TRAVELS NEAR AND FAR

If you live in the Seattle area and crave a quick getaway, there are numerous options. But if your caveats include a scenic waterfront, top rated dining options and an upscale property with all the creature comforts, you’ll find the Woodmark Hotel & Still Spa in Kirkland checks all the boxes.

DEBBIE STONE

March 24, 2025 at 6:00 a.m.


‘Dare to seek the extraordinary’ with Richard Bangs’ 50 Best Adventures on Earth

The word “adventurous” often conjures up images of adrenaline junkies pursuing daring and heart-pumping exciting activities. Such individuals are willing to push themselves, often beyond their perceived limits, for the rewards that come from their bold endeavors.

Origami in the Garden is a Feast for the Senses

Art is everywhere in Santa Fe. With more than 250 galleries and a dozen museums, visitors can get a hearty dose of the vast amount of creativity on display in this city.

Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West showcases art, culture and a rich history

Old Town Scottsdale is a mecca for tourists, who flock here to shop for unique souvenirs, peruse the art galleries and public art installations, check out historic sites from the late 1880s and dine and imbibe at the many restaurants and watering holes. They also come to explore the world-class …

Art and Nature Meld with Vibrant Results at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch

Spring is around the corner, at least it is at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch in Carlsbad, CA. Starting March 1st, the public can visit this world famous attraction to enjoy its many offerings.

Explore a tropical underwater wonderland at Seattle Aquarium’s new Ocean Pavilion

If you can’t swing a trip to Hawaii or Bali this year and still want a tropical environment, head to the Seattle Aquarium’s new Ocean Pavilion. Here you’ll come face-to-face with a leopard shark, spotted eagle rays and a host of colorful tropical fish to put you in an island …

Chocolate Takes Centerstage at These Sweet Destinations

This Valentine’s Day, take a romantic escape where “chocolate steals the show.”

New York Banksy Museum boasts largest display of street artist’s work

The man behind the pseudonym Banksy is undoubtedly the world’s most celebrated and elusive guerrilla street artist. And now over 160 works of his have been re-created in a life-size, re-imagined space that reflects the street experience. Welcome to the New York Banksy Museum.

Immerse yourself in the world of hoops at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

On a recent trip to Boston for a family event, my husband and I took a side excursion to check out the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, MA, the birthplace of the game. We’d already visited the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, OH, as well …

Taste the flavors of Greenwich Village with Devour Tours

Exploring the vibrant food scene in NYC is a mission in itself and each neighborhood offers its own local gems. If you’re overwhelmed, consider taking a food tour. You’ll get the opportunity to taste some of the specialties of the area, while also learning about the community via a knowledgeable …

Discover the treasures of Grand Central Station with Walks Tours

Over 750,000 people transit Grand Central Terminal – colloquially called Grand Central Station – on a daily basis. It’s a busy place and typically no one stops to consider the history of this world famous train terminal. Or appreciate this New York City gem and its rich past. On Walks …

Discover a land of awe-inspiring beauty at Alaska’s Lake Clark National Park

The rewards are many for those who make the effort to visit Lake Clark National Park in Alaska.

Connect with Japanese culture when you take a sushi cooking class

When planning your trip to Japan, add a Japanese cooking class to your list of experiences.

Get a Hearty Dose of Scottsdale History on a Best of the West Tour with JoyRidesAZ

The story of Old Town Scottsdale is probably one many visitors (and perhaps even some locals) don’t know. To dive into the colorful history of this place and learn how Scottsdale evolved, opt to take a private tour with JoyRidesAZ.

Portland’s OMSI is an all-ages, world-class attraction

Portland's OMSI helps make science fun for all-ages.