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Travel Stories, Cruise Reviews, and Cultural Adventures


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
4 days ago8 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


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


MoMA New York magic mesmerizes as we visit a fabulous world class museum in Manhattan
MoMA's magic mesmerizes as we visit a fabulous New York museum

Cookie & Keller
Apr 10, 20254 min read


Cesar Manrique's home: the artist who changed the face of an island
FOR 25 FRUITFUL years, he transformed Lanzarote to an imaginative place, where nature and architecture blend. It's a playground for imagination. Perhaps no single man has had a greater influence on a place. Only Gaudi comes to mind, in his contributions to Barcelona. For working with Lanzarote's volcanic landscapes, Manrique insisted there be no tall buildings.

Cookie & Keller
Dec 12, 20243 min read


Venice captivates with its magnificence: canals, gondolas, bridges, buildings, timeless wonders
Venice remains one of the world’s most magical destinations, where centuries of art, history, and culture rise from the water. Our visit revealed both the romance of the floating city and the growing challenges of over tourism, including new visitor taxes designed to protect this unforgettable Italian treasure

Cookie & Keller
Sep 26, 20244 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

Cookie & Keller
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


San Francisco sail: Adventure Cat is purr-fect way to see the bay
A SAIL like you've never had before.
That's the promise that enticed us to book a relaxing afternoon with Adventure Cruises on a recent San Francisco visit. What a way to see the bay!
As veteran Bay Area visitors and veteran sailors, we always look for something new -- on the water, if possible.

Cookie & Keller
Sep 22, 20224 min read


Step Back Into the Old West at Cody Wyoming's Wild West Show
Experience the spirit of the American frontier at the Cody Wild West Show in Cody, Wyoming. Featuring Buffalo Bill, Annie Oakley, music, comedy, and live entertainment, this award-winning summer attraction brings the Old West to life. Discover show times, ticket prices, travel tips, and everything you need to know before visiting one of Wyoming's most popular family-friendly attractions.

Cookie & Keller
Aug 11, 20226 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
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