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Travel Stories, Cruise Reviews, and Cultural Adventures


Mate magic: Uruguay's national drink infuses energy, ritual, tradition
Our lovely Uruguayan guide, Paulo, takes a mate break at one of our stops. NATIONAL DRINK HAS ANCIENT HISTORY, GIVES JUST THE RIGHT BUZZ...

Christene Meyers
Apr 11, 20243 min read


On the passionate tango trail with magnificent dancers, musicians
Tango began in brothels and tawdry dance halls to become a much admired and very popular dance form, known for its fabulous dancers and...

Christene Meyers
Apr 4, 20244 min read


Colonia itinerary: City's charms attract international visitors to quaint historic town
NOW A QUAINT little tourist town in southwestern Uruguay, Colonia del Sacramento has a rich and stormy history.

Cookie & Keller
Mar 28, 20244 min read


End of the world in Ushuaia with wondrous birds, parks and more
Cormorants abound off the tip of South America, with a motor boat trip from Ushuaia. From a distance they resemble penguins, which are...

Christene Meyers
Mar 21, 20244 min read


Antarctica cruise from Buenos Aires takes travelers on the penguin trail deep into the southern hemisphere for spectacular viewing
Antarctica cruise takes travelers deep into the southern hemisphere to view hundreds of penguins

Cookie & Keller
Mar 14, 20245 min read


Palm Springs drag show marks six years of fun, community service
Oscar's is a fun gig for both full-house audiences and performers, who rake in tips and work hard for them. The "Bitchiest Brunch"...

Christene Meyers
Mar 6, 20244 min read


Desert Symphony notes 35th season with gala, 5-shows, Sinatra singer
Palm Desert is a haven for sun seekers, hikers, bikers, lovers of the desert and its beauty. Since 1989, tourists and locals alike have...

Christene Meyers
Feb 28, 20244 min read


SCAD sends artful ripples from Georgia, to Hollywood and the world
Bruce Keller poses in one of the many intriguing spaces in the SCAD Museum of Art, where constantly changing exhibitions feature...

Christene Meyers
Feb 22, 20244 min read


Charleston South Carolina, Things to do for the belle of South offers history, color and gentility
Planning a trip to Charleston? This Charleston South Carolina travel guide highlights the best things to do, where to eat, and how to explore the city’s historic charm in a perfect itinerary.

Christene Meyers
Feb 15, 20245 min read


Kualoa Ranch Oahu, a working ranch offers magic, entertainment and education.
Hawaiian Culture Tour Learn about ancient Hawaiian traditions, fishponds, and sacred sites while discovering the deep cultural roots of Kualoa. This tour offers valuable insight into the area’s historical significance. Part of the educational fun at Kualoa Ranch is watching workers prepare the harvest for sale in the store on the property, and for demonstrations during various farm tours of this working ranch. KUALOA RANCH OFFERS ADVENTURE, LEARNING ON HORSEBACK, BIKES, MOVIE

Christene Meyers
Feb 6, 20245 min read


Savannah food tour mixes history, tastings, parks, monuments and more
SAVANNAH FOOD TOUR OFFERS DELECTABLE TASTINGS, LIVELY COMMENTARY, HISTORY, FACTS, AND WALKING TO WORK IT OFF

Cookie & Keller
Feb 4, 20244 min read


Savannah must see wonders: stately buildings, lovely parks, lively River Street, theater, boats, cafes and trolleys all invite inspection
Discover why Savannah, Georgia is one of the South’s most enchanting destinations, known for its historic charm, oak-lined streets, and vibrant food scene. From scenic squares to riverfront views, this Southern gem offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation.

Christene Meyers
Jan 25, 20244 min read


CityPASS (Official Tourist Card) offers an economical fun way to enjoy a city's attractions
SAVE MONEY, TIME, WHILE SEEING THE BEST ATTRACTIONS A CITY OFFERS with CityPass

Christene Meyers
Jan 11, 20244 min read


Cruising the light fantastic on NCL's Viva, a floating resort, a fun 'city' with so much to do
VIVA HAS IT ALL: VITALITY, GLITZ, STYLE, OLD WORLD DECORUM, WITH SPIRIT AND MODERN TOUCHES TO APPEAL TO FAMILIES, ROMANTICS OF ALL AGES STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" EACH TIME we book a ship, we research the architecture, art and design. It's important for us to be surrounded by intriguing artwork and inviting spaces to explore on these floating resorts. Set your sights on something new, daring and exciting for the new year. Here we

Christene Meyers
Jan 4, 20244 min read


Fun new food, fireworks, family ring in New Year in celebrations around the world
This recipe for Char Siu came from a sweet old Vietnamese woman we met on a bike tour in Vietnam. Ba Diem didn't have specific measurements (like my Irish grandmother.) So improvise and use your best judgment. Here's her ancient and delicious recipe.

Cookie & Keller
Dec 28, 20234 min read
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