A handsome, healthy lion is a favorite resident of travel writers Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers, below, who enjoy the San Diego Zoo Safari Park each year. Thousands of animal lovers from all over the world spend a day or two learning and admiring the animals who are carefully tended at the world famous park. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Keller and Cookie enjoying a day at world renowned San Diego Zoo Safari Park THE SAN DIEGO Zoo Safari Park is an international treasure, visited by thousands each year and home to a carefully supervised grouping of 3,000 animals sharing 1,800 beautifully landscaped yet "wild looking" acres. For us, it's an annual "must see." For many others, it's a once-in-a-lifetime exposure to rare animals from around the world. A female kangaroo wakes from an afternoon nap. The highly acclaimed park has some of the world's most successful breeding programs, particularly the rhino, who has been brought back from near extinction thanks to parks such as San Diego's. The city's rare white rhinos (the same color as grey) are the only two left on the planet. That makes seeing these wondrous creatures even more special. WE SPENT a full, happy day at San Diego Zoo Safari Park, an enchanting place for families and kids of all ages, like the two of us. We hopped aboard the Africa Tram to get a bird's eye view of the park's beautifully arranged habitat. A view of the safari park grounds from a lookout near the elevator. We had a terrific guide who stopped so we could get close-up views of giraffes, rhinos, antelope and gazelles. We also saw mule deer, "freeloaders," who visit the park as unofficial guests, enjoying the grounds and a nibble. San Diego Zoo Safari Park Pointers THE CRITTERS we saw are free to roam happily on the savannah grounds within artfully designed areas to separate but not "fence." We recommend strolling the grounds and taking the tram ride to enjoy artfully landscaped terrain, resembling the foliage the animals know, ample shelter and wide open spaces the animals enjoy in their carefully designed habitats. The dozens of critters we admired appear happy with the arrangement. Besides beautifully tended grounds, the zoo boasts a fascinating botanical garden with over a million plants, carefully marked. San Diego Zoo Safari Park has two platypuses. The semiaquatic, egg-laying mammal is endemic to eastern Australia. We were thrilled to catch a glimpse of this guy. OUR TERRIFIC 20-minute tram ride gave us an idea of what we'd like to see more of and return to. We knew that would include the Australia walkabout since we have many times visited that continent and observed its unique critters. Speaking of walking, prepare to get your exercise. It's a large expanse and we logged over 4 miles on our recent visit. Motorized carts are available for rental and a variety of tours can be organized for those who don't want total independence. Over 1.6 million visitors joined in the park's exploration and learning experience last year. Among the pleasures is watching a tiger nap -- feet and legs in the air, almost comically relaxed. Christene "Cookie" Meyers watches a sleeping tiger close-up. Besides observing napping critters, you'll see lots of lively ones including a variety of monkeys. We watched lesser spot-nosed monkeys, a noisy troop of capuchin monkeys, curious colobus monkeys and northern black-crested mangabeys sharing a habitat. Wolf's monkeys hang around with their pygmy hippo pals. Try to time it to see them swing through the trees. Our favorite interlude was watching a lion chow down on a beef shank, as nearby vultures awaited scraps to peck on the bones. Special tours are available as additions to the regular ticket. You can join a small group like this one to get up close and personal. As part of the ticket which begins at $76, you can access the cheetah run to witness the lightning speed of these big, beautiful cats. You can feed the lovely lorikeets by hand as they swoop down, and various upgrades are available for more money. You can book a wildlife safari, for instance, to travel in the back of a covered open-air safari truck -- like those we've used on African safari. The truck travels through the park's expansive savanna habitats with an expert guide providing detailed information on each species. The entrance hall at San Diego Zoo Safari Park welcomed over 1.6 million visitors last year. ANOTHER terrific aspect of a visit is learning. It's wonderful to see groups of school kids taking photos, soaking it all up. And the knowledgeable volunteers who are always within easy reach enrich the experience, answering questions, giving pointers on best viewing spots. We found the docents helpful in tracking down the platypus exhibit. We had to adjust our eyes as we entered the dark world of this shy creature to catch a glimpse of the female swimming around, resting on a log and generally enjoying the attention (or so it seemed to us delighted tourists.) More tips to enhance your safari park visit With various upgrades, you can pend a bit more than the ticket. There are money-saving ticket packages including one that combines the Safari Park entrance with the Zoo and SeaWorld. Various coupons and discounts can also be found with a little shopping around on the internet. You'll also pay a parking fee of $20. Highlights, add-ons, options Explore wildlife up close with the Africa Tram, Cheetah Run, free-flight aviary, and more. A cheetah strikes a classic pose at San Diego Safari Park. Visitors can watch him spring. Hop aboard the Africa Tram, your window to the wild, letting you marvel at giraffes, rhinos, and gazelles without any barriers. Ever seen a cheetah sprint? Access to the Cheetah Run, a pulsating spectacle, lets you witness the lightning speed of these big cats. Enter the free-flight aviary that recreates natural habitats for 140+ birds of 40 species, an immersive experience in their environment. Upgrade to the 2-visit pass for the flexibility to explore both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park or enjoy two visits to your favorite! Tip: The Park's observation deck offers panoramic views, making it an excellent photo op. Visitors can take a fun selfie with a giraffe background! This experience is wheelchair accessible. The park's blue Africa safari trams carry tourists along a dirt road through San Diego's dry rocky hills, with a hot air balloon floating overhead. The park is unique to the west coast and is visited by animal lovers worldwide. Explore wildlife up close: the Africa Tram, Cheetah Run, free-flight aviary and more. Hop aboard the Africa Tram to see giraffes, rhinos, and gazelles without barriers. Ever seen a cheetah sprint? Access to the Cheetah Run, a pulsating spectacle, lets you witness the lightning speed of these big cats. Enter the free-flight aviary that recreates natural habitats for 140+ birds of 40 species, offering an immersive experience in their environment. Upgrade to a 2-visit pass for the flexibility to explore both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park or enjoy two visits to your favorite! THE WEATHER is nearly perfect in San Diego any time of year -- in fact, it averages 72 degrees 12 months a year. So enjoy this special place and support wildlife. sdzsafaripark.org zoo.sandiegozoo.org The water below the Aiguablava vies for attention with the parador's artful touches UPCOMING FUN: We're exploring the Costa Brava and find a fabulous parador, stunning coastal views and the art of Salvador Dali. Then a Fort Lauderdale visit, and a look at highlights of New York City. Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on travel, nature, performance, family and more: www.whereiscookie.com

The people of Oplontis, near Pompeii, lived well in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, until 79 AD, when they were buried by tons of falling ash. We viewed art and artifacts of leisure and luxury detailing the life of Rome's privileged citizens. One of the most opulent of Rome's luxury villas was Oplontis, the summer home of Emperor Nero's second wife. Parts of it are on view through Dec. 31, Museum of the Rockies has an intriguing related show in the Planetarium, exploring possibilities of the lost Atlantis. A WEALTHY VILLA UNTIL VESUVIUS: VISIT LUSH LIFE OF ROME'S PRIVILEGED BEFORE ERUPTION ENDED IT ALL 2,000 YEARS AGO STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER LIFE WAS GOOD for the people of Oplontis. Running water, prolific crops, lovely architecture and artwork, the comforts of civilized life. Even the servants seemed content. That is, until Vesuvius erupted, spewing tons of molten lava, burying the prosperous little village beneath 50 feet of ash. When ruins of the 79AD disaster were discovered recently during preparation for building of a gymnasium, scholars determined that the public would benefit from an exhibit sharing the remarkably preserved discovery. Dining salons which seated 100 people, private chambers with spectacular frescos, marble columns rising from elaborate mosaic floor were uncovered. The Museum's Living History Farm offers a unique opportunity to experience life as it existed decades ago in rural Montana. Volunteers dress in period costumes to discuss gardening, homemaking, cooking and crafts. THE MUSEUM of the Rockies is one of three fortunate venues to host a remarkable new traveling exhibit, "The Villas of Oplontis." It details the splendid, privileged life of the aristocratic Roman enclave which lived well and happily in a lavish villa -- until Mount Vesuvius' catastrophic eruption. To warm us up for that, we spent a wonderful afternoon at the museum's other components, starting first at the Living History Farm, where a docent greeted us in a garden of raspberries, squash and lettuce, and invited us into the restored vintage farmhouse. Beautiful jewels, here bracelets with asp heads, were found clutched in the hands of the long buried dead. There, another volunteer in period dress crafted potholders from scraps of coats and dresses, explaining how homesteaders cooked and sewed and survived a century or two ago. WE'D PLANNED our afternoon to take in the Planetarium show, which ties in nicely with the Oplontis exhibit. It explores the possibilities of the location of the lost Atlantis. Sitting back in the comfy chairs and gazing to the heavens, we discovered anew why this wonderful place is an internationally respected planetarium. A creative bison -- made of car parts, musical instruments and more, is part of a children's area upstairs. It combines whimsy with education. Then a stroll through the homage to the West, and a look at researchers working on artifacts behind a glass screen. WE WATCHED a short, well crafted "overview" video narrated by Dr. Regina Gee, an expert on frescoes and one of three primary researchers involved in the Oplontis excavation. Based at MSU in Bozeman, Gee was instrumental in getting the exhibit to Montana. "Leisure and Luxury in the Age of Nero: The Villas of Oplontis near Pompei" is the elaborate handle of this fine show. Many talents helped make it a reality. Watching the careful process of working on fossils and other finds is part of the fun and education of a visit to the Museum of the Rockies. MSU STUDENTS assisted in recreating elaborate frescoes which adorned the walls of the luxury homes. Jewelry was discovered, taken hurriedly along with money by citizens as they fled for hoped for safety and rescue in vaults which were not discovered until recent times. The lavish dining rooms and private chambers were destroyed, along with their spectacular mosaic floors and grand marble columns. The people left behind wines, oils, strong boxes of coins and artwork of a sophisticated civilization. The wealthy took their prized objects with them to the vault, hoping for a rescue that never came. The servants were found with their tools of trade, hoping to rebuild a life, should they be found before they perished. MSU and Dr. Gee deserve kudos for bringing this impressive exhibit from Italy. It remains on view through Dec. 31. We found it both moving and enlightening to share the life of these sophisticated but doomed citizens. We ended our day upstairs in less ponderous surroundings. Above Oplontis, we watched children romp in the museum's cleverly designed play area with whimsical animals of the forest -- assembled artistically with found household and garage items. Come with us next to Rio, with a look at this exciting city of the current Olympics. We share photos and insights into lively Brazilian culture. UP NEXT: With all eyes on Rio, we share a recent trip to Brazil. Come with us up Sugar Loaf, to Ipanema Beach, a rock-folk concert and a spectacular spice, fruit and vegetable market. Then while we're enjoying time in Montana and a particularly beautiful summer, we take a trip down Memory Lane to a fabulous restaurant in the shadow of the Beartooths above Red Lodge. Old Piney Dell still delivers a superb meal, at Rock Creek Resort. Remember to explore, learn and live and check us out weekly for fun, fresh travel ideas and pieces on performance, nature, family and more: www.whereiscookie.com

Story By Christene Meyers Photos By Bruce Keller and courtesy Gates of the Mountains "The Carpe Diem Kids" A tour boat tour sets off with passengers to cruise Gates of the Mountains, with a commentary about the dramatic Montana canyon and wilderness area, with rocky pine-covered cliffs and a lively history -- 20 miles north of Helena. After exploring Helena's historic streets and Gold Rush landmarks, we ventured beyond the city to discover two of central Montana's hidden gems. Just 20 miles from downtown, the Gates of the Mountains offered a breathtaking boat tour through the dramatic Missouri River canyon that amazed explorers more than two centuries ago. Gates of the Mountains roadside sign hints at the adventures awaiting on a boat tour up the Missouri Then our Helena Montana daytrip took us into the beautiful Blackfoot Valley to Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild, an outdoor sculpture park. World-class artwork blends with Montana's forests, meadows and mountains. This pair of attractions made a wonderful daytrip. Experience the Gates of the Mountains Boat Tour, part one of this adventure About 20 miles north of Helena lies an unforgettable Montana experience -- the legendary Gates of the Mountains Boat Tour. It combines spectacular scenery, fascinating history, abundant wildlife and a relaxing afternoon on the water, a two-hour cruise perfect for a Montana itinerary. Passengers disembark a ferry at Gates of the Mountains dock near Helena, Montana, after a tour on a pristine mountain lake, with a lively narration on its wildlife and native American history. The tour narration begins on July 19, 1805, when Captain Meriwether Lewis and the Corps of Discovery paddled along the Missouri River. As they rounded a bend, limestone cliffs rose 1,200 feet above the river, appearing to block passage. As they moved closer, the cliffs seemed to open like stone doors. Lewis famously wrote "I shall call this place the Gates of the Mountains." The name has remained for two-plus centuries. We retraced that historic route on our comfy boat, departing from the Gates of the Mountains Marina. Our knowledgeable captain and animated guide brought the canyon to life with stories about Lewis and Clark, Native American history and the area's unique geology and abundant wildlife. Gates of the Mountains boat tour features knowledgeable guides and terrific views of scenery enhanced by stories and a lively narration. Towering limestone walls seem unchanged since Lewis saw them. We spotted soaring bald eagles, ospreys diving for fish, mountain goats balancing on rocky ledges and bighorn sheep grazing. Deer, beaver, river otters and falcons are often spotted. One of the tour's moving moments came as the boat passed Mann Gulch. In 1949, it was the site of a deadly wildfire, claiming 13 smokejumpers' lives. The tragedy changed wildfire training and inspired Norman Maclean's acclaimed book, Young Men and Fire. Moving to be near the site. A red ochre rock painting catches the eye on a stone cliff at Gates of the Mountains near Helena. We gazed on canyon walls for centuries-old Native American pictographs. They remind us this remarkable place was important long before Lewis and Clark arrived. Our savvy guide pointed out rock formations, describing the creation of the canyon over millions of years. Photographers kept cameras ready as changing light created dramatic shadows across the limestone cliffs. Meanwhile, the calm Missouri River reflected the canyon's walls and each bend revealed a postcard. The relaxing cruise is great for families. We're history and wildlife buffs and enjoyed hearing of both. Anyone looking to discover Montana's natural beauty will enjoy this outing. 2026 Tour Information The scenic cruise lasts two hours. Reservations are recommended during summer months, especially weekends and holidays. Visitors should arrive 30 minutes early. Admissions: Adults (18–59): $20; Seniors (60+): $15; Active Military: $15; Children (ages 3–17): $10 Children 2 and under: Free Whether you're spending a day in Helena or traveling between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, the Gates of the Mountains Boat Tour is a classic Montana experience. It combines breathtaking scenery, fascinating history and peaceful time on the Missouri River in a memorable adventure: Gates of the Mountains Boat Tours. "A Place Is a Place is a Place," by British artist Stuart Ian Frost, part of the open-air art exhibitions near Lincoln, Montana, and an interesting day trip from Helena. Frost intended his multilayered artwork to create a depth of vision, generating a characteristic structural “carving” reminiscent in many of his artworks Helena Montana day trip: second part Discover Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild Some of Montana's most memorable attractions aren't found in large cities or national parks-- they're tucked away in places where you least expect them. About an hour northwest of Helena, near the small community of Lincoln, you'll discover one of the state's hidden gems: Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild. This sculpture is "Stringer," created by artist Casey Schachner. It utilizes a fan-like, interlocking configuration of logs to create an organic, architectural gateway that mimics a shelter or wigwam. blending into the ponderosa pine forest This remarkable outdoor sculpture park combines art, nature, history and community in an experience unique to Montana. Rather than placing artwork inside museum walls, more than two dozen large-scale sculptures are artfully positioned in a peaceful ponderosa pine forest, allowing visitors to experience art as part of the landscape itself. The idea behind Sculpture in the Wild was born from the Blackfoot Valley's rich heritage. For generations, the communities surrounding Lincoln depended on logging, mining, and ranching. As those industries declined, local leaders looked for a creative way to celebrate the area's history while encouraging tourism and economic growth. Their vision attracted internationally recognized artists including Patrick Dougherty, who created permanent, site-specific works inspired by the valley's landscape, culture, and industrial past. Children play at artist Patrick Dougherty's famous sculpture near Lincoln, Montana, is titled "Tree Circus," using more than 10 tons of locally sourced willow and alder saplings. A thistle blooms in the 26-acre Blackfoot Pathways. Walking through the park is as relaxing as it is inspiring. Easy gravel pathways wind through approximately 26 acres of forest, leading visitors from one sculpture to another. Each piece invites you to stop, reflect, and often interact with the artwork. Informational signs explain the artist's vision and how each sculpture connects to the Blackfoot Valley's story. Among the most photographed works are towering wooden sculptures woven from natural branches, massive geometric installations constructed from reclaimed materials and striking pieces that frame the surrounding mountains and forest in unexpected ways. These sculptures encourage visitors to walk through them, sit inside them, or view the landscape from an entirely different perspective. One of the park's defining characteristics is how seamlessly the artwork blends into nature, complementing the forest. Sounds of rustling pine, birds and breezes enhance the experience, encouraging visitors to slow down, relax and enjoy being outdoors. "Montana Line Drawing" by Irish artist Kevin O'Dwyer. It is 22 feet tall, made from geometric steel, one of many intriguing sculptures installed inside Blackfoot Pathways. It was designed to mirror the vertical patterns of nearby pine trees. Families appreciate the short, easy walking trails and picnic areas, while photographers have a field day -- capturing dramatic compositions where art and landscape meet. Wildlife sightings are common, and because the park is rarely crowded, it offers a peaceful escape from Montana's busier tourist destinations. "Re-Imagining the Delaney Sawmill TeePee Burner" is an installation by Kevin O'Dwyer. The artist transformed a 10-ton, 80-foot relic into an interactive landmark in Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild in Lincoln, Montana, it preserves local logging history with modern LED lights, solar power and archival steel photographs One especially meaningful installation preserves part of the region's logging history through the restored Delaney Sawmill Teepee Burner, reminding visitors of the valley's industrial heritage while illustrating how the community has embraced a new future built around creativity and conservation. Artist Kevin O'Dwyer imaginately repurposed the 50-foot diameter, rusted steel structure into an award-winning walk-in art installation. Planning Your Visit One of the best features of "Sculpture in the Wild" is that admission is free. Donations are welcomed and help support future art installations, trail maintenance and educational programs. The sculpture park is generally open daily from dawn until dusk throughout the year, making it an easy stop whether you're traveling between Helena and Missoula or exploring Montana's Scenic Highway 200. We spent a couple relaxing hours exploring the trails with fellow art lovers and photographers. It would have been easy to linger longer. We recommend comfortable walking shoes and a camera. Each bend in the trail reveals another surprising and imaginative creation. "Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild" proves that some of Montana's greatest treasures are found off the beaten path. Together with Helena's historic downtown and the breathtaking Gates of the Mountains Boat Tour, it completes a journey filled with history, breathtaking scenery, and inspiring creativity. If you're looking to experience a side of Montana that many travelers overlook, this peaceful outdoor gallery deserves a place on your itinerary. A drive through the Blackfoot Valley won't disappoint. It's a great family activity and photographer's mecca with abundant nature and wildlife viewing. Male lion at San Diego Zoo Safari Park rests near his den on green grass, looking calm and relaxed Coming Up: San Diego's Safari Park Dive into the fascinating wildlife world with a visit to San Diego Zoo Safari Park, with the Africa Tram to take you to giraffes, rhinos and gazelles roaming free. A cheetah sprints and birds flutter in a free-flight aviary. It's a fun family outing, or great for couples and singles, too. You're never alone at this unique wildlife sanctuary. Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on nature, performance, art, travel, family and more: www.whereiscookie.com

Join veteran travel writer Cookie and photographer Keller on Where is Cookie?—a travel blog celebrating cruising, the arts, food, and cultural stories from around the world. Trusted Travel Insights for Millions of Travelers Around the Globe Follow the Adventures of The Carpe Diem Kids Award-Winning Global Travel Blog by Cookie & Keller Inspiring Curated Adventures in Culture, Cruising, Theatre, and Nature Welcome to Where Is Cookie? , a globally followed travel and arts blog sharing inspiring journeys across 120+ countries. Follow award-winning writer Christene "Cookie" Meyers and photographer Bruce Keller as they cruise the world, explore hidden gems, attend cultural performances, and review top hotels and destinations. Whether you're a travel lover seeking expert advice or a tourism board looking for curated media exposure, you'll find travel tips, hotel reviews, theater guides, nature escapes, and more — all captured with authenticity, wit, and heart. VIEW FULL BLOG About Our Blog Where Is Cookie? is a travel and lifestyle publication with 2+ million views, blending decades of journalism, photography, and global exploration. We share timely, trend-focused content that enriches and educates, making travel more accessible, fun, and meaningful. We’ve been featured in SD Voyager, Big Sky Journal, and more. ADVENTURE TRAVEL STORIES CRUISE REVIEWS & TIPS TOP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS FAVORITE HOTELS & STAYS MUST-SEE MUSEUMS THEATRE, MUSIC & ARTS SCENIC TRAIN JOURNEYS ABOUT US HIRE US TO HELP WITH TRAVEL As featured in Heads Up! We’re currently updating our website, so some older content might be temporarily unavailable. Thanks for your patience and support! - Cookie & Keller We're based in sunny San Diego and Montana but we spend months each year flitting about the world, chasing great food and migrating whales, with tips on cruises, theater, cultural events. WhereisCookie.com brings our travel curiosity to readers from our SoCal and Montana roots to everywhere else on the planet. Check often for travel tips and suggestions on how and where to get the best bang for your hard-earned buck.

Explore our media kits showcasing travel, cruising, theater, museums, hotels, trains & destinations. Partner with Cookie & Keller for bespoke storytelling and brand exposure. TRAVEL MEDIA KITS Our story and media kits about global adventures! For inquiries please contact us here Explore our curated media kits designed for brands, destinations, hotels and cultural venues. From adventure treks and scenic train journeys to cruise reviews, museum features and theatre experiences, our storytelling team of Cookie & Keller offers press‑ready insights and partnership opportunities. Click a category below to view the full kit.

Meet Cookie & Keller — award-winning travel writer and photographer duo sharing global travel stories, cruise reviews, arts coverage, and cultural insights. ABOUT US Meet Cookie & Keller – Travel Writers, Photographers, and Global Explorers “Cookie and Keller” are the creative duo behind WhereIsCookie.com — a global travel and arts blog sharing curated adventures, cultural stories, cruise reviews, and travel tips from around the world. Christene “Cookie” Meyers is an award-winning travel writer who has explored 119 countries and been passionate about travel since her first transatlantic crossing as a child. Bruce Keller, a lifelong explorer and talented photographer, grew up traveling Europe with his military family and began capturing the world through a lens while teaching scuba diving in the Red Sea. Together, they created this blog to showcase their work and inspire others to explore with purpose, passion, and perspective. Our Focus: Travel with Purpose and Perspective We believe that travel and the arts inform every aspect of our lives — shaping how we think, connect, and grow. This shared passion inspires us to explore and write about destinations across Europe, South America, Asia, Australia, the Middle East, Antarctica, and the U.S. Through our blog, we celebrate the transformative power of travel, cultural storytelling, live performance, visual art, nature, and meaningful global encounters. What We Do At Where Is Cookie?, we bring the world of travel, culture, and the arts to life through engaging stories, interviews, and photography. Our work includes: Interviews & Features – Conversations with actors, playwrights, directors, pilots, ship captains, artists, musicians, museum curators, composers, dancers, and street performers. Photography & Storytelling – Insightful photos paired with lively critiques and recommendations drawn from our lifelong passion for theater, music, and cultural history. Iconic Venues & Museums – Coverage of world-class destinations such as the Prado, Louvre, Van Gogh Museum, and MoMA, alongside intimate galleries and regional cultural treasures. Performing Arts Coverage – From opera houses and jazz clubs to ballet, flamenco, classical, rock, and ragtime performances, we showcase both world-renowned and emerging talent. Spotlighting Artists Worldwide – Highlighting everything from internationally celebrated performers at the Metropolitan Opera to gifted musicians and creators at Montana’s Tippet Rise Art Center. Through these experiences, we share the stories that make travel richer — blending the arts, culture, and authentic local encounters in every journey. Our Experience We cover everything from cruising and train travel to performance venues, cultural events, nature escapes, and boutique properties. Our lively stories and photo essays often include: 20+ cruise lines and boat tour offerings (and counting) More than 150 cities across 119 countries Travel by plane, train, ship, and car — always with an eye for cultural discovery Each destination is approached with artistic insight, emphasizing unique local experiences, meaningful encounters, and practical travel advice for seasoned and first-time travelers alike. Our Background Christene “Cookie” Meyers is an award-winning journalist and accomplished musician, novelist, poet, and musical arranger with a lifelong passion for the arts and cultural storytelling. Her partner, Bruce Keller, is an award-winning photographer, sailor, and deep-sea diver who draws on a long career in engineering and building to create striking, artfully composed images that bring their stories to life. Together, Cookie and Keller form a creative team — both professionally and personally — whose work blends vivid travel writing, cultural insight, and world-class photography. Their features spotlight theater, parks, gardens, nature preserves, adventure destinations, and family-friendly attractions across the globe. They have traveled to 111 countries, and toured 11 U.S. states and 9 countries with their historical novel, Lilian’s Last Dance , available on Kindle and Amazon. A memoir chronicling a life of travel, learning, and surprise is currently in progress. When not traveling, Cookie and Keller split their time between Southern California and Montana’s Beartooth Mountains — finding inspiration both at home and abroad. Kudos Cookie and Keller have been internationally published as travel and arts journalists for decades. Their bylines appear in: San Francisco Examiner Chicago Tribune Big Sky Journal Western Art and Architecture Airline magazines Museum and gallery publications Many leading travel guides They have also been recognized as featured speakers, writing coaches, and cultural ambassadors — known for blending their storytelling with humor, history, and heart. Want to collaborate, feature your destination, or hire us as travel consultants? Contact us at whereiscookienow@gmail.com or click here to reach out.