It’s the people that make this place special
Guest story by Chet Garner.
Chet Garner is the creator and host of The Daytripper, and Emmy-Award winning travel show airing on PBS stations across the country.
I’ve been exploring Texas my whole life. Growing up, my family would pack into our Suburban and set off on road trips across the state. Those drives weren’t just about reaching a destination, they were about discovery. I got a crash course in Texas history from that backseat of that old car. My dad would point out historic markers and small towns, sharing stories and little-known trivia along the way. I can still picture the sun filtering through the car windows as we rolled down dusty back roads, each turn offering a glimpse of life in unfamiliar places, where everything was new yet somehow familiar.
Those early road trips planted a seed that would shape my life. Even now, every drive reminds me of how endless Texas feels — wide open spaces, winding back roads, and welcoming people around every corner.
Texas isn’t just a place, it’s a feeling. It’s in the kindness of a stranger waving from their porch, the hospitality of a neighbor sharing a plate of barbecue, and the way we treat each other — on and off the road. These aren’t just things we say; they’re things we live and breathe every day. But sometimes we forget to carry those values with us when we’re behind the wheel.

Driving is about the journey and how we connect with others. When we slow down or let someone merge ahead, we’re not just driving better, we’re living better. That’s why I’m all in on Drive like a Texan, an initiative that’s all about reminding us to treat each other with kindness, courtesy, and respect, no matter where we’re headed.
I’ve always believed that exploring Texas is a lifetime endeavor. No matter how many miles I’ve traveled, there’s always more to see and more to learn. That’s what makes this place so special. It’s not just the landscapes or the history — it’s the people. Texans are proud, resilient, and neighborly, and it’s those values that make every trip memorable.
So, next time you hit the road, remember this: driving like a Texan means bringing our best selves along for the ride. Turn off the TV, grab your keys, and see what’s out there. You’ll discover that every road leads to a deeper connection — not just to the state, but to the people who make it one-of-a-kind.
Just like my dad used to say, "It’s not about where you’re going, it’s about how you get there." Let’s prove that kindness, courtesy, and safety aren’t just values we talk about. They’re how we drive, how we live, and how we make Texas better every day.
Vaya con Dios, amigos,

Chet Garner