Travel Stories, Cruise Reviews, and Cultural Adventures

IT'S EASY to fall in love with Madeira for its variety: ragged forests, pretty beachfront, fine art, culture of many kinds including music and fine food.

All aboard! Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers took a pair of spectacular train trips on a recent Celebrity cruise around New Zealand. Trains allow prime viewing of the country's spectacular scenery. Cruise tours are the best way to see the most in a short time in port. Celebrity's are tops. STEP ABOARD TRAINS FOR A TRIP BACK IN TIME WITH STUNNING SCENERY STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Editor's Note: This piece was reviewed and

Few experiences capture the magic of Alaska quite like whale watching in Juneau. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, pristine waterways, and abundant wildlife, Juneau is one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales in their natural habitat. During the summer months, especially from May through September, these magnificent giants return to the nutrient-rich waters of Southeast Alaska to feed, often delighting visitors with spectacular breaches, tail slaps, and b

Discover why Ketchikan is one of Alaska's most beloved cruise ports. From historic Creek Street and towering totem poles to incredible wildlife viewing, salmon fishing, and scenic floatplane tours, this picturesque coastal town offers the perfect introduction to Alaska's natural beauty and rich Indigenous heritage

Tucked into the hills of Sicily, the timeless village of Savoca feels untouched by modern life. Known as one of the filming locations for The Godfather, its quiet stone streets, historic churches, and sweeping views create an atmosphere that is both cinematic and deeply authentic.

ST. KITTS IS the kind of place that encourages a cocktail.We combined those two pursuits on the charming St. Kitts Scenic Railway. Over a century old, it is a link with the island's once thriving sugar industry. A few plantations sprinkle the landscape, but the railway is far more interesting. It is alive, moving and fun. It also invites exploration. We combined those two pursuits on the charming St. Kitts Scenic Railway.

Step onto the sacred island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where mythology, ancient ruins, and Aegean beauty converge. Wander through marble streets, crumbling temples, and the legendary birthplace of Apollo, just a short boat ride from Mykonos.