top of page
Travel Stories, Cruise Reviews, and Cultural Adventures


Montana State Capitol Offers Lively Tour with History, Color, Controversy
If you are visiting Helena, Montana, don’t miss the opportunity to step inside the Montana State Capitol. From its magnificent copper dome and historic paintings to its grand rotunda and fascinating stories of Montana government, the Capitol is more than a beautiful building -- it is a journey through Montana history. Whether you choose a free guided tour or explore on your own, a visit to the Montana State Capitol belongs on every Helena travel itinerary.

Cookie & Keller
2 days ago7 min read


Montana Heritage Center Helena: Discover the Intriguing Stories That Made Montana
The Montana Heritage Center Helena is more than a museum. It is a journey through the people, places, art, Native cultures, and events that shaped the Treasure State. Located across from the Montana State Capitol, this remarkable new destination brings more than 13,000 years of Montana history to life through immersive galleries, fascinating artifacts, Charlie Russell masterpieces, changing exhibitions, and stories you won't soon forget.

Cookie & Keller
Oct 298 min read


Western Heritage Center, Billings Montana: Museum Offers Lively View of Yellowstone Valley's History, Art, Dogs, Beer and More
The Western Heritage Center in Billings, Montana, is more than a museum about cowboys and the Old West. Housed in a beautifully preserved historic library, this fascinating museum tells the stories of the people, cultures, businesses, struggles and accomplishments that shaped the Yellowstone River Valley and Northern Plains.

Cookie & Keller
Oct 155 min read


Transiting the Panama Canal by Cruise Ship: An Experience Every Traveler Should Have
Few journeys combine history, engineering, tropical scenery and sheer excitement quite like transiting the Panama Canal by cruise ship. We experienced it ourselves a few years ago, and it remains one of those travel memories that stays with you. From the fascinating shore excursions before and after the Canal to the moment a massive cruise ship is lifted through a series of enormous locks, a Panama Canal cruise is much more than a passage between two oceans.

Cookie & Keller
Oct 89 min read


Cartier Exhibition in Melbourne: Australian Show Has Sparkle, Style from Master Jewelers
The Cartier exhibit offers a rare chance to experience the artistry and history behind one of the world’s most celebrated luxury brands. Known for its exquisite jewelry and timeless designs, Cartier has shaped the world of luxury for over a century. This exhibit brings together a stunning collection of pieces that reveal the craftsmanship, innovation and cultural impact of the brand. For anyone interested in fine jewelry, design, or history, it's a must-see.

Cookie & Keller
Sep 165 min read


Cruising Asia, Bali to Brisbane Asia on NCL's Norwegian Sun: 'Dragons to Down Under'
From Bali to Brisbane, the second half of our Norwegian Sun adventure delivered everything we love about cruising -- remote Indonesian islands, the amazing Komodo dragon, tropical Australia with its Aboriginal culture and crocodiles, relaxing days at sea, then four memorable days exploring beautiful Brisbane. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable journey.

Cookie & Keller
Sep 106 min read


Cruising Asia -- Singapore to Bali on NCL Sun
From four unforgettable days exploring Singapore to sailing through Malaysia, Thailand, and on to Bali, Indonesia, aboard Norwegian Sun, our 12-day Asian cruise proved that this part of the world is one of the world's most fascinating cruise destinations. Delightful food, welcoming people, spectacular scenery and unforgettable experiences made this a first-rate adventure, the first of a two-part cruise odyssey.

Cookie & Keller
Sep 36 min read


Costa Brava Hideaway: Discover Parador de Aiguablava and Northeastern Spain's Charms
Perched high above the sparkling Mediterranean, Parador de Aiguablava is one of Spain's most scenic hotels. Discover breathtaking coastal views, hidden coves, charming fishing villages, and scenic walking trails along the Costa Brava. It's the perfect base for exploring one of Catalonia's most beautiful seaside regions.

Cookie & Keller
Aug 285 min read


Helena Montana Day Trip: 2 Part Adventure features fun river boat ride and sculpture park
Helena is more than a historic capital city, it's the perfect gateway to some of central Montana's most memorable adventures. Cruise through the spectacular Gates of the Mountains, where towering limestone cliffs rise above the Missouri River, then discover inspiring outdoor art at Sculpture in the Wild: Blackfoot Pathways in the scenic Blackfoot Valley. These easy day trips showcase Montana's beauty, history and creativity that make the Helena region memorable

Cookie & Keller
Aug 136 min read


21_21 DESIGN SIGHT: A Hub for Design Innovation and a Must for Your Tokyo Visit
Hidden in Tokyo Midtown, 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT is far more than a museum. Designed by celebrated architect Tadao Ando, this striking cultural landmark invites visitors to explore how thoughtful design shapes everyday life through imaginative exhibitions, inspiring architecture, and creative innovation.

Cookie & Keller
Aug 64 min read


Helena Montana Highlights: Exploring Montana's Lively Capital City
Looking for an authentic Montana getaway? Helena blends Gold Rush history, beautiful mountain scenery, walkable downtown streets, and fascinating museums into one unforgettable destination. Discover why Montana's capital city deserves a spot on your travel itinerary, and why the Last Chance Tour Train is the perfect way to begin exploring everything Helena has to offer.

Cookie & Keller
Jul 305 min read


Fourth of July 2026 Celebrates 250 Years of the United States: Rodeos, Exhibits, Tall Ships, Festivities, Fireworks, Tributes, Parades and Pies
The United States is preparing for a historic milestone in 2026: the 250th anniversary of independence, known as America250. Here are free experiences, with entertainment ideas and safety tips for travelers joining the nationwide celebrations.

Cookie & Keller
Jul 26 min read


Park Hotel Tokyo: Art Above the Skyline in Artful Rooms Designed and Painted by Artists
Tokyo is a city of contrasts and art, and nowhere did we feel that more than during our stay at Park Hotel Tokyo. Rising above the skyline in Shiodome, this artistic luxury hotel offered a completely different perspective of Japan: modern, elevated, creative, and endlessly inspiring. From artist-designed rooms and sweeping city views to unforgettable evenings exploring Tokyo’s vibrant neighborhoods, Park Hotel Tokyo became our gateway into the contemporary soul of the city.

Cookie & Keller
Jun 188 min read


Shiba Park Hotel Tokyo offers culture and comfort, fine dining, location and a library
Blending modern comfort with traditional Japanese culture, Shiba Park Hotel offers travelers an immersive stay in the heart of Tokyo. From curated library collections and local artwork to kintsugi demonstrations and refined dining, this historic hotel places guests steps away from Tokyo Tower, temples, and the cultural neighborhoods that define the city.

Cookie & Keller
Jun 114 min read


Best Food Tours in Japan: Exploring Kyoto's Cuisine and Culture with Ninja Food Tours
Kyoto is known around the world for ancient temples, quiet gardens, and centuries of tradition — but after sunset, the city reveals another side entirely. Narrow lantern-lit alleys fill with the aroma of sizzling yakitori, steaming ramen, handcrafted sweets, and dishes that most visitors would never discover on their own. That’s where Ninja Food Tours transformed our evening from a simple dinner outing into one of the most memorable travel experiences of our Japan journey.

Cookie & Keller
Jun 45 min read


Puglia Road Trip, Part 3: Trulli Houses Charm
Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Puglia, Italy, is famous for its fairytale-like trulli—whitewashed limestone huts with conical, dry-stone roofs. Key highlights include wandering the, Rione Monti district with over 1,000 trulli shops, visiting the, Trullo Sovrano and exploring the, quiet Aia Piccola residential area.

Cookie & Keller
May 144 min read


Cave Houses of Puglia Road Trip, Part 2: Matera and the fascinating UNESCO site
Explore the Cave Houses of Matera, Italy. Discover the Sassi region, UNESCO history, cave hotels, and the best things to do in Matera.

Cookie & Keller
May 76 min read


Southern Puglia Road Trip, Part 1 of 3: Small Towns, Coastal Gems, Senic Drives from Lecce
Travel Tips for Southern Puglia Road Trip: Small Towns and Coastal Gems from Lecce

Cookie & Keller
Apr 306 min read


CityPASS: tourist card is a key to Unlocking Fun, Culture, with Zero Stress in 17 North American Cities
CityPASS saves money. It saves time. And most importantly? It unlocks the doors to the very best experiences without the stress. Want to see more while spending less? CityPASS makes it easy to visit many of North America's top attractions with one convenient ticket. From San Diego's world-famous zoo and USS Midway Museum to iconic sights in New York, Seattle, Toronto, and beyond, discover how CityPASS can save money, reduce hassle, and help you make the most of every trip.

Cookie & Keller
Apr 237 min read


Best Circle Island Tour of Oahu by E Noa: Culture, Coastlines & Pure Aloha Spirit
Best comprehensive Oahu tour blends scenery, history, cultural landmarks, island food, personal in an unforgettable day

Cookie & Keller
Apr 167 min read
bottom of page
