike is an easy one, passing a homestead, a longabandoned resort, pictographs, and popular hot springs along the way.

backpack through the park and stop for two nights rest along the way, the Outer Mountain Loop is a fantastic way to experience Big Bend. Backpacking permits are required for overnight camping in the park and packed/ cached water must be a top priority in order to successfully complete the trip. This strenuous 30-mile trek takes three days to complete and covers everything from lush forests to stark desert landscapes, with primitive trails and steep elevation changes in one of the most remote places in the nation. ÂŚ

10. Outer Mountain Loop For the serious hiker who wants to

www.firstclasstours.net

SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

Just a short 2 hour drive from Houston, Golden Nugget Lake Charles combines the glitz and glamour of

WEEKLY TRIPS AS LOW AS $17.00 Las Vegas withDAY the hospitality and charm of the South – creating an exceptional one-of-a-kind gaming and entertainment destination in Louisiana.

Since it’s unveiling in December 2014, the 242-acre casino and resort has attracted guests from all WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, & SUNDAY! neighboring states. The Golden Nugget name is synonymous with exceptional service and luxury, including TICKETS START AT $17 deluxe accommodations, 15 restaurants and lounges, a private beach and marina, a championship golf FRIDAY & SATURDAY! TICKETS START AT $18 course and an innovative casino floor.

Ride with First Class Tours to The Golden Nugget Lake Charles departing Terminal and Eastex Terminal Located off of interstate 210, Lake Charlesfrom is theFM fifth1960 installment of the iconic Golden Nuggeteach brand which Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday! is owned and operated by Houston-based restaurant, hospitality and gaming group Landry’s Inc. The

Perk

craftsmanship and attention to detail is evidence of money well spent. The luxurious rooms and suites feature plush bedding, premium amenities like idocking stations and picturesque lake and pool views.

CLICK HERE FOR TICKET AVAILABILITY

PROPERTY FEATURES • 1,600 of the newest slot machines WITH PERKS • World-class spa, salon and barbershop OVERNIGHT TRIPS • State-of-the-art fitness center • 70 table games • • • • • •

• Pool complex with swim-up bar, lazy river Poker room and waterslide 740 luxury rooms and suites, with a tower addition in 2017 NEW TRIPS COMING SOON • Shopping promenade 18-hole championship golf course 30,000 square-feet of meeting and convention space $74 PP - DBLE OCCUP • Arcade • A-list entertainment Wedding gazebo $149 PP - SINGLE OCCUP Marina with dockage up to 206 feet

Perk

Ride with First Class Tours to The Golden Nugget Lake Charles, departing from FM 1960 Terminal and Eastex Terminals

G A M B L I N G CLICKPHERERFOROTICKET B AVAILABILITY L E M ? 12

P L E

www.firstclasstours.net

New for 2017!

JANUARY 2019

B US TOUR S PACKAG ES DAY TRIP PACKAGES (Minimum 5 Hour Stay)

Package A • Golden Nugget will pay $10 per passenger • Receive $5 Free Slot Play or $10 Food Credit • Group leader receives $15 Free Slot Play or $25 Food Credit *No minimum passenger count required.

Package B • Golden Nugget will pay $500 for Bus Transportation • Receive $5 Free Slot Play or $10 Food Credit

GOLDEN NUGGET TRIP • Group leader receives $15 Free Slot Play or $25 Food Credit *Minimum 40 passenger counter required.

Package C

• Golden Nugget will pay $1,000 for Bus Transportation • Group leader receives $15 Free Slot Play or $25 Food Credit *Minimum 50 passenger count required.

*All passengers must be 21 or older. No deposit required. Any payment made by Golden Nugget will be sent to the approved motor coach company. Group leaders are not eligible to receive payment.

From upscale to casual, Golden Nugget Lake Charles also boasts a collection of Landry’s, Inc. awardwinning and nationally recognized restaurants that cater to every palate. Grotto Ristorante, Saltgrass Steak House, Landry’s Seafood House, Claim Jumper, Lillie’s Asian Cuisine, Cadillac Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Bar and the crown jewel of steakhouses – Vic & Anthony’s – are just a few of the impressive selections. Guests can also peruse through a shopping promenade featuring all of the latest fashions from designers like Tommy Bahama and Michael Kors, catch a game of golf, or bask in the sun at H20 – an opulent Vegasstyle pool, swim-up bar and lounge. To learn more about available Bus Tour Packages to Golden Nugget Lake Charles, please call 337.508.7221 or email BusTours@gnlcm.com. 2550 GOLDEN NUGGET BLVD.

A S E

C A L L

www.firstclasstours.net

LAKE CHARLES. LA 70601

GOLDENNUGGETLC.COM

1 . 8 7 7 . 7 7 0 . S T O P 13

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

As a local, it is not at all uncommon to be asked “What is there to do in Galveston?” To me, it seems like such an odd question. The question really should be more like “What ISN’T there to do in Galveston?” Galveston Island has a diversity of entertainment and leisure options that has made it one of the top beach destinations along the Gulf Coast. I think it’s the fact that Galveston has so much more than just sand and water to lure people across The Causeway. Let’s look at just Downtown Galveston – the epicenter of entertainment, food, drink and social activity in the city. So if you’re looking for something fun to do and need a little nudge for ideas, here’s a quick list of the top 10 things to do in Downtown Galveston. And I offer this one disclaimer – this is in no way intended to be inclusive. It is not the result of any survey. This is merely my list of top 10 things I recommend to folks based on living here 21 years and visiting the island city my entire life.

1. Shop If you’re fond of unique and interesting items for yourself or gifts for others, downtown Galveston is where you need to spend some time with Hendley Market as your first stop. Be sure to check the store for current hours – they tend to change from time to time. But it is worth the effort for the spectacular collection of unusual items you’ll find. Nativity scenes

THE EASIEST CASIN GAMES TO WIN BI 14

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

Coming into a casino for the first time can be a daunting experience, and if you don’t know what you’re doing, you could end up losing a lot of money. Whilst all games are down to chance, whether it’s on the machines or at the tables, certain games offer a greater chance of winning, whereas others offer much bigger jackpot payouts. Bellow are three of the most common casino games that you are likely to encounter, along with how to win money on them. Contents Slots Blackjack Roulette Slots Slot machines are not quite as simple as putting in some money, cranking down the lever, and hoping for three sevens to appear on the wheels – but in principle it probably is.

NO IG www.firstclasstours.net

The simple art of the slot machine is to insert money, which will give you an equivalent number of credits, or spins. After paying credits into the machine you hit the “Spin” button, which will spin the rollers on the screen once. The resulting combinations

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

determine whether or not you have won money, and if so, how much. On some machines, the payout line is the central horizontal set of images, but on some of the video slots, lines are calculated all over the screen. Whilst certain combinations will return you a relatively small amount of money, the one that slot players look for is the jackpot combination. Usually presented as a trio of the same image, such as three 7’s or three X’s, the jackpot combo will either deliver the machine’s jackpot amount, or unlock further play where more and more cash is earnable. Slot Machines are the easiest of all casino

games to play, and the effort required to play or calculate is very little. However, the estimated chance of getting the jackpot payout is said, by Wizard of Odds to range from 1-in-262,144 to 1-in49,836,032, depending on the size of the reward.

Blackjack Blackjack is an extremely simple game, based on getting to the number 21 by using your card’s numbers. Every player at the table gets two cards from a standard deck of 52. Each regular card’s number is that of its face value (cards 2-10 are counted as their number), but the picture/image cards – Jacks, Queens and Kings – are valued at 10,

whereas the Ace can be an 11 or a 1 (the user’s own decision). With the two cards that you are dealt, you need to get as close to, or hit, 21 in total – without going over. However, you also get the chance to take more cards to get closer to 21. Once everyone has their cards, and it’s your turn, you can “Hit” and the dealer will give you another card. Or you can “Stand”, and stay with the cards that you have already amassed. If you happen to get two cards of the same number in your original hand you can “Split”, which will enable you to separate the two cards into two hands, if you place another bet to cover for the new second hand, and you get to play them both.

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

Whilst the aim is to get – or get as close to – 21, the player must also beat the dealer, who is trying to do the exact same thing.

boxed off (inside bets) and other boxes that are alongside each line, section, and type boxes (outside bets).

The rules on winnings and calls differ slightly between each casino, but at the base of the game, if you beat the dealer you double your stake. If there are other players at the table you’ll sometimes take a percentage of the pot based on your cards, or you’ll split winnings with other winners at the table.

The basis of the game is to bet your money, or chips, on the number that you think will occur on the wheel – when the dealer spins said wheel, and drops a ball into it. You can place your chips in any number of ways, and the less specific your bet is, the less the odds are.

The real stickler is that Blackjack is a card game, and some casinos don’t shuffle between plays, leaving room for people with good memories to almost count cards, or keep track of the cards that have been played so that they have an edge on everyone else.

• bet on a single number to appear (35/1 return)

So basically, Blackjack is a nice and easy game, with simple rules, so it is easy to adjust to and win on.

Roulette The Roulette board has a big wheel, with numbers from 0-36 in an assorted order on their own, with raised brackets around the edges. The corresponding table has those numbers

www.firstclasstours.net

The inside bets that you can do are:

• bet on two neighbouring numbers (17/1 returns) • bet on a trio of neighbouring numbers (11/1 returns) • bet on a quad of numbers (8/1 returns) • bet on six neighbouring numbers (5/1 returns). The outside bets that you can do are: • bet on the columns, via one of three boxes at the 34-35-36 end of the table (2/1 returns) • bet on the 12’s, in the first, second or third boxes that are under the numbers (2/1 returns)

• bet on two neighbouring columns (1/2 returns) • bet on two neighbouring 12’s (1/2 returns) • bet on Even or Odd (1/1 returns) • bet on Black or Red (1/1 returns) • bet High or Low (1/1 returns). Returns may vary between casinos but the odds of winning in each are fairly self explanatory – 1-in-37 on the single numbers, 1-in-3 on the columns, 1-in2 on the colours. Having said this, there is the number 0 to consider. It resides in the green zone, away from any outside bets. The only way to win when 0 pops up, is if you have a chip on it – be it as a single, double, or trio with its surrounding numerals. As you can place as many chips down on the table as you like, with very decent returns on each wager won, Roulette is a very highly rated casino game, that players of all levels can pick up, and win on, very quickly. All you need is a bit of luck on the wheel. ¦ SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

10 STEPS TO FAMILY REUNION SUCCESS BY: MARY SNYDER

Planning a family reunion? Follow these 10 steps to a fun reunion for the whole family. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re expecting a dozen cousins or several hundred relatives, planning a meaningful, memorable and fun family reunion is a challenge. It takes time, organizational skills and a sense of 18

1. Make a plan.

planning at least 12 months ahead. Your best first step, he says, is sending questionnaires to family members to get input on when, where and what they want.

Start by picking a date and location. Professional planner Bill Gunkel of Reunions Unlimited recommends you begin

Gather a committee to select three possible dates and locations. Send questionnaires asking family members to rank

humor. These 10 steps will help make your reunion a successâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and keep you sane.

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

the options. While you can’t meet everyone’s needs, a survey is the best tool for finding out what works for most relatives. 2. Recruit and delegate. No one person can manage all aspects of a family reunion. Surround yourself with capable and enthusiastic committee members. As www.firstclasstours.net

the chairperson, you’ll oversee the event, handle communications between committees, coordinate the volunteers—and occasionally play peacemaker. For small events with 20 or 30 people, you’ll need only a few volunteers. Large events require more volunteers and committees. Here’s a brief list of reunion jobs:

• Finance director: handles the reunion checking account, maintains the budget, makes purchases • Lodging liaison: Finds accommodations and negotiates group discounts • Food director: works with the caterer or handles the potluck

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

• Correspondence officer: communicates with family members

time to budget.” She recommends 12 to 18 months.

for the mailings. This involvement often leads to better attendance.

• Entertainment director: organizes activities for a variety of ages

Give an idea of the price in the first mailing. For moreexpensive get-togethers such as cruises, Anderson suggests offering monthly payment options.

7. Offer something for everyone.

• Reservations officer: tracks who’s coming • Mementos procurement: gathers mementos for display • Welcome committee: makes name tags, agendas and signage; mans registration; helps people mingle 3. Create a command center. A reunion generates paperwork: Even with subcommittees, the reunion chairperson needs copies of pertinent information, such as contracts with food vendors, updated registration information, and lodging details. You might keep everything in a simple file folder, or you may want separate folders for each committee in a file box. Keep your records organized—you’ll refer to them often 4. Build a budget. Cost can be a big factor in attendance, says Katy Anderson, owner of Reunion Masters in San Jose, Calif. “Keep your costs down or try to give the family plenty of lead

In mailings, asking each family to pitch in a set amount of seed money is a good way to offset startup costs. Get more dough with our fundraising ideas. Include financial updates in mailings. 5. Prepare a back-up plan. If your reunion will be outside, reserve a pavilion that can accommodate all the attentees in case of unexpected weather. Pack a few board games or crafts for the children can do indoors. 6. Get the word out. Send invitations as early as possible. You might opt for a simple flyer, an elaborate newsletter or a postcard. Use mailings to relay information and incite interest. Opt for e-mail if your family is plugged-in to keep costs down and give an easy point of contact. (You also can use familycentered Web sites such as Geni as a message hub.)

Offer a range of activities to meet varied ages and interests. You also can have optional outings such as golf, mall trips or excursions to historical sites. For kids, aim for a mix of outdoor and indoor activities. Teenagers can organize the younger children’s games. See our family history reunion activities at Family Tree Kids! 8. Start with a bang. Linda Johnson Hoffman, author of The Reunion Planner (Goodman Lauren Publishing), suggests icebreakers to kick off the reunion. “Getting everyone involved as they arrive is essential to setting the right tone,” she says. Here are some suggestions: • Have a welcoming committee greet arriving guests. • Create a blank family tree and have each member fill in his information. • Provide an agenda of activities so no one gets left out.

Include family trivia in your communications. • Create welcome Encourage relatives to send banners stories, ideas and updates

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

• Give away freebies, such as imprinted pens or notepads, at registration 9. Share your family’s story No matter how different your relatives are, your family heritage is one thing you all have in common. Celebrate it by setting out old photos and memorabilia. Incorporate food, music and decorations from

www.firstclasstours.net

your family’s ancestral homeland. Use the opportunity to make a family photo album (everyone brings pictures and create a page), a book of family stories, a video of reunion footage, or a family recipe book. 10. Maintain the momentum. After the reunion, plan to keep in touch until

the next one. Family newsletters and Web sites are great for this. Recruit volunteers to send a newsletter, or create and monitor a Web site or a profile on a family networking site such as Geni. ¦

SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

KNOW BEFORE Y CAMPING IN BIG NATIONAL PARK BY: ROVERPASS

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

Being based out of Austin, Texas, most of the team here at RoverPass has gone camping in Big Bend National Park. If you don’t know much about Big Bend (or even if you do), let’s give you a brief overview of one of the nation’s most impressive (yet least visited) national parks. Located in Southwest Texas in the Chihuahuan Desert, right on the border with Mexico designated by the Rio Grande, the massive, 800,000+ acre park contains more than 1,200 species of plants, over 450 species of birds, 56 species of reptiles, and 75 species of mammals.

YOU GO: G BEND K www.firstclasstours.net

Big Bend is also a paleontological paradise, home to a great number of dinosaur bones and sea fossils. It includes an uninterrupted fossil record of the last 35 million years of the dinosaurs’ existence. Despite how impressive all of this is, it’s not the main reason visitors from around the world come here. The number one reason people come here is for the views. The park’s hiking and backpacking trails, while also a great place for death by exposure or venomous snake bites, are enveloped by immaculate backdrops. Backcountry areas also provide excellent opportunities for mountain biking, kayaking, and horseback riding. You get the idea. Big Bend may be in the middle of nowhere (over 200 miles from the nearest

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

airport), but it is worth the trek. While you’re planning your trip, here are all the things you should know before you go camping in Big Bend National Park.

Guide to Camping in Big Bend National Park Choose Your Site Type Lodge/Motel Rooms There’s an abundance of camping options in Big Bend. Your first major decision is how much you want to rough it during the night. The most “lavish” option is the Chisos

Mountain Lodge. It has all the amenities you’d receive at your basic hotel. Rooms include actual, real beds and bathrooms with actual, real running water (*applause*). The lodge has a restaurant and bar and there’s a camp store with your basics and booze (if you don’t consider that a basic) for sale just down the hill. You can enjoy the majority of these amenities with the next two camping options, as well. RV Sites There are three campgrounds within

Big Bend that allow RV camping: Rio Grande Village Campground, Cottonwood Campground, and Chisos Basin Campground. All three of them are difficult to get a spot in. Named after the river it sits next to, Rio Grande Village Campground has 100 sites. The much smaller Cottonwood Campground has 24 shady sites. No generators are allowed there, which keeps the park even more quiet than the other two. Chisos Basin Campground, which I’ll discuss more thoroughly

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

in the next section, has 60 sites, but large RVs over 24 feet are heavily discouraged due to its sharp turns. Tent Sites As with the RV sites, if you’re lucky enough to get a spot, you’re in for a treat. Last time I went camping in Big Bend National Park we went tent camping at the Chisos Basin Campground. Even though it’s already at an elevation of 5,400 feet, it’s still surrounded on all sides by towering, tall, twisted cliffs. The lighting as the sun

www.firstclasstours.net

sets is especially beautiful at this campground, as it gives the rock a deep red glow. We were fortunate to luck into a spot as someone we leaving when we got there around 10 AM. Usually, however, you must get there earlier, before 8 AM, to score a spot. Primitive/Back-Country Sites If you’re in the mood for a more rustic camping experience and you have an RV or car suited for off-roading, this is a great option for you. The only

amenity that back-country campsites come with here is a bear box. You’ll truly be boondocking if you stay at one of these sites, so be prepared for no bathrooms, electric, or running water. Before you put up shop someplace, make sure you have a back-country pass, which you can get at any of the visitor’s centers. While you’re there, we recommend asking a park ranger what sites are best suited for your vehicle, as some sites are impossible to reach depending on what you’re driving.

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

Choose Your Adventure Chisos Mountain Basin A deep valley of green plants nestled between volcanic mountain peaks, The Chisos Mountain Basin is the number one must-see attraction in all of Big Bend. There are simply too many hiking trails in the basin alone to do in a single weekend. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to do just one, we recommend the Window Trail. One of the most popular hikes in all of Big Bend, this 5-mile, roundtrip trail leads to a gorgeous view through â&#x20AC;&#x153;the windowâ&#x20AC;? itself. The window is, in fact, a drainage point of the entire Chisos Basin. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot of water! As with all hikes in Big Bend, make sure to bring plenty of water and save some for the return hike. The way back is all uphill, with a gain of 800 feet in elevation. Lost Mine Trail For those that came to Big Bend for something more intense than The Window Trail, try the Lost Mine Trail. Officially labeled as

www.firstclasstours.net

only moderate, this out-and-back trail is no joke. Though itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s actually slightly shorter than The Window Trail, it changes over 1,300 feet in elevation. It also brings you to an elevation of 6,850 feet, offering a spectacular view. The drive getting to the trailhead is almost as breathtaking as the hike itself. The winding roads provide views nearly as magnificent as those from the peak with something the latter canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t offer: AC. Again, bring lots of water. As in, not just one bottle, but enough for multiple refills, especially if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going during the Summer. Langford Hot Springs After a day full of hiking and adventure, The Langford Hot Springs will be a welcomed change of pace. Having myself driven the 2-mile â&#x20AC;&#x153;roadâ&#x20AC;? to the springs before in a two-wheel drive vehicle, let me give you a piece of advice: Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. While itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible to make it to the springs and back in a standard, twowheel drive vehicle, we recommend only fourwheel vehicles make

the trip. (Plus, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re probably not man enough for it. đ&#x;&#x2DC;&#x203A;) Once you do make it to the springs, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be treated to a soak in water naturally heated to a soothing 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Sitting in the springs on the north bank of the Rio Grande, you can easily see across the USMexico border. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impossible to experience everything Big Bend has to offer in just one weekend. The best you can do is to prepare ahead of time. Choose where you want to stay and either reserve a spot or get there early. Plan on which trails you want to hike and which adventures you wish to enjoy. That way, when you get to camping in Big Bend National Park, you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to worry about making decisions. All youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have to do is hike 20-somemiles or so. Easy. ÂŚ

SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

FIRST CLASS

TOP 10 STATE AND NATIONAL PARKS IN TEXAS TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

BY: MARY CAPERTON MORTON

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

Texas’s vast and spectacular landscape is dotted with more than 100 national and state parks – and they’re not all desert. Here’s our pick of 10 varied parks, from the Lone Star state’s own ‘Grand Canyon’ to historic sites, a forest and an urban oasis Big Bend national park and Big Bend state park Everything is big in Texas, including the state’s crown jewel, Big Bend national park and the adjoining Big Bend state park. Together the parks protect an area of Chihuahuan desert larger than the state of Rhode Island, tucked into a 90-degree curve in the Rio Grand river, along the Mexican border. Big Bend is a place of contrasts: hot in the summer

www.firstclasstours.net

and frigid in the winter, the terrain ranges from dry open desert to jagged mountains to the riparian river valley, a unique landscape that supports a diversity of plants and animals. Big Bend is also home to some big predators, including Mexican black bears and around two dozen mountain lions, but the rugged landscape provides plenty of roaming room and dangerous encounters with visitors are extremely rare. As the largest expanse of public land in Texas, Big Bend is a hiker’s paradise with more than 200 miles of trails offering everything from short, sweet day hikes to multi-week epics. Horseback riding is also popular, as are float trips down the Rio Grande. The park offers three developed

campsites, backcountry camping permits and accommodation at the Chisos Mountain Lodge in the heart of the park. Top tip: Big Bend is located along a major migration pathway for hundreds of species of birds. Many northern species spend winters in the park, while birds from the tropics flock to the Rio Grande in the spring to mate and raise their young. Some species, like the Colima warbler, are found nowhere else in the US, making Big Bend a lifelist destination for avid bird watchers. Guadalupe Mountains national park Today Texas is mostly desert, but the landscape hasn’t always been so dry. Around

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

265 million years ago, during the Permian period, this region was covered by a vast tropical sea, home to a massive 400-mile long coral reef. Over millennia, portions of this reef were preserved and uplifted into the Guadalupe Mountains, one of the finest examples of a fossilised reef found anywhere on Earth. This dramatic and fossil-rich reef is protected within the boundaries of Guadalupe Mountains national park in west Texas, just south of the New Mexican border, near another area highlight: Carlsbad Caverns national park. In the mid 1800s a

stagecoach line called the Butterfield Overland Mail Trail ran right through the park on its way to El Paso, delivering mail, goods and passengers over 2,800 miles in 25 days between the east coast and California. The historic ruins of the old stage station can be reached via an easy 0.3-mile trail that leaves from the Pine Springs Visitor Center. Guadalupe offers two developed campgrounds, as well as backcountry camping permits, but there are no restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores or overnight lodging options in the remote park. The closest

town with food, ice, showers and hotel rooms is 35 miles east in White’s City, New Mexico. Top tip: For the biggest views in Texas, hike to the state’s highest point: 2,667-metre Guadalupe Peak. A trail from the Pine Springs campground winds up more than 900 metres of elevation in 4.2 miles to the top of the Lone Star state, marked by a metal pyramid. The hike can be completed year round. Hueco Tanks state historic site Just east of El Paso, lies the rock-climbing’s mecca of Hueco Tanks. Here,

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

bouldering aficionados – climbers who seek to ascend low, challenging routes without ropes – from all over the world gather to grab the unique hand holds formed by Hueco’s “tanks”, the small water-carved depressions pitting the rocks. These miniature water catchments have attracted people for millennia, some of whom left their mark in the form of thousands of pictographs painted on to the rocks depicting dancing figures, people with elaborate headdresses, birds, jaguars, deer and symbols of rain, lightning and corn. The most famous

www.firstclasstours.net

images are of masks or face designs. Hueco Tanks boasts the largest number of mask paintings in North America, with more than 200 identified throughout the park. Due to the rock art’s historical value and fragility, access to Hueco Tanks is restricted. Visitors must make reservations to access the North Mountain area, which is limited to 70 people per day, or hire a certified guide to explore other areas of the park. Even if you’re not a world-class rock climber, the park also offers hiking, bird watching and camping. Bunk beds

and private rooms are also available nearby at the Hueco Rock Ranch, operated by the American Alpine Club. Top tip: Peak climbing season runs from October to March, with an annual Hueco Rock Rodeo held in February. Climbers from all over the world show up to compete and take part in instructional clinics. Spectators welcome. Palo Duro Canyon state park Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of Texas, Palo Duro Canyon cuts through the heart of the Panhandle just

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

south of Amarillo. Roughly 60 miles long, up to 20 miles wide in places and around 244 metres deep, Palo Duro is the second largest canyon in the country and its intricate geologic layers and steep, colourful walls, do bear some resemblance to its bigger, grander counterpart in Arizona.

months, an outdoor musical drama called simply “TEXAS” lights up the Pioneer Amphitheater in the park on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. As the official play of the state of Texas, the family-friendly show depicts the trials and triumphs faced by the settlers of the Panhandle.

People have lived in this spectacular landscape for millennia, occupying the resource-rich canyon floor continuously for at least 12,000 years. The Apache, Comanche and Kiowa tribes fought many battles over the valuable territory before they were finally evicted in the 1870s and moved to reservations in Oklahoma.

Caprock Canyons state park and Trailway

Today the park caters to horseback riders, with more than 1,500 acres devoted to equestrian-only trails. But you don’t have to be a cowboy to enjoy the scenery: 17,000 acres of the huge park is crisscrossed with paths for hikers and mountain bikers. Keep an eye out for Longhorn steers that graze along the rim of the canyon, part of the official Texas state longhorn herd. Camping is available in tent and RV sites, and a small number of primitive cabins are available for nightly rentals, reservations recommended. Top tip: During the summer

Just south of the showier Palo Duro lies the quieter, but no less lovely, Caprock Canyons state park. The park straddles the Caprock Escarpment: spectacular 305-metre red sandstone cliffs that form the natural transition between the high, flat plains to the west and the lower rolling plains to the east. This transition zone has long supported a diversity of life, including now extinct mammoths, North American camels and giant bison. Today, the park is home to the Texas state bison herd, among the few genetically pure plains bison in the country that have not been crossbred with domestic cattle. Located in the Panhandle, 100 miles southeast of Amarillo, Caprock Canyons offers tent and RV camping, along with backcountry sites for overnight trips. Boating,

fishing and swimming are popular on 120-acre Lake Theo. Mountain bike and horse rentals are also available. More than 90 miles of trails run through the park and up the towering red cliffs, affording stunning view of the famous Texas Llano Estacado landscape. Top tip: The Trailway is a 64-mile hiking, biking and equestrian trail that runs through the park following the abandoned Fort Worth and Denver Railroad line between Estelline and the South Plains. The trail passes through three counties, across 46 bridges and through the Clarity Tunnel, home to a half-million Mexican free-tailed bats during the summer months. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area Rising above the plains west of Austin is a giant 150-metre-high dome of pink granite, the second largest of its kind in the country. Enchanted rock has graced this landscape for an estimated one billion years, making this some of the oldest exposed rock on Earth. Known to geologists as a monadnock – an isolated mountain – Enchanted Rock is visible for miles and has attracted people to its base and rounded summit for as long as 12,000 years.

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

Enchanted Rock comes with its fair share of legends, many inspired by the odd creaking and groaning sometimes heard coming from the dome. Geologists say the sounds come from the outer layers of rock contracting and expanding with changing temperatures, but the Tonkawa and Comanche Indians feared and revered the rock and continue to conduct ceremonies and leave offerings at its base to this day. Enchanted Rock is primarily a day-use park, though a number of primitive and backcountry campsites are available to visitors willing to hike to their pitch. RV’s are not permitted. The dome is popular with rock climbers, who flock to its Yosemitelike rock. A number of local guide services, based out of Austin and nearby Fredericksburg and Dripping Springs, specialise in getting both newbies and experts up on the dome. Top tip: You don’t have to be a hardcore climber to reach the top of Enchanted Rock. A 0.6-mile walking trail runs from the base up to the rounded summit. Parts of the trail are steep and the rock can be slippery when wet, but the short, spectacular hike is well worth the effort for the

www.firstclasstours.net

360-degree views. Padre Island national seashore Texas isn’t all dry, flat plains. The state also boasts 350 miles of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico. Much of the shore has been developed, but a few sections of wild, pristine coast remain. One of the best stretches is Padre Island national seashore, which protects the longest undeveloped stretch of barrier island in the world: a narrow, 70-mile long spit of dunes and tidal flats teeming with sea life. Padre Island’s most famous residents are Kemp’s ridley sea turtles, one of the rarest sea turtles in the world. Female turtles journey from all over the Atlantic Ocean to lay their eggs at only two beaches: Rancho Nuevo in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas and on Padre Island each summer between April and midJuly. In 1978 a programme was launched to rescue the Kemp’s ridley turtles from the brink of extinction due to overfishing and accidental entanglements in shrimping nets. In 2013, more than 10,500 hatchlings were released along the Texas coast in the hope that many will survive and return to Padre Island to lay their eggs.

Bird watching is also popular on the island, as the spit is located along the Central Flyway, a major migratory route. Upwards of 380 species have been documented within the park, nearly half the total number of species that live in North America. Top tip: Stay in one of the national seashore’s five campgrounds and catch sunrise over the Gulf of Mexico. Lost Maples State Natural Area Along the Sabinal river in south-central Texas is a forest unlike any other in Texas. Here a stand of bigtooth maples grow far from of their usual range. These trees aren’t strays, but rather ancient relics, left over from the cooler, wetter climate of the last Ice Age. For most of the year, Lost Maples state natural area, near Vanderpool, is a quiet wooded haven, offering hiking trails, bird watching and camping, but from late October into November, the maples, along with sycamores, chinkapin, lacey and Texas red oaks, erupt in a show of fall colours that attract hundreds of visitors a day. People have been drawn to the Sabinal river and

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

the Lost Maples area for thousands of years. The site is famous for preserving an archaeological artefact known as an atlatl: a spearthrowing tool wielded by the Native Americans of south Texas between 6,000 and 8,000 years ago. Top tip: The park posts “fall foliage reports” on their website during the peak leaf season. Weekends can get crowded and parking is limited so aim to visit on a weekday. Cabin rentals are available in nearby Vanderpool. Longhorn Caverns state park

Texas is renowned for its limestone caves, thanks to its ancient aquatic history when it lay submerged under a shallow inland sea. Impressive caves can be found all over the state, but few have the colourful history of Longhorn Caverns near Burnet. Here ice age animals once took refuge, then later Native Americans, pioneer settlers, Confederate soldiers, bootleggers and outlaws all took turns calling the cave home. In the 1920s, during Prohibition, the main underground room served as a secret speakeasy, dance hall and concert venue. Today Longhorn Caverns is a state park, offering daily cave

tours for novice potholers along with wild cave tours for those willing to squeeze their way through smaller underground passages to unique, rarely seen cave formations. Once a month the park hosts an overnight paranormal tour. Longhorn Caverns maintains a steady temperature of 20C (68F) year round, making this a cool option during the hot summer months. There is no camping in Longhorn Caverns, but Inks Lake state park up the road offers RV and tent camping, along with primitive cabin rentals. Those who prefer to stay above ground can walk Longhorn’s Backbone Ridge

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

Nature trail. Top tip: The Wild Cave tour takes more adventurous visitors on a two-hour underground journey that calls for climbing, crawling and squeezing through narrow passages. Required protective equipment such as helmets, elbow and knee pads can be rented from the park. Tours take place most Saturdays throughout the year. Reservations highly recommended. Zilker Metropolitan Park Nestled in the heart of Austin, the 350-acre Zilker Metropolitan park is one of the most beloved open spaces in all of Texas. In Zilker park, you can hike, bike, canoe, play polo, www.firstclasstours.net

and marvel at the botanic garden, all within the city limits of the Lone Star state’s capital. Austin has long enjoyed a reputation as the most vibrant city in Texas, and is the self-proclaimed “Live Music Capital of the World”. Zilker Park has hosted a number of music festivals and famous acts, including the annual Austin City Limits festival and a legendary Rolling Stones concert in 2006 that was recorded for their live album The Biggest Bang. When the park isn’t being taken over by music festivals, it’s an urban oasis, offering everything from quiet walks to train rides to Shakespeare.

Stroll along Lady Bird Lake, canoe or kayak on the Colorado River, picnic on the lush green grass, check out the Zilker Hillside Theater, or the Zilker Zephyr minirailway, or the Austin Nature & Science Center, all within the bounds of the park. Top tip: Texas can be sweltering hot so it’s no wonder that the Barton Springs Pool in Zilker park is one of Austin’s most popular attractions. This three-acre pool, fed from underground springs, averages 21C (70F) and is open to the public year-round. ¦ SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

BEFORE YOU GO GA THE BEST AND W CASINO GAME O BY: JOHN MATARESE 36

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

AMBLING: WORST ODDS www.firstclasstours.net

Many people will be visiting a casino this summer, whether on a trip to Vegas, on a cruise ship, or just at a local casino during a â&#x20AC;&#x153;staycation.â&#x20AC;? But before you go, you may want to know which games give you the best chance of winning. So we went behind the scene at two casinos, and spoke with the game managers, to find out which games give you an edge.

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

Table Games Your Best Bet Jay Bean, a Caesar’s floor manager, agreed to sit down with us and talk about the games with the best odds. He said many people don’t realize that table games have much better odds than slots. They are intimidated by thoughts of card sharks taking their money, with images of an intense Texas Hold ‘Em tournament in their minds, and so they stick with the safe games: the slots. But they are doing themselves a disservice, he said. Bean’s advice? After you’ve spent some time on the

slot machines, move on to the Blackjack table, and start by just observing. 1. Blackjack Blackjack has the best odds of winning, with a house edge of just 1 percent in most casinos, Bean said. Plus, you are playing against only the dealer, not hooded poker champions.

will walk you through the game. But the same is not true with poker: You should practice the game with your friends first, at home, Bean said, until you are comfortable with it. Bean said novices are best off passing on the poker tables, where yes, the competition can be tough.

You can find out more information about the “Blackjack is one of our easiest games to play,” Bean game of blackjack at the said. “You’re just looking for following link: http://wizardofodds.com/ a number that beats the games/blackjack/ dealer’s number without going over 21.” 2. Craps If you’re a novice, Bean said to sit down during a So from the Blackjack table, he suggests moving on to less busy time, such as the the dice game Craps, the afternoon, and the dealer

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

game with the second best odds, also nearly 50-50.

on all American roulette wheels.

The Craps table can be a bit intimidating for the beginner with all the boxes on the table, Bean admitted. But it’s really not tough, and it has one of your best chances of winning. In the end, all you are really doing is betting on a dice roll.

Or, if you feel lucky, play just one number. It’s hard to win, but if you do it pays out 36 to 1.

For more information on craps, visit: http://wizardofodds.com/ games/craps/ 3. Roulette Bean said your next stop should be the Roulette wheel. It’s simple, and pays fairly well. “So you bet on your favorite numbers,” Bean said. “The dealer spins, and if your number comes in you win.” If you stick to betting on just Reds or Blacks, you have nearly a 50-50 chance of walking away a winner. If it lands on red when you choose red, you will double your bet, Bean explained. While it may seem you have an even chance of winning by simply choosing a color, there is one catch that gives the house its edge: the extra green 0 and 00 position on the wheel. It’s

www.firstclasstours.net

For more information on roulette, visit: http://wizardofodds.com/ games/roulette/ Worst Odds Your worst odds? The casinos, understandably, did not want to talk about games with poor odds. So we turned to Forbes Magazine, which in a report about Best Bets at the Casino , said two popular games -- the Wheel of Fortune and the everpopular slot machines -- have the lowest odds of winning, with a house edge of 10 percent or more. The Experts Agree Professor of Analytics Michael Magazine has crunched the numbers, and agreed that blackjack is the best way to go home with money in your pockets. He said if you take a little time to learn the game, you have the best odds of winning. “You are somewhere between 44 percent to 48 percent in every single

hand of winning,” he said, noting that no other casino game gives you odds that good. But Magazine cautioned that he’s not promoting gambling, because he said even games with the best odds still favor the house. “Play it long enough and you will lose. In the long term the house doesn’t lose,” Magazine said. If You Love The Slots.... Finally, if you really enjoy playing the slots, here is some good information to know, from state casino reports we examined. With slots, the more money you put in per bet, the higher your chance of winning. If you put the max in a penny machine, which is usually around 50 cents, you have much better odds than if you put in 2 cents. In addition, penny slots have the lowest odds, with $1 and $5 slots paying much better. Always gamble responsibly, and don’t waste your money. ¦ SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

HERE ARE THE 12 BEST KEPT SECRETS IN TEXAS BY: KRISTEN LAWRENCE

Texas has enough hidden gems and secret spots that you could spend a lifetime exploring the state and STILL not have seen all of them. My 2nd hidden gems article seemed to really pique everyone’s interest, so I thought I would gather up some more secret spots in Texas that most people don’t

know about. Here are 12 more secrets Texas is keeping that you definitely need to visit (but just don’t tell TOO many people about them). 1) Campbell’s Hole (Austin) This is located in one of five access points along

Barton Creek. If the Mopac/360 access point at the underpass gets too crowded, head over here for some true relaxation. Access to Campbell’s Hole is at the Spyglass/Mopac entrance near Barton Hills Market and also across the street from the Barton Hills Elementary School.

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

2) Tonkawa Falls (Crawford) If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve run out of ideas for places to take the kids swimming, this is a wonderful natural area for them to make a splash. With the beautiful bluegreen water, lush greenery in the background, and the relaxing sounds of the

www.firstclasstours.net

waterfall, this makes for a great place to spend a hot summer day. 3) Quanah Parker Trail in Roaring Springs Named after the great Comanche leader, this area used to be a camping and watering site for the Comanche and other tribes.

Nearby, you can supposedly find holes in the sandstone where corn was ground by the Native Americans living in the area. 4) Bracken Cave (San Antonio) This cave might be wellknown by locals, but for those coming to visit, seeing

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

the world’s largest bat colony emerge at sunset is an unforgettable sight and one you should definitely experience while you’re in San Antonio. 5) “The Slab” (Kingsland) Also known as the “Llano Slab,” this is a wonderful place to cool off in the summer and enjoy the water cascading over the pink and black granite rocks. Some people have even found arrowheads and

fossils here. 6) Cave Without a Name (Boerne) This is probably the least visited cave in Texas, but the guided tour in this 66 degree cavern through six different rooms is definitely worth a visit. In the Queen’s Throne room, 8-12 concerts a year are held that feature Native American flute music and Tibetan singing bowls, which pair nicely with the tranquil environment.

7) Chalk Ridge Falls Park (Belton) At this wonderful hidden treasure of a park in the hill country, you will find five miles of hiking trails, a hidden cave, a suspension bridge, and the crown jewel of the park, the falls, pictured above. 8) Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge (Marble Falls) When I first came here a

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

few years ago, I couldn’t believe I had never been before. This refuge houses hundreds of different birds, mammals (including bats, bison and bobcats), reptiles, and butterflies. You’ll find beautiful canyons, prairies, woodlands, and savannahs here, and the views of the hill country are simply aweinspiring. 9) Caddo Mounds State Historic Site (Alto) Located in Cherokee County, this is the most heavily investigated Indian site in Texas. It was inhabited by the Caddoan peoples between 1000 BC and AD 1550. Today, the site consists

www.firstclasstours.net

of three earthen mounds, remnants of the prehistoric village, and a ceremonial center. 10) Los Ebanos Ferry (from Los Ebanos, TX to Ciudad Diaz Ordaz, Tamaulipas) This is the last hand-pulled ferry along the entire Rio Grande. If you ever find yourself traveling to Mexico, consider taking this unique ferry to cross the border. 11) Big Rocks Park (Glen Rose) Here, you can bring the whole family to climb the huge rocks and even swim and float down the Paluxy River (only if the area has

had recent heavy rains). Even if you can’t swim, the kids can still splash around in the water and cool off after clambering around the rocks. 12) Hill Country State Natural Area (Bandera) Traverse 5,369 acres of rolling hills in this beautiful hidden gem in Bandera. There are 40 miles of trails that wind through this undeveloped retreat in the hill country. ¦

SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

HOW TO INCREASE YOUR ODDS AT A SLOT MACHINE BY: BILL HERRFELDT

Picture yourself dropping a coin into a slot machine and winning the “big one.” That may be most people’s dream, but it rarely happens. For example, most casinos set their slot machines to pay out only 83-to-99 percent of the money they take in. Play at a gas station, bus terminal or any other place that has

slot machine, and it pays out even less. However, there are ways that you can increase your odds. Convert your bankroll to coins or tokens and play only one round, then quit. Presumably, you have won some money along the way. You may even win a jackpot during that round.

If the slot machine you are playing begins paying more than average and you have more money than the original bankroll, play the slot machine a second time, but limit your exposure to the original amount of your bankroll. You’ll be taking an undue risk if you play the same machine a third time.

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

Play a slot machine until you have about 50 percent of your starting amount. Count your winnings, and if those winning combined with half of your bankroll exceeds your total bankroll, continue playing the slot machine until youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve spent the second half of your bankroll on the same machine. On the other hand, if you

www.firstclasstours.net

tally your winnings with the remaining half of your bankroll and that equals less than the amount of your bankroll, drop down to the amount you bet and play half the remainder of your bankroll. Once you have finished, add you winnings to the one quarter thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s left of your bankroll. If it is more than the original

bankroll, move up to the next level of betting. If it is less, drop down to the next lowest bet. This method is certainly not guaranteed to make you rich, but you have lengthened your time betting on the slots, and you have not gone over your limit. Play 5 percent of your

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

bankroll on each bet. For instance, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s say your bankroll is $500. Using this system, that means that you will bet $25 the first time. A $5 slot machine usually takes five coins or tokens. Should you win, go to a higher-value machine and bet 5 percent of the new total. Should you lose, drop down to four tokens or coins, then three, then two, then one. After five losing bets, stop playing. Also, stop playing when you have bet about 50 percent of your bankroll. ÂŚ

SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

www.firstclasstours.net

FIRST CLASS

10 TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH FRIENDS TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

BY: GEOFFREY MORRISON

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

Travel is awesome. Traveling with friends is even more awesome… sometimes. Friends can either augment the epicness of an adventure, or they can ruin it, making you wish you’d gone alone. I’ve done numerous trips ranging from a few days to over a month with friends, and I’d like to think I’ve gotten better at it. Which is a polite way of saying, I’ve had a few… less than epic adventures. So here’s a list of dos and don’ts to make a trip with friends as easy and argument-free as possible. Thinking about a big trip? Check out 10 Tips For The Beginner Traveler, 10 Things To Bring On Every International Flight (And 3 Things Not To), and Why You Should Always Pack Light.

www.firstclasstours.net

1) What does everyone want?

mean you should cancel, but we’ll get to that later.

This is by FAR the most important thing, and important to discuss before any further planning. Just because you all want to go to Greece doesn’t mean you all want the same thing out of it. Sure you might say “oh the beaches” and “ooo, ruins” but if you’re thinking 90% beaches and 10% ruins, and they’re thinking the opposite, there’s going to be conflict.

2) How does everyone travel?

This happened to me. Some friends and I spent all this time planning our trip to the Netherlands and France, and once we got there, all they wanted to do was party until 5am, sleep until 3pm, and repeat. I, you know, wanted to see the country we were in. Just because you want different things (and of course you will) doesn’t

I love hostels and am perfectly content walking and talking public transport. I’ve traveled with a few people that can’t imagine not having a rental car, 50 lbs of luggage, and a lush hotel. To each their own. Like #1, best to figure this out ahead of time. 3) Not every activity needs to be a group activity I’ve made this mistake before. Just because you’re traveling together, doesn’t mean you need to do everything together. In fact, the best groups I’ve traveled with often did do things separately. Not every day of course, but every few days. It made for lively conversation at dinner.

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

4) If you can be flexible, do

smoother. This is probably the single biggest change As with any relationship, for me that made my travels there are going to have to be with friends better. It’s also compromises. The problem a lot easier for me to be this when traveling with friends way since I travel all the time is that the mechanism and if I miss something I for compromise isn’t as kinda wanted to do, I can ingrained as it is with a just go back. spouse (presumably). Also, However... somebody is going to be a little more of a finicky eater, 5) Don’t be TOO laid back a little more squeamish about accommodations, a This is the counterpoint little more worried about to #4. Sometimes my money. friends would get frustrated because I wouldn’t make a So if you can compromise, decision, not understanding do. Stand ground when you need to, but being more like that I really was OK with whatever. So make it known water and going with the flow will make everything go that if you’re needed to make a decision, you’re

happy to do so. 6) Everyone will need some personal time This one was recommended by my friend Thaynara. We’ve traveled together several times… so I’m hoping this isn’t a not-so-subtle hint. Regardless, it’s good advice. Everyone needs some “me” time, especially introverts traveling in a group. It’s not being anti-social, it’s just some quiet time (or musicinfused time) to recharge the social batteries. For example, with Thaynara and I, she’d wind down at the end of the day watching shows on her laptop, while

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

I’d listen to music and work.

That said…

Factoring that in, and keeping #3 in mind, will make things a lot easier.

8) Figure out how to split meals before you go

7) Don’t focus on pennies Money is the cause of more arguments among friends than probably anything else. If you let yourself fixate on a few dollars here and there, it’s going to ruin your trip, and if it blows up into something, risk everyone’s trip. Unless someone is obviously and knowingly skimming or cheating… well wait, why are you traveling with that person to begin with? But like I said in #4, just let it slide…

www.firstclasstours.net

It’s probably best to establish what the money plan is ahead of time. Chances are someone makes less than everyone else and is not looking forward to splitting a $400 meal 6 ways when all they had was pasta. Discussing it ahead of time also gives an embarrassed party to talk about it separately from the group. Regardless, approach this topic with caution. I’ve screwed this up a few times, unknowingly.

9) Don’t make ANY decisions when hungry or stressed This is probably the most important rule. It always amazes me how few people realize that everyone gets SUPER cranky when they’re hungry. It’s called “hangry,” and holy Cthulhu does it lead to arguments. How do married couples not notice this? Add the stress of transit to the mix (getting to an airport, missing a train etc) and together these are bad times to have a serious conversation. Remember #4? Again here. Let the

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

cranky be cranky. Get them food. THEN figure out what the issue is. 10) As in all things, communication is key A group dynamic is a fickle, delicate thing. Don’t let things fester. Don’t let

things build up. I’ve seen this happen and it’s toxic. A presumed slight, a mistake on a check, any number of things can seem like an issue but digging deeper, aren’t. Guys especially aren’t usually accustomed to talking frankly to their mates. A calm but awkward

discussion is ALWAYS better than a fiery argument. ¦

SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

YOUTH

SPORTS Transportation

Is our

specialty

Game Day starts here!

Ready, Set, Travel! It seems that every season there are more games, seasons are longer and the travel commitment gets more and more complex. Imagine taking the entire team on one motorcoach, arriving at the game together ready to play, with plenty of space for players, families, and gear. With full sized motorcoaches that accommodate up to 56 passengers, have video capabilities, an onboard restroom and more. The possibilities are endless, often with prices less than driving in separate cars. Call us today and let our team of professionals put your team transportation in the fast lane!

GoMotorcoach Make the Smart Move! Safe | Green | Efficient | Affordable | Fun

281.590.8800 | www.firstclasstours.net www.firstclasstours.net

FIRST CLASS IN EVERY WAY

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

2NIGHT TRIPS WITH PERKS

Perk

COMING SOON... Ride with First Class Tours to Paragon Casino Resort departing from FM 1960 Terminal and Eastex Terminal and receive unbeatable hotel deals on your trip!

CLICK HERE FOR TICKET AVAILABILITY

OVERNIGHT TRIPS WITH PERKS

Perk

FEB 6, 9 $44 PP - DBLE OCCUP $68 PP - SINGLE OCCUP Ride with First Class Tours to Paragon Casino Resort departing from FM 1960 Terminal and Eastex Terminal and receive unbeatable hotel deals on your trip!

CLICK HERE FOR TICKET AVAILABILITY www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

PARAGON RESORT

www.firstclasstours.net

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

GOING INTO THE CAVES IN TEXAS ENTERING ANOT WORLD BY: KRISTEN LAWRENCE

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

ESE 8 IS LIKE THER

Texas offers plenty of adventure above ground, but many people forget about the natural splendor and mysteries of a whole other world below the surface! Check out these beautiful caves in Texas next time you get the urge to go exploring; just remember to watch out for bats! 1) Natural Bridge Caverns (San Antonio) One of the most well-traveled caves in Texas, you can choose between 5 different cave tours: the Aquifer Tour, Adventure Tour, Lantern Tour, Hidden Passages Tour, and Discovery Tour (most popular). 2) Longhorn Caverns (Burnet) Go on a 1.5 hour guided tour of these caverns, where you’ll encounter sites such as the famous Crystal City, as well as the mysterious Queen’s Watch Dog! 3) Caverns Of Sonora (Sonora) This underground treasure is internationally recognized as one of the most beautiful show caves on the planet. At 155 feet below the surface, it’s a great way to escape the summer heat! 4) Inner Space Cavern (Georgetown) These caverns are some of the most well-preserved in Texas, and you can go on one of three

www.firstclasstours.net

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

tours: the Adventure Tour, Hidden Passages Tour, and for the really brave, the Wild Cave Tour. 5) Cascade Caverns (Boerne) There’s plenty to explore here as you follow the tour guide for a 45 minute cave tour. And, the cave is a comfortable 64 degrees year-round! 6) Kickapoo Caverns

(Bracketville) In the Permian Basin, you will find this breath-taking cave with incredible formations throughout. Tours are given on Saturdays only by reservation. 7) Gorman Cave (Bend) Explore what lies beneath Colorado Bend State Park when you take the plunge on a Wild Cave Tour!

8) Devil’s Sinkhole (Rocksprings) This is the largest singlechamber cavern in Texas, with a diameter of over 320 feet. It also houses the state’s largest colony of Mexican free-tailed bats, which you can see emerge from the caverns at night!

¦ SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

www.firstclasstours.net

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

WHY ROULETTE IS THE MOST FUN GAME IN THE CASINO BY: STAFF WRITER

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

roulette and why we are such avid players. Why Roulette is the Most Entertaining Game There are is no “right” way to play roulette. There is no one correct strategy you have to use when playing roulette. You can try out and use any number of strategies depending on what kind of punter you are and how much money you feel like gambling with. Roulette is great in that there is the scope to play more conservatively (like betting on only red or black), or alternatively you can play more riskily if you are more of a thrillseeking player who wants to aim for the big payouts (like betting on a specific number.).

Roulette is one of the earliest casino games, created in the late 18th Century in France, and still remains a firm gambling favourite. From its iconic wheel to its straightforward gameplay and its ability to make betting on a spinning ball a social gathering, here’s exactly what we love about

www.firstclasstours.net

Roulette is a fast-paced game. Roulette is faster than other casino table games, so it’s perfect for players who need to know the outcome of a game as soon as possible. Poker or poker tournaments are longer games and you may have a bit of a wait before the winner of the game is determined. You get gratification from roulette quickly, and never have to wait too long before bets are placed and the

next round begins. This is a particular advantage of playing single player roulette on the internet – the roulette round begins and ends when you want it to, and you can play from the comfort of your home. Roulette is exciting. The anticipation of waiting for the ball to stop spinning and the pointer to be placed on the winning square is exhilarating. It’s especially exciting when there are other expectant players waiting to see the winning result as well. However, whether you prefer multi-player or single player roulette – it’s always intense when your chips are on the line. If the game is more enjoyable for you when you can interact with the croupier and other players we recommend you try out a Live Dealer game of roulette. Live Dealer games give you an authentic gambling experience, similar to what you would get at a brick-and-mortar casino but you can access it online. Royal Vegas Casino and G’day Casino currently offer Live Dealer Roulette, as well as other live dealer casino games. It’s a luck-based game. Although there are

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

strategies you can learn and hope to master the individual player has no impact on the outcome of the game. No strategies help you manipulate where the ball is going to land – that part of the game is all down to luck. Some players prefer luck-based casino games as you have an equal chance of winning as someone who’s been at the tables longer than you have. “Advanced” players don’t have more chance of taking the win than you do.

Roulette is a dream casino game for beginners. Roulette is one of the easiest game to learn and pick up if you’re new to the casino scene. Understanding how the game works is pretty straightforward and as a new player you can start participating early on. Yes, there are different approaches players take, but there’s no one correct way to play roulette. There are limitless roulette variations. Once you’ve got an understanding of the

basics of roulette there is an expanse of roulette variants you can give a spin. All reputable Web casinos will offer players a rich selection of different types of roulette. For instance, Royal Vegas, one of the major virtual casinos has Premier Roulette, American Roulette, Multi-Wheel Roulette, European Roulette, French Roulette and more. ¦

SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

transportation

Solutions

To Make your

Business

dramatically More

EFFECTIVE. Make The Smart Move!

From small teams to huge corporations, when it comes to group transportation, no one knows it better than we do. If you need a transportation provider, or are unsatisfied with the service you are receiving from your current provider, we are eager to show you what sets us apart. No matter the size of your company, our team of experts will help create a solution to deliver the right equipment, professional drivers, a great safety record and the expertise you need to make your transportation worries a thing of the past. We will work hard to show you that when it comes to transportation we are the clear choice.

GoMotorcoach Make the Smart Move! Safe | Green | Efficient | Affordable | Fun

281.590.8800 | www.firstclasstours.net www.firstclasstours.net

FIRST CLASS IN EVERY WAY

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

DAILY TRIPS WITH PERKS

Perk

Meal voucher

EVERY DAY! TICKETS START AT $18 Ride with First Class Tours to L’auberge Casino departing from FM 1960 Terminal and Eastex Terminal Every Day!

CLICK HERE FOR TICKET AVAILABILITY

OVERNIGHT TRIPS WITH PERKS

Perk

OVERNIGHT TRIPS! JAN 20 - 31, 2019 $74 PP - DBLE OCCUP $149 PP - SINGLE OCCUP Ride with First Class Tours to L’auberge Casino departing from FM 1960 Terminal and Eastex Terminal!

CLICK HERE FOR TICKET AVAILABILITY www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;AUBERGE RESORT

www.firstclasstours.net

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

GREAT VACATIONS FOR MULTIPLE GENERATIONS BY: LYNN COULTER

Family vacations used to mean taking the kids to the beach or visiting grandmother at Christmas. But vacations have changed. Many grands don’t stay home anymore; they’re opting for active, fun trips, and kids and parents who’ve grown up with the Internet are also eager to explore the world. Multi-

generational travel is trending, and it’s a great way for families to bond. San Antonio River Walk, San Antonio, TX The 15-mile San Antonio River Walk, which winds from Brackenridge Park

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

through the heart of the city and into Mission Espada, is ideal for family fun. In downtown San Antonio, it leads visitors of all ages along landscaped paths and under arched bridges, where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a variety of shops, hotels, bars and pubs for adults and food for every palate, served inside restaurants or at outdoor tables topped

www.firstclasstours.net

with colorful umbrellas. Families can hop a river barge, walk, or use the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bike share program to see the sights, which include the historic Pearl Brewery complex and the San Antonio Museum of Art. (You can even kayak parts of the river, in the historic Mission Reach section.) Think of the River Walk as a public park that never closes (except for a

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

few natural areas that are open from dawn to dusk), and check its calendar of events for a schedule of concerts, art shows, a fiesta of holiday luminarias, and even a once-a-year chance to canoe the downtown River Walk. The Outer Banks, North Carolina A family beach vacation may not be the newest idea around, but this oldie is still a goodie. It’s especially good if you’re new to traveling with multiple generations, so you can dip your toes in the water – so to speak – and learn about your extended family’s different energy levels and interests. The Outer Banks is a 130-mile string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina that

invites you to swim, surf or jet ski. Family members who aren’t into watersports can play golf, take a dolphin tour, relax on a sunset cruise, fish from a pier, charter a boat or catch a helicopter or biplane ride for an aerial tour. Of course, there’s also bird watching, shelling and visiting spas and lighthouses. Running has become popular here, when competitors race in the annual Outer Banks Marathon or other running events. When you visit, be sure to put stops like these on your (sand) bucket list: the 4WD beaches, where the Corolla Wild Horses roam; the Wright Brothers National Memorial, which commemorates the first engine-powered flight; and the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island. You’ll find many more attractions as well.

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

The Rock Ranch, The Rock, GA Established by the late Chick-Fil-A founder, Truett Cathy, The Rock Ranch encourages families to have fun in some of the simpler, old-fashioned ways. This 1500-acre working cattle ranch is centrally located between Atlanta, Macon, LaGrange, Columbus and McDonough, and offers kid-friendly rides and attractions, like bounce houses, tree houses and pony rides. You’ll also find family-oriented concerts and seasonal festivals here. Don’t miss the popular fall event, National Pumpkin Destruction Day, when families “recycle” their Halloween pumpkins by bowling with them, smashing them with hammers, or watching them

www.firstclasstours.net

explode in a 50-foot drop from a fork lift. Of course, the real appeal of the Ranch lies in the activities families can do together, like fishing from a bank with cane poles, playing horseshoes or sand volleyball, taking hay rides, or wandering through the autumnal corn maze. Call ahead to book one of eight Conestoga wagons on the Ranch (each has four sets of bunk beds and sleeps eight). Bring a picnic, or buy a hot dog dinner, complete with all the makings for s’mores, and cook over a campfire. For an extra fee, families can also reserve a storyteller who’ll spin tales around the coals. There are also many working farms around the U.S. that allow multiple-generations to

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

stay and experience what it’s like to raise or grow your own food. Some let you get your hands dirty as you help with chores, while others just demonstrate cheese making, spinning, and other activities. Check out a list of farms that participate in this travel niche, known as agritourism. Note: not all allow children. Washington, D.C. Packed with historical and cultural attractions, fine restaurants and so much more, the nation’s capital has something for every age. Don’t let the kids - and older James Bond fans — miss the International Spy Museum, where interactive exhibits let you test your detecting skills and take notes with a cool pen camcorder. Kids of every age can ride the simulator at the National Air and Space Museum or take a creative

workshop at the National Gallery of Art. Look for family-friendly tours you can take on foot or via bus, rental bike (tandem bikes, trailers, baby seats and kid-sized bikes are available), Segway, boat or trolley. Big Bus Tours is popular with families for its double decker, open-air buses. When you’ve had your fill of sightseeing, fill up your tummy on a food tour through various neighborhoods known for their great restaurants. Washington, D.C. is also a great place to take the extended family thanks to its many free or nearly free events and attractions, which range from concerts to the National Zoo. ¦ SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

OVERNIGHT CASINO TRIPS WITH FIRST CLASS PERKS

Overnight

Luxury Transportation, Room Night and $35 in perks.

$44PP/DBL OVERNIGHT

Overnight

Luxury Transportation, Room Night and $23 in perks.

Luxury Transportation, Room Night and $35 in perks.

Runs every Sunday except Holidays.

Jan 20th-31st

$49PP/DBL

$74PP/DBL

Feb 6th, Mar 14th

$69PP/DBL

SATURDAY OVERNIGHT

Feb 9th, Mar 16th

Golden Nugget Overnight Trip $79.00 PP/DOUBLE OCCUP $149.00 PP/SINGLE OCCUP

February 27 - 28, 2019

$30 Perks www.firstclasstours.net

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

9 MOST IMPORTANT TRAVEL TRENDS FOR 2019 BY: ADVENTURESTUDENTTRAVEL.COM

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

more requests coming up for winter-themed escapes, such as skiing, snowboarding, mountain climbing, and cozying up in resorts near snowy slopes in general. Adventure Student Tip: Book a wintery weekend in the Poconos while you can. Seriously, this coldweather destination is going to be a hot one in 2019. Green Travel

Too early to talk about 2019 travel, you say? Absolutely not! This is actually the perfect time to start planning your big outing, and what better way to start planning than by knowing what the top travel trends are predicted to be in 2019? From snowy Poconos resorts to Southern

www.firstclasstours.net

Charm-filled foodie tours, 2019 is shaping up to be a great year in the world of travel! Take a look, plan ahead, and book now! Winter Resorts It’s looking to be a real winter wonderland in the world of travel for 2019, with more and

Green Travel refers to both ‘ecotourism’ and ‘Sustainable Travel’, more and more travelers getting behind the ‘go green’ initiative in every facet of their life, including travel. We have an increasing amount of requests for trips to wildlife refuges, national parks, and other natural areas outside of big cities, and we also have an increasing amount of requests to get there in a sustainable manner. This simply means that if there are more costeffective and carbonreducing ways to get around, we’ll find them for you. Travelers are opting to travel by boat, train, or car when possible. Smaller decisions like booking

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

rooms in LEED-certified hotels help conserve energy. Habits like reusing a hotel towel do the same. - T+L Adventure Student Tip: No matter how ‘green’ you want to get, our tip is to ALWAYS visit the local farmers market and/ or state park while on vacation. This simple stop will make you feel more ‘green’ and connect you with the more natural side of your destination in general.

Small Town Travel While booming metropolises such as New York City and Chicago won’t be dying down in popularity any time soon, we have been seeing quite a shift in most requested locations, particularly in the interest in small, off the beaten path towns. Travelers’ interests are now peaked by the unknown and unseen, probably due to the over-tourism of our typically popular cities and destinations.

Adventure Student Tip: Think of a place you’ve always wanted to visit. Let’s say, you’ve had your heart set on Nashville. Well, instead of visiting the hustle and bustle of Music City, why not consider a weekend stay in Franklin, TN, just 30 minutes south of Nashville that holds just as much history, fun, and Southern charm! Canadian Travel Named T+L’s 2017 Destination of the Year,

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

Canada’s tourism scene certainly did not slow down in 2018 and is only looking to gain more momentum in 2019. An incredible fusion of cultures, an even more incredible fusion of culinary delights, and some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the entire world will greet you at Canada’s doorstep, and trust us, none of the above will disappoint! Adventure Student Tip: Skip out on the typical

www.firstclasstours.net

Canadian attractions such as hockey rinks and maple syrup farms and hit the cutting edge art and culinary scene instead! Solo Travel This may seem like a counterproductive travel theme to promote for a group tour travel agency, but we can’t deny that solo travel is on the rise, and we also can’t deny that we respect the thought of adventuring on one’s own. We firmly believe travel is

the best education, especially when learning independence and realworld survival skills. Safety is key for this travel trend, and we can be your travel safety tip guide before you go! Adventure Student Tip: Don’t make your first travel experience a solo one, ensure you have at least one good trip on your belt so basic firsttime traveler issues don’t get in your way.

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

The Smokies Yes, we know, saying that ‘the Smokies’ is a specific travel trend may not be technically correct, but it is certainly looking to be one of our top destinations in 2019. Several groups are more and more interested in staying in the Smoky Mountains, and in national park resorts in general. Cabins in the hills are one of our most popular lodging choices for 2019, and with views like those in the Smokies,

we definitely aren’t surprised. Adventure Student Tip: Plan a vacation in Gatlinburg. You will have the best views, the coziest lodging choices, and quick access to the area’s most popular attractions in downtown Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Foodie Tours In 2018 culinary travel ruled the trends, and keeping along with that

theme brings 2019’s big food-related travel trend: foodie tours. Almost every big city provides at least one Foodie Tour, from Savannah’s Southern Charm Sidewalk Tours to Brooklyn Chocolate Tour. Chicago, San Fran’s Chinatown, New Orleans, Philadelphia, KC...all your favorite foods, in all your favorite cities. Adventure Student Tip: Our only tip here is to try it all! Don’t shy away from foods you wouldn’t

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

typically eat or local delicacies. A tip for ‘fit foodies’: try to make your food tour a walking tour if there is an option, that way you can eat to your heart’s content without unbuttoning those pants! Historic Travel While it may not come to your mind first as a major up and coming travel trend, history-themed travel is on the rise across the U.S, especially here in the student/group travel industry. Civil war sites, civil rights sites, and notable American civilian homes are the highlights of our top requested tours here at AST, but the options are endless with these trips!

www.firstclasstours.net

Adventure Student Tip: If you are traveling with a large group, be sure to find a destination/specific tour that shows several different facets of history, to ensure everyone in your group is interested and excited! For example, in Chicago, you can take ‘gangster’s of the 20’s’ tours, architecture history tours, and cultural history/immigrationthemed tours. Theater Travel From trips to New York purely for Broadway shows to student performance groups taking theater workshops in cities such as Orlando, theater travel is another ‘on the rise’ travel

trend for 2019. This is one of our specialties at Adventure Student Travel, we even send groups to the Disney YES Performing Arts program annually! Adventure Student Tip: If you are traveling to see a specific show, do ample research on the times it is playing, which theater, and what the busiest season ticket sell-out times are. Also, remember that bigname Broadway shows aren’t only found in the big apple, most major cities host a slew of productions each year. ¦ SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

DAILY TRIPS WITH PERKS

Perk

EVERY DAY! TICKETS START AT $18 Ride with First Class Tours to Coushatta Casino departing from FM 1960 Terminal and Eastex Terminal Every Day! Free play Monday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Friday AM only.

CLICK HERE FOR TICKET AVAILABILITY

OVERNIGHT TRIPS WITH PERKS

Perk

OVERNIGHT TRIPS! TICKETS START AT $49 PP/DBL

Ride with First Class Tours to Coushatta Casino departing from FM 1960 Terminal and Eastex Terminal Every Sunday!

CLICK HERE FOR TICKET AVAILABILITY www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

COUSHATTA RESORT LUCKY 7 SUNDAYS...

GET $7.00 OFF

YOUR OVERNIGHT STAY WHEN BOOKING ONLINE. www.firstclasstours.net

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

WHERE TO GO. WHAT TO DO.

m e M

A DEFINITIVE LIST OF THE BEST, HOTTEST, HIPPEST, COOLEST, DOWNRIGHT AWESOME GROUP TRAVEL IDEAS THIS SIDE OF... WELL ANYWHERE!

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

s e ri

o m

www.firstclasstours.net

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

MARIAH CAREY - CAUTION WORLD TOUR

BATON ROUGE BLUES FESTIVAL

WEARIN’ OF THE GREEN, ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

BAYOU COUNTRY SUPERFEST 2019

THE SECOND ANNUAL LOUISIANA STREET FOOD FEST

SHAMROCKIN’ RUN NEW ORLEANS 8K

March 1st Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land

March 16th Hundred Oaks Baton Rouge

January 19th In front of the River Center near Pedestrian Bridge, Baton Rouge, LA

April 13th - 14th North Boulevard Town Square

May 25-26th Tiger Stadium

March 17th Audubon Park

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

HAMILTON THE MUSICAL March 12th -31st Saenger Theatre - New Orleans

THE BOOK OF MORMON TICKETS IN NEW ORLEANS Feb 5th - 10th Saenger Theatre - New Orleans

CRCLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COMMUNITIES RESTORING URBAN SWAMP HABITAT VOLUNTEER PLANTING EVENT

MARDI GRAS INDIANS SUPER SUNDAY

MONSTER JAM

CAMILA CABELLO

January 25, Meraux, LA@ Jones Hall

Jan 6, Feb 9th and 10th NRG Stadium

www.firstclasstours.net

March 17 New Orleans - City Wide

March 5 Rodeo Houston

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

PARADE OF LANTERNS

THE ALAMO ROUNDUP

PLANET PIONEERS

THE BIRDS AND THE BEES: POLLINATORS IN NATURE, SCIENCE AND CULTURE

February 9, 2019 - February 23, 2019 San Antonio River Walk

February 2 through April 7, 2019 The Witte Museum

February 2nd The Alamo

Now Through March 17th The Witte Museum

SIX FLAGS FIESTA TEXAS – MARDI GRAS FESTIVAL & PARADES January 19- March 3rd Six Flags San Antonio

ELLA ENCHANTED: THE MUSICAL Jan 25 Feb 24 Dallas Children’s Theater

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

BLACK DANCE THEATRE PRESENTS CULTURAL AWARENESS Feb 15 Dee & Charles Wyly Theater

BEIJING DANCE THEATER FEBRUARY 8 WINSPEAR OPERA HOUSE

STERLING RUBY: SCULPTURE

DORRANCE DANCE

FLORENCIA EN EL AMAZONAS

THE ICE POWERED BY GREEN MOUNTAIN ENERGY

February 2, 2019 - April 21, 2019 Nasher Sculpture Center

Jan 26th, 30th, and February 3 HOUSTON GRAND OPERA

www.firstclasstours.net

February 1, 2019 WINSPEAR OPERA HOUSE

Now - January 27th Discovery Green Conservancy

FIRST CLASS

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE THE MAN OF THE WOODS TOUR January 22nd Toyota Center

GUSTS

Nov. 16, 2018, to March 20, 2019 Discovery Green Conservancy

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL LUZIA January 17th - February 24rd Sam Houston Race Park

www.firstclasstours.net

JANUARY 2019

Nothing BRINGS A

Family

TOGETHER

Better Than a Motorcoach. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll Show You Why!

One of the biggest challenges with any large family reunion can be transportation. How do you move that many people around town? How do you get from the destinations to the hotels? How do you spend your time together without spending hours stuck in traffic, in separate rental cars? We understand family reunions and know that transportation can be the difference between an extraordinary event and just another few vacation days wasted. Call us today and let us help you put your family reunion in the fast lane to fun!

GoMotorcoach Make the Smart Move! Safe | Green | Efficient | Affordable | Fun

281.590.8800 | www.firstclasstours.net www.firstclasstours.net

FIRST CLASS IN EVERY WAY

FCT NEWS FIRST CLASS WINTER FUN!