Travel Stories, Cruise Reviews, and Cultural Adventures

LAS VEGAS is always lit up and ready for action -- especially during the holidays.Then the nation's showiest city rolls out more shows and lights than ever.

Thanksgiving pledge: Let us give thanks for health, happiness, travel, family, food, nature

The Dam Square is still the city's heart. But today this former barrier between the River Amstel and the “Southern Sea” is one of the few places in the center of town that you cannot sail a boat to. The last part of the river leading to the dam fell victim to land-traffic in 1922. The street that replaced it is called "Damrak," meaning “Last section of the river, leading to the Dam.” Today, a subway line is being built in the old riverbed.

Flamenco -- that showy, colorful dance of southern Spain -- is performed with rhythmic clapping and instruments. Swirling scarves and lacy skirts and ruffles are part of this Barcelona performance. Southern Spain, Portugal present emotional flamenco, fado, with flair, feeling, for deeply stirring shows STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER Fado in Porto is a revered tradition, here at the Ideal Club de Fado, which is a formal setting, more concert hall. than bar.

Take your Porto visit to new heights with the Porto Bridge Climb, an unforgettable adventure over the Douro River. Scale the iconic Arrábida Bridge for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, coastline, and vineyards. It’s a thrilling yet accessible experience that offers a unique perspective on one of Portugal’s most scenic destinations.

Golden sunlight glitters across the wide waters of the Tagus River as boats drift past the historic skyline of Lisbon. A Tagus River cruise offers travelers a different perspective on Portugal’s capital—one where centuries of maritime history unfold along the shoreline. From the deck, you’ll glide past landmarks that once welcomed explorers returning from the Age of Discovery, including the elegant Belém Tower and the grand Jerónimos Monastery. As the boat moves beneath the

There is a specific kind of magic that happens when you combine open asphalt, a curated playlist, and a cooler packed with delicious secrets. Sure, you can survive on gas station snacks, but why just travel when you can feast? On our latest road trip, we ditched the drive-thru and turned every stop into a culinary discovery—from the best local BBQ tucked away in a tiny roadside trailer to artisanal treats foraged at a farmers market miles from anywhere.

Adventure Cat is a beautifully designed, smooth sailing vessel available for a variety of sailings. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By...

When and If is a beautiful sailing vessel combining the best characteristics of a racing boat with the comforts of a sturdy yacht built...

A hike above Malta's Blue Grotto offered an opportunity for a picnic and lovely afternoon for Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers. They travel with joy in each new surrounding. PLAN BUT BE FLEXIBLE, EMBRACE OPPORTUNITY, ROLL WITH THE PUNCHES, LEARN, MAKE NEW FRIENDS STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER Plan, but be open to surprise and a spontaneous event. In Tokyo we borrowed umbrellas at a shrine to stroll the gardens in light rain. “I haven't been eve

Zion National Park is a mix of brand-new luxury, restored access, and unique milestones that make it the ultimate time for a Southwest escape.

Wyoming's Wild West fun in vintage theater tells of Buffalo Bill, Annie Oakley and more Dancing, singing, storytelling and a lively pace keep the audience entertained in Cody, Wyoming,at the popular Wild West Spectacular. The show just ended a successful run, based on the life of showman, soldier and entrepreneur "Buffalo Bill" Cody, after whom the town of Cody is named. A cast including college students and graduates, theater majors and professional dancers and singers e

Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers marvel at the spectacular view from Utah's Tuacahn. THEATER LOVING ROAD TRIPPERS DELIGHT IN...

Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers aboard a Juneau Tours and Whale Watch vessel. The well run company is family owned and prides...

SKAGWAY IS known perhaps best for its rugged rail ride deep into Yukon territory. We've found the best way to ease into this spectacular beauty is from an equally spectacular ship, and Norwegian Cruise Line's Bliss is a favorite.

Ketchikan's Creek Street is as bustling now, differently than in the 1930s when booze and brothels were the order of the day. Now, it's...

A VW bus is painted in colorful fashion as Christene "Cookie" Meyers and Bruce Keller enjoy a tour down memory lane to the summer of love...

Queen Elizabeth II, watches a "fly-past" of the Royal Air Force, with Prince Charles, heir to the throne, and her great-grandchildren,...

Nick is surrounded by flowers on his 16th birthday. Even though he was virtually blind and had painful spinal and rear leg issues, he was still game for a walk, a snuggle, a kiss for his people. BRAVERY, LESSONS, LOVE, JOY FROM AN ENDEARING YORKIE NAMED NICK STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER Nothing like a Yorkie kiss, and Nicky was a generous kisser, here with his appreciative mama, Cookie. FOR THE first time in 17 years, I sit at the computer with no doggie

Taste your way through Victoria, BC on a guided food tour featuring local favorites, fresh seafood, and hidden gems. This walkable culinary experience blends history, culture, and unforgettable flavors—perfect for first-time visitors and food lovers alike