Houston is the fourth largest city in the U.S., and draws visitors from around the world. They come here for some of the finest health care on earth, and they also do business with some of America's largest companies with headquarters in Houston.

Those of us who grew up following the U.S. space program will find enjoyment in a visit to the Johnson Space Center, where the name "Houston" referred to a room full of skilled and dedicated staff members arranging the successful completion of each mission.

Whatever your reason for visiting, it pays to know a few money-saving tips before take-off.

Take the time to plan a budget trip to Houston.

Here's the latest list of 10 travel deals for this week. Many of these links lead to offers with a very limited shelf life, so if you're interested, act quickly. But don't act so quickly that you miss the fine print. Summer Travel Deals aren't quite so fleeting, and are also worth a look. Among this week's deals: hotel deals for visiting New Orleans, airfare specials and a pair of offers from hotel chains for discounts throughout the remainder of the year.

As summer travel begins in earnest, there are reports that air travel delays are a persistent problem.

Associated Press reports only 77.3 percent of flights arrived on time in April among the 16 major U.S. airlines that report such statistics. That's down from 86.3 percent in April 2012.

An industry spokeswoman blames the furloughs of U.S. air traffic controllers for the increase in delayed flights, along with some rough weather. Another factor: American and American Eagle had some software problems in April, causing the cancellation of about 1,000 flights.

As of this writing, April is the most recent month for which we have on time statistics from the U.S. Transportation Department. But one need not go back that far to find problems. Plans to create a single European airspace have prompted walkouts by air traffic controllers in France and elsewhere. Dozens of flights were cancelled this past week, and the effects were felt far beyond the borders of France.

So be sure to check on the status of your flights -- wherever you're bound -- before you leave for the airport. If possible, schedule some time cushions into your itinerary plans. Tight schedules can become quite troublesome in the current air travel climate.

Ready for the beach? If you have a quick answer to that question, chances are good you've got the stretch of sand already chosen.

You might want to visit a beach locale this summer that offers more than surf and sand -- and all at a reasonable price.

Take a look at 10 great beaches you can visit on a budget offering unique nearby attractions that will enhance your escape to the seaside.