Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh's life and art come to life in a mesmerizing show in Las Vegas. The show gracefully weaves state-of-the-art technology, lights, music and imagery. VIEWERS FEEL THE SPIRIT OF FAMED PAINTER WITH STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY, ANIMATION, MUSIC, HYPNOTIZING LANDSCAPES STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER Christene Meyers, left, and Bruce Keller, savor their souvenirs from a magical morning at "Immersive Van Gogh." Several cities are hosting the imaginative production. Our travel-writing duo saw the original, in Las Vegas. AN IMAGINATIVE look into the life and times of Vincent Van Gogh is getting raves in Las Vegas as it plays to enthusiastic international crowds. The unique show has garnered kudos in 15 other American cities, but the "Vegas version" is the original. The "Immersive Van Gogh" exhibit begins with your ticket purchase -- easy, on line. A couple options are available beginning at $38 if you shop around on the web for bargains. Our tickets were "VIP" which included a sunflower pillow for sitting on one of the comfy benches, a lovely poster and a chance to correspond with Vincent himself (yes, through cyber wizardry, he answers your note.) WE ENTERED the magical space at The Shops at Crystals, on the third floor, right in the middle of the famed Las Vegas Strip, next to Aria. A huge room has been transformed to an immersive digital art museum. The trendy show is captivating audiences in Las Vegas, just as it has worldwide, from Tokyo to Paris, Atlanta to Bordeaux. Toronto even staged a drive-in exhibit as each city puts its unique and special spin on the tormented genius. We happily joined the ranks enjoying "Immersive Van Gogh," in this breathtaking Las Vegas version. Only a few dozen people are allowed into the huge exhibit space so one may sit, stand or move around without being crowded, enjoying a 360-degree experience. It evolves in pleasant rhythm, accompanied by an enchanting musical score including Handel, Schubert and many other composers. The soothing musical arrangements and several original compositions are cleverly rendered by Luca Longobardi, who did a beautiful job integrating the music with flowing landscapes, portraits and other familiar Van Gogh works. You'll see the famous bed painting and many of the works by the tormented Dutch painter who sold only a single painting in his life before he died at age 37. Everyone knows the sorrow, but this experience honors his brilliance. EVEN SO, THE SHOW has a wistful, sometimes melancholy feel as large-scale moving images are projected onto walls, ceilings, and floors in the space. The suffering in his self-portraits is evident. It's all so mesmerizing we stayed for part of another show -- which the audience is encouraged to do. The artful design is by the award-winning team of "Atelier des Lumieres" in Paris, which viewers may recognize for the digital art show featured in Netflix’s "Emily in Paris." Imagination, technology and the original work of Van Gogh are set to an exciting musical score. We chose to sit on two different benches in two parts of the space to watch for an hour more than 500,000 cubic feet of projections. All the iconic van Gogh works are in the spotlight, including The Potato Eaters (1885), Starry Night (1889), Sunflowers (1888), and The Bedroom (1889). Large-scale digital animations of the prolific painter’s work come to life with Longobardi's passionate musical choices -- including, appropriately, opera befitting the composer's Italian heritage. Said my partner, photographer Bruce Keller, "This is a magnificent artistic effort worthy of a brilliant man who took a path less traveled and failed to achieve the fame he deserved in his lifetime." Christene "Cookie" Meyers enjoys the whimsical, moving immersive Van Gogh show in Las Vegas. SEVERAL DOZEN of Van Gogh's post-impressionist sunflowers, perhaps his greatest masterpieces. These are highlights in the show, truly hypnotizing as they play a prominent role in this exquisite and powerful exhibition. The show is running or will play in 29 U.S. cities; several other cities have closed the show after successful shorter runs. Its an imaginative telling of Van Gogh's story, reminding of those 1970s Pink Floyd laser light shows at a planetarium. Truly it is a trip back in time with a futuristic portrayal of the tortured Dutch painter, considered to be among the greatest painters of all time -- right along with Rembrandt van Rijn. Despite selling only that single artwork in his frustrating career, Van Gogh became -- in the century after his death -- perhaps the most recognized painter of all time. The show celebrates his art in joyous fashion, yet the viewer feels a tinge of melancholy in knowing that depression eventually overcame the artist. Photographer Bruce Keller is happy after a morning with Van Gogh. MY FAVORITE segments capsulized his two years in Paris from 1886 to February 1888, when he left for Arles. The excitement and joy are felt in this Paris time, which critics believe laid the foundation for his unique style, exposing him to famed impressionists Monet and Pissarro. Emmy Award-winning and Tony Award-nominated designer David Korins, known for his set designs featured in Broadway hits such as "Hamilton" and "Dear Evan Hansen," introduced elements he considers "experimental" in transforming Lighthouse Las Vegas into such an imaginative venue. It's good entertainment for anyone, but thrilling for those of us with a passion for art and art museums. For more information or to book: www.vangoghvegas.com/ Singing, dancing, cowboys and saloon girls await as the colorful story of Buffalo Bill Cody and friends performs in the town named for the famed showman. The well done, spirited review features top musical talent and fun stories. UP NEXT: A spectacular Wild West revue is performing several nights a week in Cody, Wyoming, and it's a top-quality production. We saw it recently, with an appreciative crowd, and were pleasantly pleased at the dancing, singing, storytelling, costumes and humor. It's part history, part pure fun and terrific entertainment. Rocky Mountain Dance Company does a whiz-bang job. More next week, and meanwhile remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on the arts, travel, nature, family and more: www.whereiscookie.com

Two favorite ways to see Europe: take family along and use city cards or tourist cards wherever possible. Here, Christene "Cookie" Meyers, Bruce Keller, Rick Cosgriffe and Jane Milder take a boat ride with a city card pass. TRAVELING WITH A FAVORITE LOVED ONE AND BUYING CITY CARDS ENHANCE A TRIP THROUGH SOUTHERN EUROPE'S FAMOUS CITIES STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" There’s a special thrill in stepping off a train in a new European city, map in hand and possibilities everywhere --but the logistics can quickly add up to squandered time and money. With transit tickets, museum fees, and long queues, even a well-planned itinerary can feel overwhelming. That’s where tourist cards come in. Designed to streamline your experience, these all-in-one passes offer convenience, savings, and insider access, letting you focus less on planning and more on exploring. Whether you're wandering through art-filled boulevards or hopping between historic landmarks, the right card can transform how you travel. SEEING FAVORITE places with people you love makes the journey special, enhancing each museum, meal and hike. We recommend investing in tourist cards for a trip to Europe with someone you've wanted to travel with. Now's the time, looking toward fall. Prices drop along with the temperature, children are back in school and crowds are gone. From left, Keller, Cookie, Rick and Jane on a walking tour of Roman ruins. Keller and I had a bonus on our recent trip. We were joined by my brother, Rick Cosgriffe, and his partner, Jane Milder. It was an unforgettable 14 days, and I wouldn't trade a minute of it for anything. Seeing, experiencing, tasting -- immersing ourselves in the newness of travel -- is a sensory experience in any case. Enjoying the art, food, music, historic monuments and seaside resorts with loved ones is even more special. WE BEGAN planning the adventure nearly a year before it materialized. We coached Rick and Jane on the trip long before they boarded the first plane of several connections. We prepared them for this fact: Things will go wrong. They did. We advised them to roll with the punches. They did. We made sure we had Tourist cards for all cities we planned to visit Tickets had to be made both for the cruise portion and the air travel. Hotel reservations had to be secured in both couples' names. There were check lists and "to do" lists and reminders to line up pet sitters, garden waterers, house checkers and all the minutia that comes with planning any trip. Moreso, when the trip is to another continent. SINCE PART of the trip was an 11-day cruise, land tours needed to be agreed upon and chosen. We obtained cards for us all in Barcelona, Lisbon and Rome, to save money and see the most in only a day or two. Booking some attractions early is essential to avoid sold-out tours in favorite port cities. This took hours of planning. AS DETAILS fell into place, we soothed Rick's and Jane's worries. Classic sculpture greeted our travelers each day in Florence and Rome. Growing up, Rick and I found our family travels helped us gain a deeper understanding of the world. I wanted this for the two of them. It came to be, and was thrilling to experience the newness, to visit cathedrals and museums with the four of us together as I revisited favorite haunts with someone I've known since his birth, his longtime partner and my husband. A tuk-tuk ride with a friend was a special thrill for Cookie and Rick, foreground, with Keller, Jane and our driver friend in the back. Traveling together challenged the four of us to adapt to one another while expressing our preferences and desires. We made sure to honor everyone's preferences so we could relax and fully enjoy our new surroundings. We collaborated on restaurant choices, engaging with hotel personnel and taking suggestions to enhance our adventures. We helped one another feel comfortable in new surroundings and when Rick and Jane really wanted to do a particular tour or see a particular museum, we compromised. We also surprised them a number of times, with special excursions, including a tuk-tuk ride through Lisbon. View from a boat ride: The quartet approached one of the early Roman bridges in central Rome. TRAVELING TOGETHER immersed in new sights, sounds, tastes, and textures, it is important to listen to your fellow travelers. We drew them out, asked them for their observations, which triggered conversation and anecdotes. My brother remembered finding a charming gelato shop from a previous trip to Europe. So that became a mission as we went off the ship. Keller, Cookie and Rick near the harbor in Ibiza. WHAT I LOVED most about being with my two favorite fellas -- spouse and brother -- was sharing our observations about places both familiar and new. Discovery and anticipation are great parts of travel, and finding a new museum or art gallery is a terrific bonding experience. Rick, a gifted ceramic artist, found a pottery studio during a stroll through the village of Le Castellet in southern France. And there Jane discovered that she'll never settle for anything less than a French inspired cafe au lait, when she sipped a delicious five-franc cup in the village. General manager of NCL's Viva, Nelson Martins, is pictured in center rear, with guests on a recent Mediterranean cruise. At left are Rick and Keller with Jane and Cookie at the "GM Table." THE EVENING most special in our memories came with an invitation to dine with Viva's general manager, Nelson Martins, at his table. We had a fabulous time, and recommend Viva for anyone looking for all that cruising offers. For city pass information for your specific cities, here are a couple options to get you started: citypasses.eu citydestinationsalliance.eu Fun cruise on NCL's VIVA www.ncl.com/about/contact-us Elegant porcelain pottery -- unique hand-painted floral art -- by retiring artist Rick Cosgriffe. It will be sold this weekend at his studio home in Billings, Montana. Details soon. UP NEXT: Porcelain artist Rick Cosgriffe (featured above) is parting with his cherished collection of hand-painted pottery. He apprenticed on the California coast with artist Jim Hayes many years ago, then studied sumi painting in Berkeley and Portland, Oregon, before returning to his native Montana. His prize-winning work is in many galleries, praised for its nature inspired beauty and fine detail. We profile the artist, who is the writer's brother, and share particulars on his show in Billings featuring unique hand painted platters, jars, vases and tea pots. Meanwhile, explore, learn and live and check us out for a fresh spin on the arts, family, performance and nature: www.whereiscookie.com whereiscookie.com

This buffalo (bison) is probably happy to be on Santa Catalina, not freezing his hide off in Yellowstone Park this winter. BUFFALO SEQUENCES DIDN'T MAKE THE FILM, BUT CATALINA'S BISON ARE STARS ON THEIR CALIFORNIA ISLAND With the stunning Pacific Ocean as their backdrop, these bison roam, forage and take to the four-wheel roadways. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Kiem Kids" Editor's Note: This story was reviewed and updated September of 2026 Most people visit Catalina Island for its beaches, crystal-clear water, and charming seaside town of Avalon. Few expect to find a herd of American bison grazing across the island's rolling hills. Introduced nearly a century ago for a Hollywood film, the Catalina Island bison have become one of the island's most recognizable attractions. A guided tour into Catalina's rugged interior offers breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and the chance to see these impressive animals in their natural surroundings while learning how the herd is carefully managed to protect the island's unique ecosystem. YEARS AGO, a Hollywood studio brought bison to Santa Catalina Island for a movie shoot. The film was an obscure western penned by Zane Grey, the colorful writer who lived on Catalina for years. It apparently didn't impress critics or the public, for it's tough to find much info about it. And the bison's role in the 1925 silent film? Well, their "ready for my close-up moment" didn't make it to the Oscars. In fact, the bison scenes languished on the cutting room floor. And afterwards, 14 critters were left on the island, probably because they seemed content, and likely because it would have been costly to return them to the mainland, where they'd probably have a rougher life! Scrubby bush and prickly pear cactus are the habitat of the Catalina bison. So they did what bison do: they ate, slept, wandered and reproduced! TODAY, THE bison are thriving -- so much so that their numbers are kept in check by careful monitoring and birth control for fertile females. The bison are, indeed, part of the lure and lore of modern day Catalina..... They are, obviously, not native. But their charisma and ability to adapt have made them an item on the Catalina Island "visitor/must see" list for the better part of a century. The Zane Grey western, "The Vanishing American," has not a single bison in it and, according to researchers, the film terrain does not even remotely resemble Catalina. This bison is sorry he isn't in Catalina. He's in Yellowstone. WHAT IS KNOWN is that the bison herd grew over the decades, to upwards of 600. The bison now number about 150, in a program monitored by the Catalina Island Conservancy. And because the bison have become "stars" in Catalina's culture, the Conservancy has no plans to remove them from the island. The bison were to be part of a long ago Zane Grey movie. Our guide, with native American ancestry, reminded us that bison are revered by the Indian people. (He talked to the beasts, thanking them for allowing us into their home. He even called a couple of the larger ones by name.) The Conservancy has developed a bison-care partnership with the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, the Tongva. 7,000 years ago, they were Catalina's original inhabitants. Some of the bison have been located to the colder climes of South Dakota. They're living out their lives on the Great Plains, on the Lakota's Rosebud Reservation -- where temperatures are at least 50 degrees average colder this time of year. As one comes down from the buffalo area, one sees the Pacific and a beautiful vista of Catalina's Avalon harbor. Summer 2026 tour information The Bison Expedition remains one of Catalina's most popular excursions. It is an approximately 2-hour guided off-road adventure aboard an open-air Hummer-style vehicle that travels into areas of the island not accessible to the general public. Along the way, guides share the history of the bison, Catalina's wildlife, and conservation efforts. For summer 2026, pricing is generally: Adults: about $99 per person Children: discounted pricing is typically available (age requirements vary by tour). Tours operate daily, but advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially from June through August because departures often sell out. An interesting update for your blog: the Catalina bison herd is now much smaller than it once was. Conservation managers have stabilized the population to better protect the island's native habitat, making sightings even more special while balancing wildlife conservation. For booking and the latest schedules, readers should visit the official Catalina Island activities page: Catalina Island Bison Expedition. OUR KPBS station featured another solution for controlling the herd's growth. In 2009, a Conservancy study determined that a herd of between 150 and 200 would be good for both the bison and the island. So the herd was given animal birth control to maintain the population at that ideal number -- around 150 animals. The goal of the birth control -- inoculation to females over two years -- is to maintain herd size. Normally, it would increase by 15% or more each calving season, so birth control keeps numbers manageable and bison healthier. That makes for less environmental damage to the land. And because the vaccine is non-hormonal, it does not harm the critters or change their social structures, according to the conservancy's education office. It is also reversible after about a year, should research determine that the island can sustain greater numbers. For now, they're at home on the Catalina range. A visit to Catalina Island isn't complete without searching for its famous bison. The journey into the island's protected interior reveals a side of Catalina that many visitors never experience—wide-open landscapes, native wildlife, panoramic ocean views, and the remarkable story of how these iconic animals became part of the island's history. Whether you're visiting for a day or a weekend, a bison tour is an adventure you'll remember long after the ferry ride home. Coming up: We bid adieu to Santa Catalina Island with a look at other treasures you might miss on a quick visit. Catalina Island's Airport in the Sky is worth the drive when you're looking for bison. Also take in the Wrigley Gardens. The Catalina Airport -- also known as The Airport in the Sky -- is a charming place where you can watch small craft taxi in and out on the top-of-the-world runway, find good Mexican cooking in the cafe, and stroll through a nicely marked garden. Also, the Wrigley Botanical Gardens and Memorial to the generous philanthropist and bubble gum magnate is worth a few hours. It is home to 37 well maintained acres of native and specialty plants, plus a memorial with sweeping ocean views. Remember to explore, learn and live and catch our post for the weekend at: www.whereiscookie.com

The famous gate to Paramount Pictures has been used in many films, including "Sunset Boulevard" which tells the story of a fading star and her struggle to endure in the pictures. Step through the famous gates of Paramount Pictures in Hollywood and discover where more than a century of movie and television magic has come to life. Ready for their close-up, "Keller and Cookie" share an Oscar moment. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Editor's Note: This piece was updated and reviewed September of 2026. If you love movies, television and a little Hollywood magic, a visit to Paramount Pictures in Hollywood is an adventure you won't want to miss! Located on Melrose Avenue, Paramount is the longest-operating major studio still located in Hollywood, with a history stretching back more than a century. Today, visitors can take a Paramount Pictures Studio Tour and see a working movie studio from behind the scenes. From the iconic Bronson Gate to the New York Street backlot and the Prop Warehouse, every turn offers another glimpse into the world of filmmaking. WE HAD so much fun playing tourist at Paramount Pictures. We sat on Forest Gump's famous bench, admired a larger than life and ever endearing Shrek, watched an intriguing film clip on the studio's history and drove past sets of a dozen huge box office hits. The studio is Hollywood's most famous, home to eccentric directors such as Alfred Hitchcock, who had a lavish apartment on the lot and blocked the window with a bookcase so he couldn't be spied upon. Paramount also was home to scores of stars from film's golden age and remains home for many of today's stars. Bruce Keller rests on Forest Gump's bench. "Where's my box of chocolates?" he wondered. The tour stops at several iconic movie sets and a large house of props. George Burns and Gracie Allen called Paramount home and dozens of other greats did, too. Lucy sold Desilu to Paramount for $17 million and is known on the lot for developing a school for young actors there, including her own children. WE KNEW the references to Gary Cooper, Claudette Colbert, Groucho Marx, Marlene Dietrich and Frederic March, while the younger members of our 10-person tour looked puzzled at the mention of those cinematic heroes of long ago. Takers of the Paramount tour can see what's on the lot each day. They knew Tom Hanks and Tom Cruise of course, and famous Paramount box office smashes: "The Godfather" (both the original and part two), "Titanic," the "Shrek" and "Transformers" films, "Grease," "The Wolf of Wall Street," and the controversial "Romeo and Juliet," whose now aging stars have recently launched law suits claiming they didn't consent to the nearly-nude scenes. PARAMOUNT is known for riding the talkie boom to unprecedented heights, reaping industry-record profits of $18.4 million in 1930 (and out-earning all of the other majors), only to suffer financial collapse a year later under the weight of oversized budgets, the costly conversion to sound, and the massive debt service associated with its huge theater chain. After net losses of $21 million in 1932—another industry record—Paramount declared bankruptcy in early 1933. The financial turmoil led to a massive executive shake-up but Paramount survived and made a come back in the WWII years. A New York City set gets a lot of use, with its familiar yellow taxis. Here, tour takers are allowed to pose. The "Transformer" films were a huge hit for Paramount. Here, Cookie stops at one of the transformers. The $25 billion success story includes 5 films, video games, sound tracks and more. WHAT IMPRESSES the tourist first is the enormity of Paramount. The original studio was 26 acres and four stages. Paramount has grown to 65 acres over the years with 30 sound stages range from 5,500 to 18,775 square feet and capable of handling large projects. "Beam us up, Scotty," say Cookie and Keller in the "Star Trek" set. Nickelodeon and Miramax have ties to Paramount,, and you'll see posters of celebrated films, popular TV shows and commercials. Today, Paramount partners with projects large and small in a ceaseless effort to create celebrated movies, television shows, and commercials. The studio lot is hallowed ground for "Star Trek" fans, and posters abound of Leonard Nimoy and William Shatner. "Dr. Phil" is recorded on Paramount's Stage 29 and is the longest running regularly scheduled TV show in Hollywood. Paramount's net worth as of January of this year is $1.27 billion, so the studio is looking good financially. Tours are $63 for two hours, and $199 for a special VIP "Insider" look with a gourmet meal on location. Paramountstudiotour.com 323 956-1777 A visit to Paramount Pictures is more than a Hollywood sightseeing stop - it's a chance to walk through a living piece of entertainment history. Whether you're a lifelong movie fan, a television lover or simply curious about what happens behind the cameras, Paramount offers a fun and memorable glimpse into the magic of filmmaking. So when your travels take you to Los Angeles, put Paramount Pictures on your Hollywood adventure list, grab your camera, bring your curiosity and get ready to discover where Hollywood dreams are made! For tour tickets: paramountpictures.com The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum offers artfully displayed exhibits of maritime history, including vintage boats. NEXT UP: The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is a treasure trove of maritime history with colorful, beautifully curated exhibits, rare artifacts and a lively calendar of events welcoming sea loving guests and members. Take a look at the museum which weaves a thoughtful collection of displays to illustrate man's connection to the sea. Set your sails with us for a memorable visit, remembering to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on nature, travel, family, the arts and more. Please share the link:www.whereiscookie.com

San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge is known worldwide for its dramatic bridge towers. Since 1941, it has been featured in a wide range of movies -- from suspense dramas to family fare and science fiction. WORLD'S MOST FAMOUS BRIDGE CELEBRATES 81 YEARS WITH DOZENS OF FILM APPEARANCES -- CAMEOS TO STARRING ROLES 'San Francisco, open your Golden Gate, you let no stranger wait outside your door....'" a lyric from "San Francisco," a popular 1930s tune which became the city's theme song, famously sung by Judy Garland. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" and Hollywood studio archives Editor's Note: This piece was reviewed and updated September of 2026. ONE OF THE world's most famous landmarks is celebrating her 81st birthday this month with a star-studded string of movie close-ups to her credit. "San Francisco," the song that became the anthem for 1906 earthquake survivors, implied what savvy Hollywood has long known: no one is a stranger to this magnificent architectural and engineering feat. Hollywood has loved the landmark for decades, even when the bridge was but a youngster. DID YOU KNOW that since the bridge opened to the public in 1937, it has appeared in nearly three dozen movies -- romances to science fiction and disaster epics, suspense thrillers to Disney pics? Director John Huston loved San Francisco and used the bridge in his film, "The Maltese Falcon." Above left, we toured the bridge recently aboard a vintage 1955 fire engine, for our own movie. Jimmy Stewart rescues Kim Novak in "Vertigo." Director Alfred Hitchcock loved San Francisco. At the young age of four years, the bridge made its movie debut. Director John Huston used it to enhance the mood of his 1941 film noir classic, "The Maltese Falcon," starring Humphrey Bogart as the no-nonsense private detective Sam Spade. Director Alfred Hitchcock, who loved northern California and the City by the Bay, used the bridge in a famous scene in his 1958 thriller, "Vertigo." Remember when Jimmy Stewart's detective Scotty rescued apparently suicidal Madeleine (Kim Novak) from the bay? Recall Christopher Reeve in “Superman: The Movie,’’ when he saved a group of teens just as their school bus was about to slip off the ‘quake-damaged bridge. Golden Gate Bridge has Impressive Film History -- Bond to Bogart to 'Star Trek' "Star Trek" has used the bridge more than once. "Planet of the Apes" envisioned a collapsed bridge near the film's end. My favorite James Bond, Roger Moore, went on location in San Francisco for the 1985 film "A View to a Kill." The suave Agent 007 took on his nemesis Max Zorin on one of the bridge's iconic towers high above the roiling waters and whizzing traffic. The bridge is constantly being painted its distinctive orange by a full-time crew, to keep it looking good. Our next feature is about an exciting version of "Around the World in 80 Days." IN MORE than one "Planet of the Apes” movies, the bridge has been featured. In 2011, a super smart chimp, Caesar, led a revolution of apes and a whiz bang fight scene on the bridge pitted apes against the California Highway Patrol. Remember the shock as a giant tsunami hurdled a huge freighter at the bridge in the 2015 disaster film, “San Andreas"? THE BRIDGE has taken bows in romances, too, as in “Going the Distance” a 2010 romantic comedy starring Drew Barrymore and Justin Long. "Star Trek" fans know that the bridge was featured in the 1986 time-travel adventure “Star Trek IV – The Voyage Home.’' A captured Klingon Bird of Prey starship from 2286 flew under the foggy span to land in 1980s San Francisco. Then William Shatner’s James T. Kirk and Leonard Nimoy’s Mister Spock rode a bus across the bridge to Sausalito, trying to track a rare humpback whale. In the 21st century “Star Trek’’ flicks, Starfleet Command runs the galaxy from headquarters near -- guess where -- the Golden Gate Bridge. UP NEXT: Elevate your artistic visions and feed your soul with a satisfying offering of fine theater. The arts are bread and butter -- not mere dessert -- and there's nothing like a first-rate production. Here in southern California, San Diego's North Coast Repertory Theatre is serving up a smashing version of Jules Verne's classic novel, "Around the World in 80 Days." Five gifted actors, dozens of quick costume changes and inspired direction make for an engaging time. It's held over through Feb. 11. Don't miss it -- and other San Diego theater treats which we'll preview next time. Remember to explore, learn and live. Catch us weekly for a fresh spin on travel, nature and art.

Adventure Cat is a beautifully designed, smooth sailing vessel available for a variety of sailings. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Editor's Note: This piece was reviewed and updated September of 2026. Enjoying the sea breeze, two of our "catamaran companions" on a unique sailing trip in San Francisco. A SAIL like you've never had before. That's the promise that enticed us to book a relaxing afternoon with Adventure Cruises on a recent San Francisco visit. What a way to see the bay! As veteran Bay Area visitors and veteran sailors, we always look for something new -- on the water, if possible. San Francisco from Adventure Cat at night, its lights aglow. Christene "Cookie" Meyers and Bruce Keller aboard Venture Cat on a brisk, sunny sail. We found it in this adventure, which offers an exhilarating, fast, thrilling catamaran ride across the occasionally choppy waters of San Francisco Bay. In this sleek catamaran, we were seldom aware of the waves. Nice! ADVENTURE CAT offers a variety of sail adventures: private charters for a special party or celebration, sunset sails, bay sails and city lights. The spacious catamarans have a distinctive logo -- a sleek black cat. And a fun blog follows the adventures of the crew and clients. Naturally, a nautically inclined cat is featured. We recommend Adventure Cat for many reasons, including the spacious nature of the catamaran. We joined only a handful of other guests, so we had our run of the boat for custom-made viewing and a stable, safe ride. Nothing like fresh air and occasional waves on the deck -- all right up our alley. But the protection of covering in the cabin is also an option. FOR FAMILIES looking for a sail that both educates and provides fun, or couples seeking a romantic evening out, Adventure Cat is a perfect choice. It was a highlight of this recent San Francisco visit. Our captain made sure we saw the most popular attractions, including the seal lions gathered by the wharf -- complete with sound effects and a distinctive aroma. We didn't see whales -- although friends did the week before -- but we spotted many pelicans, dolphins and the aromatic sea lions. Our sail took us around the infamous prison on Alcatraz Island, before we zipped underneath the Golden Gate Bridge and headed back, all the time admiring the city’s famed skyline as the crew pointed out famous San Francisco landmarks Seals and sea lions at Pier 39, part of the much photographed pastiche of sights greeting sailors who board Adventure Cat. SAFETY is always a concern on boats and the crew makes sure there's no jumping or climbing. Strong netting allows the more daring to experience the feeling of having the waves rushing right under the feet while relaxing in the sun. We were comfortable just luxuriating on our private bench, using our rain coats when the wind whipped up. We did come once inside the protected cabin, which is an option if it's windy. Large viewing windows allow sights of land, sky and water to float by equally visible. Soda, beer and wine are available at the cabin bar. WHAT WE loved most about this sailing catamaran was the quiet ride. No sound of engines once the sails are hoisted -- yet we were impressed with the speed. We didn't need the audio tour, but it is available in seven languages for international guests. As we zipped away from one of the world's most dramatic skylines, we felt the thrill of viewing the city from a unique vantage point. We felt pampered on our almost private sail. A first-rate sail begins with an enthusiastic crew and knowledgeable captain on Adventure Cat. WE CHOSE the 90-minute "Bay Sail," one of several sails offered by this ambitious enterprise which shows off this iconic bay from a prime vantage point. We had our run of the boat for a generous 105 minutes. We didn't dare to gild the lily, but the jovial crew urged adventuresome sailors to test the expansive deck netting as a trampoline. No takers. But a couple who joined our small, pleasant group spent the entire sail relaxing there and cuddling. "Cookie and Keller" with Alcatraz behind them. A couple times, it was fun to hear them squeal in delight when they got a spray from the bay's brisk waters. BECAUSE WE tour often and have been on many a sail, we're very aware of service, value and knowledge. We like commentary, and the crew had answers to all our questions. They were both articulate and personable, and know and love their boat and the world of sailing. A catamaran sail on the bay. Good for the spirit. For more info or to book: www.adventurecat.com For getting around in San Francisco, free admission to many attractions: www.citypass.com This meal was an impromptu discovery in northern Spain -- an appealing array of parador snacks -- pizza (born in Italy), asparagus, sweet potato fries with aioli, N/A beer for Keller and a Spanish white wine for Cookie, all served with flair. UP NEXT: Food, glorious food.... All travel, whether near or far, is enhanced by a good meal, tasty snack, hearty breakfast or appealing appetizer. We take you around the world with us to bars and bistros, modest cafes and five-star restaurants. We're not snobs by any means, and some of our most delightful taste treats have been in small, unexpected "finds." Meanwhile, remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on travel, dining, cruising, nature, family and the arts: www.whereiscookie.com Please share links with like-minded friends and family. We appreciate it. New travel stories, tips & unforgettable experiences Follow our journeys at WhereIsCookie.com #Travel Blog #Travel #Adventure #Culture #Music and theater #WhereIsCookie

What do a bell, a wheel and a pendulum have in common? You'll find out at the Exploratorium. Sights and sounds merge and dance as Steve Ganner shares the wonders with his mesmerized daughter Penelope. KIDS OF ALL AGES ENJOY EXPERIMENTATION, DISCOVERY AT UNIQUE INTERACTIVE MUSEUM ON SAN FRANCISCO'S PRETTY WATERFRONT James Brian Ganner and sister Penelope Margaret have fun with a magical spinning cloud chamber. Bruce Keller has fun with invisible forces and spinning effects in one of the museum's interesting exhibits. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Editor's Note: This piece was reviewed and updated September of 2026. IF YOU NEVER completely "grew up," San Francisco's Exploratorium is designed with you in mind. It's the classic "children of all ages" activity if you're looking for something to entertain several generations. We spent a happy day with our niece, her husband and their two youngsters. Good time had by all. The Exploratorium is an inventive, state-of-the-art public learning laboratory in San Francisco exploring the world through science, art, and human perception. Its mission is to create inquiry-based experiences that transform learning worldwide. Its eye-popping, mind-boggling experiments boldly go... THE DAY we visited, a veritable United Nations of tourists wandered through, eyes wide with wonder. Mirror magic: children, parents and grandparents smile, touch and gaze at mirror images of themselves. Wide-ranging Exploratorium offerings, demonstrations and exhibits range from creative cooking to toothpick art, crepe paper creations to celestial viewing opportunities and exhibits on transportation and gravity. Adults enjoy the pleasure of discovery; with each turn a new inter-active exhibit invites touch. Here, from left, Steve, Cookie and Amarylla play with static electricity. Keller's, Cookie's Exploratorium wish: may the Force be with you! San Francisco Exploratorium involves each visitor, welcomes families The Exploratorium has six main galleries, each focusing on a different area of exploration. Common to all are interactive exhibits that reward attention and provoke thought and wonder. Tying the galleries together is that each exhibit encourages questions -- "how did they do that?" -- so as you play with displays and experiment with moving parts and mysterious forces, you discover new ways to understand how the world works. Thousands of toothpicks create iconic San Francisco imagery. ONE INTRIGUING aspect to this museum lover was the huge variety of people who wandered through, prepared to be amazed. We saw several generations touring as groups, couples on a date, parents with a youngster, grandparents and aunties and uncles taking the children to give the parents a day off. Art museum patrons have, well, an "artsy" look about them. High-powered science based museums seem to attract "nerdy types" -- in the word's best sense. There was no obvious profile to our crowd, just a happy mix. Young, old, scholarly, laid back, white collar, working class -- a pleasant blending of ethnicity, families, ages. Sport clothes, flip-flops, dressed for a night on the town. An exhilarating melange! THE EXPLORATORIUM is one of the exciting offerings on the great CityPASS attractions ticket, which allows entree into must-see attractions at a bargain price in 17 of the country's major cities. In San Francisco, CityPASS also includes unlimited rides on the city's fabled cable cars. www.exploratorium.edu; www.citypass.com ******************************************* DON'T MISS THESE PLAYS, and UP NEXT: At La Jolla Playhouse, treat your favorite Parrot Head to "Escape to Margaritaville," welcome as a summer beverage on a hot day. It's a freshly conceived yet old-fashioned musical with LJ Playhouse's usual high-tech, no expense spared set, plus gorgeous lighting, props and costumes. Besides Jimmy Buffett's classic tunes, he wrote some new songs for the Broadway-bound show, snazzily directed by the theater's Tony winning artistic director Christopher Ashley. The ensemble's high energy connects with the audience, delivering a poignancy to the partying. The run has been twice extended and is virtually sold out but you might luck out -- give it a try. There's not a bad chair in this beautifully designed and artful Mandell Weiss Theatre. www.lajollaplayhouse.org NEXT UP: Fabulous ''Buddy Holly Story'' rocks out in San Diego. EXPLORE, LEARN, LIVE -- and catch us each week when we post a fresh look at travel, the arts and the natural world at www.whereiscookie.com Next week's feature describes a unique and first-ever collaboration between two San Diego theaters. "The Buddy Holly" story combines the talents and organizational chutzpah of Intrepid Theatre and New Village Arts, two daring and innovative Southern California companies who brought their talents together to dazzle audiences in both venues.

Penelope Margaret and James Brian Ganner prepare their take off for a day of frolic at Legoland, north of San Diego. Ready for their Legoland close-ups, from left: Amarylla Ganner, Penelope Ganner, Christene Meyers, aka Cookie, and James Brian Ganner, on a recent visit to the resort. GRAB A KID, REST UP FOR A HECTIC, HAPPY TIME WITH AMAZING ATTRACTIONS, BRICK BY BRICK STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER and CM LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad is a colorful Southern California family destination where LEGO creations, exciting rides, hands-on attractions, entertainment, and imagination come together for a memorable day of fun. LEGOLAND is more fun than I'd imagined. But only if undertaken with a least one child. Two is better. Add their energetic mother and you're set for a time of adventure, laughs, discovery, family togetherness. James and Peny Ganner pose in front of a giant Lego dinosaur. If you are planning a Southern California vacation with children, put LEGOLAND California Resort on your travel list. Located in Carlsbad, between San Diego and Los Angeles, LEGOLAND California is much more than a traditional amusement park. It is a colorful LEGO-inspired world designed especially for families, with more than 60 rides, shows, and attractions. Kids can become drivers at Driving School, explore themed lands, encounter larger-than-life LEGO creations, ride roller coasters, build and play, and explore the incredible MINILAND USA. The resort also includes the seasonal LEGOLAND Water Park and SEA LIFE Aquarium, making it possible to turn a visit into a full day—or even a multi-day family getaway. AND BE SURE NOT TO MISS The Galacticoaster is LEGOLAND California’s newest major roller coaster, located in the new LEGO Galaxy area. It officially opened March 6, 2026, and it’s LEGOLAND California’s first new roller coaster in more than 20 years I invited my niece, Amarylla Ganner, and her two eager youngsters, Penelope and James Ganner. (James is building an entire Lego city and is enraptured with Legos.) The three flew in from San Francisco so we headed north to Carlsbad to check into a lovely ocean view room. The welcoming Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad is a quick five minutes from famed Legoland, whose locations include Europe and Asia. The SoCal Legoland has its own flashy lego-theme hotel, too, but we opted for the ocean view the Hilton offered. We were pleased with friendly, helpful personnel, a lovely happy hour with fine fare and decent wine, quiet rooms, pleasant landscaping and made-to-order breakfasts in a cheery environment. "Wow." Peny and her mum, Amarylla, enjoy the Coast Cruise which takes passengers via waterway to view landmarks, animals and famous buildings from around the world. Checking into a pretty ocean-view room at Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad: Amarylla, Peny and James Ganner and Auntie Cookie. James and Peny Ganner give the peace sign to chef Kevin, as thanks for their custom-made breakfast. WE ENJOYED a pleasant dinner, the kids played in the pool then we slept, dined on the kids' favorite chocolate chip pancakes, served by cheery chef Kevin. We hit the decks early for a fun, full and happy day of "Legoland" overload. Legos, if you've been on another planet, are those interlocking plastic bricks made by a smart Dane in 1949. Kids love them as they're both play toys and an educational tool. Legoland's huge theme park has dozens of attractions, rides, shows, shops and restaurants. Most families plan at least two days to do it justice. We crammed our visit into a single long day, knowing we'll return. A fascinating Legoland New York scene is in one of several miniature cities. -Amarylla Ganner photo THE SHORT DRIVE from the Garden Inn took us through an imposing entrance lined with all manner of Lego movie and cartoon characters -- lifesize and larger. The invention is Danish and the name 'Lego' is an abbreviation of two Danish words "leg godt," meaning "play well." We certainly did, beginning with a fun cruise around the world, through Miniland's array of iconic buildings: the Eiffel Tower, Taj Mahal, Big Ben -- all made of legos. Millions and millions of Legos. James says "way cool" to the Legoland Taj Mahal, a bit smaller than the original in India. On to a Lego "Star Wars" display with all the beloved characters, then Castle Hill with its "Dragon Coaster," which the kids loved. Legoland's Ninjago World offers a rock climb and temple build. There are pharaohs, fairies, stables with Lego horses to ride and a dig for dinos. THE THEME park is enjoyable for adults, too, but it's much more fun with a kid or two in tow. The friendly staff trades Lego figures, and our kids came prepared. Handicapped access is available throughout the resort and children with developmental difficulties get special attention. The expansive, well organized attraction is divided into three parts, with a beautifully designed aquarium and a fun water park too. Too much for a single day, so Legoland, prepare: we'll be back. legoland.com/california/ ********************************************************************************* LEGOLAND California is one of those Southern California attractions where the destination really is about more than the rides. It is about imagination, discovery, hands-on play, and seeing the excitement on a child's face as an ordinary day becomes a LEGO adventure. With its theme park, water park, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and LEGO-themed hotels, families can easily make LEGOLAND California part of a larger Carlsbad or San Diego vacation. Whether your children are longtime LEGO fans or simply love rides and exploring new places, LEGOLAND California is a colorful stop worth considering on your Southern California travel itinerary. The view from The Boathouse Restaurant offers a stunning look ****UP NEXT: Coronado, known to locals as "the Island," is home to around 25,000 people. Located in San Diego County, it is a prized vacation spot with gentle surf, inviting beaches, a charming main street with pretty shops, terrific theater by Lamb's Players and great hotels, including the famous Hotel del Coronado. We visit this romantic getaway next week. Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us Fridays when we post for each weekend.

Charleston's marina is a busy but peaceful place with shops, restaurants, 17,000 linear feet of dock space for both motorized boats and sailing vessels. It's a beautiful place to stroll, too. CHARLESTON: CITY OF CONTRASTS AND BEAUTY WHERE OLD MEETS NEW, ART AND MUSIC ABOUND, BOATING, SPORTS, MUSEUMS, FINE DINING VIE FOR THE VISITOR'S ATTENTION STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" If you're dreaming of cobblestone streets, pastel-colored homes, and a coastal city packed with history, Charleston delivers on every level. This Charleston South Carolina travel guide is designed especially for first-time visitors looking to experience the best things to do in Charleston South Carolina From strolling through the historic district to discovering unforgettable local food spots. Whether you're planning a quick weekend getaway or building a longer Southern road trip, Charleston blends charm, culture, and cuisine in a way that feels both timeless and effortlessly inviting. This vintage home displays the popular and time honored "haint blue" color on the overhangs per southern tradition. CHARLESTON, South Carolina, is a city of contrasts. You'll find modern shopping centers and new hotels, skyscrapers, horse drawn carriages and genteel homes from the Civil War era. It boasts a beautiful harbor, the fort where the Civil War began and a gaceful bridge, the Ravenel Bridge, named after Arthur Ravenel Jr., a successful South Carolina businessman who served four terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. Christene (Cookie) Meyers and Bruce Keller at sunset under the Ravenel Bridge. The spectacular bridge -- also known as the Cooper River Bridge, is one of many attractions to this attractive town of only 151,000. The bridge is cable-stayed, the third longest in the U.S., and connects downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant. It is designed to carry 100,000 vehicles per day, a number experts say it will reach before 2030. Last count, more than 97,000 vehicles a day crossed the bridge, which includes a well shared bicycle and pedestrian path. You'll likely transit it when you visit this charming port city, founded in 1670. It is defined by its cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages and pastel antebellum houses, particularly in the elegant French Quarter and Battery districts. Both Battery Promenade and Waterfront Park overlook Charleston Harbor, while Fort Sumter, a federal stronghold where the first shots of the Civil War rang out, lies across the water. You'll see it on the harbor tour we recommend later. Charleston from the water at night, a pretty sight. WE ASKED about the significance of the many pale blue ceilings we saw on Charleston porches. Why that color? You'll find out on a Charleston city tour, as we did with our delightful guide, Alan Rosenfeld. He gives a unique and entertaining city tour, explaining that the color, known as "haint blue," is associated with the Gullah Geechee people, descendants of enslaved Africans in parts of Georgia and the Carolinas. The Charleston Princess gives visitors a thorough look at the harbor and coastline, from Fort Sumter and the bridge. The word derives from their language and means ghost. The Gullah people have maintained a rich cultural heritage. Among their traditions was the belief that haint blue repels haints, or ghosts. You'll find the color on thousands of southern porches. African inspired crafts are part of the culture and often seen at fairs and markets. Established as Charles Town in honor of King Charles II of England, Charleston adopted its present name in 1783. Charleston's streets are defined by attractive, tree lined boulevards and parks. St. Michael's Anglican Church is one of the city's historic buildings. THE CITY is home to the Charleston Symphony and many arts related events including an annual Wine and Food Festival, Charleston Fashion Week, Festival of Houses and Gardens, Flower town Festival, High Water Festival and the MOJA Arts Festival, celebrating black arts and culture. For 17 days and nights each spring, the famed Spoleto Festival USA fills Charleston's historic theaters, churches, and outdoor spaces Piccolo Spoleto Festival and a well known Southeastern Wildlife Exposition are also popular events. A FUN OPTION is a tour of Charleston's historic homes. Conde Nast offers a good one, hitting the city's best known and nicely maintained relics of a bygone era. (Link at story's end.) The Citadel, Army National Guard, is on a unique driving tour we enjoyed. Fort Sumter is on most visitor's "must see" lists. The attack on the fort began the American Civil War which lasted four years and cost the lives of more than 620,000 Americans. It also freed 3.9 million enslaved people from bondage. THE CITY made the news with another shooting for it is the scene of the 2015 mass shooting at Mother Emanuel AME Church. The gunman, a white supremacist, entered the church, stayed for the service, then killed nine parishioners. Racism exists in Charleston, and in every town in America. But our New Jersey born guide, who is happily transplanted and loves Charleston, considers it a welcoming place with a pleasant mix of people from around the country. Cookie rings the bell of the Princess. WE NOTICED very little overt racism, but chatting with people of color, we learned that there is still subtle discrimination. "Inevitable, I think," one waiter told us. "People and old ideas and ways are changing, slowly but surely." Excellent tour guide Alan Rosenfeld gives a lively overview. Book him MORE INFORMATION: www.charlestonharbortours.com www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-historic-house-tours-in-charleston www.expedia.com/Things-To-Do-In-Charleston.d179997.Travel-Guide-Activities UP NEXT: SCAD. That's the word in Savannah if you are interested in art. Savannah College of Art and Design has an international reputation and attracts students and artists from around the globe. SCAD's Museum of Art offers beautifully curated exhibitions, including both famous and emerging artists. You'll want to spend several hours in this artful, open, beautifully curated space. We spent an entertaining afternoon at the the SCAD Museum of Art, a premier contemporary art museum featuring emerging and established international artists through commissioned works and rotating exhibitions. We'll take you there next week, with photos sure to draw a smile. Meanwhile, remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on art, music, travel, 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

The Grotto in Portland, Oregon, is a place of meditation, prayer and reflection, in lovely gardens surrounded by sculpture and beauty. ONE MAN'S PROMISE TOUCHES MANY IN CITY'S BELOVED, PEACEFUL GROTTO STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" The Grotto in Portland, Oregon, is a beautiful and peaceful sanctuary where gardens, art, history, faith and spectacular Northwest scenery come together. Portland Oregon Grotto, Tucked away in Northeast Portland, the Portland Oregon Grotto is a tranquil retreat that blends nature, art, and spirituality. Visitors can wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, admire stunning religious artwork, and soak in panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape, a reflective moment, or a unique Portland experience, the Grotto offers a serene haven that’s both inspiring and calming. This bird's eye view of Portland may be enjoyed from a viewpoint in the Portland Oregon Grotto's upper garden. A stroll past St. Anne's Chapel, red at left, under a majestic canopy of trees native to the northwest. 100 YEARS AGO, in 1923, a visionary priest determined to create a garden oasis in the middle of a bustling city in the Pacific Northwest. Father Ambrose Mayer was intent on keeping a promise he made to God as a worried child in a parish church in Ontario, Canada. Strolling the sunny Grotto, from left: Christene "Cookie" Meyers, Kira Hill and Bruce Keller. His mother was gravely ill and not expected to live. The bereft boy ran to the church, praying and pleading for her recovery. She lived. And years later, as a priest, Mayer was sent by his Servite superiors to minister in Portland, Oregon. where he fulfilled his promise. Father Ambrose Mayer: he fulfilled his promise, created an elegant shrine. IN PORTLAND, a then quiet Oregon town on the Columbia River, Father Mayer began looking for a piece of property to create something wonderful, to thank God for hearing his prayer and saving his mother's life. Portland Oregon Grotto: A replica of the famous Pieta is part of the beauty. The young priest found land ideal for his intent to thank God, and honor Mary, mother of Jesus. His vow to do something great for the Church materialized in a gorgeous art-filled garden and shrine, now a beloved grotto, hewn from the base of a dramatic 110-foot basalt cliff. There an altar was constructed and eventually a replica of Michelangelo's famed Pieta was placed. Thousands come from around the world to see Portland Oregon Grotto since its 1924 dedication as "the Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother," by Portland Archbishop Alexander Christie. It is an inspiring, calm place to meditate, stroll, contemplate and enjoy the grounds, maintained by volunteers and people of faith. Weddings, celebrations, concerts and special holiday shows and light displays endear it to legions. The Grotto Cave and Outdoor Altar host masses and other events; special arrangements may be made for weddings and celebrations. This photo shows the basalt cliff where Father Mayer envisioned an altar. AN ELEVATOR takes visitors form the lower to the upper garden and a spectacular platform for viewing the city. Sculpture and art from around the world reflect a global yearning for peace, beauty and honoring the benefits of mindful meditation. The shrine became a National Sanctuary in 1983, thanks to Mayer's inspiration and the collaboration of architects, gardeners, believers. All are welcome. THE GROTTO's international fame is for its artistic merging of art, religious icons, flowers, trees, ponds and welcoming paths to enjoy statuary and in a joyful setting The Portland landmark, at North 85th Street and Sandy Boulevard, is one of the world's few to combine museum, gardens and memorials. Among those honored are John F. Kennedy, Our Lady of Lourdes, St. Jude, St. Francis and many other saints. It is a rejuvenating, art-filled anchor in the city's life. A free, short video in the Visitor Center gives a good overview to the ambitious project and its many collaborators. A gift shop contains religious artifacts and memorabilia. St Francis and his animal friends attract many seeking peace and solitude. It is one of the eye catching works of art enjoyed by global visitors. The place shines with festive lights and mass is held, weather and time of year allowing. Mass is usually held spring through autumn most Sundays, at 10 a.m. and noon. The noon mass is sometimes held in the outdoor Grotto Plaza. Masses are also offered for special events, such as a St. Peregrine mass, first Saturdays at noon. Masses are also celebrated in the Chapel of Mary, an old church on the lower level. The outdoor grotto area hosts celebrations. Check the website for more information: www.thegrotto.org; 503 254-7371; www.servite.org UP NEXT: Trains are as much a part of British life as afternoon tea, the royal family and Big Ben. We take to the rails next, with trips to York, London and Oxford aboard the well run British train system. What's not to love about the world's oldest rail system, expertly run, on time, and dependable -- even when occasional strikes occur Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers are all aboard at King's Cross Station in London, for train travel in the UK. Remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on travel, performance, nature, family and more: www.whereiscookie.com

YOU CAN TALK, WALK, TAKE PHOTOS WITH THE ANIMALS AT TWO AWARD WINNING, FUN AUSTRALIAN SANCTUARIES STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Australia's wildlife is unlike anywhere else in the world, and Queensland offers some of the best opportunities to experience it up close. From the koalas and free-range kangaroos at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary near Brisbane to the crocodiles, cassowaries, koalas and kangaroos at Billabong Sanctuary near Townsville, these two wildlife attractions belong on any Queensland travel itinerary. Cookie and Keller spend time with Maze the koala, a charming new friend who awakened to play. Lone Pine bird trainers present an engaging show featuring various hawks, owls and other beautiful birds of prey, some rescues. A VISIT TO Australian wildlife without a koala encounter would be like Christmas without Santa. A male kangaroo at Lone Pine snoozes, awaiting visitors. We fed him after he awakened and jumped toward us. We had the pleasure of a double koala hit on our recent return to Down Under. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary near Brisbane and Billabong Sanctuary 15 minutes from Townsville beckoned. Who can resist getting up close to a koala, that intriguing docile figure who spend 20 hours a day snoozing. We sampled the best of Australian wildlife at these two well known enterprises. Lone Pine is the world's oldest and largest koala sanctuary, Billabong Sanctuary has been family owned for 40 years. View on the Brisbane River of wispy clouds and homes and landscapes, from Mirimar II. EACH HAS its own unique appeal, and differing ways to enjoy the wondrous creatures, exhibits and encounters that make this country's wildlife unique. More than 80 per cent of the country's plants, mammals, reptiles and frogs are unique to Australia and found nowhere else in the world. Millions of years of evolution as the continent split from the super continent Gondwana resulted in this fascinating mix of critters and birds. Cookie feeds a pair of Australian geese, one of the pleasures at Billabong. At Lone Pine, more than 100 contented koalas reside. Those sleepy residents of Australia's thousands of eucalyptus trees are the main attraction but this popular sanctuary is also home to dozens of contented kangaroos,shy dingos, saltwater crocodiles and a bounty of beautiful birds. Here you can hold a koala, pat a dingo, and view a saltwater crocodile from an underwater viewing dome. Trained sheep dogs are in residence, too, along with stealthy birds of prey, who perform with skilled trainers in a breathtaking show. The bird show draws oohs and aahs, as fascinated visitors sit in grandstands. Birds are cued to fly from one trainer to the other, so close one can feel the whoosh of their wings. The place is best reached on the Miramar II boat, part of the popular Koala and River Cruise operation. The crew is friendly, the Brisbane River journey beautiful and we enjoyed lovely scones and tea to enjoy during a delightful commentary. Once at Lone Pine, one walks from a jetty through the forest, up 28 steps to a delightful complex spread artfully over 44 acres. We especially enjoyed feeding the kangaroos, the fascinating birds of prey show and simply strolling the grounds. A colorful parrot at Billabong Sanctuary talked to us as we surveyed him on his perch. ONE MAY book the five-hour Koala cruise easily on line, traveling on the Brisbane River past iconic landscape and historical homes with a pleasant commentary to enhance the journey. Three hours with the animals and an hour each say on the boat make a delightful outing. More on the five-hour Koala Cruise here: Click here for more Lone Pine Billabong pics in nature/Billabong AT THE 27-acre Billabong Sanctuary, we enjoyed the interactive talks and feeding shows, wildlife presentation and holding a koala, an opportunity we couldn't resist. The lively place is 17 kilometers from Townsville, and it's about much more than the drowsy and charming koala. We watched rangers handle snakes, learned about the wombat and marveled at the elusive cassowary, that handsome, large, flightless bird closely related to the emu and the heaviest bird in Australia. This cassowary at Billabong looks like he is ready for war, with a striking "helmet" to help him push through tall grasses in the wild. WE WERE absolutely enchanted with her, in fact, and spent over an hour watching her. The distinctive "hood" and reddish plumage made a colorful spectacle as she ambled toward us. The goldish and brown "helmet" atop her head, above the blue feathers, is called a casque and helps her cut through vegetation in the wild. Wow! WE GOT UP close and personal with the adorable koalas during the koala feeding, watching as rangers hand-fed fresh eucalyptus leaves to awaken the guys and gals. We watched with fascination as they clambered through trees to select their favorite tender green tips, and we learned about the fascinating lifestyle of these iconic Australian animals. Did you know that a koala can eat up to a tenth of its body weight in leaves every day? Yet, holding one, we felt how light she is. After instruction as to the proper holding technique, we found our Maze to be sweet and accommodating, even putting her hand on my arm. We took an Uber to the Billabong place, and the boat Miramar on the Mirimar Koala and River cruise to Lone Pine. This pleasant two-deck tourist boat has been taking visitors to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary for over 70 years and for us has been a "must do" experience all three visits to Brisbane. Here's looking at you. Expressive eyes, and a somewhat dazed look are marks of the koala. They spend 20 hours daily munching eucalyptus leaves and are well represented in two Australia sanctuaries. WE RECOMMEND the cruise through Brisbane's historic landscapes, iconic attractions, pastoral scenery, mansions, and interesting wildlife habitats. We were entertained by the recorded commentary, with occasional asides from the knowledgeable captain both coming and going. Then we made the most of our three hours exploring Lone Pine. We spent another three hours at Billabong, celebrating its 40th anniversary. We delighted in strolls around the grounds, enjoyed a half dozen talks, feedings and shows on wombats, crocodiles, reptiles, koalas, even dingos. Click for Koala River Cruise info Click for more on Lone Pine Click for more on Billabong The Australian Museum in Sydney is a wealth of fascinating exhibits, from Australia's connection to animals to indigenous cultures. Why should you visit WhereIsCookie.com? Because travel is about more than getting from one destination to another. It's about discovering the animals, people, places and unexpected experiences that make a journey memorable. UP NEXT: The Australian Museum is like no other. Established in 1827, it has garnered worldwide attention for its anthropological and history collections, spread out over three floors in the heart of Sydney. The permanent display spans Indigenous Australian culture, Australian fossils and local animals. Changing exhibits come from around the world. We were fascinated to spend several hours with the Machu Pichu exhibit, which included artifacts as well as a virtual reality visit, with capsule like chairs that moved to accentuate the experience of visiting this ancient wonder. Remember to explore, live and learn and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on travel, nature, performance, family and the arts. thanks for sharing the links, too: Follow WhereIsCookie.com for personal travel stories, practical tips, destination guides and ideas that can help you discover your own unforgettable adventures.

After more than a year of closure, the world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium is open for lovers of marine life once again. Masking and distancing are in place, and one must obtain tickets on line for specific times and numbers quotas. It's worth the wait and the trouble to get inside. PHILANTHROPIST'S OCEAN LOVING FAMILY GIFTED THE WORLD A REMARKABLE AQUARIUM STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER A renovated cannery offers one of many outdoor patios at the world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. DIVE DEEP into one of the world's finest ocean exhibits to explore the wonders of Monterey Bay Aquarium in the lovely village of Monterey, California. We booked our tickets on line in early May, after the world famous venue announced it would reopen after 15 months of closure. We spent a splendid, uncrowded afternoon admiring sea otters, jellies, seabirds, penguins and even sharks in one of the world's finest exhibits of sea life. Julie Packard, daughter of aquarium founder David Packard, runs the operation. ONE UNIQUE attraction -- among many -- is the amazing living kelp forest, an expansive three-story exhibit with graceful leopard sharks, wolf-eels and an array of other colorful fish. The non-profit enterprise is known for its regional focus on the marine habitats of Monterey Bay, it was the first to exhibit a living kelp forest when it opened in October 1984. The aquarium was a gift to the community from David and Lucile Packard (of Hewlett Packard fame, the multinational technology company). Its remarkable evolution includes an imaginative rebuilding -- from the ruins of a sardine cannery on the Pacific Coast to a world class learning institution. The Packard family renovated the 1916 Hovden Cannery and transformed it to house the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which opened with fanfare and kudos in 1984. The Packards' $55 million grant launched the institution. Their children carry on the legacy of philanthropy and love of the sea's rich life. Daughter Julie Packard has run the operation since its 1984 opening. Marine lover, lifelong diver and sailor Bruce Keller admires the unique kelp forest, also above. She majored in marine algae studies at U.C. Santa Cruz and serves as the aquarium's executive director. Her goal -- and that of her parents -- is to inspire conservation and appreciation of the ocean and its richness. Her sister, Nancy Burnett, also played a part in developing the imaginative space, using her graduate work in marine biology at Stanford University to help inspire the aquarium's creation. Marine life lovers worldwide appreciate the deep pockets of the generous Packard family, whose wealth supplied the millions necessary to make the conversion from the fish canning days. Fascinating exhibits help viewers enter the magical world of coral and fish. THE AQUARIUM'S displays are first rate, with the unique backdrop of Cannery Row and Big Sur's rocky California coastline. Tips for Visiting If the Monterey Bay Aquarium is on your travel itinerary, do plan ahead. Allow several hours to enjoy the exhibits rather than trying to rush through the aquarium. Check current admission prices, hours, special exhibits, and visitor information before your trip. Popular travel periods can be busy, so advance planning can make the experience easier and more enjoyable. We drove it in just a little over 3 hours from downtown San Francisco. The friendly and knowledgeable volunteers enhanced our visit, smoothly directing traffic and answering questions. The facility's welcoming architecture and attention to details large and small make it a pleasure to enjoy -- much like a world-class museum. The exquisite chambered nautilus has been around 500 million years; it is a popular feature at the aquarium. It's easy to spend two or three hours, and you must not miss the three-story kelp forest, largest living kelp forest community in the world. Leopard sharks, eels and colorful fish swim just an arm's length from the viewer. A lively aviary offers the opportunity to observe birds at close range, foraging for insects. A colorful colony of penguins splashes and preens, flipping about like the underwater acrobats they are. And the Monterey Bay Habitat specializes in featuring inhabitants of the local waters. FAMILIES, COUPLES, students and small multi-generational groups wandered from the jellies to the seabirds to the extraordinary chambered nautilus, which pre-dates the dinosaur. "Nautilus pompilius" was attracting crowds the day we visited. This large, mobile cephalopod is considered a "living fossil." Of all the delights of this fine aquarium, he was the favorite of this arts driven travel writer. I've wanted to see one close-up for this wonder has been the subject of poetry, artwork, math, musical compositions and elegant jewelry. The nautilus has even inspired the names of submarines and exercise equipment and has been around for about 500 million years. If you like to sit and admire aquatic wonders, there are thoughtfully placed benches, and if you're hungry, a pleasant cafe offers dining with signs to encourage hand washing and respectful behavior. We found our fellow viewers courteous. The bathrooms are immaculate. Everything about the museum is thoughtful, welcoming, educational without being preachy. A graceful jellyfish resembles a person under a parachute. A Memorable California Travel Experience For anyone traveling along California's Central Coast, the Monterey Bay Aquarium deserves a place on the itinerary. It combines spectacular marine exhibits, fascinating wildlife, education, conservation and the natural beauty of Monterey Bay. Whether you are seeing a sea otter up close, watching jellyfish drift through the water, or standing in front of the huge kelp forest exhibit, the aquarium reminds us how remarkable the world's oceans are. Cannery Row Brewing Company in Monterey, California, takes its name from the street and famous John Steinbeck novel by the same name. Steinbeck lived and wrote in Monterey in the 1930s and '40s, subsidized by his generous father. ARTWORK IS also an important and delightful part of the aquarium. Sea life mobiles and eye-catching contemporary art adorn transitional spaces between the various "zones". A trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium is more than simply another stop on a California vacation—it is an opportunity to see the ocean in a completely different way. If Monterey is on your travel list, make time for this extraordinary attraction and discover why it has become one of the Central Coast's most memorable destinations. At WhereIsCookie.com, we believe the best travel experiences are the ones that leave you with something to remember, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium certainly does that. We applaud this magnificent gift and hope to return on our next swing through this beautiful section of California. Reservations are essential and the number of guests is carefully controlled. montereybayaquarium.org UP NEXT: While we're in Monterey and Salinas, we take a stroll down Memory Lane, with a look at the 1982 film, "Cannery Row," inspired by a John Steinbeck yarn, and our interviews with Nick Nolte and Debra Winger. There's a fun story behind the world premiere of the film, and Cookie's one-on-one interview with Nolte. Plus a look at Salinas now, in the post-Steinbeck days, with the National Steinbeck Center replete with the writer's archives, life history and displays. It's right in Old Town Salinas, and we look at the changes in both cities from the quaint days of 50 years ago to change and gentrification of the old canneries and warehouses. Meanwhile, remember to explore, learn and live and catch us weekly for a fresh spin on travel, the arts, nature, family and more: whereiscookie.com