Travel Stories, Cruise Reviews, and Cultural Adventures

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.

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

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.

Oslo is a proud city, which grew from a rustic 9th Century village to a bustling region of nearly a million people.

Amsterdam blends centuries of cultural heritage with a vibrant modern lifestyle. From its UNESCO-listed canals to legendary museums and historic neighborhoods, the city offers an unforgettable European travel experience filled with art, history, and atmosphere

The quaint, colorful fishing village of Burano boasts some of the world's finest lace and high-end clothing shops. MINUTES FROM VENICE BUT A WORLD AWAY, A THE LAGOON ISLANDS FORM A QUARTET OF CHARMING ISLANDS BECKONS THE TOURIST STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Editor's Note: This post was updated July, 2026 A master craftsman demonstrates his glass-making skills on Murano. WHEN IN VENICE, don't miss the opportunity to take a side trip t

Paris is as intoxicating as a cocktail or a brothel on a Saturday night, as sophisticated as the best-dressed dandy at opera's opening night. It assails the senses like no other city, beckoning one to sip of the elixir, stay a while and let Paris cast its spell.

A VISIT TO Julian, California, is a journey back in time to a more innocent, leisurely day. People still say "hello" and strangers with a map might find themselves guided to their destination -- "why it's just up the street and around the corner. I'll take you. I'm going that way."

Cruising Lake Union and Lake Washington, and Sailing the Puget Sound are the most unique things to do in Seattle. After 10 years, our reputation speaks for itself. Join us for Seattle's best boat tours and create memories to last a lifetime. Our intimate experiences include private Seattle Sailing charters on the Puget Sound, Sightseeing and Floating home boat tours on Lake Union, and adventures to Blake Island for day hikes and overnight camping!

Historic Bonnet House in Fort Lauderdale, manatees swim, frolic and even give birth in the waters below the boat house! Bonnet House is situated on a coastal barrier island -- with a walkway to the Atlantic Ocean on the east of the property, and the Intracoastal Waterway bracketing the West.

THE WATER taxis glide by the town's exciting nightlife, outdoor eateries, the famous shops of Las Olas Boulevard, beautiful beaches, yacht clubs and majestic cruise ships traveling in and out of Port Everglades. Nothing worldwide compares to Fort Lauderdale's Intracoastal Waterway. Its lovely canals are so unique and beautiful, they have earned Fort Lauderdale the moniker “Venice of America.” Water Taxi is the best way to see them!

Beyond Crete’s famous beaches and bustling towns lies a quieter, deeply moving side of the island its serene cemeteries. Tucked among olive groves and overlooking the sea, these peaceful spaces offer a glimpse into local life, memory, and timeless tradition.

Discover the charm of Pisa, Italy, beyond its famous Leaning Tower. From riverside strolls along the Arno to quiet piazzas, this Tuscan gem blends history, architecture, and authentic Italian moments perfect for curious travelers and first-time visitors alike.