Travel Stories, Cruise Reviews, and Cultural Adventures

IF YOU'RE a fan of cruising and follow "cruise news," you know about the newest Norwegian Cruise Lines ship, Viva. She's making quite a splash, at 142,500 gross tons and a length of 965 feet, about a fifth of a mile. She's a luxurious floating resort, the latest NCL "Prima Class" vessel.

Smiles abound in the Body Glove "Super Raft Tour" along the historical Kona Coast. We had our eye out for dolphins, whales and other...

Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers take a pause for a selfie, framed by the skeleton of a dinosaur on the beautiful "Jurassic Park" backdrop at Kualoa Ranch, on Oahu. FROM MOVIES TO ZIP LINE, BIKES, HORSEBACK RIDES, TREE PLANTING, KUALOA RANCH OFFERS TOURISTIC FUN STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER Keller, Cookie and their fabulous guide on Kualoa Ranch. PUT YOURSELF on set. You're right there in Jurassic Park, escaping growling dinosaurs, running for y

Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers enjoy one of many splendid views on a day-long circle tour of Oahu, which takes tourists around the island with many interesting stops. OAHU CIRCLE ISLAND TOUR FEATURES BEST OF A BEAUTIFUL ISLAND, FROM SCENIC STOPS TO CULTURE, ART, FOOD, SHOPPING, FUN Oahu's much visited Byodo-In Temple is part of the tour and one of its most popular stops. Take time to ring the gong. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER IF YOU'VE been to

The famous Sydney Opera House is aglow with "Pride" colors, a proud rainbow celebrating Australia's strong support of the progress toward inclusion, tolerance and embrace of all people. PRIDE month encourages professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER LGBT Pride Month is celebrated worldwide. It stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month, celebrated annually in June to honor the 1969 Sto

If you are visiting Wellington, New Zealand, make time for Te Papa Tongarewa, the Museum of New Zealand. More than a traditional museum, Te Papa offers an engaging journey through the people, culture, history, art, and natural environment of Aotearoa New Zealand. From Māori treasures and Pacific heritage to the colossal squid and the powerful Gallipoli exhibition, Te Papa is one of Wellington’s must-see attractions.

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...

Discover the magic of Sydney, Australia! From the world-famous Opera House and Harbour Bridge to beautiful beaches, waterfront restaurants, and unforgettable adventures, Sydney is a destination that belongs on every traveler's bucket list.

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.