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...

After being closed for almost a year, the free-admission walk-up visits to the grave of Elvis Presley are now open again. Visitor walk-up times are daily from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

Although many people may not know it, fans can visit Meditation Garden at Graceland in Memphis without charge before the mansion opens for the day. The Garden was closed to walk-up times in March 2020 because of COVID-19. Read more...

Passengers who plan to cruise with the American Queen Steamboat Company (AQSC) and Victory Cruise Lines (VCL) will need to have proof of a COVID-19 vaccination for all sailings beginning July 1, 2021.

In addition, the vaccination requirement will apply to shipboard crew members and non-shipboard employees across all seven vessels in both fleets. Read more...

Perfect Days at CocoCay and the Caribbean calls you for that vacation in 2021 that you’ve been waiting for. And this is a great time to take advantage with Royal Caribbean offering 60% off the Second Guest with $150 in additional Instant Savings. PLUS – book your cruise with Crown Cruise Vacations and enjoy up to $500 Shipboard Credit on your next Cruise Vacation. Read more...

Some first-time cruisers asked if I could give them tips to help prepare them for their cruise and to help them know what to expect. Glad to do it.

Cruise ships do vary but these tips apply to most vessels and are not pandemic specific. Ships, of course, are now having to arrange important COVID-19 precautions and experiencing major delays in cruising. But, when you are heading to the high seas, these tips might be useful to peruse before walking up the gangway for that great adventure. Read more...

Do you like green eggs and ham? How about moose juice or goose juice? Maybe Fruit Loops French Toast?

Chances are your children like them. And now Carnival Cruise Lines is sharing one of those popular recipes so youngsters can enjoy the treat at home.

It’s not nearly as cool as sailing aboard a Carnival “Fun Ship” or enjoying the ship’s whimsical “Green Eggs & Ham Breakfast,” starring The Cat in the Hat and his friends. Read more...