Travel Stories, Cruise Reviews, and Cultural Adventures

Tucked deep in northeastern Montana, Sioux Charlie Lake is a quiet escape reached via the scenic Stillwater Trail #24. With sweeping prairie views, pockets of forest, and the kind of stillness that’s hard to find anymore, this hidden gem rewards those willing to wander a little off the beaten path

The Ahmanson Theater in Los Angeles is the perfect venue for a beautifully staged "Bright Star," with a bluegrass band on stage, and a full pit orchestra in the traditional place below. The show is spectacularly staged. MUSICAL EARNS BRAVOS, STANDING OVATIONS IN ITS TOE-TAPPING REINCARNATION Carmen Cusack's lovely leading lady role makes the audience laugh -- and cry -- in "Bright Star." The actress played the role of Alice on Broadway. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By B

A gathering -- family, friends, doggies -- in Bozeman, for coffee enroute to Yellowstone National Park. From left, Bruce Keller, Rick...

NOTHING LIKE a Yellowstone geyser to make you feel small, insignificant and aware of your "lowly cog" status in the the universe. Yellowstone, mostly in Wyoming but claimed by Montanans as ours, is the world's best place to see geysers. Oh, sure, they exist in Chile, Iceland and New Zealand, but not on the spectacular scale as the Yellowstone geyser bonanza.

Well fed bison roam near Norris Junction in Yellowstone National Park, with geysers spouting behind them. The Roosevelt Arch, approaching Mammoth from withinn the park, honors Teddy Roosevelt's guiding spirit in establishing the park system. Yellowstone Park's founder and patron saint. BISON, WOLVES, ELK MOOSE AND BEARS, OH MY! STORY BY CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER Bruce Keller, left, and Rick Cosgriffe, right, enjoy a photography session on a four-day journey thr

Cookie is at her happiest playing piano. Here, she entertains at a housewarming party. Cookie serenades at friend Corby Skinner's on the...

Discover the magic of an Oregon Coast road trip as Where Is Cookie explores stunning lighthouses, scenic overlooks, and charming seaside stops. From dramatic cliffs to historic coastal beacons, this guide highlights the best lighthouse views and must-see destinations along one of America’s most breathtaking drives

GLORIOUS CONCERT HALL, SCULPTURES, WORLD CLASS ARTISTS COMPLEMENT NATURE'S OWN GRAND STAGE AT TIPPET RISE

From towering mountain ranges and crystal-clear rivers to golden prairies and unforgettable sunsets, Montana's Big Sky Country is a paradise for nature lovers. Join us as we explore breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the peaceful beauty that makes Montana one of America's most inspiring travel destinations.

Bruce Keller, known by family and friends, by his surname, and Christene "Cookie" Meyers, reveling in smooth sailing after two years of...

OREGON HAS a special place in my family's heart. And, like memories of family, Oregon's coastal towns have a timeless quality. Coos Bay evokes happy memories of a bygone time. It's retained that small-town charm that means the cafe waitress greets you and knows how you like your coffee. Yet it has big-city attractions and amenities -- a lovely resort hotel staffed by friendly folk, proud of the area and eager to share their knowledge. Fine shopping. Nature.

A few blocks from Las Ramblas, tourists usually take in Antoni Gaudi's La Sagrada Familia. GLOBAL CITIZENS MUST STAND TO HALT TERRORISM,...

Discover the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Oregon—one of America’s premier theater events. Featuring classic Shakespearean plays and modern productions, this iconic festival delivers world-class performances in a charming, walkable town known for its vibrant arts scene.

Wading, not quite walking, on the water, sisters Cookie, left, and Olivia, make their way to the wedding on Beverly Beach. Behind them, sister Misha and family friend Virginia join the wedding party for Kira and Mike. Flower girls sprinkle rose petals along the sand, making way for the bride and groom. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER Gallavant: to go from place to place seeking out entertainment and amusement-- Oxford Dictionary THIS SUMMER -- more than an

North Coast Repertory Theatre ends its 35th season with a bang. "At This Evening's Performance" is a thoroughly likeable tale about a troupe of actors in a Soviet bloc-like police state, struggling to make magic on stage. Cygnet Theatre's acclaimed production of "Animal Crackers" offers unadulterated fun. DELICIOUSLY FUNNY, FAST-PACED TREATS KEEP US ON OUR TOES AND ENJOYING A LAVISH GLUT OF THEATER CONFECTIONS STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER and theater mark