Travel Stories, Cruise Reviews, and Cultural Adventures

Escape to Montana's Beartooth foothills at Mystic View Cabins in Fishtail, where peaceful mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, and cozy accommodations create the perfect retreat for couples, families, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic Big Sky experience.

NAPIER, NEW ZEALAND OFFERS ART DECO DELIGHTS IN A TOWN THAT GREW FROM RUBBLE Napier is proud of its art deco design and buildings dating back to the 1930s after a 1931 earthquake leveled Napier. Napier goes all out for holidays and festivals. STORY BY CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER WHEN YOU first set eyes on the mid-sized town of Napier, New Zealand, you get a large feeling that "vintage" is in style all year. You expect to see Gatsby stroll by, in a dapper suit, w

Las Vegas loves to go big, and the High Roller delivers. Rising above the Strip, this giant observation wheel lifts you into a slow, smooth spin with jaw-dropping views of the neon skyline and desert beyond. Day or night, it’s pure Vegas magic—perfect for photos, laughs with friends, and that “wow, we’re really here” travel moment you won’t forget.

RIGHT ON THE LAS VEGAS STRIP, LEGENDARY HOTEL HOSTS PARADISE FOR FEATHERED FRIENDS STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER A flightless pelican -- wounded by fishing line and unable to fly -- is among pampered guests at the Flamingo's wildlife habitat. These unusual Asian white-faced ducks whistle not quack. You'll see flamingos in the art at the legendary hotel -- and in the bird habitat. THE BEST KEPT secret on the Las Vegas strip is not the view from a fancy hote

TONY BENNETT PLAYS VEGAS WITH LADY GAGA TO KEEP HIS TALENT TUNED UP Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga took the stage in Las Vegas to usher in...

La Casa Del Zorro (home of the fox) encourages a peaceful and magical stay from registration until reluctant departure. The fox logo, giving Zorro its name. LA CASA DEL ZORRO: CHECK YOURSELF IN FOR AN EXCLUSIVE HIDE-AWAY DEEP IN THE DESERT NEAR BORREGO SPRINGS STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Five-star accommodations are enhanced by a fine restaurant with terrific service. YOU KNOW you're at a class-act resort as you bask in understate

From iconic film landmarks to sweeping city views, Hollywood is more than just a name on a sign it’s the heartbeat of entertainment history. Whether you’re chasing cinematic nostalgia or soaking in California sunshine, Hollywood delivers an unforgettable blend of culture, glamour, and adventure.

NOVEL TELLS STORY OF EARLY AMERICAN FILM, STAGE STRUCK PERFORMERS, LOVE, REVENGE, WITH WORLD TRAVEL AND MORE -- Montana outlaws, California connections, Paris, London, actors, painters, bank robbers Lively characters from France, England, Hawaii, Australia and the U.S. are featured in "Lilian's Last Dance," on its way to eBooks Wednesday! Editor's Note, 2025: The novel is available by contacting the author directly at: whereiscookienow@gmail.com STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS P

Red Lodge, Montana, offers spectacular scenery and one of the world's most stunning drives.

Glacier National Park is widely considered one of the most beautiful places in the United States, often referred to as the "Crown of the Continent". Summer is the most popular time to visit because it is the only season when the entire park is accessible, the trails are snow-free, and all facilities are fully open.

Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Montana, Fairfield Park Inn offers travelers a relaxing retreat and road trip with easy access to nature, small-town charm, and unforgettable Big Sky views. It’s the perfect base for exploring Montana’s rugged beauty while enjoying comfort and convenience.

Discover the timeless charm of the Barrister Bed and Breakfast, a historic Victorian inn in Helena, Montana. Housed in a beautifully restored 1874 mansion, this elegant retreat combines antique décor, modern comforts, and warm hospitality. Guests can enjoy homemade breakfasts and a convenient location near downtown Helena’s shops, museums, and landmarks. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape or a relaxing getaway, the Barrister offers a memorable Montana experience.

Lisbon, Portugal delightful city awaiting your discovery and our stay in the renowned Altis Belem Hotel in the Belem district, near famed Belem Tower.

Perched high above the Pacific Ocean, Hearst Castle is a dazzling blend of opulence, history, and coastal beauty. From its grand rooms filled with European art to sweeping ocean views along the rugged California coastline, this iconic estate offers a glimpse into a world of luxury unlike any other.

TRAVELER'S BALANCING ACT: HAVING A GOOD TIME MEANS ENJOYING THE MOMENT, BUT BEING READY TO BE SPONTANEOUS, SMELL THE ROSES One of the continent's largest markets was a surprise find for our travelers in Sao Paulo, Brazil. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS The rugged Costa Brava provided a scenic vista with surprising views. PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER MY GRANDFATHER said, "When a plum falls from the sky, open your mouth." Thanks for the wisdom, gramps. I've enjoyed many a "plum" on yo

Looking for the perfect mix of beaches, adventure, and nightlife? This Cabo San Lucas travel guide covers why this Baja destination is a must-visit from iconic views to unforgettable ocean experiences. And don't miss a side trip to Todos Santos and Hotel California

Costa Rica's allure includes howler monkeys, old trees, sky bridges. This well educated country attracts ex-pats from abroad for its natural wonders.

FANCY YACHTS sway at anchor in Puerto Vallarta's beautiful marina, while vacationers stroll the harbor's boardwalk, pausing to browse in boutiques, photograph the port's famous boy-sea horse sculpture, or sip a cool drink.

AVOID TROUBLE BY DOCUMENTING EVERYTHING, PHOTOGRAPHING DAMAGE, OBSERVING LOCAL SIGNS Renting a car abroad -- here in Sardinia -- calls for advance planning. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER RENTING A CAR while traveling abroad can be unnerving. Daunting questions arise: What do you do about a bang or a ding noticed before you take the car out of the lot? How will you transcend a language barrier? Do you book at home before you go, or wait and take your cha

The Queen Mary has a long, proud history and was saved from the scrap heap by the city of Long Beach. The revelry aboard the Queen Mary includes vintage dress for special events. WORLD'S ONCE GRANDEST LINER LIVES A LIVELY LIFE IN LONG BEACH Keller and Cookie flank Commodore Hoard on Queen Mary. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER ABOARD the Queen Mary, there's always adventure. If you want to schedule it, you can, on a series of entertaining tours which take in