Travel Stories, Cruise Reviews, and Cultural Adventures

The Bishop Museum offers a deep scientific perspective on the Pacific, revealing the unique ecosystems of Hawaii, including native birds, marine life, and volcanic geology that make the islands unlike anywhere else on Earth. Interactive displays explain how the Hawaiian archipelago formed in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and how isolation created unique biodiversity. The museum’s science center and planetarium add dimension. It's great for families and curious travelers.

Four happy Spam Jam patrons head for a picnic table after choosing their dining fare SPAM, SPAM, SPAM....CELEBRATING POPULAR PRODUCT IN HAWAIIAN FESTIVAL OF MUSIC AND FUN STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER Even Honolulu's doggies get in the "Spam Spirit." SAY WHAT you will about Spam, that pink, salty staple of soldiers in World War II, and a favorite part of every Hawaiian's diet. Spam has longevity, large appeal and love behind it. Nowhere is that affectio

Fiji's "Bula Bus" takes its name from the language. "Bula bula" means hello and is a widely used greeting in friendly Fiji. Here, the bus...

Sydney, Australia: sparkling in early evening, from a climb atop the famous Sydney Harbor Bridge. It's fun to look for your cruise ship...

Perched on the edge of the breathtaking Katoomba, this charming mountain town feels like a gateway to another world. Just a short journey from Sydney, Katoomba welcomes travelers with crisp alpine air, cozy cafés, and sweeping views of the legendary Blue Mountains. Whether you’re gazing out at the iconic Three Sisters rock formation at sunrise or wandering through eucalyptus-scented trails, every moment here feels quietly unforgettable. For WhereIsCookie.com, Katoomba isn’t j

Fabulous dancing marks "The Empire Strips Back," in San Diego. Here, Chewbacca and Han Solo dress the stage in a wonderful dance. It's one of the highlights of an action packed, unauthorized burlesque parody of the "Star Wars" trilogy. It is playing through April 30 in San Diego. --(Photo Courtesy of The Empire Strips Back ) 'STAR WARS' HIP, NEW PARODY FEATURES COMEDY, BURLESQUE, SEXY DANCING AS FANS CHEER ON BELOVED CHARACTERS Emcee Eric Newton provides "adults only" bant

Looking for one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore Honolulu? The Waikiki Trolley lets you experience Waikiki, Diamond Head, historic downtown, Pearl Harbor, and more without the hassle of driving, parking, or navigating unfamiliar streets. Hop on, hop off, and discover Oahu at your own pace while enjoying colorful open-air trolleys and entertaining local narration along the way.

Sunny, creative, and effortlessly relaxed, Brisbane blends riverfront beauty with world-class dining, cultural districts, and outdoor adventure. From rooftop bars and art galleries to koala encounters and scenic ferry rides, Queensland’s capital offers travelers a vibrant Australian experience without the crowds of Sydney or Melbourne.

CRUISE BRISBANE'S WATERS, WALK, TALK WITH THE ANIMALS IN AUTHENTIC AUSSIE ADVENTURE Plus a delightful, informative boat ride to get you there in sight-seeing comfort

All aboard! Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers took a pair of spectacular train trips on a recent Celebrity cruise around New Zealand. Trains allow prime viewing of the country's spectacular scenery. Cruise tours are the best way to see the most in a short time in port. Celebrity's are tops. STEP ABOARD TRAINS FOR A TRIP BACK IN TIME WITH STUNNING SCENERY STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Editor's Note: This piece was reviewed and

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

More than just a shop, Casa da Guitarra is a cultural center near the Sé Cathedral dedicated to the preservation of traditional Portuguese guitars

A fine collection of seafaring artifacts combines with beautifully curated changing exhibits to show off Santa Barbara's proud maritime...

Take a behind-the-scenes adventure at Paramount Pictures in Hollywood, one of the most historic movie studios in Los Angeles. Explore the famous Bronson Gate, backlot streets, soundstages and fascinating corners of a working Hollywood studio while discovering the stories behind the movies and television shows we love.

Valenca, in the far north of Portugal, offers a relaxing, artistic place to visit for a few days. Sturdy, stunning buildings date back to...