MATAGORDA COUNTY , TEXAS, USA -- Roi Lee Repp is an integral part of the changing face of tourism in Matagorda County, Texas -- especially eco-tourism. The co-owner of Freebird Canoe and Kayak Rentals has brought a fun and healthy sport to her hometown, and is part of a tourism focus that is in the process of transforming this sleepy area of the Texas coast between Houston and Corpus Christi into a nature tourism hot spot.

But as important as Roi Lee and entrepreneurs like her are to this area's growing tourism economy, she readily admits her business has also transformed her life in just as a dramatic a way. The fit and trim 50-something had spent years working as a waitress before indulging her entrepreneurial instincts and starting her own company. The gregarious Roi Lee always loved working with the public, but was seeking a small business opportunity that would give her more freedom and financial independence. After attending tourism seminars hosted by the Matagorda County Tourism Consortium, Repp knew she was on to something.

Roi Lee liked the fact that kayaking was an activity that families could enjoy together, something she felt was lacking Matagorda County. It didn't hurt that a variety of paddling experiences that would appeal to novices as well as experienced canoers and kayakers was right in her back yard.

Floating down the Colorado River, paddlers can enjoy scenic vistas of rice farms and cattle grazing. Along Caney Creek's tree-lined banks you're likely to spot all kind of woodland bird species (Matagorda is one of the country's premier bird watching spots). Those looking for peace and solitude will enjoy paddling through the county's salt water marshes, rich with plant and wildlife.

Experienced paddlers create their own paddling adventure by taking advantage of the fact that many of Matagorda County's marshes, creeks, rivers and bays have been thoroughly mapped out. Novices might instead opt for a leisurely float down the Colorado River. Either way Roi Lee and partner Wayne Armstrong have the equipment and guide skills you'll need.

Practicalities

Contact Roi Lee or Wayne at 979-863-7926 or email them at freebird3733aol.com for more information or to reserve your canoe or kayak.

For general information about planning a visit to Matagorda County, Texas, click on www.visitmatagorda.com or contact the Matagorda County Economic Development Corporation at 979-245-8913.

Cheri Sicard, in addition to being the editor of FabulousTravel.com and its sister site, Fabulous Foods.com is the author of The Great American Handbook: What You Can Do For Your Country Today and Every Day and The Low Carb Restaurant Guide, and the co-author of US Citizenship for Dummies. To learn more about Cheri, click here.