Even on a sunny California day, the island was shrouded in fog. We were almost on it before the sun broke through and we could see it well.

The island is one very scary place, and that is exactly what it was intended to be.

Rising from the middle of San Francisco Bay in California, Alcatraz Island drips with the dark atmosphere of danger and notoriety. Perhaps the most famous ex-jail in the world, Alcatraz doesn’t have a creepy reputation for nothing. From the start, Alcatraz was for the “worst of the worst.” Read more...

A well-loved teddy bear rests in a rocking chair in my guest room. The worn stuffed animal belonged to my husband Bill when he was a child.

Years ago, I was curious as to how that childhood favorite critter got its name. I found the answer. But I was also happy to see a mural about the teddy bear namesake when my American Duchess riverboat stopped in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Read more...

How about a really tough challenge? This raven is one of seven that live very pampered lives. A caretaker makes sure they are well fed and not inclined to fly away.

Every night the ravens are safely secured in their comfy cages to protect them from marauding foxes. Read more...

The beautiful chapel was crumbling to the ground. Gaping holes in the roof allowed the elements to take over. Huge vines grew up the pillars and over the ornate carvings. It seemed the historic chapel was destined for destruction.

Until “a miracle” saved it. Through the magic of Hollywood, a movie was released based upon a popular book. The chapel played an integral part in the film. Read more...

Ready for a bit of musical trivia? This performer has been dead for 40 years but his legacy still lives on in the 104 songs and 21 albums he recorded.

His birthplace and mausoleum are a popular tourist spot. In the photo, my tour guide is taking a smoke break. Read more...

Cruising along the mighty Mississippi, passengers often encounter a Cajun delicacy, if they haven’t already discovered the Louisiana treat. The delicious specialty known as andouille is very popular in this part of the world.

And, if folks time it just right, they can take an andouille cooking class offered by Spuddy Faucheux. Read more...

Crystal Cruises is thrilled to return to the sea this July 2021 with a series of more than 30 new 7-night Luxury Bahamas Escapes aboard Crystal Serenity.

Pricing starts at $1999 for these All-Inclusive Cruises with $250 Shipboard Credit, Complimentary Travel Insurance at final payment, and Extra Savings of up to 5% when you book with Crown Cruise Vacations. Read more...

When riverboats dock in Nashville, they will be visiting one of only two destinations in the United States to be designated as a “Safe Travels” destination.

“From the beginning of the pandemic, Nashville has worked to be a safe city for residents and visitors alike,” Mayor John Cooper said in a news release. Read more...