Travel Stories, Cruise Reviews, and Cultural Adventures

Approaching Crete at dusk, one sees hills of olive trees, and beautiful caves and beaches, with little hint of the heavy casualties...

This booby has his eye on the seas below, looking for a meal.  He also eyes the female booby, vying for her graces. This booby is at...

BAJA TIP OFFERS FAST GROWING CABO SAN LUCAS, QUIET AND ARTSY TODO SANTOS The approach to Cabo San Lucas is a memorable one, with its...

FANCY HOTELS, BEAUTIFUL WALLED CITY, FABULOUS RESTAURANTS TRUMP FEAR OF DRUG LIFE   Browsing for souvenirs is a must in colorful...

Orchids throw out their fronds on a gorgeous tree in full bloom on the grounds of Pura Vida Gardens, Costa Rica. HIGHLY MOTIVATED COUNTRY...

A once sleepy fishing village is home to world class hotels and restaurants, water sports and appealing beach front. LIZ TAYLOR, RICHARD...

Construction is not sophisticated in Guatemala, but old-fashioned thatching appears to be carefully done. LIFE UNFOLDS IN GUATEMALA WITH...

A Pacific bound container ship goes south through the Panama Canal, photographed from the balcony of our northbound ship....

The graceful Bridge of the Americas is the first impressive site, beginning the Panama Canal transit.from the Pacific     Engineering...

Jacarandas in all their glory escort our travelers through seven tropical countries The jacaranda accompanied, and perhaps blessed, a...

THREE MAJOR WORLD RELIGIONS LIVE MEANINGFUL LIVES IN HISTORIC ISRAELI CITY  Cookie takes a moment to meditate and give thanks for her...

Contented cows, here near Jacksonville, are a must for good cheese! Blue cheese and red wine -- say ahhh! WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN...

Cabrillo Monument is a lovely day trip. CABRILLO DISCOVERED LAND WHERE TIDE POOLS NOW ATTRACT VISITORS Cabrillo National Monument and its...

Cookie and Keller take time for a quick cocktail during their guided tour of The Royal Suite on Serenade of the Seas. Would Queen Elizabeth and President Obama join Cookie? WHAT DO THE SIMPLE FOLK DO? LET'S BOOKA ROYAL SUITE TODAY Top penthouses offer luxury.  Cookie covets the "Royal" suites. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS,  PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER and archives WHY CAN'T  I stay in the presidential suite every time I cruise? (Or at least in the palatial owner's suite or the spaci

CRUISE FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD TAKES HUGE EFFORT, METICULOUS PLANNING Dozens of cheese plates in the Serenade's galley will be paired with nuts, crackers and veggies for pretty appetizers. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER These edible appetizers were created for a special party on board. This happy worker prepares peppers for shipboard stir fry. WHEN THE  waiter delivers your dinner to a beautifully set cruise table, or the room steward presents you with