The tropical view from Papeete, Tahiti

Taking the Circle Tour in Papeete

We should have listened when our travel advisor warned us about bus excursions in tropical climates like the South Pacific. She was right. Hot, humid weather and a crowded bus excursion are not a good mix. And this was certainly the case on a Papeete cruise excursion, “Tahiti’s Natural Treasures,” operated by Regent Seven Seas when […]

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A Winter Walking Tour of Cologne, Germany

Are you curious about what to expect on a winter walking tour of Cologne, Germany? Come along as I share my experience during a Rhine River Christmas Markets Cruise. Pastel-colored buildings enhance the snowy scene when AmaWaterways Amacello pulls into her spot along the banks of the Rhine River in Cologne, Germany. Cologne in December […]

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Paragliding over Maui

Paragliding Over Maui

I’m paragliding over Maui. Let me write that again. I’M PARAGLIDING OVER MAUI. The wind whips through the wing (you might think of it as a parachute) as Dexter Binder, certified instructor at Proflyght Paragliding, offers calm instructions. On a tandem ride, we swoop left and right across the Maui hillside. Paragliding is the most quiet, peaceful experience […]

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Library of Celsus in Ephesus, Turkey

Saturday’s scene: Going to the Library

The Library of Celsus is probably the most photographed ruin in Ephesus, Turkey. Constructed between 110 and 135 A.D. by Julius Aquilla in memory of his father, Celsus Polemaeanus, a Roman Senator and Governor of Asia, the elegant building was more than just a library. It was also Celsus Polemaeanus’ tomb, which was located in a sarcophagus beneath the main […]

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Taulus n Menorca, Spain

4 Hours in Menorca

Updated 07.01.2015 When your ship docks in Mahon, Menorca, one of Spain’s Balearic Islands, it’s tempting to head straight for Punta Prima Beach for a couple hours of sun in the fun. But then you’d miss the complicated history, bucolic views and glimpses of neolithic mystery available on the island. That’s why I chose a 4-hour Menorca cruise […]

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Temple of Hadrian in Ephesus, Turkey

Exploring Ephesus on a Cruise Excursion

An Ephesus cruise excursion is easily the highlight of a Mediterranean cruise itinerary, especially for lovers of antiquity. The fourth largest city in the eastern Roman Empire during the 2nd century BC, the city’s amenities included a library and medical school. I certainly enjoyed my one day in Ephesus while on a Mediterranean cruise. Today, […]

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Tips for a visit to Montserrat, Spain.

And the Angels Sang on Montserrat

Have you thought about taking a Montserrat cruise excursion when your cruise ship calls on Barcelona, Spain? Alan and I had a wonderful time visiting this lovely place. Read our tips for seeing Montserrat. You’ll find them useful no matter the cruise line you favor. Serrated stones dominate the arid mountainside reminding me of the […]

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Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey

Saturday’s Scene: Cultures Collide in Istanbul

Entering Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey, I’m a bit confused. Christian and Muslim art are displayed side by side. Is this a cathedral or a mosque like Sultan Ahmed? The answer—now a state museum, the venerable building with a tumultuous history has served in both capacities. Emperor Justinian I ordered the construction of the massive […]

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Ceiling of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul

Saturday’s scene: looking up in Istanbul

On a visit to the Blue Mosque—Sultan Ahmed Mosque is the official name—you’re going to get a neck ache. I guarantee it. How can you not? Looking at the intricately designed domed ceilings of this Istanbul, Turkey, landmark is practically addictive. Are you planning a cruise? Use our Luxury Cruise Travel Planning Guide to begin […]

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