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Travel Stories, Cruise Reviews, and Cultural Adventures


New York's Central Park wonders attract international crowd to enjoy variety, beauty
A VISIT TO New York is not complete without a stroll through Central Park.
It has a magic unrivaled by any park we’ve visited in the world. That’s because it combines so many elements designed for relaxation, pleasure and enjoying nature. You’ll join bird watchers, chess players, bicyclers, strollers, boaters, picnickers -- families, singles, couples, groups – all soaking up the splendors of this unusual park, established in 1853 to meet the recreational needs of a growing ci

Cookie & Keller
Aug 14, 20253 min read


Cesar Manrique's home: the artist who changed the face of an island
Meet Cesar Manrique

Christene Meyers
Dec 12, 20243 min read


Exploring Buenos Aires with a native son yields touring at its best; Official Tourist Card is fine option, too
From the rhythm of late-night tango to the aroma of sizzling steaks, Buenos Aires captivates travelers with its unmistakable blend of European elegance and Latin passion. In neighborhoods like San Telmo and La Boca, colorful streets, historic cafés, and lively plazas reveal the city’s artistic soul. Whether you’re strolling grand boulevards, savoring a perfect Argentine steak, or watching dancers glide through a passionate Tango, Buenos Aires invites you to slow down, stay ou

Cookie & Keller
May 9, 20246 min read


Buenos Aires opera house has world's greatest acoustics, ornate interior
Step inside the legendary Teatro Colón, the Buenos Aires Opera House, where world-class acoustics and stunning architecture create an unforgettable experience. From grand opera and ballet to guided tours, this cultural icon offers a glimpse into Argentina’s artistic soul in the heart of Buenos Aires.

Cookie & Keller
Apr 23, 20244 min read


SCAD sends artful ripples from Georgia, to Hollywood and the world
Bruce Keller poses in one of the many intriguing spaces in the SCAD Museum of Art, where constantly changing exhibitions feature...

Christene Meyers
Feb 22, 20244 min read


Charleston South Carolina, Things to do for the belle of South offers history, color and gentility
Planning a trip to Charleston? This Charleston South Carolina travel guide highlights the best things to do, where to eat, and how to explore the city’s historic charm in a perfect itinerary.

Christene Meyers
Feb 15, 20245 min read


Savannah must see wonders: stately buildings, lovely parks, lively River Street, theater, boats, cafes and trolleys all invite inspection
Discover why Savannah, Georgia is one of the South’s most enchanting destinations, known for its historic charm, oak-lined streets, and vibrant food scene. From scenic squares to riverfront views, this Southern gem offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation.

Christene Meyers
Jan 25, 20244 min read


Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb delivers: steel, scenery, spectacle
The Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb is world famous for its challenge and spectacle.
Below: Dwarfed by massive steel, climbers at far right make their way up the side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Directly in front of the first climber are the steep ladders one climbs to the top

Christene Meyers
Mar 2, 20235 min read


Amsterdam's canals offer relaxing time with beauty, relaxation, intriguing history
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.

Cookie & Keller
Nov 10, 20225 min read


Skagway train ride is a great cruise tour shore excursion
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.

Cookie & Keller
Jul 14, 20225 min read


Key West Food Tour: Dining delights in munching our way on a tasty, Cuban inspired path through a colorful town
ONE CAN dine like a king, snacking your way through a leisurely few hours in Key West, where the scents and tastes of Cuba and the Caribbean are a very real part of life.
We took a fun foodie's walking and tasting tour and we're going back for seconds!

Cookie & Keller
Jan 20, 20224 min read


Astoria Oregon Trolley, culture, fun, food, maritime wonders
Perched where the broad Columbia River meets the Pacific, the historic port town of Astoria blends maritime heritage, artsy charm, and sweeping riverfront views into one unforgettable stop along the Pacific Northwest. Visitors arriving on a voyage with American Cruise Lines often find that the town feels both timeless and lively, where fishing boats, Victorian architecture, and coffee-roasting cafes share the same scenic streets.

Christene Meyers
Dec 2, 20214 min read


9/11 Memorial & Museum - RISING FROM THE ASHES, NEW TOWER REFLECTS AMERICA'S SPIRIT
Located on eight acres of the 16-acre World Trade Center complex, the 9/11 Memorial is a place of remembrance and contemplation within the bustle of lower Manhattan.

Christene Meyers
Sep 9, 20213 min read


New York's Little Island offers a creative, restful oasis in the busy city
New York's Little Island offers a creative, restful oasis in the busy city

Cookie & Keller
Aug 19, 20213 min read


Wonderful Copenhagen offers canals, beauty, fun food -- city sophistication, village charms
Those clever, fun-loving but stylish Danes have managed to combine urban sophistication and Continental charm in Copenhagen. It has the laid back feel of a small village but the sophistication of a city.

Cookie & Keller
Aug 21, 20204 min read


Helsinki highlights: Finland's finest city boasts churches, art, striking Sibelius Monument
AS MUSICIANS and artists, we made our first tour stop in Helsinki at the memorial to the famed Finnish composer, Jean Sibelius. Aptly named the Sibelius Monument, it was erected in 1967 by Finnish sculptor Eila Hiltunen.
It is a striking abstract sculpture, as impressive to the eye as the dramatic composer's work is to the ear. It can be seen from a half mile away and resembles clusters of organ pipes.

Cookie & Keller
Aug 14, 20203 min read


Cinque Terre treats, the Italian way: with castles, scenery, seafood, churches, riots of color and stunning views
Photographers from all over the world are drawn to the colors of the colorful cottages and sweeping sea views of Cinque Terre, visited from Porto Venere, a province of La Spezia, Italy SPEND A DAY TRAVERSING PICTURESQUE VILLAGES BELOVED BY POETS ON ITALY'S ALLURING COAST Cookie and Keller, happy in Porto Venere, Italy, near a famed Gothic church, stunning beaches, caves, rocky promontories and a clifftop fortress. Seafood is one of the draws of the exotic ports of Cinque Terr

Christene Meyers
Dec 29, 20172 min read


SeaWorld San Diego Today: Thrills, Animals, and Ocean Adventures
SeaWorld San Diego the major change in the new program is that trainers no longer swim with the orcas. But they still interact and touch and play with the orcas. And, yes, people in the splash zone still get mighty wet, as the animals splash their mighty tails to the delight of the audience.

Christene Meyers
Jun 23, 20173 min read


Holy Week in Jerusalem: Pilgrims flock to renovated tomb of Jesus
Believer or not, it's easy to be moved by the religious history of the splendid city of Jerusalem. Here, Cookie pauses enroute to the Church of the Holy Seprelcre to see the now complete and laborious restoration of the tomb of Jesus. ANCIENT SACRED SITE GETS MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR FACELIFT TO USHER IN HOLY DAYS STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER and courtesy Associated Press JUST IN TIME for Passover and Easter, a crack Greek restoration team unveiled an elabora

Christene Meyers
Apr 14, 20173 min read


Andalusia road trip features parador's charms with a magical mix of music, nature, history, art, bull fights and fine dining
Discover one of the most scenic stays in southern Spain at the Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro. With panoramic views over Málaga and easy access to historic landmarks, this stop is a highlight of any Andalusia road trip itinerary.

Cookie & Keller
Feb 3, 20175 min read
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