L'Occitane has its base in Provence in the South of France, and endeavors to share French colors and fragrances with the world. Located right inside the George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Occitane is the perfect way to begin your Texan adventure. Bask in the fine fragrances and find the ultimate answer to your quest for smoother skin in the range of lavender products on offer. And for your crowning glory, the essential oils in the hair care products available will give your hair a positively regal look. So go ahead and kick start your stay in Houston at L'Occitane.

This national sporting goods chain has everything for the sport enthusiast. Equipment for any amateur or professional athlete is available, ranging from recreational sports such as fishing, basketball, baseball, softball, racquetball and golf to extreme sports such as in-line skating, skateboarding and water sports. There is a huge selection of sporting goods for the avid camper and outdoors sport enthusiast. Tents, camping gear and clothing are within your reach at reasonable prices. If you just want to be stylish and dress in the proper clothes for each sport, this store offers all of the top name brands and the best selection in the city. You will look good playing any sport.

Do you have any special little ones in your life? Then imagine yourself exploring this toy shop for fun and educational toys. Familiar names like Madame Alexander, Brio and Lamaze will both thrill and motivate children of the new millennium. If you are in a different part of the city, there are two other locations to serve you. Visit one today for a bountiful supply of first-class learning tools for kids of all ages. After all, kids deserve to learn with a smile on their faces.

Majoring in something scientific? Need a good medical book for family use? With over 50,000 titles in stock, the Majors Books store is equipped to fulfill just about every personal or business need. If you cannot find a book you need, a staff member will gladly find it for you. The store also provides multimedia and computer exam reviews for all those dedicated medical students. The prime location near the famous Texas Medical Center is particularly accessible to members of the medical and scientific community. Free parking is available, but, if you know what you want, your best option is the drive-up window.

Founded in 1949, the Three Brothers Bakery has spent many years building a fine reputation. The delicious array of breads includes sourdough and the house specialty, German farmer's bread. The most popular items are the filled danish. Pick some up on your way to work, and you will be the most popular employee in the place. Weekends may be for sleeping late, but the onion bialys, made only on Sundays, make it worth getting up early for a trip to the bakery.

On this planet, we have cycled from place to place since the invention of the wheel. If you are looking for a complete inventory of cycling equipment, visit Planetary Cycles. You will find familiar names like Raleigh, Cannondale and Diamondback parked in the aisles. The full-service shop offers sales, repairs and rentals to all customers. Peddle through scenic West University on your old bike and zoom out in splendid style. Trade-ins are always welcome.

If you need to change your look for a little while, this costume shop has the merchandise.This is the busiest place in town when Halloween is near. The large selection definitely dwindles at that time of the year. You can choose from costumes, fabric and trims, make-up, masks, theatrical supplies, leotards & tights, dance shoes, special lighting, balloons, streamers and seasonal decorations.You could go wild in here planning your next party.

This store caters to all of your Mac and iPod needs. Stop in to check out the latest games, software and accessories. If you're traveling, the staff can direct you towards all the adapters you need for your electronics. Many locations also offer workshops on how to use their various products. See their website for more information and a calendar of events.

Just southwest of East Sam Houston Tollway is a slice of rodeo history. Custom roping, barrel, and cutting saddles used by champion NFR Qualifiers like Clay Cerny, Bubba Paschal, and Denise Adams have been made here for over 30 years. Each custom saddle is made the old-fashioned way: individually cut and tooled by hand. But they're not just a saddlery. Allen's has all the boots, buckles, hats, and clothing to make anyone look like a gen-u-ine cowboy or cowgirl. This is great place to gear up for the next rodeo. - JoAnn Takasaki

This is the perfect place to pick out your next birthday or anniversary gift. All the beautiful and elegant pieces are fit for a king or queen. You can choose from exquisite pearls, flawless diamonds, beautiful bullion coins, top quality watches, wedding and engagement sets, gemstone necklaces and rings. The selection is vast and the experienced staff will gladly answer any questions you may have. On premises repair service is also available.