Earlier this year we launched a podcast network, adding the Manifesto hosted by Gideon the Free-quent Flyer to the Patreon Feed.

In this episode Gideon sits down with Kelly de Schaun, Chief Executive Officer of the Galveston Park Board.

Enjoy this special episode, and if you're interested in even more great podcast content, check us out on Patreon.

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[0:00] Intro

• Original Galveston post: https://freequentflyerbook.com/blog/2015/6/14/galveston-tx-is-a-weird-place-to-take-a-vacation
• Galveston Park Board: https://www.galvestonparkboard.org/
• Beach and Park Operations: https://www.galvestonparkboard.org/157/Beach-and-Park-Operations
• Galveston Island Convention Center: https://www.galvestonislandconventioncenter.com/

[2:37] Beach nourishment and replenishment

• Galveston Island geography
• Beach recreational opportunities and economics
• Relationship with Army Corps of Engineers
• Dredging of Galveston Channel
• Hurricanes!

[8:07] VisitGalveston.com 

[9:07] Galveston’s history

• Indigenous population
• Pirates!
• Pelican Island Immigration Station (https://www.texascooppower.com/texas-stories/history/galvestons-immigration-station)
• African American history (https://www.galvestonhistorycenter.org/research/african-american-history)
• The 1900 Storm (https://www.1900storm.com/)
• Natural and economic history
• Bootlegging and bordellos
• Cruise port

[18:37] Tourism breakdown

• Summer is high season
• Second homes
• Extended stays (work from home, remote schooling)
• Dune bashing and tailgating
• Public alcohol consumption (no glass!)
• Special events
  • Lone Star Rally: https://lonestarrally.com/
  • Mardi Gras: https://www.galveston.com/calendarofevents/mardi-gras-2021/

[23:37] Status of AirBNB/VRBO

• Registration requirements
• Local contact (noise complaints)
• Compliance program

[26:37] Seasons

• Make summer reservations early
• Haunted Mayfield Manor: https://www.galveston.com/whattodo/attractions/thrill/mayfieldmanor/ 
• Pier 21: