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Just when you think you’ve seen all the shades of sand, stone, and sky that Arizona has to offer, the Desert Botanical Garden in Scottsdale steps in and rewrites the story. The Botanical Garden in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers desert plants in a living, breathing love letter to the desert. Story By Christene Meyers Photos By Bruce Keller "The Carpe Diem Kids" A Desert Dreamscape: Exploring the Botanical Garden in Scottsdale, Arizona The desert has a way of surprising you when you least expect it. This isn’t just a garden, it's a living, breathing love letter to the Sonoran Desert, where towering cacti, winding trails, and bursts of unexpected color invite you to slow down, look closer, drink it all in. Tucked against the red rocks of Papago Buttes, the garden is a peaceful escape from Scottsdale’s buzzing energy, even though it’s just minutes from Old Town. From the moment you enter, the desert feels intentional, curated, respected. It's alive and has personality. Instead of manicured lawns and imported blooms, this garden celebrates the beauty of plants that thrive in extreme heat, minimal water, and brilliant sunlight. Walking trails guide the visitor through natural wonders of the desert southwest. At certain times of the year and during holiday season, lights are augmented with additional lights, here lovely luminaria. Walking the trails is like traveling through multiple desert worlds. One path leads you past giant saguaros standing tall like ancient sentinels, arms raised as if frozen mid-conversation. Another winds through fields of barrel cactus, glowing golden in the sun, while hummingbirds dart between flowering ocotillo. Every turn offers a new perspective, a reminder that the desert is anything but empty. What makes the Botanical Garden in Scottsdale magical is how accessible it feels. I lived in Phoenix 10 years and still find surprises and delights here. One doesn't need to be a botanist or desert expert to enjoy it. Informative signs explain how plants survive harsh conditions, while benches along the trails invite you to sit, breathe, and take it all in. Pause to listen to a subtle mariachi trio or a spellbinding storyteller, all part of the experience. Concerts are part of the draw at Desert Botanical Garden, an enhancement to the wonders. Dancers, singers, musicians and storytellers from the area share native American, Mexican experiences and more. The garden encourages curiosity without overwhelming you, making it ideal for casual visitors, photographers, families, and seasoned nature lovers alike. Timing your visit can transform the experience entirely. In the morning, the air is cool and soft, perfect for wandering as sunlight spills gently across the landscape. Late afternoons bring warmer hues and long shadows, turning the garden into a photographer’s dream. And if you’re lucky enough to visit during one of the garden’s evening events -- like seasonal light installations -- the desert comes alive in a whole new way, glowing under the stars in a mix of art and nature that feels almost otherworldly. One of the most striking elements of the garden is how it balances beauty with purpose. Conservation and education are at the heart of everything here. Volunteers display birds and animals from the desert southwest, offering insight and information. Many of the plants you see are rare or endangered, preserved through careful research and cultivation. The garden actively works to protect desert ecosystems, not just in Arizona but around the world, reminding visitors that fragile environments deserve both admiration and protection. Volunteers describe the garden's wildlife, here a barn owl who was wounded and rescued. For bird lovers, the desert's knowledgeable docents describe the lives of gorgeous rescue owls. Visitors are offered something uniquely Scottsdale, low-keyed and inviting. You're sharing space with the desert itself. You’ll find yourself noticing textures -- the ribbed skin of a cactus, the way gravel crunches underfoot, the faint scent of creosote in the air. These are the moments that stay with you long after the visit ends. The garden is also surprisingly versatile. It’s romantic without trying to be, making it a popular spot for couples. It’s educational yet playful, perfect for kids who spot lizards sunning themselves on rocks. And for solo travelers, it offers something rare: a peaceful place to wander without distraction, letting the desert speak. Before leaving, we stopped by the garden shop and café. The offerings reflect the same thoughtful curation as the trails themselves, featuring locally inspired gifts, books, and refreshments connected to the land. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger just a little longer, even as the sun begins to dip lower in the sky. At various times of the year, the garden is transformed to fit the season, here luminarias. In a destination known for luxury resorts, golf courses, and nightlife, the Botanical Garden in Scottsdale stands out by offering something quieter and more grounding. It reminds you that the desert doesn’t need embellishment. It just needs attention. And once you give it that, the reward is a deeper appreciation for a landscape that thrives against all odds. If Scottsdale is on your travel list, this garden isn’t optional --it’s essential. To truly understand the spirit of the Southwest, we recommend a walk among its roots, thorns, and blooms. This captivating garden lets the desert show you how beautifully resilient it is. Information, to plan your visit: dbg.org Christene (Cookie) Meyers at: whereiscookie.com Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers visited Desert Botanical Garden twice to enjoy both daytime and night time viewing. The Garden is a wondrous place enjoyed by locals who often take friends and visitors. The garden's dozens of volunteers carefully mark each plant with its botanical name and common reference. COMING SOON at www.whereiscookie.com : Route 66 is celebrating its 100th year as the country's most iconic roadway. Cookie and Keller spend an afternoon at a fascinating Route 66 Museum in Kingman, Arizona, and you're invited to enjoy the history, signs, motels, diners and stories along the route. The Route 66 Museum in Kingman, Arizona, offers a unique and entertaining look at the legendary roadway, its restaurants, motels, history in the settlement of the United States, and more. We'll take you there soon.

Paradise Point Resort is less than seven miles from downtown San Diego, and offers a tropical world of pleasure. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER AT PARADISE  Point Resort, time truly stops. The beauty of the sea, the peacefulness of the waves, the suspension of time, all create a beautiful, insulating serenity that calls one back again and again. So it was with a summer sailing from the Point with our friends, Dawn and Phyllis. We four began a calming day on Mission Bay, strolling the gangway to the boat rentals, past vacationers and diners and lovers of beauty.  The resort is always humming with activity -- jet skiing, boating and kayaking.  We enjoy the restaurant and myriad activities the tropical atmosphere suggests -- even fish-watching from the bridge. OUR FAVORITE  way to enjoy the Bay is from Paradise Point, where we charter a boat, throw in a picnic and leave our worries behind. We sail as often as time and money allow. Sometimes it's just the two of us; other times, we treat friends and family. No one is satisfied with one outing on the water! Sailing is a time-honored cure for the blues, an antidote for almost anything that ails you! IT IS GLORIOUS .  On this peaceful saltwater lagoon, I've been introduced to Keller's past.  He lived in several places on Mission Bay as a college kid and employee of the beloved Aquatic Center where he was involved in a cause to preserve Interlude, a boat with a place in the hearts of several generations. (The beloved boat is in dry dock now.) Mission Bay is unusual, as one of the largest waterparks of its kind in the world. It is 4,200 acres of land and water, surrounded by 27 miles of shoreline of sandy beaches, attractive people and abundant bird life. Our favorite Paradise Point Resort is an important part of that. On its own  4 4-acre private island with a mile of sandy beach, this picturesque resort is just seven miles from downtown San Diego Mission Bay Yacht Club race with spinnakers flying, as seen from our boat rented at Paradise Point Resort. Paradise Point Resort offers a choice of rental boats and  various other equipment for reasonable prices.   Interconnected by a network of waterways, inlets and islets, Keller's favorite bay is best explored by boat... (with Keller at the helm.) Our second choice is by the region's progressive bike paths. FROM MISSION  Bay and Paradise Point, we've watched families barbecuing on the water, couples doing yoga or sharing a picnic, strolling, kayaking, jogging and taking in the internationally known spectacle of SeaWorld. To book a room at Paradise Point Resort, go to www.paradisepoint.com Lessons and skippers are available if you don't do your own sailing, along with motorboats, jetskiis, paddleboats and kayaks.  To check rentals and other Paradise Point options out,  go to www.actionsportrentals.com NEXT UP:  Mystic View Cabins not far from High Chaparral provided a beautiful setting for the overflow   during a recent family reunion of nearly 30 people. The lovely, rustic cabins near Mystic Lake, on Fiddler Creek and West Rosebud Road have much to offer for serenity, beauty and all the comforts of home. Remember to explore, love and learn and catch us weekends and Wednesdays at:  www.whereiscookie.com

STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Nestled within the expansive Mission Bay Park in San Diego, Paradise Point offers a unique escape blending natural beauty, recreational activities, with a touch of luxury. This hidden gem is a destination beloved by locals for years. It offers a wealth of experiences for all tastes -- both for those seeking a peaceful, inexpensive retreat and those in search of an active day by the water with all the resort amenities. As visitors are discovering, Paradise Point invites one to enjoy fish, birds and wildlife while exploring lush island landscapes. Paradise Point Resort is less than seven miles from downtown San Diego, and offers a tropical world of pleasure. AT PARADISE Point Resort, time truly stops. The beauty of the sea, the peacefulness of the waves, the suspension of time, all create a nature inspired serenity. One visit, and you'll want to return. So it was with a summer sailing from the Point with our friends. We rented a boat, enjoyed a serene sail, strolled pretty paths and bridges to watch fish and birds, and capped the day with a meal -- all at Paradise Point Resort. Spinnakers fly while we sail past boats from Mission Bay Yacht Club. We began our calming day on Mission Bay, strolling the Paradise Point gangway to the boat rentals, past vacationers lazing about, diners and drinkers, "birders" with fancy cameras, all lovers of beauty. The resort hums with activity -- jet skiing, boating, kayaking, bird watching. We often enjoy a restaurant meal, but this latest visit incorporated a full day of activities. OUR FAVORITE way to enjoy the Bay is here, from Paradise Point. We recommend chartering a boat, throwing in a picnic and leaving your worries behind. We sail as often as time and money allow. Sometimes it's just the two of us; other times, we treat friends and family. No one is satisfied with one water outing. Sailing is a time-honored cure for the blues, an antidote for almost anything that ails you! But there's also plenty to see on land. Paradise Point offers a bird lover's paradise. This graceful heron watches the water for a meal. IT IS GLORIOUS. On this peaceful saltwater lagoon, I've learned of my husband, Bruce Keller's past. He lived on Mission Bay as a college kid, working at the legendary Aquatic Center where he taught sailing, surfing and scuba diving. Fun to have him as tour guide. He's proud of Mission Bay's uniqueness, as one of the largest waterparks in the world. It has 4,200 acres of land and water, surrounded by 27 miles of sandy beaches, attracting adventuresome people and abundant bird life. Our favorite Paradise Point Resort is an important part of the allure. On its own 44-acre private island with a mile of sandy beach, this picturesque resort is just seven miles from downtown San Diego and popular with an international clientele. Cookie emerges from the galley, having prepared a snack Paradise Point Resort offers a choice of rental boats and various other equipment for reasonable prices. Interconnected by a network of waterways, inlets and islets, Keller's favorite bay is best explored with him at the helm of a sailboat. If we don't have time for a sail sail, we enjoy the region's progressive bike paths and those fabulous birds and fish. In Mission Bay Park at Paradise Point, we've watched families barbecuing by the water, couples doing yoga or sharing a picnic, folks strolling, kayaking, jogging and taking in the internationally known spectacle of SeaWorld. Boat rentals are just down the walkway. Location and Accessibility Paradise Point is located on a private peninsula within Mission Bay Park, one of the largest man-made aquatic parks in the country and a San Diego highlight. The park itself is massive and offers a variety of outdoor activities, but Paradise Point is secluded, serene and with beautifully groomed grounds. Getting to Paradise Point is easy. It is just a short drive from downtown San Diego, making it an ideal spot for a quick getaway. Ample parking is available, and the area is accessible by bike or on foot for those who prefer a more active approach. The peninsula’s layout ensures that visitors enjoy water views from many angles. Natural Beauty and Wildlife One of the attractions of Paradise Point for us is its natural setting. The peninsula is surrounded by calm bay waters, sandy beaches and lush tropical greenery. We have photographed many bird species, including herons, egrets, and pelicans, often in the company of small groups of bird watchers. The calm waters of Mission Bay provide excellent kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. The gentle tides and protected environment make it safe for families and beginners to enjoy water sports. The beaches offer soft sand perfect for sunbathing or building sandcastles. Recreational Activities Paradise Point caters to a wide range of interests. Here are some popular activities: Water Sports Kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are popular ways to explore the bay. Rentals are available, so you can easily try these activities without bringing your own equipment. Fishing The bay is a good spot for fishing enthusiasts. Anglers catch bass, halibut and perch. Fishing piers and designated areas provide convenient access. Cycling and Walking Trails The peninsula features scenic trails that wind through the park’s natural landscape. These paths are perfect for a leisurely walk or a bike ride with views of the water and wildlife. Why Paradise Point Stands Out What makes Paradise Point special is its combination of natural beauty, recreational options, and peaceful setting. Unlike more crowded beaches or parks, it offers a quieter experience without sacrificing amenities. The balance between relaxation and activity appeals to a range of visitors, from multi-generational families to couples and solo travelers. The resort's well-maintained grounds, friendly staff park facilities enhance the experience. We hear visitors comment on the welcoming atmosphere and an unusual pairing of both nature and comfort. Various boats can be rented for myriad occasions, depending on size and desires of your family or group. Picnicking and Barbecues Several picnic areas with tables and grills are scattered throughout Paradise Point. These spots are ideal for gatherings, celebrations or casual meals outdoors. Dining and Accommodation Paradise Point has its laid back elements but also offers excellent dining and lodging options. The Paradise Point Resort and Spa is a standout lodging on the peninsula, providing comfortable rooms, suites, and private bungalows. We've spent a couple "staycations" here to rejuvenate, waking up to stunning bay views and easy access to the park’s amenities. The resort’s restaurants serve a tasty variety, from fresh seafood to casual fare. Dining by the water is a highlight. We like the outdoor patios with glorious sunset views and a gentle sea breeze. For those who bring their own food, the picnic areas provide a great alternative. Events and Community Paradise Point hosts various events year round, designed to bring the community together. Outdoor concerts, holiday celebrations and fitness classes abound. The resort organizes special activities. We've participated in guided nature walks and yoga classes are frequent, designed so visitors can meet locals and other travelers. The marketing team aims for a sense of community to create a destination to experience, not just visit. Tips for Visiting Paradise Point To make the most of your visit, consider these practical tips: Plan Ahead Weekends and holidays care busy. Book accommodations or rentals in advance. Bring Sun Protection San Diego's sun can be strong, even in winter. Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Explore Beyond the Peninsula Mission Bay Park has many other attractions, including SeaWorld and additional beaches worth visiting during your trip. Respect the Environment Help Paradise Point stay clean by disposing of trash properly and respecting wildlife habitats. MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK: To book a room at Paradise Point Resort, go to www.paradisepoint.com  Lessons and skippers are available if you don't do your own sailing, along with motorboats, jet skies, paddleboats and kayaks. For rentals and other Paradise Point options out, go to www.actionsportrentals.com Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly and as new stories unfold at: www.whereiscookie.com

Join veteran travel writer Cookie and photographer Keller on Where is Cookie?—a travel blog celebrating cruising, the arts, food, and cultural stories from around the world. Trusted Travel Insights for Millions of Travelers Around the Globe Follow the Adventures of The Carpe Diem Kids Award-Winning Global Travel Blog by Cookie & Keller Inspiring Curated Adventures in Culture, Cruising, Theatre, and Nature Welcome to Where Is Cookie? , a globally followed travel and arts blog sharing inspiring journeys across 120+ countries. Follow award-winning writer Christene "Cookie" Meyers and photographer Bruce Keller as they cruise the world, explore hidden gems, attend cultural performances, and review top hotels and destinations. Whether you're a travel lover seeking expert advice or a tourism board looking for curated media exposure, you'll find travel tips, hotel reviews, theater guides, nature escapes, and more — all captured with authenticity, wit, and heart. VIEW FULL BLOG About Our Blog Where Is Cookie? is a travel and lifestyle publication with 2+ million views, blending decades of journalism, photography, and global exploration. We share timely, trend-focused content that enriches and educates, making travel more accessible, fun, and meaningful. We’ve been featured in SD Voyager, Big Sky Journal, and more. ADVENTURE TRAVEL STORIES CRUISE REVIEWS & TIPS TOP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS FAVORITE HOTELS & STAYS MUST-SEE MUSEUMS THEATRE, MUSIC & ARTS SCENIC TRAIN JOURNEYS ABOUT US HIRE US TO HELP WITH TRAVEL As featured in Heads Up! We’re currently updating our website, so some older content might be temporarily unavailable. Thanks for your patience and support! - Cookie & Keller We're based in sunny San Diego and Montana but we spend months each year flitting about the world, chasing great food and migrating whales, with tips on cruises, theater, cultural events. WhereisCookie.com brings our travel curiosity to readers from our SoCal and Montana roots to everywhere else on the planet. Check often for travel tips and suggestions on how and where to get the best bang for your hard-earned buck.

Discover the train travel media kit: scenic rail journeys, historic trains and rail‑culture stories from around the world by Cookie & Keller. TRAINS MEDIA KIT Our story and media kits about global adventures For inquiries please contact us here We love train travel and log countless scenic miles across the globe—whether riding Japan’s sleek bullet trains, unwinding aboard a vintage steam train in rural Yorkshire, admiring New Zealand’s landscapes, journeying through Alaska’s rugged terrain, crossing Australia by rail or taking a desert ride in Arizona. From a formal dinner aboard the famed Orient Express to sleeper cars in Patagonia, Melbourne, Tokyo, Dunedin, Seward, and the Oregon Coast, we specialize in rail‑journey storytelling and the time‑honored, educational magic of moving through the world by train. DOWNLOAD MEDIA KIT Alaska Railroad features close-up views of nature's vast and magnificent scenery A journey on Alaska Railroad offers ringside seats to striking landscape and a pleasant experience in comfortable seats, with dining... Christene Meyers Sep 11, 2025 3 min read British trains offer organized, relaxing way to see the UK your way Bruce Keller poses by one of the UK's many efficient and comfortable trains. By using a BritRail pass, we were able to visit several cities during a brief trip, making the most of our time. TRY A TRAIN ON BRITRAIL FOR YOUR NEXT UK VISIT STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER IF A VISIT to the United Kingdom is on your bucket list, you might be overwhelmed by the variety of historic places vying for attention. Bruce Keller and Christene Meyers in Edinburgh's Waverle Christene Meyers Apr 30, 2025 5 min read Bernina Express takes adventurers to the sun; trains take travelers to the top of the world In late spring and into summer, temperatures in the Alps can dip to 15 °C (59 F), and there can still be snow on the mountain tops, as Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers discovered recently during a ride on the famed Bernina Express. HISTORIC RAIL TRIP OFFERS SPLENDID VIEWS ON BERNINA EXPRESS The viaduct outside Tirano offers spectacular Alps viewing. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER IT'S BEEN OUR dream for 17 years to take a train trip through the Christene Meyers Aug 8, 2024 3 min read 1 2 3 4 5

Explore the theater & performing arts travel media kit: global performances, opera, ballet and arts‑focused venue features by Cookie & Keller. THEATER & MUSIC MEDIA KIT Our story and media kits about global adventures For inquiries please contact us here Explore our theater travel media kit and take a front‑row seat in the world of performance. From the Metropolitan Opera to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, from Sydney Wharf Theatre to jazz clubs and country bars, our tastes are broad and eclectic. Cookie — an accomplished musician — and Keller cover everything: a Vivaldi string quartet in Venice, Broadway hits at Radio City Music Hall, Lady Gaga on New Year’s Eve, and the Tippet Rise Art Center, a multi‑million‑dollar venue founded by the Grey Goose barons. From subway buskers to world‑famous performers, we offer musical insights and theatrical travel tips for fans of the lively arts and our treasured readers. DOWNLOAD MEDIA KIT Exploring the Passion of Flamenco as it comes alive in Barcelona Story By Christene Meyers Photos By Bruce Keller Flamenco has us hooked. This showy, emotional art form is more than a dance or musical style. It is a cultural expression -- full of emotion. Nowhere is it more alive than in southern Spain, and in a favorite city, Barcelona. For here, flamenco has found a vibrant home. A flamenco dancer performs with passion and precision in a Barcelona venue. Singers, dancers and musicians blend in flamenco, rich in tradition and a cultura Keller Keller Jan 15 4 min read No place like London for mixing new and old: history, food, theater, architecture, excitement London's skyline is a striking commentary on architectural evolution. This street scene illustrates the blend of history and innovation. With dozens of medieval landmarks like the Tower of London, there are beautiful modern buildings such as The Shard, with 26 stories, dozens of restaurants, residential living and a five-star hotel. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" "THERE"S NO PLACE like London." That a line sung by a young sailor named Keller Keller Dec 4, 2025 3 min read 'Lilian's Last Dance' book tour passes 30 mark -- Europe to Asia to rural Montana...bars to backyards, bistros, barns & Buffalo Bill Center A troupe of actors makes its way across the U.S., as silent movies give way to the talkies. Side trips to Paris and London, with a stop in rural Montana, plus a love triangle, drug addiction, show biz flair, loyalty tested, gunslingers, jealousies and dreams. Critics praised the tone, detail, intricate relationships and colorful rendering of place, period and interesting people. Christene Meyers Nov 10, 2025 3 min read 1 2 3 4 5