Peru lies in the tropics, south of the equator, and encompasses three distinctive geographic zones: the arid Pacific coast, the rugged Andes Mountains and part of the Amazon Basin. All the attention that its ancient Incan site of Machu Picchu received since being named one of the seven man-made wonders of the world is what put the country in the top tier on my “must see” list. However, once I arrived, I suddenly realized that there was so much more to this land of sharp...

In my extensive travels, my goal is always to find unique cultural experiences. When planning my January 2015 trip to Indonesia, I discovered just such an experience: the opportunity to stay in a traditional Papuan island village. Such a stay would offer accommodations in private bungalows and the chance to interact with locals, view exotic wildlife and swim over the most diverse coral reefs in the world.

Some of my family members, ages 42 to 70, were enthusiastic, so we chose three...

The physical isolation of Antarctica, the anticipated viewing of wildlife and spectacular scenery and reports of disappearing Antarctic ice shelves all were factors that led my wife, Betty, and me to Antarctica as a destination. 

Making plans

Once we decided to visit, there were several decision points that would help us select an itinerary and expedition company. 

The time of year was already determined; expedition ships are able to tour only during...