Bruce Keller joins legions of tourists to take on the Leaning Tower STORY and PHOTOS By CHRISTENE MEYERS and BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Pisa, Italy, may be world-famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, but this historic Tuscan city offers so much more than a photo opportunity. Nestled along the Arno River, Pisa invites travelers to slow down and soak in its laid-back charm -- where medieval streets, lively piazzas, and hidden cafes create an experience both timeless and authentic. For us, Pisa is a destination worth savoring. No other monument in the world has attracted as much attention of the fabled leaning tower of Pisa. The magnificence of its monuments bears witness to its place in history. Cruise ship passengers flock to it. Many rent a car and drive the 41 miles from Florence. The world’s visitors flock here to be gaze, often listing slightly themselves -- consciously and not -- to admire the grand tower, begun by Bonanno Pisano in 1174. Its foundations were sinking from the beginning and it took nearly 200 years to complete her. That was finally accomplished with great fanfare in 1350, when Pisa was an important Italian port. A line of cruise cruise ships in Livorno, near Pisa, docked under an overcast sky, ready to embark on their next journey after their passengers enjoy the day in Pisa. In the early Middle Ages, Pisa was a much sought-after center of trade. It became a Florentine city in 1405, and was recognizable from afar for its remarkable tilting tower. The area is a rich architectural center, well worth a visit if you’re in Tuscany. A delight of Romanesque architecture, the square is photographed on a daily basis by the masses: Germans, Dutch, French, English, Americans and native Italians, who proudly describe its history, with plenty of hand gestures, of course. Trade, style and silt German poet Goethe once said that Tuscany looks like Italy should and the Romanesque cathedral with its celebrated tower makes Pisa more Italian than any other city. Pisa's Duomo is not quite as dramatic as the one in Florence, but equally interesting. The Piazza del Duomo in Pisa, Italy, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, is an exemplary work of medieval architecture, often referred to as the "Piazza dei Miracoli" (Square of Miracles). This verdant square includes four significant religious buildings: the famous Leaning Tower (campanile), the Cathedral (Duomo), the Baptistery, and the Campo Santo (cemetery). In the 12th Century, when nearby Florence or Firenze was still caught in the upheaval of the Middle Ages, Pisa was at her apex. Situated on the lovely Arno river and just 12 kilometers from the Ligurian Sea, the town had ties to Middle East ports and beyond. Pisa had a brief heyday, and by 1300 the younger, more vital cities of the region began to pass her by and in the 15th Century, nature stole the bustling port by filling her harbor with silt. World War II caused an even greater blow to the picturesque city. Extensive damage fortunately spared the centerpiece of Pisan culture, the spectacular Piazza de Duomo. That remains remarkably intact, incorporating both the European and Eastern architectural styles which caught the eyes of the well traveled Pisan merchants and sailors. Scaffolding and immense cables have been part of Pisa's history for years, through continuing controversial preservation efforts. For a time, visitors could not climb the tower, as we did years ago but today, visitors can again climb the narrow, spiraling steps to the top for a unique, tilted view lasting about 30 minutes. Tickets should be booked in advance. Inside Pisa's Duomo, a Gothic look greets the eye. A structural failure, it seems, was finally pinpointed to the third floor centuries ago, attributed to shifting deep beneath the earth’s surface. Designer engineers and structural architects from all over the world have been solicited for their advice. For the tower represents Pisa’s fundamental role in Italian culture, with its contributions to both a new era in sculpture and to the classic painting which would inspire many of Italy’s best and brightest: Giotto and the artists of the Camposanto. New artistic culture is born During the first two centuries of the millennium, the Pisan republic played an important role in civilized life. Marble had not been widely used for several centuries, but the Pisan architects returned to it, drawn by its beauty and durability. The square they envisioned was the most grandiose project conceived since ancient Rome. Nicola Pisano and his son Giovanni would, through their remarkable sculptural accomplishment, make a name for themselves to parallel those of Dante and Petrarch in literature. Italy’s great artists of the following centuries would pay homage to the Pisanos as do we all when we admire the works of Brunelleschi, Donatello and Michelangelo. All that glitters: Pisa's Duomo ceiling is gold. As building progressed, hundreds of workers were assigned to tasks both back-breaking and delicate. For the nearly two centuries of construction, the square was the largest work site in Europe, and its effect was wide-ranging. Architecture students traveled hundreds of miles to observe the then inventive techniques and merging of influences. Marble was appropriated from Roman monuments. Islamic designs were incorporated in the cathedral’s Duomo or dome. Internal colonades rose up from intricate geometrical decorations on the floors and the sculptures of the Battistero or baptistry took on a decidedly Gothic look. The cloister of the Camposanto, or cemetery, reflected these varied cultural influences and students and masters from throughout Europe must certainly have smiled with pride as they recognized their own cultures’ unique contributions. Eve's apple gets a new spin in this Tuscan poster. The public unveiling of the square was a huge affair, with feasting, dancing and religious ceremony. Builders and stone carvers were honored and toasted and the event was attended by noblemen and ladies from throughout the vineclad Tuscan hills. Guests came from as near as the villages of Casastrada, Mura, Il Castagna, and neighboring Siena, famed for its Medieval spirit, as well as Italy’s larger sister cities of Rome, Venice and Florence. In the neighborhood If your travels take you to Tuscany, you’ll surely visit Florence, the favorite Italian city of many, including this reporter. It is immensely welcoming, inviting for walkers and picture-postcard beautiful, surrounded by gentle hills and dotted with villas. Gorgeous fruits, nuts, candies await in Pisa and throughout Tuscany. The steep hills of the eastern and central part of the area are latticed by olive orchards and vineyards and the coast, especially near the inviting town of Grosseto, is breathtaking. Firenze was the birthplace of the Renaissance and the city has a dignity and grace that take the visitor back. The harmony imbued by famous men survives the thousands of motor scooters and abundant cellular phones that have become a way of life in Italy of 2000. For here Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Dante, Donatello, Ghiberti and Galileo held court. The Medicis came to power here, amassing a fortune of the world’s best art, and San Giovanni walked here, known to the faithful as Saint John the Baptist. The area is rich in history, dating back to the Etruscans. Romans followed and the name, Florentia, was born. Prophetically, it meant “destined to flourish” and flourish it did, through Goths, Byzantines, Lombards, clashing Guelphs and Ghibellines, warring blacks and white tribes. Florentia even survived the deadly Black Plague which took no sides and wiped out half the city in the 14th century. A convenient shuttle bus takes Cookie and other visitors back and forth to Pisa's Duomo and the famous tower. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a few days in Florence, and it’s a lovely drive to Siena from Pisa. You’ll turn inland and weave past industrial towns and the art-filled village of San Miniato. There, you’ll gaze from a castle above the town’s 12th Century cathedral. You’ll be the king or queen of the whole Arno Valley as you take minor roads through unspoiled Tuscan hills and towns of medieval towers. Magnificent views abound from lookout posts built for prestige by noblemen. Stop for a glass of vino because you’re in Chianti country. Dine on fish soup and pasta, and stay at hotels converted from Renaissance palaces. Stroll the charming piazzas, meditate in the cathedrals and palaces, surrounded by carefully preserved paintings. Remarkably, this part of Italy still has the atmosphere of long ago. The landscape is a patchwork of textures bathed in a beautiful soft, golden pink light that has attracted painters through the centuries. English is spoken throughout this part of Italy, but even your basic Italian is appreciated. A smile, a “prego” and a “grazie” go a long way towards international diplomacy. You need not be religious to cherish this part of the world. Its magic will touch you regardless of your persuasion and you’ll almost see the knights on horseback and hear the trumpets blare. You’ll step back in time on the narrow streets, protected by silent walls to hold you however briefly in the richest and most beautiful part of Italy. Yes, Pisa is home to a major UNESCO World Heritage site: the Piazza del Duomo (also known as the Piazza dei Miracoli or "Square of Miracles"). Inscribed in 1987, this walled area contains a world-renowned complex of four medieval architectural masterpieces. If you go: The two best ways to see this historic and well preserved section of Italy are by renting your own car, or by cruising into the nearby port of Livorno on a luxury liner then taking side trips. Among the world’s best lines, Crystal Cruises offers a luxurious transit of this enticing part of the world, and our last Mediterranean visit on Crystal’s Serenity was a pampering and relaxing treat. Livorno is on the west coast in the Ligurian sea about 80 minutes from Firenze. Pisa is nearby. Many other more reasonably priced lines navigate the area, including Royal Caribbean and Holland America, which offer fine value for the dollar, which is increasing against the Euro daily. Remember to explore, learn and live. And check us out weekly at: www.whereiscookie.com Follow our journeys at WhereIsCookie.com #Travel Blog #Travel #Adventure #Culture #Music n theater #WhereIsCookie

The quaint, colorful fishing village of Burano boasts some of the world's finest lace and high-end clothing shops. MINUTES FROM VENICE BUT A WORLD AWAY, A THE LAGOON ISLANDS FORM A QUARTET OF CHARMING ISLANDS BECKONS THE TOURIST STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Editor's Note: This post was updated July, 2026 A master craftsman demonstrates his glass-making skills on Murano. WHEN IN VENICE, don't miss the opportunity to take a side trip to Italy's lovely and nearby lagoon islands of Murano, Burano, Torcello and Lido. These languid, colorful islands are a world apart from the hustle and bustle of St. Mark's Square and each has a distinct personality. We've been happy with over a dozen Viator tours (the word means traveler). The lagoon island tour was delightful. Easy to access from Venice and a world apart from the bustle. Quiet Murano was the lagoon island we visited recently. It has been a center of glass-making since the 13th century. It is a fascinating half-day trip, with pleasant cafes and lovely gardens near the boat launch. Murano has a "village" feel, with the main attraction the glass shop, laid-back cafes, and small stores. Lagoon island of BURANO, on the other hand, seems designed for tourism. The shops of Burano are beautifully designed and high-end. The shops are upscale and offer high-end clothing center near the Burano is a thriving fishing village with quaint pastel colored homes and a centuries-old lace making tradition. Newlyweds George and Amal Clooney leaving Torcello during their wedding trip in 2014. Another Italy lagoon island of Torcello, once vigorous, is now scarcely populated -- less than 100 people actually live full-time on the island. But its beauty, charm and a couple of lovely hotels attract celebrities and the rich and famous. Actor George Clooney chose Torcello for his wedding a couple years ago to a British-Lebanese hybrid and successful attorney. The Belmond Hotel Cipriani is legendary, with gorgeous views of Venice proper from the island of Lido. Lido is mostly about one of the great hotels of the world, the Belmond Cipriani with its stunning views across the water, to the Doge's Palace and beyond. As one of the most celebrated luxury hotels in southern Europe, this elegant hideaway features exquisite antiques and local artifacts, Michelin-starred gastronomy, gracious help and Venice's only Olympic-sized swimming pool. I've sipped several Campari-with-sodas there. Elegant shops abound in Burano, famous for its fashion and homemade lace. WE HIT all these islands in a single day, visiting Murano first, a world renowned center of glassmaking for over 700 years. The island was settled by the Romans and was a prosperous fishing port and salt producer until the 11th Century. Unlike the other islands in the lagoon, Murano minted its own coins and had a well known monastery, suppressed by Napoleon in 1810, with every monk expelled during the next c couple years. The pretty waterfront of Murano, leads the way to a fine glass shop. The island's glassmaking fame came about in 1291 when the glassmakers of Venice were forced to move to Murano because of fire risk. Thus began an enterprising recovery, leading to Murano's fame in glass, bead and mirror making. Murano glass is famous worldwide. Its quality endures as the island's main industry. WE RECOMMEND a full or half-day tour. Here are our two favorite tour contacts, both offering value, expertise and a pleasant outing: viator.com; citywonders.com/venice UP NEXT: Hidden Oahu. Come with us to discover the beautiful Na Pali Coast of northern Oahu. The beautiful Napali coast offers an eye catching experience on Oahu. Few people take the time to visit this gorgeous part of the Hawaiian Islands, best visited by boat, or helicopter. Hollywood, however, has long known about this breathtaking 15-mile section of Oahu. Come visit with us, remembering to explore, learn and live. Catch us weekly for a novel look at travel, the arts, nature and family, at whereiscookie.com New travel stories, tips & unforgettable experiences Follow our journeys at WhereIsCookie.com #Travel Blog #Travel #Adventure #Culture #Music n theater #WhereIsCookie

Ketchikan's Creek Street is as bustling now, differently than in the 1930s when booze and brothels were the order of the day. Now, it's tourism, and the street is lined with shops, galleries and cafes. CRUIN'S TOUR: STORIES, SIGHTS, SOARING EAGLES, TOTEM POLES AND GALLERIES GALORE Colorful totem poles in Ketchikan tell sacred stories and have many meanings in native culture. Editor's Note Originally published: July 2022 Last updated: June 27, 2026 This article has been reviewed and updated to reflect current travel information, attractions, schedules, pricing, lodging options, and visitor recommendations. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" If you're cruising through Alaska, chances are your first stop will be Ketchikan—a charming waterfront town known as the "Salmon Capital of the World." Nestled between lush rainforest-covered mountains and the sparkling waters of the Inside Passage, Ketchikan offers visitors an unforgettable blend of Native Alaskan culture, abundant wildlife, fresh seafood, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're hoping to spot bald eagles, watch black bears catch salmon, explore colorful Creek Street, or experience one of the world's largest collections of totem poles, Ketchikan delivers an authentic Alaska adventure that appeals to every type of traveler. You haven't really seen this lovely "first" Alaskan town unless you've toured it with a jovial transplanted Scotsman named Cruin MacGriogair. Since it was our fifth visit, we were looking for something new and found this charming tour guide, woodcarver, philosopher on line. He met us dressed in a traditional kilt -- he's a big guy, so it's a big kilt -- to begin a lively tour of this 1880s village turned bustling tourist spot. This stunning scenery is what attracted Cruin and enticed him from his native Scotland The town gets its "first" moniker because it is set at the southernmost entrance to Alaska's famed Inside Passage -- network of waterways that snake through some of the world's most stunning wilderness. It's the "first" town most tourists see on their trek into our 49th state. SO WHY DID did MacGriogair trade pastoral Edinburgh, Scotland, for the rugged beauty of Ketchikan? "Why? Just look at this," he says, sweeping his hand affectionately across the horizon. "Beauty everywhere." On that note, we set off for Cruin's take on the town's most famous Creek Street. He pointed out a sign for "Married Man's Trail," where men could sneak along a woodsy trail to reach the brothels on Creek Street below undetected. Bruce Keller and Cruin MacGriogair talk history. Brothels were big business with 30 operating between 1903 and the 1953 closure of the infamous red light district. Its most famous madam, Dolly, operated until then and is vividly remembered in Dolly's House and Museum, complete with red satin curtains, appropriate for a red light district. Cruin displayed his custom made tools, with which he carves and creates one-of-a-kind art. CRUIN TOLD TALES of a hidden trap door through which booze boxes were smuggled into boats on the river below, and through which partiers could escape during raids. We drove both ends of the town and beyond, traveling the Tongass Highway to the new cruise ship dock (large ships pay less here, docking a few kilometers from the city) to the other end of town with beautiful trees and abundant bird life. Because a "Cruin tour" is custom designed, this amiable guide will stop for whatever piques your fancy. Here, he pulled over so we could photograph this beautiful bald eagle on a drive outside town. He stopped so we could photograph a bald eagle and answered questions about berry bushes and trees, showing knowledge and enthusiasm for his chosen home. THE PLACE has a wild feel, with both fishing and timber still a large part of the economy. Tourism, of course, is the third side of Ketchikan's economic triangle. Cruin's delightful tour is custom designed. The visitor tells him what he wants to see. We said "take us off the beaten track," and he did, with history, art, dining and shopping tips. Christene "Cookie" Meyers and Bruce Keller at a "Cruin stop." Our ship was among three that recent day, when the town's 6,000 people are visited by thousands of tourists departing ships to spend their day seeing the sights and shopping. NEARLY ALL come away with a package of salmon, since Ketchikan is the world's salmon capital. At the salmon industry's peak in the 1930s, there were 13 canneries exporting tens of thousands of pounds of salmon. WHAT GIVES the town its name? Ketchikan comes from the Tlingit name for the creek, Kitschk-hin, which likely means "the river belonging to Kitschk." We learned of other possible meanings, including my favorite: "Thundering Wings of an Eagle." Cruin also emphasized that native peoples inhabited the area for centuries before its 1886 settlement. That explains the town's fascination with Native American artifacts and totem poles, on display throughout town. A skilled carver himself, Cruin makes his own tools, so he knows the painstaking way in which totems are created. He also shared insight into the word "totem.” It's a reference to a guardian, ancestral being, or a supernatural spirit, and can also symbolize significant events. The Tlingit call the totem pole "kooteeyaa,” meaning "people of the other side.” THE TOWN'S colorful and continually changing totem poles tell the history of its people through these eye-catching, wooden sculptures. We'd seen Totem Bright State Historical Park with its extensive totem collection so we asked Cruin to show us his town's unique poles instead. With his wife Elizabeth, of native descent, he's studied many Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian totem poles. Some are under restoration, others recently preserved, a few need work and the town plans to see that done, Cruin said. Crazy Wolf Studio offers unique masks, authentic glass and carved wooden art and a fine selection of tasteful souvenirs. Ketchikan shore excursions must see stops: WE'D EARLIER toured nearby Misty Fiords National Monument, a glacier-carved wilderness with snowcapped mountains, waterfalls and salmon spawning streams. It's fun to see once but you'll find a more vivid insider's tour through Cruin's own stories and close-up bird, forest and nature stops. A beautiful sculptural bear commands center stage at Ketchikan's Tongass Historical Museum. WE RECOMMEND a stop at Totem Heritage Center, a downtown museum that houses precious 19th-century totem poles collected and preserved with permission from the Alaska Native elders, and Saxman Totem Park, home to 25 totems -- well done, authentic replicas of original poles found left in abandoned villages as Native Alaskans moved into more populated cities. And do ask Cruin to take you to his favorite gallery, Crazy Wolf Studio, where native American artist Ken Decker's exquisite work is on view. It's a museum quality collection of masks, beadwork, glass and carvings, plus for the budget minded, beautiful native inspired notecards, vivid prints and elegant dream catchers. Our favorite sources for deep dive information on Ketchikan shore excursions www.ktn-ak.us www.crazywolfstudio.com www.ketchikantours.biz A conductor brings the train in aboard the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad, with spectacular scenery. UP NEXT: We're north -- in Alaska, with highlights of several days spent there recently. Next up, we ride the chilly rails into Yukon territory aboard one of the world's most exciting trains. Then we're whale watching in Juneau, for humpbacks, orcas and a bevy of dolphins. Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us each week for a fresh look at nature, adventure, travel, family and the arts. If this destination sparked your wanderlust, there’s plenty more waiting for you, explore more travel stories and inspiration over at WhereIsCookie.com Please follow us and share the link: www.whereiscookie.com

The High Line in New York is a wonderful place, born of a grassroots effort to save a derelict elevated train track. It is now a much visited park with walking paths, art and lush landscaping. NEW YORK'S HIGH LINE OFFERS RESTFUL OASIS IN A BUSTLING CITY STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers pose in one of the viewing areas of the popular High Line. IF YOU are ready to herald the arrival of autumn, there's no prettier place than New York's beautiful High Line. Created out of the remains of an abandoned New York Central Railroad viaduct, the High Line is a happy example of a successful grassroots effort. Nearly 30 years ago, the neglected tracks were slated for demolition, so neighbors on Manhattan's West Side organized to save them. Thinking outside the box, they drew financial support to create a spectacular oasis in one of the world's busiest cities. Today's High Line stretches nearly 1.5 miles, offering locals and tourists an artful stroll along scenic walkways and unique viewing platforms. We admired both changing and permanent art installations along with hundreds of attractive plants. Strollers walk along what was once an elevated train track used for shipping goods to factories. High Line wonders, history THE HIGH Line has a colorful past. It opened in 1934 as part of the New York Central Railroad's West Side Line, replacing street-level tracks known as "Death Avenue" because of frequent accidents involving pedestrians. The "High Line" elevated freight trains above the streets to higher ground, transporting goods directly to factories and warehouses, many of them in the Meatpacking District. Pausing to admire the landscape of New York's stunning High Line is Christene "Cookie" Meyers. FRIENDS OF THE High Line was founded in 1999 by neighborhood residents Joshua David and Robert Hammond who began the non-profit for the High Line’s preservation. The organization oversees maintenance, operations and public programming for the park, sponsoring nearly 500 diverse events and programs each year and generating essential private funding. An endowment enables the free park's success. High Line art intrigues to draw the eye in. THE PLANTINGS are a highlight of High Line's wonders. The gardens have a natural look, inspired by the landscape that grew on the High Line during the 25 years after trains stopped running. Grasses, perennials, trees, and bushes were chosen for their hardiness, sustainability, and variation, with a focus on native species. Intriguingly, in several places, the High Line’s railroad tracks were returned and are cleverly integrated into pathways and flower beds. For those who wish to sit, the park offers “peel-up” benches and sundeck chaise lounges overlooking Hudson River. We enjoyed lunch from our pick of ethnic food vendors, watched a dancing group perform and tagged on to a free docent-led tour. There are plenty of places to stay, including a hotel named after the project. The High Line Hotel is a "repurposed" historic building in the city's West Chelsea neighborhood. It was built in 1895 as a dormitory for the General Theological Seminary. The High Line's "Foot Fountain" is just that, a functional work of art and one of many eye-catching pieces strollers enjoy. CONVERTING the outdated freight corridor into a park cost $250 million and generated 8,000 construction jobs. The redevelopment increased tax revenue by $1 billion and increased property values in the neighborhood. New businesses, including hotels and restaurants, have created 12,000 new jobs. And since 2014, more than 20 million people have visited the High Line, which hosts in excess of 500 public programs and events annually. Happily, the High Line has become a global inspiration for cities to transform unused industrial zones into dynamic public spaces. It's a wonderful, free diversion if you're planning a visit to this remarkable city. More info: A visit to the High Line is free. The park can be accessed from several locations. For more on activities and visiting, go to: www.thehighline.org/visit/ The Lower Falls of the Yellowstone are a spectacular sight, no prettier than in the last days of summer when crowds lessen. ON TAP: Yellowstone National Park is a treasure enjoyed by millions from around the world. It beckons visitors in these last days of summer to visit the park as it heralds the coming of autumn. As Labor Day approaches, there's no better time to visit Yellowstone, Teton, Glacier and other national parks. The aspen are turning, wildlife are on the move and crowds are beginning to thin as schools resume. Tips on making the best of a fall visit to our beloved national parks, up next. Meanwhile, explore, learn and live and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on nature, travel, the arts, family and more. Please share our link with others: www.whereiscookie.com

Imagination and reverence for nature mark his 'La Pedrera' & other fanciful buildings Looking to the sky, as he often did, Antoni Gaudi celebrated light and nature in his magnificent open-air view which draws the eye skyward at Casa Mila. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers enjoy a moment of reflection outside Gaudi's spectacular Casa Mila, or "La Pedrera." WHEN THE brilliant architect Antoni Gaudi was struck by a tram on a pleasant June morning in 1926, he had no identification on his body. He rested unknown in a morgue for several days while officials tried to identify him. The great man was walking to his daily confessional at a nearby church when tragedy befell him. When it was discovered that he was an internationally known architect -- one of the city's proudest sons -- he was mourned for weeks. Today, he is still celebrated as a genius. His work is acclaimed for its grace, originality and connection to nature, evident in its nods to the sea and its creatures, and to birds, flowers, trees, and all living things. WE SPENT a recent week marveling at Gaudi's wondrous accomplishments. He viewed the natural world as perfect, a creation from which he drew his inspiration. This connection is visible in all his work but critics believe it is most present in his masterpiece, Barcelona's famous Sagrada Familia. The cathedral has been in constant development since its foundation was laid in 1883. Its completion -- many times delayed -- is now scheduled for 2026, on the 100th anniversary of the great artist's death. Gaudi architecture, Barcelona highlight musts MUCH OF Gaudí's career was occupied with the construction of the Sagrada Família, his "over the top" cathedral where pineapples and the Virgin Mary peacefully coexist. It's difficult to name a favorite of Gaudi's magnificent buildings. Tourists flock to his famous Sagrada, but grand as it is, it is not our favorite of his works. We've spent several relaxing afternoons at his fanciful Park Güell, and at the better part of a day each at two stunning homes he designed in downtown Barcelona: Casa Milá and Casa Batlló, an important pair of modernist buildings. Nearby Casa Batllo's roof is a fanciful place, representing scales on a dragon's back. This sixth visit to Barcelona, we revisited Casa Mila, also known as La Pedrera, which means "stone quarry" and celebrates Gaudi's Catalan heritage and love of landscape. Fans of Gaudi architecture don't miss these Barcelona highlights. They are musts, as Gaudi was the greatest exponent of Catalan Modernism. Nearby Casa Batllo deserved a return visit, too, as we honored Gaudí for his individuality and his unique style. Most of his most famous creations are in Barcelona, one of the reasons we return so often. Genius architect's vision shaped by nature Above, a storage closet in La Pedrera gives insight into the life of a wealthy family in Barcelona nearly a century ago. At right, the life of Gaudi is shared in books in many languages, with t-shirts and art for sale, too. Some think the shapes of Gaudi's top floor art in Casa Mila represent the scales of lizards or creatures of the sea, serpents or mythical beings. Nature was his most significant and abiding influence, including his masterpiece: La Sagrada Familia. A young woman poses under a mosaic arch at Casa Batllo, hand raised, as other tourists admire a splendid Barcelona city view behind. The fanciful apartment is a main Barcelona attraction. LA PEDRERA -- meaning “the stone quarry” because of its unusual rough-hewn appearance, is more commonly called Casa Milá and is one of Barcelona’s most popular modernist buildings. UNESCO recognized it as a World Heritage site in 1984. Built between 1906 and 1912, the magical structure came to life when clients gave him a limitless budget and reign to do something "wonderful and different." It housed several apartments and was Gaudí’s last private residential design. Many consider it the most imaginative house in the history of architecture, one which continues to influence architects today. It is truly more a sculpture than a building. The rooftop of Casa Mila and Casa Batllo are fine places to reflect on Gaudi's genius. The façade is a varied and harmonious mass of undulating stone that, along with forged iron balconies, explores the irregularities of the natural world. Other Spanish artists gained fame in their experimental work, too. MANY PEOPLE wonder if Gaudi and Salvador Dali were friends, and if they endorsed one another's work. Much older Gaudi was born in 1852; Dali was born in 1904. One wonders, then, if either man knew Picasso, born in 1881, between the two other famed artists. La Pedrera was fashioned into several apartments by Gaudi, and is now a museum and fundraising venue. While Gaudí and Dali were buddies, often complimenting each other's work, Picasso and Gaudí did not see eye to eye. Both made art their life's work, but while Gaudi didn't criticize fellow artists and visionaries, Picasso spent a lot of time dissing the Sagrada Família, Gaudí's magnum opus. Gaudi didn't return the barbs, remaining a man of deep faith, honoring the credo of tolerance and forgiveness. He was in fact on his way to mass, his daily ritual, when he was struck by the tram. Only when his housekeeper reported him missing did officials figure out who he was. Cookie explores a Gaudi's stairway, distinctive in its use of curves inspired by his view of nature. GAUDI'S LIFE'S work is a celebration of nature and the natural world. The only woman he loved, historians tell us, did not return his affections. (She was a divorced teacher whom he met during one of his early projects.) Much has been written about his art -- but there isn't much to tell about his personal life since he remained single and devoted his life to his art and private commissions. barcelonaturisme.com visitbarcelona.com Cookie and Keller toured Porto, Portugal, to view its bridges, museums, eateries and special unknown corners. Tune in next week for "free tours" tips and other Porto musts. UP NEXT: Free tours. From the far north of Europe to the southern reaches of Spain's Canary Islands, free tours are becoming the rage. Many cities around the world now offer no-fee walking and sightseeing tours. The trend of ‘'free'’ walking tours began in Berlin in 2004 and has spread to over 40 cities around the world, including nearly every major tourist destination in Europe. We give pointers on finding them, and suggestions for tipping the well informed guides, who rely on and deserve generous gratuities. They live on our tips. Meanwhile, remember to explore, learn and live. Catch us weekly for fresh spins on travel, the arts, nature, family and more: www.whereiscookie.com

Johns World Famous Hawaii Hot Dogs Editor's Note Originally published: June 2023 Last updated: June 30, 2026 This article has been reviewed and updated to reflect current travel information, attractions, schedules, pricing, lodging options, and visitor recommendations. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Kiem Kids" One of the best decisions you can make during a visit to Oahu is to climb aboard the Waikiki Trolley. More than just transportation, it's a relaxing sightseeing experience that takes the stress out of exploring Honolulu's most popular attractions. Instead of worrying about traffic or expensive parking, you can sit back in an open-air trolley, enjoy the island breeze, and listen to local guides share stories, history, and insider tips. Whether you're visiting iconic Diamond Head, shopping in Waikiki, exploring historic downtown Honolulu, or heading toward Pearl Harbor, the Waikiki Trolley makes getting there part of the adventure. TAKE THE SCENIC TOUR: HOP ON, OFF WAIKIKI TROLLEY FOR FUN TIME SOAKING UP BEST OF HONOLULU Even on a slightly cloudy day, Waikiki Trolley brings a sunny spin to Honolulu sightseeing. We recommend our base, Hilton Hawaiian Village. HONOLULU HARKENS! It's our happy place, just five-plus airplane hours from San Diego, but a continent away from mainland life. We love the city for its variety of activities, ethnic food, fine hotels and fabulous climate. Even when it rains, it's only that warm "liquid sunshine." What a beautiful place. We love to explore Honolulu from Hilton Hawaiian Village and its range of lovely hotels. One may book through either Hilton Grand Vacations, or Hilton hotels since the range of Hawaiian Village properties offer both options. Climb aboard Waikiki Trolley, Oahu's only "hop on and hop off" transportation. Besides offering a crash course on the city's wonders, it's just plain The bronze of King Kamehameha I stands proudly out the front of Ali’iolane Hale, downtown Honolulu. We opted for the famous trolley to fit as many of Honolulu's sights and attractions into three days as we possibly could. We were happy with the trolley system because we saw tons more in our few days based at Hilton Hawaiian Village than we would have with privately arranged tours. On the easy-access trolleys, we explored the history, mystery, food and fun of this lively Hawaiian city. We saw new sights, learned new facts about Honolulu and the Hawaiian Islands. We base at Hilton Hawaiian Village, with a splendid array of hotels and great location.We We appreciated the directional help of friendly drivers, whose devotion to the islands and their comfy, informative trolley rides is legendary. Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers at Bishop Museum, a Honolulu attraction. WE HOPPED ON and off with hour-long stops at points of interest: Iolani Palace, Punchbowl Crater and the beautiful war memorial, the Hawaii State Art Museum, Sea Life Park, Honolulu Museum of Art and Bishop Museum, Chinatown for lunch one day and the locals' favorite hot dog stand next day. We strolled by the majestic statue of the great ruler, King Kamehameha. Punchbowl Crater has become a well visited and much loved memorial to the war dead. Officially known as the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, it's a trolley stop. ALL OUR drivers were personable, knowledgeable and eager to share their city's wealth of sights, history and attractions. Each time we exited the trolley, we checked to make sure where we'd find it and at exactly what time. Each time, within an hour or a few minutes more, the trolley arrived as promised at the same place we'd left it. To board, we were delighted to stroll less than a block from our hotel in Hilton Hawaiian Village. We found our trolley at the venerable Ilikai Hotel on Ala Moana, where it arrives each morning. It transport tourists to the tour "hub" where one chooses which route he wishes to explore and a friendly staffer guides tourists to the proper vehicle. WE LOVE city tours and Waikiki Trolley offers fine ones Including a bird's eye view of Honolulu’s historic sites and neighborhoods. Toss in beautiful scenery, the Pacific Ocean, world-class shops and delectable food from a United Nations of restaurants. Four lines offer convenient hop-on hop-off options with fun, open-air vehicles for enjoying people watching, famous landmarks and Waikiki with all its glitz and wonder. Plastic pull-down shades are handy if it sprinkles. Our driver even supplied rain ponchos for one brief cloudburst. We joined families, couples and a mix of international tourists as we tried all four lines. Waikiki Trolley's pink line makes its way to the famous Ala Moana Shopping Center. Passes are available for several lengths of time and if you buy a pass for several days, you'll save money. That's what most people do. The four color-coded lines visit nearly every place or sight you'd care to see in a few days of visiting. Bruce Keller and Mike, a friendly Waikiki Trolley driver, explore the sights of the city with flair in a fun vehicle. ALL THE ROUTES are FUN Waikiki Trolley's blue line offers special scenic pleasures as it visits the shoreline of Waikiki along the gorgeous coast line plus spectacular views of Diamond Head. We had stunning ocean views on the way up to Sea Life Park, stopping at famous landmarks including Hanauma Bay and Halona Blowhole. Shrines, museums, restaurants, beaches, shopping and more: all await on the fun Waikiki Trolley. The red line visits historic Punchbowl Crater, among the oldest natural landmarks on Oahu and one of Honolulu's most visited places. Its fascinating history dates back nearly 100,000 years, a tidbit offered by our history loving and entertaining guide. Honolulu's historic Chinatown is also a highlight of Waikiki Trolley's red line. Again, our patient driver-guide helped several tourists find the restaurant they wanted, then gave them directions to their cruise ship. He asked when they were to board and assured them that they had an leisurely hour or two to enjoy lunch and make their ship on time. WE FEEL AT our best when in this exciting American city. It feels like we're still in Malaysia, with its intriguing mix of shops and restaurants. But the currency, language and landmarks are familiar. We're back in the U.S.A. and enjoying one of the Pacific's great cities at a delightful hotel complex with a fabulous, user friendly and fun trolley system. And if you want to enjoy watersports, we recommend Hawaii Nautical, with its appealing variety of cruises -- from sunset, snorkel and dinner options to turtle, whale and dolphin watching. Recommendations from whereiscookie.com : waikikitrolley.com for tour options, prices, locations hawaiinautical.com/book-now for boating tours Hilton Grand Vacations: hiltongrandvacations.com/ Grand Waikikian: hiltongrandvacations.com/en/resorts-and-destinations/hawaii/oahu/grand-waikikian-a-hilton-grand-vacations-club Hilton Hawiian Village, Oahu: hilton.com/en/hotels/hnlhvhh-hilton-hawaiian-village-waikiki-beach-resort/ Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Kona side of the Big Island: hilton.com/en/hotels/koahwhh-hilton-waikoloa-village UP NEXT: "Stscrippsranchtheatre.org 858 395-0573 Guests are shouting for more at "The Empire Strips Back," selling out in San Diego. It's an affectionate, unauthorized parody of the 1977 blockbuster, with all the familiar characters, beautiful lighting and costumes, sexy dancing, fun music and, yes, a strip tease theme. We were part of a standing ovation recently, following sold out runs in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago and New York. Five Australian cities have also given the show raves. Come with us to "The Force" (and farce) as we explore, learn and live. Catch us weekly for a fresh spin on travel, nature, performance, the lively arts, family and more. We love comments, too. Please share the link with like minded people, too, at whereiscookie.com "The Empire Strips Back" takes favorite "Star Wars" characters and brings them to life in a burlesque parody. "The Empire Strips Back" The journey doesn’t stop here - follow along for more adventures and travel inspiration at WhereIsCookie.com

The Old Town Trolley operates in seven U.S. cities, offering a unique and lively way to see each town, here San Diego. HOP ON HOP OFF TO EXPLORE YOUR TOWN WITH A NEW POINT OF VIEW AS WE DID IN SAN DIEGO Editor's Note Originally published: June 2018 Last updated: June 30, 2026 This article has been reviewed and updated to reflect current travel information, attractions, schedules, pricing, lodging options, and visitor recommendations. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER The Carpe Diem Kids The historic Hotel Del Coronado is on the trolley route. Little Italy beckons, a fun and lively place to stop. STEP ABOARD the Old Town Trolley in seven U.S. cities and be entertained in a leisurely way as you play tourist and learn something new about the town. Located in Boston, Key West, Washington D.C., St. Augustine, Savannah, San Diego and Nashville, the trolley takes pride in showing off each city to its best advantage, exploring the historic sights and famous landmarks as well as charming hidden corners that might not be well known. Its hop on-hop off feature is a huge draw, allowing passengers to exit for lunch or a snack, shopping or a museum, or simply to stretch, wander and learn. IN SAN DIEGO, we boarded the Old Town Trolley with friends from Seattle. We four experienced all 10-stops with a mid-point "hop off" downtown, to share a meal. Enjoying a trolley stop, from left, Bruce Keller, Christene (Cookie) Meyers, Julia Ratliff and her mother, Pam. Buildings with vintage character are described sometimes with hauntingly spooky details We loved showing off San Diego Highlights to our pals, Pam and Julia Ratliff, who share our connection to Stillwater County in Montana. After our leisurely lunch, we waited only five minutes for the next trolley. Stops are frequent so you can time your strolling, museum visit or meal and never have to wait long. Trolleys arrive every half hour or less. A trip through Barrio Logan gave us a look at delightful one of a kind art. Warehouses have been converted to inviting galleries, taco shops and breweries. At the harbor, the Maritime Museum houses a submarine and vintage ships including the Star of India. BALBOA PARK is also a fine place to "hop off" -- with wonderful museums, fountains, gardens and strolling paths. One could easily spend a day in Balboa Park alone. Each city has its parks, monuments and historic points, a lively nightlife and restaurant area in San Diego. Little Italy looked so inviting our friends returned there for dinner before heading to Coronado where they were based. The Star of India is the show piece of the San Diego Maritime Museum. If you are visiting one of the Old Town Trolley cities, your trip on the trolley will be greatly enhanced if you ride with a local person. The driver-guides we had were great but having native son Keller with us really enhanced the day. His asides were enriching -- about the harbor, Maritime Museum and Star of India and San Diego famous waterfront Park Keller's childhood haunts (he was born in San Diego) and more. He described our Hispanic neighborhood, Barrio Logan, as "a blossoming artistic, industrial area with Mexican roots." At its heart is Chicano Park, with murals depicting the community’s activism, and famous Hispanic figures such as artist Frida Kahlo. ANOTHER feature of the Trolley tour is a booklet of free and or discount attractions. And if you live in one of the seven cities, you can enjoy the trolley for free, when accompanied by a paying adult guest. Thanks to our Seattle friends, we enjoyed this perk. TrolleyTours.com As our San Diego adventure with Old Town Trolley Tours comes to an end, it’s worth noting that the familiar orange-and-green trolleys are just one part of a much larger North American story. The Old Town Trolley Company operates popular hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tours in several historic destinations across the United States, including cities like: Key West St. Augustine Savannah Washington D.C. Boston Nashville Each one offering its own blend of storytelling, culture, and easy sightseeing. For travelers who enjoy exploring a destination from the rails or wheels of a vintage trolley You can also read about a few other memorable rides we’ve experienced at WhereIsCookie.com including the frontier-flavored Buffalo Bill Area Trolley in Cody, Wyoming and the charming Astoria Riverfront Trolley in Astoria, Oregon. Each one proves that sometimes the best way to discover a place is to simply sit back, listen to the stories, and let the trolley roll UP NEXT: We take you to the beloved Hotel del Coronado, across the Coronado Bridge in San Diego. Home to movie stars, the wealthy, and setting for several movies, including "Some Like It Hot," with Marilyn Monroe, "the Del" has aged like a graceful matron. When built, she was the largest resort hotel in the world, made entirely of wood. She's survived and thrived and we share her lively history. Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us Fridays for a fresh look at travel, the arts, nature and whatever else strikes our fancy. The Hotel del Coronado, known affectionately as "The Del," is a landmark in San Diego, and known throughout the western world. If this destination sparked your wanderlust, there’s plenty more waiting for you—explore more travel stories and inspiration over at WhereIsCookie.com

Seattle is at its best viewed from the water. Options include ferry, Argosy boat or private sail on lovely Far Niente yacht. FAR NIENTE YACHT OFFERS A BIT OF HEAVEN ON SEATTLE'S WONDROUS WATER STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER Far Niente at sail offers breathtaking views of Seattle and nearby islands. Seattle is a city best experienced from the water, where sparkling Puget Sound, snow-capped mountain views, and a dramatic skyline come together in one unforgettable panorama. Whether you prefer the lively narration and iconic sightseeing cruises of Argosy Cruises or the intimate elegance of a sunset sail aboard Far Niente Sailing Charters, getting out on the water offers a fresh perspective on the Emerald City. From Elliott Bay to the Ballard Locks, these experiences showcase the natural beauty and maritime heritage that make Seattle one of America's premier waterfront destinations. SURROUNDED by water, overlooking Elliott Bay, deep within Puget Sound, Seattle moves its people and plies its trade by water. Tourists are the beneficiaries of this ingenuity. The water offers both life and leisure to its people and guests. Seattle's commerce, intriguing neighborhoods and architecture are best sampled by water. You'll view, for instance, Alexander Calder's massive "Eagle" sculpture which stands sentinel in Olympic Park. Judi du Nann and Cookie head for the yacht at Elliott Bay Marina. Judi is an accomplished chef and Derek is Far Niente captain. We sampled several varieties of Seattle water travel recently, and recommend them all. *FIRST, THE elegant Far Niente Sailing Charters. "Casual class" best describes our delightful evening on this pretty and much loved yacht. We booked a supper sail on line through Derek and Judi du Nann, who with care and affection host the venture single-handedly. (They're a married couple -- he's captain and she's first mate, caterer and "gofer".) This serene view of Bainbridge Island was our setting for supper. Far Niente, here with sails down, awaits wind . Seattle is seen off in the horizon as a colorful twilight commences. I'd planned this as an early birthday party for Keller and our sailor boy couldn't have been more pleased. Our Sunset sail Puget Sound adventure began with an orchid lei for me and kukui nut lei for Keller, then a champagne toast at Elliott Bay Marina, where Derek and Judi greeted our town car (part of the booking price). They ushered us to Far Niente; we struck up an easy conversation. They're fun, interesting people. Despite a drizzly evening, our spirits were not dampened. We were snug and pampered in the enclosed cockpit, while classical music accompanied bubbly for the sail-out. Gourmet hors d'oeuvres complemented Washington wines as we enjoyed a sunset sail with gorgeous, rainbow-framed views of Seattle. At Blakely Harbor near Bainbridge Island, we dropped anchor and simply enjoyed: lively conversation, sumptuous food, copious vino and tranquil views of the lush island as dusk approached to rhythm of lapping waters. Derek du Nann captains Far Niente, whose Italian name loosely translates to "the sweetness of doing nothing." The 42-foot sailing yacht is tailor made for Puget Sound and its occasionally rainy weather. We enjoyed sunshine, too, as the boat moved leisurely through the sound and towards Bainbridge. As we returned to the bay, Seattle slowly lit up. Magic! Sunset sail Puget Sound While we mostly sailed, we did have to motor a bit. All in comfort. Info@GoSailSeattle.com or call 206 495-9232 www.GoSailSeattle.com Seattle's locks offer an educational and relaxing afternoon. *WHILE FAR NIENTE is all about relaxation and soaking up ambiance with intelligent, lively hosts, our Argosy Cruise tour of the Chittenden Locks was educational. But it also offered extraordinary beauty and a pleasant three-hour diversion. We spent a leisurely afternoon traveling across the sound and into the Lake Washington Ship Canal. There, we transited the 30-foot difference through the Chittenden Locks. This architectural triumph dates back 100 years, when Seattle engineers connected fresh water Lake Washington with Puget Sound. An Argosy cruise to the famous Seattle locks includes a lively commentary and description off Seattle's variety of intriguing homes, businesses and restaurants, here the "Sleepless in Seattle" houseboat. Argosy also offers harbor tours -- we took the one-hour one which was delightful -- and tours to Lake Union and Washington, as well as special dinner-dancing cruises, a cruise to Blake Island's Tillicum Village complete with salmon feast and Salish storytelling. ARGOSY HAS has an arsenal of well trained and conversational guides. They'll point out historical buildings and topical sights, including the houseboat used for "Sleepless in Seattle." The venerable company also has private boats for charter or rent, as well as special holiday themed events, cocktail cruises and dinner parties. Many of Argosy's cruise tours depart from Seattle's waterfront, Pier 55/56, where curious Seattle tourists enjoy spending time. www.argosycruises.com 206 623-1445. Passengers board one of Washington state's ferries for a weekend away. *WE ALSO sampled Seattle's wonderfully efficient and colorful state ferry system. Regular ferries travel to Bremerton and Bainbridge and other places. The ferries are integral to life in Seattle and are sleek, comfortable, boast a full bar and snack shop. Their unique, "double-ended" open decks give gorgeous vantage points. You'll have stunning views of Seattle as you come and go and the vessels never have to turn around as they transport millions of riders across the waters. YOU MAY catch the ferry to Winslow, a pretty little town with galleries, restaurants and rural charm, or to picturesque Bainbridge Island, bustling Bremerton, the intriguing San Juan Islands, Vashon Island and other jaunts. The ferries have a distinctive white and green paint job. A visit to Pier 52 on Seattle's waterfront to book a ferry jaunt is a must. For routes, fares, times: wsdot.wa.gov/ferries. Seattle's piers will treat you to an entertaining sail or boat ride on the state's efficient and unique ferry system or an Argosy cruise. THE ANACORTES ferry. If you've never visited the charming San Juan Islands, take the Anacortes ferry. It's leisurely and offers beautiful views as you depart. The islands offer a rural, slow-paced environment vastly different from the fast-paced bustle of Seattle. Recreational activities abound, including the world famous Rosario Resort on Orcas Island. www.visitsanjuans.com Also via ferry, if you've time, consider Port Townsend, a charming historic Victorian seaport. Also: pretty Langley awaits on Whidbey Island, with galleries, gift shops and great restaurants! www.visitlangley.com Cookie and "Papa" Grady Martin enjoy cocktail hour in La Jolla. COMING SOON: We pause briefly from our revels in Alaska, Victoria and Seattle, to salute Cookie's sprightly adopted "Papa," her neighbor, Grady Martin on his 90th birthday. He shares tips on life and living it fully next Wednesday. Then join us to ride Skagway's White Pass Railway, and take a trip to Seattle's Pan Pacific Hotel to find out what makes it first-rate. Plus Cookie's 100th cruise, and more. Remember to explore, learn and live and check us out Wednesdays and Saturdays at: www.whereiscookie.com

Lovely Vancouver is best seen by Big Bus if you're there only briefly. It's a great option for an entertaining overview and if you have a bit more leisure time, it's a great way to get a taste and overview of a city. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" WE'RE BUS junkies. We've toured dozens of the world's great cities by bus and for our time and money, there's no better tour operation. It's a reliable, pleasant, economical choice. The worldwide company Big Bus Tours offers sightseeing tours in many cities around the globe. We've hopped on and off Big Bus in Sydney, Singapore, London, Paris, New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles and recently in Vancouver. We had the pleasure of a personalized commentary from Sherry, whose insights added immense depth and detail to our time. Vancouver's water and city skyline are observed from Big Bus, and you're free to hop off to explore. Vancouver Big Bus Tour are typically hop-on, hop-off style, allowing passengers to board and disembark at designated stops along the route. In Vancouver, for example, we explored Stanley Park, Granville Island and Gastown, each unique to Vancouver. The places Big Bus selects to hop off are carefully chosen for history, architecture, famous landmarks such as churches, concert halls and theaters, parks, gardens, monuments, government buildings, shops, restaurants. In Vancouver, we viewed lovely landscaping and architecture, and an interesting ethnic mix of people, which make it such a pretty and diverse city. We also photographed young people in costume, for Vancouver's version of Comic-Con. Drivers are eager to show off their city, and we've always had good response to our questions, with pointers for restaurants, parks, museums with particular emphasis on special interests of ours: theater, music and contemporary art. Vancouver's version of Comic-Con was in swing during our recent visit, adding to the fun. WE WALKED from our hotel, to a centrally located landmark of the city. The Gastown Steam Clock is one of Vancouver’s most iconic timepieces and a must for anyone interested in the quirky and unique. It was built in 1977 by horologist Raymond Saunders, designed to harness steam from the city’s underground heating system. We photographed it along with a group of Japanese students, who giggled and photographed this crowd pleasing attraction. Not only does it tell time, but it does so stylishly, emitting puffs of steam and a happy whistle every 15 minutes. Vancouver's Steam Clock is a popular tourist attraction, and an easy walk from a Big Bus stop. DRIVER SHERRY was lively, informative, helpful and eager to show off her city. We've found that to be true worldwide, whether we get personalized comments or one of the excellent taped commentaries. Those are offered in multiple languages and the earphones are comfy, although one can bring one's own. A Big Bus tour is a great addition to any tour. Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers enjoy a Big Bus tour in Vancouver. Many visitors choose to do a whole loop first (most of the Big Bus cities have multiple routes) then decide where to hop off next round. A full loop is usually no longer than two hours. For a newcomer to a new place to give important grounding, or as a comfortable way to reacquaint and remind of a city's pleasures, Vancouver Big Bus Tour is a good investment and a pleasant outing for singles, couples or families. We've made many international friends on Big Bus, another plus. Whereiscookie.com Check back often for more adventure and travel tips to discover the hidden secrets of the globe. Please keep a lookout for fun weekly posts on our new website, with an improved array of links for destinations, cities, performance and other topics.

A juvenile orca whale -- probably less than a year old -- was the star for passengers in Puget Sound Express. The "L" Pod was photographed off Victoria. Puget Sound Express shares its knowledge and love of whales in extraordinary top-rated adventures. ORCAS IN THE WILD THRILL OUR TRAVELERS, WITH HUMPBACKS APLENTY, THRILLS FROM VICTORIA TO JUNEAU STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Editor's Note: This article has been reviewed and updated to reflect current travel information, attractions, schedules, pricing, lodging options, and visitor recommendations. If seeing whales in their natural habitat is on your travel bucket list, a tour with Puget Sound Express is one of the best ways to make it happen. Family-owned and operated for decades, the company has earned a reputation for knowledgeable naturalists, comfortable high-speed boats, and an exceptional record of whale sightings. Departing from Port Townsend and Edmonds, each cruise offers the chance to spot orcas, humpback whales, gray whales, porpoises, seals, sea lions, bald eagles, and countless seabirds while taking in the spectacular scenery of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning wildlife enthusiast, a Puget Sound Express whale watch is an unforgettable experience that showcases the beauty and diversity of Washington's coastal waters Pete Hanke and his wife Sherri have been operating whale watching tours with Puget Sound Express for more than 35 years, and in that time they have always endeavored to make your trip a lasting memory. In 1981, Pete Sr. provided week-long sailing adventures in the Pacific Northwest aboard the 80ft schooner, Alcyone. Over the years, they moved from sailboats to powerboats, but always made sure the whale watching experience and the vessels were first-rate. They continue to operate what we feel is the best whale watching company in the Pacific Northwest. Whale watching with Puget Sound Express I FELL IN LOVE with whales when I was a kid. I was a young musician and vocalist when I first heard that whales could sing, too. I asked my parents for a recording of their elaborate vocalizations. Ear-popping! It changed my life -- introducing me to the lyrical language of another species. Watching an orca breach was a thrill of a lifetime this week on Chilkat. A family run enterprise shares decades of experience in Puget Sound Express. LATER, AS A newlywed, my late husband and I honeymooned in Maui and heard whales off the shores of Lahaina, the same year Roger and Katherine Payne's wonderful "Songs of the Humpback Whale" came out. That 1970 album from respected musicians and "bio- acousticians" showed the world that my revered childhood whale tunes were indeed communication: my beloved whales' complex and haunting methods of sharing joy, fear, longing and more. Chilkat Express takes its name from the Tlingit native people of Southeastern Alaska and pays homage to the peoples' reverence for whales. BRUCE KELLER AND I have followed the magical world of whales on seas, bays and oceans. We are lucky lad and lass to follow them in the U.S. and Canada, watching, photographing -- and listening --with joy. Thrilling sight: three humpbacks feed, frolic in Alaska's Stephen's Passage. We were aboard a delightful Juneau Tours vessel when we found these gems. We're reveling in early autumn whale watching out of Edmonds, Washington, finding Orcas, which are frolicking in the Straits of Juan de Fuca -- as many as 50 surrounding our Chilkat boat, one of three vessels run by Puget Sound Express. Three generations of the marine-life loving Hanke family run the operation, which specializes in close-up whale encounters that leave shivers up the spine. Our trained naturalist, Justine, driver Brian and boat host Wendi took 60 of us into the Straits of Juan de Fuca, up towards Victoria, where the orcas cavort, feed, feast on salmon and teach their young the whale ways. Our "preview" was a half-dozen humpback sightings. Each humpback has a distinctive tail or fluke, allowing Puget Sound Express to identify each and name each whale. SINCE MY first sightings off the shores of Lahaina, I've watched whales on several continents -- and in our wintertime backyard of San Diego. Never have I had a wealth of sightings to compare to our day on Chilkat with the Puget Sound folks. The crew knows every whale by name -- thrilling in itself. And for this "Cookie," it was pure bliss to meet a whale who shares my nickname. She's a revered auntie who helps raise the young. Whales operate much like a kibbutz or my big Irish and Norwegian clan. They help one another, share child-rearing chores, feeding and babysitting to give each other a bit of down time. SEEING THESE magnificent creatures in the wild gives one a whole new perspective on their imperiled life. And using radio communication with fellow "spotters," moving at more than 40 miles an hour, you cover the waterfront with Puget Sound Express, which also offers three-day excursions to the San Juans with expert instruction on whale watching and wildlife viewing around Friday Harbor and Port Townsend. Our Chilkat naturalist and Puget Sound Express delivered a thrilling two weeks of whale watching. If you're staying in a Seattle hotel, Tours Northwest can book you for the Puget Sound trip and pick you up at your hotel. LATER IN THE week, we had more whale thrills with Juneau Tours and Whale Watching. We set out in a 15-passenger smaller vessel, and the whale revels continued (more next blog). They amped up aboard Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas, as we exited the Tracy Arm Fjords and headed back toward Victoria, through a sea of playful humpbacks. Listening to the humpback's haunting song, watching them move in ice as tall as three-story buildings is bound to thrill. Spending time with three pods of salmon-feasting Orcas on their Puget Sound kibbutz is off the charts. A well fed sea lion suns, snoozes. The sea lions are part of the "extras" on whale watches off Seattle and in Alaska. Our tips on where to get more information about whale watching in Puget Sound www.orcanetwork.org pugetsoundexpress.com juneautoursandwhalewatching.com UP NEXT: Watching three generations of orcas an listening to the humpback's haunting song -- watching them navigate around ice bergs as tall as three-story buildings -- all this alters a person forever. There simply is not enough room in a single story to do justice to the magical, intelligent and graceful whale, and to the wildlife one sees on the whale trail. We continue our marine watch with sea lions, otters, and bears aboard Juneau Tours with 15 other passengers, then with a cast of thousands aboard Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas. Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us with a new post each week. If this destination sparked your wanderlust, there’s plenty more waiting for you -- explore more travel stories and inspiration and check us weekly at WhereIsCookie.com

A juvenile orca learns how to swim next to his mother, south of Vancouver, near U.S. waters with Wild Whales Vancouver. In Alaska, Juneau Tours offers spectacular whale watching farther north. Juneau Tours offers up close, personal opportunities to see whales, with skilled drivers and guides to get you "there." ORCAS, HUMPBACKS ENTERTAIN, INFORM-- AND EVEN PROVIDE EYE-POPPING ANATOMY STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER the Carpe Diem Kids 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 bubble-net feeding displays. Whether you're arriving by cruise ship or exploring Alaska on your own, a whale-watching tour from Juneau is an unforgettable adventure that belongs on every bucket Alaska whale watching CAN ONE ever get enough of whale watching? I think not. It's sheer magic, eye-popping, time-stopping magic. The erect penis of an orca can reach more than eight feet as this undersea image suggests. Art courtesy Chained Birds Each outing is different -- we've logged more than 100. Because of weather, waves, the boat's speed, ability of the naturalist and captain, mood and travel patterns of the whales, you'll always see something new. We've watched with awe these splendid creatures from Santa Barbara to Maui, Seattle to Iceland, Alaska to our winter base, San Diego. OUR LAST five outings yielded spectacular sightings, although even with our practiced eyes, we didn't always have our cameras at precisely the right place and right time. We were so stunned to see orcas mating on a Wild Whales Vancouver outing, that we nearly forgot our mission. It was a magical adventure aboard the small, well organized company's sleek new Jing Yu vessel. I grew up in Montana and have spent time on ranches, but the Wild Whales mating orca experience was a first. Watching a humpback scoop up a huge mouthful of fish, to be filtered through his baleen, is a magnificent sight. We saw the birds circling first! Accurate measurements of the erect orca penis are tough to make, because the whale's erect length can only be observed during mating. We were lucky, our knowledgeable captain Michael said. There it was: a huge penis above water, waiting for action (fellow passengers thought it was a squid or octopus.) No, Michael assured us later, as his crew Luke and Christopher smiled. It was the male's sex organ. When the thrashing began, a female orca had answered the call. Our knowledgeable on-board naturalist, Amila, shared scholarly insights on the fast boat ride from Vancouver. She, too, had never experienced mating whales, but knows a lot about orcas. WE HAD just crossed into U.S. waters, south of Vancouver, B.C., after two and one-half hours of a beautiful journey along Vancouver Island, into the sea pointed south. We saw a few humpbacks, and many orcas, including a family of four -- mother teaching baby orca, with another older juvenile and papa bringing up the rear. Wild Whales Vancouver is tops. About a 30-minute boat ride from Juneau, you'll be treated to diving whales -- a thrilling sight -- with Juneau Tours. Headquartered on picturesque Granville Island with its pretty markets, restaurants and live music, it offers a nature-driven variety of whale watching tours into the Strait of Georgia and beyond. We also saw many seals and bald eagles. EARLIER IN our Alaska whale watching of more than two-plus weeks we'd been thrilled with Puget Sound Express, which we boarded at Edmonds, Washington, after a pleasant coach pick-up from the Hyatt in Seattle. In our whale watching days, we've been fortunate to see whales off the coast of Maui a half-dozen times. Aboard Juneau Tours, Alex and Luke provided lively commentary and a successful afternoon of viewing whales. We've seen the sperm and the blue, but never the elusive narwhal, known for his spectacular tusk. Then in Alaska's chilly waters, we were thrilled to hear "Thar they blows" aboard the well organized, highly rated Juneau Tours. The majestic backdrop of the Chilkat Mountains and Juneau's Ice Field framed exciting whale watching there, enhanced by other wildlife sightings -- bald eagles, playful harbor seals and plump Stellar sea lions, sea otters and black-tailed deer. TO BE YARDS away from something greater than you, something far more powerful and more spectacular, is a humbling experience. The fine mist from the humpback's spout as he feeds off Alaska's coast. To think that man nearly brought this beautiful creature to extinction makes seeing a pod of seven humpbacks even more moving. To see several dozen orcas, as we did on Puget Sound Express then with Wild Whales Vancouver, is extraordinary. ON OUR VARIOUS outings, we saw whales from five vessels -- aboard that small 15-passenger Juneau Tours vehicle, the 30-passenger Jing Yu speed boat out of Vancouver, our 3,000-plus Explorer of the Seas on Royal Caribbean, a small motor boat and the sleek Puget Sound Express vessel, Chilkat. WHALES INHABIT all Earth's major oceans from the Arctic and Antarctic to the tropical waters of the equator. Shamefully, man nearly destroyed them and sadly, several nations still hunt them. Cookie sets out on another whale-watching adventure. This trip, we were lucky to have five different experiences -- on vessels large and small -- all offering spectacular sightings. Depending on species and migration patterns, some whales are abundant in some locations while absent in others. So look for other life, too. We loved watching sea lions lumber along the shores, and heave themselves on the buoys for sunshine. THE SMALLER harbor seals were abundant in calmer waters. Out of Seattle, our Chilkat naturalist prepped us through Puget Sound Express for a thrilling week on the Royal Caribbean Explorer of the Seas. Humpbacks were the stars on our trip out of Juneau then again as we exited Tracy Arm Fjords and headed back toward Victoria for the thrills with Wild Whales. For all our our whale adventures -- from Seattle, to Juneau, to British Columbia -- we reveled in gorgeous weather and bountiful, close-up whale sightings, enhanced by expert crew curious and friendly fellow passengers from Ireland, Scotland, Italy, Germany, Japan and Brazil. We recommend whale watching on vessels large and small for eye-popping thrills. Shop around to find the vessel and tour that suits you best. You'll be happy to join the humpback's song, singing the praises of "hunting" these magnificent creatures with cameras, not weapons of destruction. BEST BET: Juneau Tours: www.juneautours.com/contact-us/ UP NEXT: Enchanting Chihuly -- We visit the master's museum in Seattle where Dale Chihuly's "Garden and Glass" visionary artwork is displayed. The Northwesterner's creativity shines through in gorgeous glass exhibits both indoor and outdoors right next to Seattle's landmark Space Needle. Remember to explore, learn and live and visit us weekends for more artful, nature-driven travel adventures. Mesmerizing glasswork awaits at Dale Chihuly's Seattle museum. As this travel story comes to an end, we hope it’s inspired your next adventure and given you helpful ideas for planning your own trip. From hidden gems to must-see attractions, every destination offers something unforgettable—and there’s always more to explore. Please Bookmark WhereIsCookie.com and check back often for fresh travel guides, destination tips, and adventure inspiration from around the world. Whether you’re building your bucket list or getting ready to go, we’re here to help you travel smarter and experience more. Until next time, keep exploring, keep planning, and keep chasing your next great adventure. The journey doesn’t stop here—follow along for more adventures and travel inspiration at WhereIsCookie.com

About to board a city harbor tour in New York, Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers pause for a pose by a CityPASS poster. Their Circle Line sightseeing cruise is part of the convenient, money saving CityPASS. Unlock America’s Greatest Cities Story By Christene Meyers Photos By Bruce Keller "The Carpe Diem Kids" There’s a moment every traveler knows well. You’re standing in a new city -- skyscrapers rising, cable cars rattling, waterfront sparkling. It's a feeling all travel addicts know. It's a rush of excitement and anticipation. But with the thrill comes the questions: What to see in the time we have? Which tickets do I buy? How do I skip the lines? Am I overpaying? Am I missing something? That’s where CityPASS tourist card changes everything. It's a top rated tourist card, one of the best around. Whether you're already in the U.S. and planning a trip, or are from another country organizing a visit to North America, you’re likely excited to discover cultural treasures and iconic attractions. If you're headed to New York City, San Francisco, Seattle, Atlanta, Houston, San Diego and many other U.S. cities, plus Toronto in Canada, CityPASS is your golden key. We've used it in many U.S. cities, and recommend that other savvy travelers take a look. Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers at the "Top of the Rock," Rockefeller Center. CityPASS saves money. It saves time. And most importantly, it unlocks doors to a city's top experiences without the stress. Here we explain how CityPASS turns your trip into pure adventure -- not a logistical puzzle. It's a fabulous traveler's aid. Why International Travelers Love CityPASS tourist card Traveling is exhilarating -- but it shouldn't be overwhelming. Foreign travelers -- including the two of us on another continent -- spend time checking currency conversions, transportation systems, ticket queues in a different language… it all adds up quickly. CityPASS simplifies it all and here's how: ✔️ One easy purchase ✔️ Significant savings on top attractions ✔️ Skip-the-line access at select experiences ✔️ More time exploring, less time waiting The Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration offers visitors a fascinating look at history and the journey many of our ancestors took to arrive here. It's one of cityPASS options in New York. Instead of standing in line wondering if you chose the right attraction, you walk straight toward the experiences that define the city. Let’s explore what that looks like in several destinations. We've used CityPASS tourist card in five of 17 North American cities offered. It's a money, time and stress saver. Here's what we saw, savored and enjoyed. With the Empire State Building behind them, "Keller and Cookie" are all smiles, surrounded by the city. 🗽 New York City: The World in One Skyline There is no place like New York City. It’s fast, diverse, iconic -- a living movie set. With CityPASS, we experienced the city’s cultural crown jewels without navigating complicated ticket systems. We loved the convenience and went right to the top of the line. Lady Liberty frames travel writers Christene "Cookie" Meyers and Bruce Keller, on a ferry ride to see the famous statue close up. It's a great option on CityPASS, saving time, money and stress. Highlights include: Breathtaking views from the Empire State Building World-class art inside the American Museum of Natural History A ferry ride to see the Statue of Liberty up close CityPASS saved us time and money. We watched a glorious sunset over Manhattan from 86 floors above the city -- then headed straight to the theater, with dinner after. Not once did we stand in a queue. New York feels accessible, not overwhelming with CityPASS. The Exploratorium is a museum of science, technology, and arts in San Francisco, California. Founded by physicist and educator Frank Oppenheimer in 1969. Here, Keller and Cookie pose outside the fascinating museum. San Francisco: Innovation Meets Bohemian Soul The hills. The fog. The Golden Gate silhouette rising through the mist. Welcome to San Francisco -- a city of contrasts and creativity. CityPASS here gives you access to unforgettable experiences such as: The iconic Golden Gate Bridge seen from a delightful boat ride Marine wonderlands at Aquarium of the Bay Interactive science fun at California Academy of Sciences and the Exploratorium CityPASS in San Francisco offers a harbor tour that passes directly under the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. International visitors love how easy CityPASS makes it to hop between neighborhoods. We went from Fisherman’s Wharf to Golden Gate Park, without overpaying for attractions. Instead of juggling separate entry fees, you simply focus on enjoying the city -- tasty clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl with sea lions yelping. The cool Pacific breeze. Seeing the exquisite artwork in glass by Dale Chihuly is a CityPASS option in Seattle. ☕ Seattle: Coffee, Culture & Sky-High Views If your heart beats for creative cities surrounded by nature, Seattle will steal it. Snow-capped mountains meet glass skyscrapers. Independent bookstores sit beside tech headquarters. An endless array of eateries offer healthy options including fresh seafood. Enjoying the sweeping Seattle views, with the Space Needle behind are Bruce Keller and "Cookie" Meyers. CityPASS in Seattle includes the Space Needle, Seattle Aquarium and more. CityPASS highlights here include: Sweeping views from the Space Needle Underwater magic at Seattle Aquarium Pop culture immersion at the Museum of Pop Culture And here’s the real benefit: Seattle’s top attractions are close together -- but lines can grow quickly, especially in summer. CityPASS helps you spend more time exploring Pike Place Market and less time checking ticket counters. More music. More coffee. More spectacular views. Most important: making the most of your time and money. Atlanta: Southern Charm Meets Modern Energy with Zoo and State of the Art Aquarium Atlanta is a culturally rich city with a wonderful civil rights museum, award winning eateries, vibrant art galleries and top theater, all served with Georgia's tradition of southern charm and welcoming spirit. Often overlooked by international travelers, Atlanta is one of America’s most culturally rich cities. It blends civil rights history, vibrant arts, and warm Southern hospitality. CityPASS gives you access to experiences like: Wildlife encounters at Zoo Atlanta Marine exploration at Georgia Aquarium College Football Hall of Fame National Center for Civil and Human Rights and other cool attractions. Atlanta surprises visitors with how dynamic it feels -- creative neighborhoods, live music, incredible food scenes. With CityPASS, you can dive into its attractions without second-guessing ticket prices. Smooth, simple, smart travel. San Diego's Midway Museum captivates locals -- including travel writers Keller and Cookie -- as well as tourists from all over the world. It features detailed exhibits, aircraft and inside the Midway itself, fascinating history. San Diego: Sunshine & Laid-Back Adventure If your dream includes palm trees, ocean air, and cultural depth, San Diego delivers. CityPASS opens doors to: Exotic wildlife at San Diego Zoo Ocean-themed fun at SeaWorld San Diego History and gardens inside Balboa Park Midway Museum The Midway Museum in San Diego is a featured museum with CityPASS in San Diego. Below, Sea World beckons travel writers and visiting family from San Francisco. San Diego’s attractions are spread out, and entrance fees can add up fast. CityPASS bundles the best experiences so you can focus on beach sunsets, tacos, and museum hopping instead of budgeting every entry ticket. It’s sunshine without the stress. How CityPASS Saves You Time & Money Here’s what makes CityPASS especially powerful for international travelers: 1. Bundled Savings Buying tickets individually can quickly exceed your budget. CityPASS packages them at a significantly reduced combined price. 2. Skip the Lines At select attractions, you bypass standard ticket queues. In major cities like New York and San Francisco, this can mean saving hours. 3. Flexible Scheduling You don’t have to visit everything in one day. Most passes remain valid for several days, giving you breathing room. 4. Mobile Convenience Tickets live on your phone. No printing. No paperwork. Just scan and go. CityPASS curates the experiences that reflect each city’s personality. Instead of guessing what matters most, you step directly into the highlights. Is CityPASS Worth It for International Visitors? In one word: Yes. Especially if: You’re visiting for the first time You want to see major attractions You prefer structured simplicity You’re traveling with family You value time as much as money CityPASS removes the mental load of planning every ticket. That freedom gives you time to be spontaneous. We like to stop at a hidden café, pause to enjoy buskers and their street performances. We like to stroll after dinner and find that our late-night walks offer cities in new light. CityPASS helps the traveler feel enriched, not stressed. For cityPASS information or to book: citypass.com Final Thoughts for Smart Travels Travel is an investment -- of time, energy, and money. We worked hard -- so did you -- and now for us all to enjoy and experience each destination fully. CityPASS offers discounts and organization, but it also offers confidence. Confidence that you’re seeing the right attractions. Confidence that you’re saving money. Confidence that you won’t spend your precious vacation waiting in lines. Whether you’re gazing across Manhattan, biking near the Golden Gate, sipping coffee under the Space Needle, exploring Atlanta’s vibrant neighborhoods, or watching sea lions in San Diego, CityPASS helps you focus on why you came in the first place: To feel something new, learn something unexpected, and have fun. That’s what great travel is all about. Italy's "boot" has treasures to explore, including many unique cave restaurants, with sea and cliff views. UP NEXT: We begin a three-part series on southern Italy and Puglia. This virtually undiscovered (by most Americans) part of Italy offers gorgeous scenery, reasonably priced food and lodging, castles, coastline and friendly people. It's easy and fun to drive there, too, exploring ancient caves -- many converted to boutique hotels and restaurants -- and seeing what's down there "on the boot." Remember to explore, learn and live, share these links, look for global tips and trips and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on travel, performance, nature, family and more: www.whereiscookie.com