ABOUT TEXAS 

Texas is a state of striking contrasts, where wide-open plains meet rugged mountains, modern cities sit alongside historic towns, and deep-rooted traditions blend with rapid innovation. Known as the Lone Star State, Texas has long shaped its identity through ranching, oil, railroads, and trade, and today it stands out as one of the most dynamic and influential states in the United States.

The state’s landscape is among the most diverse in the country. Along the Gulf Coast, sandy beaches and warm waters define coastal life, while inland regions stretch from rolling prairies and fertile farmland to the limestone hills of the Texas Hill Country. In the west, desert scenery and dramatic canyons dominate areas such as Big Bend, while rivers like the Colorado and Brazos carve through the heart of the state. Texas’s vast size and open skies also make it famous for unforgettable sunrises, sunsets, and long-distance road trips.

Texas culture is deeply shaped by its layered history. Spanish and Mexican heritage remains visible in architecture, language, and cuisine, while Native American traditions and frontier history continue to influence local identity. Historic towns, missions, and cattle trails tell the story of early settlement, independence, and westward expansion, giving Texas a character that feels both proud and distinctive.

Modern Texas thrives in its major metropolitan areas. Fort Worth combines Western heritage with a strong cultural scene, professional sports, and a growing culinary reputation. Cities like Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio each offer their own personality, from live music and tech innovation to museums, festivals, and historic landmarks. Across the state, rapid development sits alongside protected parks, ranchland, and small-town communities.

Sport plays a central role in Texan life. The state is home to iconic professional teams in the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL, alongside a deep-rooted passion for college football. Texas also hosts major motorsport events, golf tournaments, rodeos, and international sporting competitions, making it a year-round destination for fans.

Texas’s food scene reflects its diversity and scale. Classic Texas barbecue, Tex-Mex specialities, Southern comfort food, and modern fusion cuisine define everyday dining. From roadside smokehouses to high-end urban restaurants, the state’s cu

Quick Snapshot

• Population: About 30 million (2023), the 2nd most populous state in the U.S
• Area: 268,596 square miles (695,662 km²) – the 2nd largest state after Alaska
• Capital: Austin, located in Central Texas

Entry into the USA

Texas is part of the United States, so standard U.S. entry regulations apply. Entry requirements depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.

Visa requirements – Citizens of countries included in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) may enter the U.S. for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa. Travelers from other countries generally need a B-1/B-2 visitor visa.

ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) – Travelers from VWP countries must apply for ESTA online before boarding their flight to the United States.

Passport validity – All international visitors must hold a passport valid for the entire duration of their stay. Some airlines recommend at least six months of remaining validity.

Currency

Texas uses the United States Dollar (USD), symbolized as $ and divided into 100 cents.

Approximate exchange rates:

• 1 USD ≈ 0.90 – 0.95 EUR
• 1 USD ≈ 0.78 – 0.82 GBP
• 1 USD ≈ 150 – 160 JPY
• 1 USD ≈ 1.30 – 1.35 CAD

(Exchange rates fluctuate depending on market conditions.)

Electricity

Texas follows standard U.S. electrical specifications:

• Plug types: Type A and Type B
• Voltage: 120V
• Frequency: 60 Hz

Visitors from regions using 220–240V systems will need a plug adapter, and in some cases a voltage converter. Most modern electronics, such as phones, laptops, and cameras, support dual voltage and only require an adapter.

Mobile services

Mobile coverage in Fort Worth and around Texas Motor Speedway is excellent, with strong 4G and 5G networks.

Major providers include:

• AT&T – Strong statewide coverage and reliable 5G in urban areas
• Verizon – Known for excellent reliability and fast speeds
• T-Mobile – Competitive pricing and very good 5G coverage in cities

For international visitors, eSIM services such as Airalo, Ubigi, or Holafly offer an easy way to stay connected without visiting a physical store.

Key contact numbers

When calling U.S. numbers from abroad, use the country code +1.

Essential contacts for travelers and NASCAR fans:

• Emergency services (police, fire, ambulance): 911
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): +1 972-973-3112
• Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Alliance: +1 682-212-2000

Fascinating facts about Texas

Texas is one of the most distinctive and colourful states in the U.S., known for its beaches, wildlife, and vibrant culture. Here are a few interesting highlights:

• Everything’s bigger in Texas – From highways to stadiums, scale is part of everyday life.
• Independent history – Texas was once an independent republic before joining the United States in 1845.
• Diverse landscapes – The state features deserts, forests, plains, hill country, and a long Gulf Coast shoreline.
• Space heritage – NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston plays a major role in U.S. human spaceflight.
• Motorsport culture – Texas hosts major events across NASCAR, IndyCar, and Formula 1.
• Wildlife – Home to armadillos, longhorn cattle, coyotes, and hundreds of bird species.
• Dinosaurs – Unlike some coastal states, Texas has one of the richest dinosaur fossil records in the U.S.