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  • Rio Grande Valley Weekend Biennial - All Inclusive Ticket

    • Friday, December 12, 2025
    • Sunday, December 14, 2025
    • South Padre Island, Texas, USA
    • 26
    Register

    Rio Grande Valley Weekend Biennial - All Inclusive Ticket

    Hosted by the International Palm Society & the Palm Society of South Texas

    Dates: December 12-14, 2025

    Join the Palm Society of South Texas and the International Palm Society for a special weekend celebrating the unique flora and fauna of South Texas—featuring exclusive tours of private and public gardens, engaging expert speakers, and a visit to the last vestige of native Sabal palm forest.


    Sabal Palm Sanctuary



    South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary

    This event is intended for IPS members who are coming from out of town and provides transportation and access to all activities throughout the weekend.  You must have an IPS paid membership to register for this event.



    IPS Member All Inclusive Package: $325.00/person

    Available to all paid IPS membership levels:

    • Special discounted room rate with breakfast for attendees at Hotel Margaritaville (hotel room not included in price).
    • Ground transportation from Hotel Margaritaville to all events
    • Seafood Buffet Opening Banquet & Presentation by Jason Dewees, author of DESIGNING WITH PALMS.  Special introduction by Dr. Scott Zona, botanist and author of  A GARDENER'S GUIDE TO BOTANY: THE BIOLOGY BEHIND THE PLANTS YOU LOVE, HOW THEY GROW, AND WHAT THEY NEED.  A book signing by both authors will follow the presentation.
    • South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary guided tour 
    • Joint PSST and IPS Meeting at the Gladys Porter Zoo. The meeting will feature a special video presentation by Outdoor Reporter Richard Moore who has spent a lifetime documenting the natural wonders found around South Texas and Northern Mexico.  PSST members will guide a tour of the zoo, highlighting the society’s unique palm plantings integrated throughout the animal habitats and landscaped grounds.  An award winning South Texas BBQ lunch will be provided.
    • Private tour of two neighboring gardens and Happy Hour courtesy of Dr. Romeo Montalvo
    • Sabal Palm Sanctuary expert-guided tour and time to explore the Sabal palm forest, bird blinds, and historical buildings.   We will learn about the history of the Rio Grande River and 1892 Rabb Plantation House in a presentation by Larry Lof, CEO of the Gorgas Science Foundation and professor emeritus at the University of Texas-Brownsville.  Larry is a local historian, historical restoration specialist, and PSST member.   An authentic, made from scratch, Mexican lunch is included.
    • $100.00 Donation to IPS to help fund its conservation and research grants, Palms journal publication, and Palm Talk online community forum.

    Notes:

    • Hotel accommodation not included.  Attendees must make their own reservations.  A link for the discount will be provided in the confirmation email sent after registration is completed.
    • Getting There:

      Airfare is not included.

      Two airports serve the Brownsville area. Valley International Airport (HRL) in Harlingen has more service but is farther from San Padre Island, while Brownsville Airport (BRO) has more limited service but is closer to San Padre Island.  Transportation from/to the airport is not included in the package, however, as a courtesy, the biennial bus will leave the Sabal Palm Sanctuary at 3:00 pm and drop people off at Valley International Airport Sunday, December 14 (45 min drive).


    Details


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  • Rio Grande Valley Weekend Biennial - A La Carte Menu Ticket

    • Friday, December 12, 2025
    • Sunday, December 14, 2025
    • South Padre Island, Texas, USA
    Register

    Rio Grande Valley Weekend Biennial - A La Carte Menu Ticket

    Hosted by the International Palm Society & the Palm Society of South Texas

    Dates: December 12-14, 2025

    Join the Palm Society of South Texas and the International Palm Society for a special weekend celebrating the unique flora and fauna of South Texas—featuring exclusive tours of private and public gardens, engaging expert speakers, and a visit to the last vestige of native Sabal palm forest.


    Sabal Palm Sanctuary



    South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary


    This a la carte menu ticket gives local PSST members who are also IPS members the flexibility to choose the days they want to attend during registration.

    An IPS paid membership is required to register for this event.  PSST members who do not have an IPS paid membership will be invited to join the IPS as part of the registration.  PSST membership will be checked on site at individual events.  


    PSST & IPS Dual Membership a la carte Day Passes $60/person + optional extra charges

    The $60.00 per person base price is a donation to the IPS to help fund its conservation and research grants, Palms journal publication, and Palm Talk online community forum.

    Options at an extra charge:

    • Saturday, December 13 Pass: 
      • South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary guided tour 
      • Joint PSST and IPS Meeting at the Gladys Porter Zoo. The meeting itself is free to all PSST members and will feature a special video presentation by Outdoor Reporter Richard Moore who has spent a lifetime documenting the natural wonders found around South Texas and Northern Mexico.  PSST members will give a tour of the zoo, highlighting the society’s unique palm plantings integrated throughout the animal habitats and landscaped grounds.  South Texas BBQ lunch by award winning RJ’s BBQ included.  This will include melt in your mouth brisket, ribs, chicken and plenty of sides.
      • Private Tour of Two Neighboring Gardens and Happy Hour (beer, wine, bourbon. scotch, soft drinks and snacks) courtesy of Dr. Romeo Montalvo:  + $32 
    • Sunday, December 14 Pass:  
      • Sabal Palm Sanctuary expert-guided tour and free time to explore the Sabal palm forest, bird blinds, and historical buildings.   We will learn about the history of the Rio Grande River and 1892 Rabb Plantation House in a presentation by Larry Lof, CEO of the Gorgas Science Foundation and professor emeritus at the University of Texas-Brownsville.  Larry is a local historian, historical restoration specialist, and PSST member.   
      • Authentic, Made From Scratch, Mexican Lunch:  + $40


    Details


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  • PSST and IPS Joint Meeting - Gladys Porter Zoo, Texas

    • Saturday, December 13, 2025
    • 11:00 AM
    • South Padre Island, Texas, USA
    • 200
    Register

    PSST and IPS Joint Meeting - Gladys Porter Zoo

    Saturday, December 13, 2025  at 11:00 am


    This joint meeting between the Palm Society of South Texas and the International Palm Society is a fun way to celebrate our common passion for palms and learn what makes each society unique.  



    This meeting is FREE with an option to purchase a BBQ lunch for  PSST members and all IPS members, including those at the free membership level - but you must register, no entry without registration.  This event is in conjunction with the Rio Grande Valley Weekend Biennial and not open to the public, membership will be confirmed at the Zoo.

    Highlights:

    A special video presentation by Outdoor Reporter Richard Moore who has spent a lifetime documenting the natural wonders found around South Texas and Northern Mexico.  

    PSST members will offer a botanical tour of the zoo, highlighting the society’s unique palm plantings integrated throughout the animal habitats and landscaped grounds.  

    IPS board members will formally honor PSST for its years of palm conservation work at the zoo and Sabal Palm Sanctuary

    Optional Lunch at an Extra Charge:

    South Texas BBQ lunch by award winning RJ’s BBQ. This will include melt in your mouth brisket, ribs, chicken and plenty of sides.  $25/person


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  • 2026 Biennial - Vietnam

    • Monday, February 23, 2026
    • Tuesday, March 03, 2026
    • Vietnam
    • 80
    Register


    2026 Biennial - Vietnam 

    February 23, 2026 - March 3, 2026

    Cost: $3,000 per person


    The 2026 IPS Biennial takes us to Vietnam and Thailand, where we’ll explore breathtaking national parks, connect with fellow palm enthusiasts, and experience the region’s vibrant culture.

    From the limestone caves of Phong Nha to the ancient forests of Cuc Phuong and Vu Quang, this curated itinerary blends adventure, education, and community—all in the spirit of conservation and discovery. We’ll take in the sights, share incredible meals, and deepen our understanding of the palms and ecosystems that make this region so unique.


    TRIP INSURANCE

    The International Palm Society strongly recommends that all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance before embarking on their journey. Such insurance offers crucial protection against unforeseen circumstances that might disrupt or influence your travel arrangements. While we make every effort to ensure a seamless trip, certain situations beyond our control could potentially result in unanticipated setbacks such as delays, cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost possessions.

    Travel insurance should always include:

    • Medical expenses and coverage to get you home if you're injured or fall ill abroad.

    • Personal injury and coverage for accidents or damage caused by you.

    • Coverage for lost or damaged items.

    • Cover for lost or delayed baggage.

    Travel insurance should apply to the total value of pre-tour, Biennial, and post-tour if you plan on going on any of these trips, including airfare and registration fees.

    U.S News has listed these top 8 insurance companies for 2025. Please note this information is listed for your convenience and is not a full list of available insurance companies. The IPS does not evaluate or receive compensation for any of this information:


    CANCELLATION POLICY

    We understand that plans can change. However, due to the nature of international group travel and the commitments made in advance, the following cancellation charges will apply once the rooming list has been received:

    • 30 to 22 days before arrival: 25% of the total tour price.
    • 21 to 8 days before arrival: 50% of the total tour price.
    • 7 days or less before arrival or no-show: 100% of the total tour price.

    Cancellations must be submitted in writing. Refunds, if applicable, will be processed according to the above schedule. We recommend purchasing travel insurance (providers listed above) to protect against unforeseen circumstances.


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  • 2026 Biennial Post-Tour

    • Tuesday, March 03, 2026
    • Monday, March 09, 2026
    • Thailand
    • 50
    Register


    2026 Biennial - Vietnam 

    March 3, 2026 - March 9, 2026

    Cost: $2,000 per person


    The journey doesn’t end in Vietnam! From March 3-6, 2026, we’ll soak up the beauty of southern Thailand with a mix of laid-back travel, unforgettable sights, and great company. You’ll tour temples, cruise through limestone cliffs, explore caves and mangroves, and get a taste of the region’s wildlife and rainforests. There’s also plenty of time to relax, recharge, and enjoy the experience at your own pace. We’ll wrap it all up with a special farewell dinner.


    TRIP INSURANCE

    The International Palm Society strongly recommends that all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance before embarking on their journey. Such insurance offers crucial protection against unforeseen circumstances that might disrupt or influence your travel arrangements. While we make every effort to ensure a seamless trip, certain situations beyond our control could potentially result in unanticipated setbacks such as delays, cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost possessions.

    Travel insurance should always include:

    • Medical expenses and coverage to get you home if you're injured or fall ill abroad.

    • Personal injury and coverage for accidents or damage caused by you.

    • Coverage for lost or damaged items.

    • Cover for lost or delayed baggage.

    Travel insurance should apply to the total value of pre-tour, Biennial, and post-tour if you plan on going on any of these trips, including airfare and registration fees.

    U.S News has listed these top 8 insurance companies for 2025. Please note this information is listed for your convenience and is not a full list of available insurance companies. The IPS does not evaluate or receive compensation for any of this information:


    CANCELLATION POLICY

    We understand that plans can change. However, due to the nature of international group travel and the commitments made in advance, the following cancellation charges will apply once the rooming list has been received:

    • 30 to 22 days before arrival: 25% of the total tour price.
    • 21 to 8 days before arrival: 50% of the total tour price.
    • 7 days or less before arrival or no-show: 100% of the total tour price.

    Cancellations must be submitted in writing. Refunds, if applicable, will be processed according to the above schedule. We recommend purchasing travel insurance (providers listed above) to protect against unforeseen circumstances.


    Show details

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