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If you're looking for authentic, old-fashioned fun, a vintage restored town and beautiful scenery, head for Virginia City, Mt. A little train trip awaits, just a few miles between Virginia City and Nevada City, by a narrow-gauge railroad. OLD WEST FLAVOR IS KICKED UP A NOTCH IN LIVELY, PICTURESQUE OLD-TIME TOWNS STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Editor's Note: This story was reviewed and updated July 2026! This year, the University of Montana Western took over operations of the historic Opera House featuring the popular Virginia City Players to produce the troupe's 78th season. Nestled in the mountains of southwest Montana, Virginia City offers visitors an authentic journey into the American West. Once a booming gold rush town in the 1860s, today it remains remarkably preserved, with historic buildings, a charming old hotel, wooden Virginia City's Fairweather Inn is a charming two-story inn with period furnishings sidewalks, museums, shops, and living history experiences that bring the frontier to life. Whether you're exploring Montana on a scenic road trip or searching for a unique glimpse into the state's colorful past, Virginia City is a destination worth adding to your itinerary. MY AFFECTION for the area dates a half century back to my childhood. The old-fashioned fire truck run by Scott McClintic gives history and a pleasant tour of Virginia City. Growing up in the 1950s and 1960s, our family made an annual pilgrimage to this old-time treasure in southwest Montana. It's historical beginnings go back to the gold rush days of the mid 1800s. Much of the place has retained the flavor of that rich, sometimes rowdy time when Montana was discovered by seekers of fortune and the accompanying riff-raff. The Virginia City Players entertain full houses. The enterprise is run by University of Montana Western. Thanks to philanthropists Charles and Sue Bovey, today's Virginia City recaptures the times. Bovey began restoring the town with vintage buildings and goods shortly after World War II. He was fascinated by the period, when sluices lined the gulch and "cities" blossomed as trading and amusement centers. Miners flooded in, and others followed, in the tradition of supply and demand: ladies of the evening, criminals, cooks, vigilantes, shop keepers, bar tenders, cleaners, and grocers who commanded as much as $2 for a single egg. Virginia City was the best known town to spring up along the gulch. It survives! Virginia City Montana highlights NO WONDER so many Montanans revere Virginia City Montana and like to show it off. It's wonderfully "frozen in time," fun to share with visitors who might enjoy strolling a colorfully restored pioneer mining camp. We recommend the Fairweather Inn, right across from the historic Bale of Hay 1863 Bale of Hay Saloon, for its period charm and comfortable rooms. The Brewery Follies under the gifted direction of Mike Verdon are a must, with a fast-paced, racy show sure to entertain. A fine cast, talented musical director and the brewery environment guarantee a good time. We traveled back in time -- pre-cell phones, pre-computers, pre-television and telephone to celebrate the Boveys, of the General Mills fortune. They bought up old buildings and repaired failing existing structures to preserve the spirit of the 1865 capital of the Montana Territory. Virginia City had declined to ghost town status when Bovey and his wife began to pursue their passion. By the early 1950s, people were visiting Virginia City, with its iconic Bale of Hay Saloon, the Virginia City Players in the Opera House, and the venerable Fairweather Inn. Lodging in Nevada City is rustic, but comfortable. During our Virginia City Montana road trip we always take in the Virginia City Players, a must for theater lovers and a time honored part of the lore and lure of Virginia City. The Players' perform in the old Opera House presenting a spirited vaudeville show in the style of the Victorian music hall. Their ambitious season continues to September, offering good old-fashioned family fun. For adults, the Brewery Follies offers cutting-edge comedy, lively music and a tour de force of comedy and satire featuring well acted sketches and songs by a diverse cast with "guest appearances" courtesy the talented Mike Verdon, delightful and right-on as both Donald Trump and Elvis. Carefully restored Victorians are part of the allure of Virginia City. Some are B&Bs. The Follies offers a sophisticated, smartly written comedy cabaret in the 1863 brewery. There, H.S. Gilbert made his mark and money after immigrating from Germany to quench the boom town's thirst. We were thrilled to discover the Wells Fargo Steakhouse serves a tasty steak and wonderful appetizers, a nice Caesar salad and several fish and Italian offerings. There's also a pizza parlor, candy store, ice cream place, a couple other bars and cafes. Pop in Rank's Mercantile, which has the feeling of an old-fashioned, artfully arranged sundries shop, with unique souvenirs, clothing, toys, books, gifts and specialty groceries. NOW ON the historic register, the towns are owned by the state of Montana. Showing off an entire town as a National Historic Landmark is unique, so give yourself and your guests a treat. https://virginiacitymt.com/ https://www.historic-accommodations.com/ Rome, Greece, Bozeman? A wonderful show is up at Museum of the Rockies. "The Villas of Oplontis" brings us to Bozeman and the Museum, with a look at a thriving villa destroyed by the Mount Vesuvius eruption. An imaginative show of artifacts and antiquities awaits. UP NEXT: "The Villas of Oplontis" is a wonderful exhibit at Museum of the Rockies, which we visit next. The wonderful Museum has a stunning planetarium and living history farm, internationally recognized fossil and dinosaur exhibit, plus much more. The terrific new show about the life of a village near Pompeii is fascinating. Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on travel, performance, nature, family and more. If this destination sparked your wanderlust, there’s plenty more waiting for you explore more travel stories and inspiration over at WhereIsCookie.com

A bighorn sheep nods to winter, near Nye, Montana, near the Beartooth Mine. He was photographed on a recent visit. SPLENDOR IN THE NORTHERN ROCKIES, AS FALL STEPS ASIDE, AND WINTER WAITS IN THE WINGS STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" The Northern Rockies offer one of America's most rewarding road trip adventures. From towering mountain peaks and crystal-clear rivers to historic towns and endless open landscapes, Montana's Big Sky Country invites travelers to slow down and explore. Whether you're searching for scenic drives, outdoor recreation, wildlife viewing, or unforgettable photography opportunities, this region delivers breathtaking experiences in every season. "For how can one know color in perpetual green, and what good is warmth without cold to give it sweetness...." John Steinbeck, "Travels with Charley." Between snows, it's pleasant to wander the river, and maybe even catch a fish. Between snows and melts, the deer are out to forage, making them excellent material for an afternoon or morning of photos. MONTANA IS truly a land for all seasons -- if one likes variety. John Steinbeck discovered multiple Northern Rockies attractions and loved our mountains and prairies. He even found our cold winters inspiring. While his affection might have been partly bourbon induced, his sentiments have plenty of supporters. Right now, the temperature is zigging and zagging from freezing and below, to downright balmy rain, snow, ice and gorgeous bursts of sun and thaw come with the territory this time of year. Thousands are reveling in it, when downhill and cross-country skiing are at their best, with the snow crisp but not icy, the welcome sun shining without melting the white. Northern Rockies road trip attractions include the wildlife viewing in the winter and the fact that the crowds of summer are vanished. You can find parking and hiking even in the most normally crowded scenic viewing pull-offs. There's a freedom, calm and, yes, sweetness in winter that the crowds and heat of summer sabotage. Bighorn sheep a male on the right enjoy a stroll in late autumn. The male appears to be courting the female. The time was right. Cross country skiing in the Beartooths can make for an invigorating day. This guy was late to hibernation -- or took a break -- to play in the snow. He may have been unearthing something buried before to eat later. Northern Rockies road trip attraction for PHOTOGRAPHERS, nature lovers and bird watchers have long known that winter is prime time for viewing -- if one is properly dressed. Birds and critters -- except most bears -- are easier to see against the winter trees and rocky outcroppings often edged with white. Animals such as rabbits and deer are spotted more readily because their coats aren't as easily hidden in winter. Birds in the trees don't have the leaf cover of the other seasons. But patience is a virtue. Keller says he always does his homework on an animal's or bird's behavior before setting out for "the photograph." HE OFFERS these tips -- and he should know. His work is well published and you view it here week after week. He has the essential patience for researching his photo shoots before hand. I do that when I prepare for an interview with an actor, musician, writer, painter or politician. Makes sense to apply the same advice to photography. This chilly fellow at a feeder near our place in south-central Montana appears to like the mix of seed. A ranch near us is blanketed with snow for months. We often see the footprints of deer as we drive in or out. "Getting to know something about the subject before I set out with my camera makes the difference between being ready and prepared to do justice to that “golden moment” and feeling utter failure and frustration. (As when you stand not quite ready and watch your subject fly by or trot away.)" In our safaris to Africa -- both Kenya and Tanzania -- Keller's advice was echoed by our naturalist tour guide-photographers. In Masai Mara, a noted photographer said there is only one certain way to get to know wildlife, even after copious reading and research. The promise of spring and the beauty of green kept Steinbeck returning to Montana, as it does us! "You must spend time with them. Don’t just hang around for a few minutes, or pop your head out of a viewing coach. Study the subject. Read, of course. Then take every opportunity to be near the animal or bird, even in a preserve or zoo. "Look at other peoples' photographs. And if your subject isn't co-operating, try something else for a few minutes -- stand up, change position, move to the next clearing or spot. Sit quietly while the animals move around. Watch them. And wait. Your time to get a spectacular photo will come." A journey through Montana's Northern Rockies is filled with spectacular scenery, welcoming communities, and memorable adventures that showcase the very best of the American West. Whether it's your first visit or a return trip, you'll find countless reasons to explore this remarkable destination. For more cruise destinations, road trips, travel inspiration, and practical travel tips from around the world, visit WhereIsCookie.com, where every journey begins with a new adventure. UP NEXT: The Mission Inn, in Riverside, Calif., is known for its lavish holiday decorations which feature five million lights and attract visitors from all over the world. For two decades-plus, the Inn has championed the Festival of Lights, which besides its millions of lights features over 400 animated figures. Come have a merry look at Santa and his Elves, the Nutcrackers and fairies, palm trees and religious icons, all in the finest reds and golds. Riverside's Mission Inn is a wonderland of holiday lights and magical displays. Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us for our weekly posts. whereiscookie.com

The drama of Madeira is partly because it rises from sea level to 6,000 feet. One can drive it in less than an hour, experiencing the beauty in a gradual climb for splendid viewing. EXOTIC ISLAND OFFERS VARIETY OF CLIMATE, TERRAIN, AND LURES A war memorial reminds that Madeira prefers peace. The people are welcoming and friendly. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Editor's Note: This post was updated in July of 2026 Few cruise ports make such an impressive first impression as Funchal, the capital of Madeira. Surrounded by lush green mountains that rise dramatically from the sea, this welcoming city blends centuries of Portuguese history with breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you spend your day wandering the cobblestone streets of Old Town, sampling local specialties at the famous market, riding the cable car into the hills, or simply enjoying the waterfront promenade, Madeira rewards every visitor with unforgettable scenery and a relaxed island atmosphere. BEGIN YOUR Madeira outing in Funchal with its gorgeous flora and fauna. Climb from sea level to 6,000 feet and peer down at the ocean below. Stop for a beer or glass of wine and watch the ocean. Make time for the war memorials and a stroll through lush botanical gardens. But don't miss a chance to drive up that splendid coastline, with views to stagger. Bruce Keller and Christene Meyers above the Funchal coastline, enjoying the view. 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. You'll also be struck by an awareness of the island's stormy past. MADEIRA tried to remain neutral in the great world wars, but because of Portugal's proximity, and the island's strategic location, the people have lived with a sense of fear, and determination to preserve their safe haven. To secure international support for its authority in Africa, Portugal entered the war in 1914 on the side of Britain and the Allies. Our guide described an incident of more than 100 years ago which people still recount and pass on to their children. On December 1916 during World War I, a German U-boat entered Funchal harbor on Madeira; it torpedoed and sank, creating havoc for days. Today's population includes thousands of Gibraltarians whose ancestors were shipped to Madeira in 1940 when it was feared Gibraltar would be attacked. Time for a beer with a view of beautiful beaches. BRITISH PEOPLE have long loved Madeira, stemming from Britain's occupation after the Napoleonic Wars, a friendly occupation ending in 1814 when the island was returned to Portugal. Brits and many others are attracted to the dramatic landscape created by volcanic eruptions from the Atlantic seafloor. The layers of lava eventually reached the sea surface and created the Madeira Archipelago -- beginning a mere 20 million years ago. More recently -- about two million years ago -- the volcanic eruptions ended and seeds washed ashore. Birds followed and dined on the first plant growth, now beautiful, old-growth forests. We enjoy the island for those forests and dramatic mountains, balmy climate, and flowers of every shade. A fine old hotel, Reid's, is a fun splurge for a couple days. Reid's Palace, a stately hotel, reigns as beloved by British people and other international travelers. The people of Madeira enjoy plants and are expert cooks. Some restaurants have their own gardens. UNTIL RECENTLY, exploring the island was arduous but millions of dollars of infrastructure and road work have made its mountainous land and rugged coasts accessible. But Madeira has long been sought after for its fruit, flowers and temperate climate. Its rough terrain didn't stop sailors of yore. Phoenician, Roman and North African explorers all reached the island, likely landing near the seaside town of Calheta on the southwest coast. There, we visited an impressive memorial bound to touch the heart of every viewer. A stone wall reveals the outline of a soldier holding a child's hand with one hand and a gun in the other. Each of the figures is holding a rose and hundreds of small faces cover the remaining space. The memorial commemorates the "Overseas War," fought from 1961 to 1975. We were curious about this strange moniker. The war has several other names, too, all elaborate: Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers on the trail of food, history, art and music in Madeira. the Portuguese Colonial War or the War of Liberation, or the Angolan, Guinea-Bissau and Mozambican War of Independence. Our guide described it as "clashes between the Portuguese armed forces and forces of the liberation movements of the colonies." It happened during Estado Novo, the Portuguese authoritarian regime of 1933 to1974. THE PEOPLE seem happy to be free of the yoke of a dictatorship and are welcoming to tourists. Flights to Madeira can be found for as cheap as $219 from Europe and $900 from the U.S. Ferries from the mainland are a great alternative, and one can take a car or bicycle on board and be across the sea in a few hours. More information: visitmadeira.com Although our visit to Madeira lasted only a few hours, it left us wanting to return for a longer stay. The island's stunning landscapes, friendly locals, beautiful gardens, and unique culture make it far more than just another cruise stop. If your itinerary includes Funchal, take the opportunity to explore beyond the pier you'll quickly discover why so many travelers consider Madeira one of the highlights of any Atlantic or European cruise. "Keller and Cookie" wear leis presented to them by hosts at Hilton Waikoloa Village on The Big Island of Hawaii. UP NEXT : Lore of the lei. When one visits Hawaii, it is customary to wear a lei at some point during the visit. You might even be greeted by your host with a lei, or find one in your hotel room. It symbolizes love and welcome, and is a friendly way to express love, friendship, celebration, sympathy, honor or greeting. Hawaiians consider the lei the symbol of Hawaii and the aloha spirit. In ancient Hawaii, wearing a lei represented wealth, royalty and rank. More about that soon. Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly at: 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.

Subscribe for travel tips, blog updates, cruise reviews, and cultural stories from Cookie & Keller. Join 2M+ readers exploring 119+ global destinations. SUBSCRIBE Love travel, arts, and culture? Subscribe to receive new blog posts, global travel tips, cruise reviews, destination features, and behind-the-scenes updates—delivered straight to your inbox. Join a worldwide community of readers following Cookie & Keller's award-winning adventures across 100+ countries. First Name Email* Yes, subscribe to the blog * Subscribe Now

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.