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Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers enjoy one of many splendid views on a day-long circle tour of Oahu, which takes tourists around the island with many interesting stops. OAHU CIRCLE ISLAND TOUR FEATURES BEST OF A BEAUTIFUL ISLAND, FROM SCENIC STOPS TO CULTURE, ART, FOOD, SHOPPING, FUN Oahu's much visited Byodo-In Temple is part of the tour and one of its most popular stops. Take time to ring the gong. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER IF YOU'VE been to Honolulu but haven't treated yourself to Oahu Circle Island Tour , you're missing something varied, fun and wonderfully educational. So book a ticket back to Oahu, -- or pull up a chair for a whirlwind armchair tour of this intriguing island, with E Noa's entertaining and user friendly Circle Island tour and one of its most popular guides, Jacob, who likes to be called Humu. Shrimp tempura is served, tasty and local. From the moment you're picked up in the morning at your hotel, to the tasty  lunch -- prepared with seafood harvested at nearby shrimp farms -- to the end of a rewarding day when you're dropped back at your hotel, you'll learn, relax, enjoy and want to return.   Humu enlightens guests on his engaging tour with a pointers on places and natural history. WE WERE  up early to meet our bus, which arrived on time at Hilton Waikoloa Village where we were staying.  Other convenient pick-up and drop-off spots are at various other Waikiki hotels, a nice feature. Then our delightful sightseeing tour was underway with a spirited, heartfelt narration as we zipped out of town -- with a drive up Waikiki Beach. Humu pointed out major brand-name shops, historic hotels before he paused so we could admire the statue of famed Olympian and surf king Duke Kahanamoku. Surf fans festoon the much loved international legend with floral leis and we had time for a quick look, then away we went. World Famous surfer Duke Kahanamoku is remembered in a bronze on Waikiki. A break from the bus drive comes with a walk through beautiful Waimea Valley's park to a lovely waterfall. We drove onward up toward Diamond Head, past high-end neighborhoods and some of the world's best known surf spots. Each stop was accompanied by Humu's eloquent commentary, and music -- some of it live, provided by our versatile driver-guide and his ukulele. (He even devised a fun game where last one on the bus at each stop had to dance a hulu to his ukulele!) His top-ranked sightseeing tour features a pleasant blend of Oahu's sights, nature, history, art, local lore and commentary. The island's natural wonders, favorite foods, cultural sites, surfing spots and shopping experiences are all explored.   "Local color" is provided in a stop at Waikiki. AMONG OUR  favorite stops was the 20 minutes we spent at Pali Lookout, with time to admire the ocean  below and take photos. We also delighted in the architecture and landscaping at Byodo-In Temple where we visited the sanctuary, strolled the grounds and lit remembrance candles. This elegant place is a smaller-scale replica of the 950-year-old Byodo-in Temple, a United Nations World Heritage Site in Uji, Japan. BATHROOM BREAKS were incorporated into the day, much appreciated. Again, thoughtful Humu's choreography was well timed and courteous. We hiked to a waterfall in beautiful Waimea Valley, and for lunch at a popular cafe, enjoyed shrimp fixed to order and harvested from a nearby local farm. This lovely rooster and his hen friend might be among the sights you'll enjoy on the day tour. ON THE WAY to the waterfall, we again had time for refreshments, then wandered through an impressive botanical garden, admiring nicely marked flora from Hawaii's vast repertoire of flowers, trees, ferns and orchids. We've traveled with this well organized company for several years and guides such as Humu, Kimo and Mike give great personality, individuality and depth to the day. Their personal anecdotes and asides really make each trip and these guides are among the best we've had in decades of global touring. Several of the guides are from three and even four-generation tour guide families and they know the islands like no one else does -- the neighborhoods, nuances, small off-the-beaten-track eateries and street art that might go unnoticed. ***think this should be with the girls on beach Bathing beauties are part of the charm and photo opportunities on the E Noa tour. Most of the guides are of native Hawaiian ancestry so that's a plus, too. THE SHRIMP LUNCH  was a perfect mid-day break in a day of perfect day of touring, learning and relaxing. Shrimp farming is huge in Hawaii and we ordered that from a choice of several enticing preparations. Others enjoyed chicken, but the shrimp was hard to beat.  A vegetarian offering is also part of the day, all included in the fare. E Noa offers wonderful tours. From Pearl Harbor, a moving day trip, to its entertaining trolley ride options, check out this well established and highly rated outfit, a star in Hawaii's burgeoning tourist industry. enoa.com UP NEXT: We're in a Hawaii frame of mind with a culture cruise on the Big Island via a luxury raft in the Body Glove fleet. Come along to special coves and bays with insights from a noted historian and a chance to learn something you may not  have known about Captain Cook. And we're heading north on Oahu for a visit to Kualoa Ranch, 4,000 acres of beautiful land, where dozens of famous films have been shot. Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on travel, nature, performance and the arts, family, food, and more: www.whereiscookie.com Keller and Cookie enjoy a movie tour at Kualoa Ranch.

Scottsdale is a standout in foodie towns, for it has hundreds of restaurants. This spirited Arizona city offers a delightful range of dining options, here a luscious roasted corn salad and chicken and avocado salad. Story by Christene Meyers Photos by Bruce Keller "The Carpe Diem Kids" If you believe the best way to understand a destination is through its food, then Scottsdale, Arizona, is about to become one of your favorite cities and Arizona Food Tours is your golden ticket. This isn’t just a walking tour with a few bites tossed in. It’s a deep dive into local flavor, history, and personality, served one delicious plate at a time. Scottsdale may be famous for its luxury resorts, desert sunsets, and art scene, but there’s a culinary heartbeat here that often surprises first-time visitors. Arizona Food Tours captures that energy and translates it into an experience that’s equal parts tasty, educational, and wildly fun. Think of it as a progressive dinner with an engaging storyteller, a local insider, and a passionate foodie all rolled into one. A Local Company with a Big Appetite for Storytelling Arizona Food Tours was created with an ambitious and powerful idea: support local enterprises, celebrate culture, and eat well while doing it. The company focuses on independently owned restaurants, local chefs, and neighborhood gems that you might otherwise walk right past. This isn’t about chains or trendy-for-five-minutes spot it’s about food with roots, heart, and fun stories. The Mission, for example, is elegant and bold, full of memorable touches and fine Latin inspired fare. Each stop has unique and memorable qualities in this well designed tour. An energetic and delicious food tour is led by Zach, at right, who guided hungry participants through multiple stops in Scottsdale's finest restaurants. A great way to combine history with fun food of the city. From the moment the tour begins, you realize this is not a scripted, cookie-cutter experience. Guides are knowledgeable, personable, and enthusiastic about Scottsdale’s food scene. They don’t just tell you what you’re eating, they explain why it matters. You’ll hear about family-owned kitchens, immigrant influences, desert ingredients, and how Scottsdale’s culinary identity has evolved far beyond its cowboy-and-steakhouse stereotype. Old Town Scottsdale: Where History Meets the Plate Frashers Tavern in Scottsdale offers classic steakhouse fare from aged filet mignon, a popular peppercorn steak soup, a classic grilled cheeseburger and indulgent signature desserts. Here, Zach gives a lively overview. Many Arizona Food Tours take place in Old Town Scottsdale, a charming blend of new and old with a distinctive western flourish. It was our choice on a recent visit. We walked the charming gallery area, admiring art shops and boutiques -- and an impressive concentration of great restaurants. Our stroll between stops passed historic buildings and sculpture, including a bronze of Scottsdale founder Winfield Scott and his wife, Helen. We stopped to study public art, paused in shaded courtyards, learned fascinating tidbits of the history of this 48th state, the last of the mainland to be admitted to the union. All while working up an appetite for the next course. Zach kept the pace lively without rushing us. He is proud of Scottsdale's agricultural beginnings (Mr. Scott raised lemon trees, Zach explained.) He also described how Scottsdale attained international fame as a sophisticated dining destination. We learned a lot between bites, without ever feeling we were in a classroom. The Food: Diverse, Surprising, and Generous A luscious roasted kale salad with bacon and feta cheese was one of our memorable options. We arrived hungry, with only a sparse cereal and fruit breakfast. So we were happy to have generous portions at our stops. From a hearty mac and cheese to a fabulous taco, huge meatball, a tasty roasted kale salad and terrific ice cream, we were completely satisfied at tour's end. No mincy “sample bites” to leave us hungry an hour later. Portions are ample, beautifully presented and between walks and talks, create a satisfying meal. Famous meatballs at Evo Expect variety. One stop might highlight bold Southwestern flavor -- chilies, spices, and Sonoran flavors-- while another could lean to Mediterranean, modern American, or globally inspired cuisine. Scottsdale’s dining scene is wonderfully diverse, and the tour reflects that. You may find yourself tasting: Handcrafted tacos with unexpected and flavorful fillings Local beers and wines House-made sauces deserving of marketing on their own. Comfort food, like our tasty mac and cheese, worthy of note because of the pleasingly rich cheese blend. Sweet finishes that make you seriously consider dessert-first lifestyles As part of the registration, we were asked dietary restrictions and one of our group of 10 was very happy with her vegetarian options. Requests are handled with care and Zach even arranged non-alcoholic beer as one of the liquor options for a non-drinker. Guided food tour Scottsdale: It’s a Social Experience Fun friendly stop in Historic Old Town Scottsdale with Arizona Food Tours and a sculpture of the founding Scotts. One of the most delightful surprises of Arizona Food Tours is how social it is. Groups are small enough to feel personal, and by the second stop, conversations are flowing as easily as the drinks. We met interesting fellow travelers, snowbirds, locals, and food lovers from all walks of life. Sharing a meal dissolves barriers quickly. By the end of the tour, we had exchanged business cards, swapped recommendations, shared travel stories, and planned to meet up again with a couple we connected with. Wine selections and sports memorabilia abound in several of the stops. Arizona Food Tours is a fantastic introduction for visitors, but locals shouldn’t overlook. Many Scottsdale residents take the tour and are genuinely surprised by how many restaurants they hadn’t tried or even noticed. I lived in Scottsdale for a decade and learned about new places -- and places I'd passed by without stopping. Each food stop offers color, variety and special touches, from appetizers to this decadent dessert. Scottsdale Old Town is also a great location for: Weekend getaways Girls’ trips Couples looking for something different Solo travelers wanting an easy way to connect Corporate outings or small celebrations If you’re visiting Scottsdale for the first time, this tour can set the tone for your entire trip. You’ll leave with a mental list of places to revisit, dishes you’re craving again, and a better understanding of the city itself. Supporting Local Never Tasted So Good One of the most meaningful aspects of Arizona Food Tours is its commitment to the local community. By choosing this experience, you’re directly supporting small businesses, local chefs, and the creative culinary ecosystem of Scottsdale. In a travel world increasingly dominated by mass experiences, Arizona Food Tours feels refreshingly personal and purposeful. It reminds you that food isn’t just fuel. It is culture, connection, and memory. Why Arizona Food Tours Belongs on Your Scottsdale Itinerary Scottsdale offers plenty of other things to do: spas, hikes, shopping, golf, art walks. But Arizona Food Tours stands out because it combines many elements into a single experience. You’re walking, learning, tasting, laughing, and connecting -- all in just a few hours. You don’t just leave full. You leave informed, inspired, and planning your next meal. If you’re a traveler who loves to eat like a local, hear stories behind the plate and discover a city through its flavors, Arizona Food Tours isn’t optional, it's a must. And consider more than a single tour. The menus and stops are changed up day by day. MORE INFORMATION or to book: arizonafoodtours.com ON TAP : Check us out at whereiscookie.com for a look at the billion-dollar extravaganza that is taking Las Vegas visitors to the moon -- metaphorically. The Sphere must be seen to be believed. We'll also highlight best Las Vegas shows, celebrate the 100th birthday of the fabled Route 66, enjoy the Waikiki Trolley in Hawaii and jump on a Segway to get to the heart of a new town . Remember to explore, learn and live and share our posts won't you? The multi-billion dollar Sphere attracted us for an amazing visit. We'll offer tips to readers.

Body Glove is popular with locals and tourists alike, here admiring the spectacular Kona coast. SUPER YACHT FITS LIKE A 'GLOVE' FOR BEAUTIFUL, CULTURAL RIDE UP THE KONA COAST STORY BY CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Both music and history are part of the package on a fun dinner cruise. IF YOU HAVE wanted to take a boat trip up the gorgeous Kona coast, now's the time. This young passenger was moved to dance. A graceful and comfortable boat awaits you whether you're in the mood for snorkeling, whale and dolphin watching, or a luxury dinner cruise with cocktails and a tasty meal. Body Glove's newly renovated vessel is tailor made for tourists and locals looking to connect with one of the most beautiful corners of Hawaii. Body Glove's new catamaran is a perfect Hawaiian coastal pleasure boat, for entertainment, viewing of the scenery, relaxing with a beverage and the breeze, and communing with nature.   Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers have enjoyed Body Glove several times, here on her exciting "super raft" trip. Its varied itineraries and a pair of vessels offer adventurous snorkel and scenic tours, wildlife viewing and just plain relaxing while enjoying some of the Pacific's most attractive shoreline and wildlife activity. FAMILIES and kids of all ages will enjoy flotation and water toys on day trips, snorkeling with all the gear, whale and dolphin spotting. Toward evening, adults love the sunset and dinner cruises, relaxing evening options with cocktails and a meal served by a smiling, attentive staff. A delicious dinner cruise meal includes tender beef or fish, veggies and mashed potatoes. Body Glove's two-story, 65-foot motor yacht is a sparkling, handsome addition to Kona's Honokoahu Harbor. You'll see it awaiting as you approach.  Next to it is Body Glove's "super raft," which we've enjoyed, too.  It's a pleasant experience, attracting couples and adventure seekers, a small group who enjoy being close to the water.  We recommend both -- they're so different.   WE ACTUALLY  expected we'd be jostled a bit on the "super raft" but we were perfectly comfortable -- albeit yes, we did have a few bumps on the ride back to Kona from the Captain Cook's monument. Sun is setting while evening begins and passengers enjoy a lovely return to Kona Harbor. Body Glove's crew, captain and entertainment make or break a tour. The outfit hires top people who understand the importance of Hawaii's famous "aloha" or welcoming spirit. The service and specialists are tops. Wildlife guides, musicians and trained historians are lively and well informed. The crew goes beyond the call to be helpful and courteous, pointing out places to watch or helping spot manta rays, whales and dolphins. We've had great times on every Body Glove experience -- from a rewarding whale watch to lovely dinner cruise and super sunset cruise adventures. Look closely and you'll see Pele looking back at you in the coastal rock formations. ON THIS  recent trip, we enjoyed tasty veggie appetizers, drinks and dinner  on our journey up the coast.  We heard tales of early explorers and the native peoples' struggle to sustain their culture through the challenging missionary years.  A tour highlight: seeing Pele herself in an unusual rock formation.  According to Hawaiian mythology, the revered goddess of fire lives in the volcano on the Big Island. The guide points to her face, visible in the sea cliff. We could picture a woman lying on her side with long, wild red hair and fierce, piercing eyes. It's Pele, Hawaiians believe, keeping us in line. More information related to this story: bodyglovehawaii.com www.whereiscookie.com  .

View the global destinations media kit: destination features, regional highlights and storytelling from around the world by Cookie & Keller. DESTINATIONS MEDIA KIT Our story and media kits about global adventures For inquiries please contact us here We love destination travel — from cities and national parks to zoos and gardens, we’re always exploring. Whether it’s Barcelona or Bangkok, Buenos Aires or Savannah’s tree‑lined boulevards, Las Vegas or London, New York, Paris and Sydney, we’ve been there. We admire gardens in Victoria, Hilo and Madeira, talk with animals at the San Diego Zoo, reflect at the new World Trade Center and wander ancient parks at home. From iconic hotspots to charming hidden gems, we bring our global destinations storytelling to readers ready to explore. DOWNLOAD MEDIA KIT Exploring the Passion of Flamenco as it comes alive in Barcelona Story By Christene Meyers Photos By Bruce Keller Flamenco has us hooked. This showy, emotional art form is more than a dance or musical style. It is a cultural expression -- full of emotion. Nowhere is it more alive than in southern Spain, and in a favorite city, Barcelona. For here, flamenco has found a vibrant home. A flamenco dancer performs with passion and precision in a Barcelona venue. Singers, dancers and musicians blend in flamenco, rich in tradition and a cultura Keller Keller Jan 15 4 min read Barcelona Aquarium: Take A Deep Dive into the wonders of Marine Life Exploring Barcelona Aquarium: A must see Attraction in Port Vell Keller Keller Jan 8 4 min read Discovering Paradise Point a Hidden Gem in Mission Bay Park San Diego STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Nestled within the expansive Mission Bay Park in San Diego, Paradise Point offers a unique escape blending natural beauty, recreational activities, with a touch of luxury. This hidden gem is a destination beloved by locals for years. It offers a wealth of experiences for all tastes -- both for those seeking a peaceful, inexpensive retreat and those in search of an active day by the water with all the resor Keller Keller Jan 6 5 min read 1 2 3 4 5

Get the cruise travel media kit: ship reviews, insider upgrades, destination ports and expert commentary from Cookie & Keller. CRUISING MEDIA KIT Our story and media kits about global adventures! For inquiries please contact us here From new flashy cruise ships to stately trans‑Atlantic liners, thrilling America’s Cup yachts to sedate harbor tours, exciting whale watches and the canals of Venice and Amsterdam — we cover the waterfront. Our cruise travel media kit offers expert tips on finding the perfect cruise, discovering a new city by boat, or stretching your comfort zone on a high‑speed yacht, delivering compelling stories of the world’s famous and obscure waterways. DOWNLOAD MEDIA KIT Ships sail California's southern shores for education, entertainment American Pride tall ship Long Beach Christene Meyers Jun 11, 2025 6 min read City Cruises offers smooth sailing, tasty fare, elegance, beautiful sights City Cruises by whereiscookie.Com Christene Meyers Jun 4, 2025 4 min read Fantastic Fort Lauderdale: fun water taxi and new Jungle Queen show Jungle Queen is an institution in Fort Lauderdale, a beloved icon of the city and a four-generation enterprise. She's "reinvented" her... Christene Meyers Mar 6, 2025 5 min read 1 2 3 4 5

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.