Travel Stories, Cruise Reviews, and Cultural Adventures

Depoe Bay, often called the “Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast,” offers one of the best chances anywhere to see gray whales up close. Between June and October, a group of about 200 so-called resident gray whales—members of the Pacific Coast Feeding Group—stay along the central Oregon coast instead of migrating all the way to Alaska. Around 40 of these familiar giants frequent the waters between Lincoln City and Newport, drawn by rich feeding grounds just offshore.

Discover the Honolulu Museum of Art, Hawaii's premier art museum, featuring world-class collections, peaceful courtyards, and inspiring exhibitions in the heart of Honolulu.

Experience dinner and live theater at the Oregon Cabaret Theatre in Ashland, Oregon. This intimate venue pairs top-tier performances with delicious dining in a historic setting, making it a must-do for travelers exploring Southern Oregon’s vibrant arts scene.

TONY WINNING FESTIVAL SURVIVES FIRES, LAYOFFS, TURMOIL, PANDEMIC, FINANCIAL WOES STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER The audience begins to file in and take seats in preparation for "The Three Musketeers" at Allen Elizabethan Theater. The "pre show" Green Show is a tradition at Oregon Shakespeare, which has struggled since COVID and fires put a serious strain on the much loved fest. Oregon Shakespeare's outdoor venue, the Allen Elizabethan Theater, presents t

Wearing leis at Hilton Hawaiian Village are Bruce William Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers. The lei is an ancient tradition of...

IT'S EASY to fall in love with Madeira for its variety: ragged forests, pretty beachfront, fine art, culture of many kinds including music and fine food.

Rome is more than ancient ruins and famous piazzas;it's a city where music, art, and history come alive around every corner. During the summer of 2026, we discovered the magic of an intimate Vivaldi concert inside a centuries-old church, proving that some of Rome's greatest experiences aren't planned at all. From candlelit performances and world-class festivals to spontaneous street musicians, discover why Rome remains one of Europe's most inspiring cultural destinations and

Artist Mark di Suvero's "Beethoven's Quartet" is a stunning work. An art tour participant in the left of the photo gives a sense of the...

The clan gathered for a birthday party for Christene "Cookie" Meyers, but she didn't know it was also a wedding. Her longtime partner, photographer Bruce Keller, had arranged the ceremony with the couple's niece and nephew, Amarylla and Steve Ganner. "Father Steve" officiated. "Father Steve," a San Francisco lay minister, has officiated at other weddings. He and his wife, Cookie's niece Amarylla, secretly arranged with Keller to add a wedding to the birthday bash. GROOM P

More than five decades after Little Big Man transformed the Western movie genre, Christine "Cookie" Myers returned to celebrate the film's enduring legacy. As a 20-year-old cast member during production and a featured speaker at the Little Big Man Symposium, she shared behind-the-scenes memories of one of Montana's most influential films.

One of Big Sky Country's treasured institutions is Montana Shakespeare in the Parks, beloved by thousands for its energy, dedication and rich history. Grab your lawn chair and enjoy the Bard in Big Sky Country! Since 1973, Montana Shakespeare in the Parks (MSIP) has brought free, professional theater to rural communities. Originating as a small outreach program, this beloved tradition has blossomed into a cherished regional phenomenon.

Yellowstone National Park, the world’s first national park, is a must-visit destination for its unparalleled concentration of geothermal wonders, including Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring. As a premier wildlife sanctuary, visitors can see bison herds, bears, and wolves in their natural habitat while exploring stunning mountain scenery, alpine rivers, and the massive Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Dive into the wonders of Hawaii’s marine world at Sea Life Park! From playful dolphins to majestic sea turtles, this family-friendly attraction offers unforgettable up-close encounters with the ocean’s most fascinating creatures. Perfect for animal lovers and adventure seekers alike.

A Travel story about bloggers Cookie and Keller train adventures with friends and family around the globe