Lyon, France - August 18, 2009
This mural is painted on a flat building to look 3D. The characters on the various balconies represent famous French people. Even the central figure leaving the doorway, and his doorway, are illusions painted on a flat surface. This kind of art is known as ''trompe-l'oeil (French for ''trick the eye''). Thank you to Larry and Louise Martin.
Paris , France - August 16, 2009
Wilbert is seen here infront of Notre Dame Cathedral, which was started in 1163 and finished in the 1345. The church organ has 7800 pipes and 5 keyboards. Notre Dame is the setting for the famous Victor Hugo novel ''The Hunchback of Notre Dame'' and is one of Paris' most popular landmarks.
Paris , France - August 16, 2009
Wilbert got off the Bateau Taxi (Water Taxi) on the Seine River to view the Eiffel Tower. The tower was built during 1887-1889 to prepare for the World's Fair of 1888, celebrating France's revolution. It is one of the most recognizable structures in the world and still the tallest building in Paris.
London , England - August 10, 2009
Wilbert stopped for a photo opportunity at the world's busiest airport in terms of international passengers. The airport receives 67 million passengers a year! Wilbert tried some British food and it looks like he may be darker shade of blue. Thank you Ignacio Arcas for the photo.
Le Baux-de-Provence, France - August 1, 2009
Alongside Louise and Larry Martin, Wilbert traveled to southern France to visit the Chateau des Baux. This 10th century fortified castle sat upon a hill top and protected the small town for over 500 years. The fort has full scale replicas of ancient catapults and trebuchets, which showcase ancient war machines.
The Sognefjord, Norway - July 21, 2009
A fjord is a narrow arm of the sea which is boardered by steep cliffs. Wilber cruised with Dale Dwelle alongs Norway's longest and deepest fjord which has several branches heading to various water front villages. If you look in the background you can see the ship, as well as waterfall from glacial melting.
Oslo, Norway - July 19, 2009
Wilbert visited the capital of Norway, which believe it or not, is one of the fastest growing cities (population) in Europe. Did you know that Norway is repeatedly counted as one of the wealthiest countries in the world? Wilbert should have worn his Rolex and crown jewels.
Key West, Florida - July 13, 2009
Wilbert is seen here next to the Key West landmark which signifies the southernmost point of the continental United States. The funny thing about this picture is, there is a long line along the street to take a picture with this monument. So my family waited in line, and then when it was our turn, we posed Wilbert. You can bet we got some funny looks.
Key West, Florida - July 13, 2009
The great American novelist Ernest Hemingway had a house in Key West where he did a lot of his writing. I don’t know if he lived in Key West for the beautiful weather, fishing, beaches, etc… or the fact that there are about 80 bars on a 7 block street called Duval Street?
Florida Everglades - July 11, 2009
Wilbert sprayed on his mosquito repellant and put in earplugs to ride on an airboat ride in the Florida Everglades. He saw huge turtles and of course alligators. In case you are curious, there is an average of 15-20 alligator attacks on humans in Florida every year.
Rome, Italy - July 5, 2009
Wilbert visited the impressive Roman Coliseum, which dates back all the way to 70 AD. This amphitheater was capable of seating 50,000 spectators, which is the largest ever built by the Roman Empire. It is estimated that a half a million people died in competitions within the walls. Thank you Dick Chang.
Nerja, Spain - June 28, 2009
There are numerous Roman aqueducts running through Spain, which date back to the 1st and 2nd Century. These bridges or canals, built out of granite blocks, would transfer water throughout the city up to 100 feet off the ground! Thank you Ignacio Arcas for the trip.
Burlington, Vermont(Ben & Jerry's Factory) - June 21, 2009
In 1978, Ben and Jerry opened their first ice cream shop in Burlington, Vermont. A mere 20 years later, the ice cream company is a household name with net sales in the year of 1998 being over $200 million. The names of the flavors are very unusual, such as ''Flipped out,'' ''Turtle soup,'' ''Coffee Coffee BuzzBuzzBuzz,'' and much more. Thanks to the Crasilneck family.
Machu Picchu, Peru - June 14, 2009
Thank you to Brice Campoverdi for taking Wilbert to this New Seven Wonders of the World site. These Incan ruins are thought to have been constructed around 1462, but wasn’t discovered until 1911.
Iquitos, Peru - June 12, 2009
Wilbert is seen here overlooking the Amazon River and a few river huts, which are built on stilts to cope with rising water levels. Access to this city is only available via boat or plane, which makes this city considered the most populous in the world that cannot be reached by road. This shot was taken from a school, which had solar panels installed so the classrooms could stay lit at night for the students to do their studies. No neighboring structures have electricity.
Long Island, New York - June 8, 2009
This week Wilbert accompanied Jenn Roberts to New York on a business trip (photo taken with Jenn’s blackberry). LaGuardia handled 23.1 million passengers in 2008, but do you know what city handles the most travels in the world? Wilbert hasn’t been there yet… London.
Saint Martin - June 1, 2009
Wilbert is seen here at the famous beach Anse Marcel, which lies on the Northern tip of St. Martin in the Caribbean. This secluded beach community is geographically positioned between two large hillsides, which makes the drive extremely scenic. Thank you Kang-Xing Jin for the adventure!
Urayasu, Japan - May 24, 2009
When I first received this image in the email, I thought, “Oh sweet! Wilbert went to some fairy tale castle.” Then I learned that this was a snapshot of Wilbert at Tokyo Disney. This was the first Disney theme park opened outside the U.S (back in 1983). Did you know that they have their own Cirque du Soleil production?
Nara, Japan - May 22, 2009
Wilbert is seen here in front of Todaiji Temple, the largest wooding building in the world. It only makes sense that this large building houses the world’s largest statue of Buddha. The site, which consists of numerous shrines and temples, first began construction in 728. Domo Arigato Bryan Taketa and John Chavez for taking Wilbert to Japan.
Haiku, Maui - May 16, 2009
I don't know how many of our fans watch ''The Amazing Race,'' but the finale this year involved a challenge where the contestants went to this Maui location. The Maui Surfboard Fence is a collection of over 400 surfboards which have been donated over the years. Thank you to my parents for showing Wilbert a surfin' good time.
Atlanta, GA - May 9, 2009
The Appalachian Trail is a famous hiking path that runs 2,175 miles through 14 Eastern United States. The trail was first started in 1923 to connect farms, work camps, and study commons between Maine and Georgia. Thank you Jonathan Lippert for Wilbert’s memorable hike.
Acapulco, Mexico – May 2, 2009
Wilbert was quarantined in a Ziploc bag after returning from Acapulco this last weekend, during the peak of the Swine Flu scare. Thank you to Selam Mesghina for taking Wilbert to such a beautiful beach destination.
Indianapolis, Indiana – April 25, 2009
Start your engines! This week Wilbert traveled to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where the Indy 500 will be taking place in 3 weeks. With a seating capacity of 400,000, the Indy 500 is the largest single-day sporting event in the world. Thank you Dick Chang.
South District, Israel – April 18, 2009
Wilbert is seen here at the base of the Masada (Jewish word for fortress). This fort (upper right of image) sits atop 1,300 foot cliffs and has great views of the Dead Sea. Tourists visit this relic, which dates back to 37 B.C., by climbing into a hanging cable car that travels up the cliff side. If you look closely, you can see the cable car in the background.
Disney's Animal Kingdom, Florida - April 11, 2009
Did you know that Disney’s Animal Kingdom is the largest Disney theme park in the world? Wilbert had a miniature global expedition as he traveled through animal exhibits dedicated to the oasis, Asia, Africa, DinoLand USA, and more. His favorite stop was the giant Tree of Life. Thank you Suit family!
Fremont, California - April 5, 2009
This week Wilbert got an amazing view of the entire Bay Area atop Mission Peak. This mountain top stands 2,517 ft above sea level, and the victory pole at the top makes you feel like you have reached the summit of Everest. Each of the looking tubes point to different cities and landmarks between San Jose and San Francisco. Thank you Jeff Scott for the breathtaking picture.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming - March 27, 2009
Ironically, Wilbert visited Jackson with a companion named Jackson Dovey. The Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is reserved for the skiing elite, with 50% of the trails dedicated to black and double black diamonds. Most die hard skiers enjoy the out of bounds terrain, which is ski-able at your own risk. Luckily Wilbert is a daredevil!
Antarctica - March 21, 2009
That’s right! Wilbert found himself traveling to one of the most remote places on our planet. About 98% of Antarctica is covered with ice, which is why there are no permanent residents on the continent, and only an estimated 1,000 - 5,000 researchers there at a time. If you look closely, you’ll notice many local emperor penguins surrounding Wilbert.
Antarctica - March 21, 2009
Thank you very much to Dale Dwelle, who took Wilbert to Antarctica. The journey to the isolated continent took nearly 4 days as Wilbert flew to Buenos Aires, and then boarded a ship which sailed for 3 days to Antarctica. The huge icebergs and desolate atmosphere are quite beautiful.
Miami, FL – March 13, 2009
This week Wilbert accompanied Ali Fedotowsky to a Miami beach. The lucky monkey spent the day building sand castles and watching the turquoise water. He noticed a ton of good looking girls and guys with bulging muscles; unfortunately he earned the nickname Chimp Wimp, because of his stringy limbs.
North Carolina - March 6, 2009
Wilbert is seen here crossing the South Carolina/North Carolina boarder with Clay Suit. The state hosted the first successful controlled flight back in 1903 by the Wright Brothers. Now, just little than a century later, a stuffed animal named Wilbert travels the world with ease. Time really does fly.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - February 27, 2009
Wilbert is seen here enjoying the sunset along the Malecon, a famous beach boardwalk that runs along downtown Puerto Vallarta. The walkway features beautiful and unique art galleries, restaurants, shops, and of course bars. Thank you to Gregor Mraz for treating Wilbert to this muy bueno sunset!
Venice, Italy - February 21, 2009
Maybe I should change the name of my website to gondola-ing Wilbert. That’s right, this week Wilbert found himself back in Italy, but in the northern city of Venice. Thank you canal pal Anthony Palgetti for snapping this photo. Can you belive Venice has water taxi's, water busses, and other forms of public transportation on the water!
Ensenada, Mexico - February 14, 2009
I've heard of puppy love, but not monkey love! Here Wilbert is seen holding a rose on Valentine's Day aboard a cruise to Ensenada. Wilbert is turning into quite the world traveler and ladies man. Thank you to Melissa and Phil Torres for taking Wilbert on his first cruise. Now he really is "cruising Wilbert."
Dusseldorf, Germany – February 7, 2009
Wilbert is seen here in the metro in Dusseldorf. Dusseldorf? Sounds like the name of a character from Lord of the Rings! Kasey Latimer said Wilbert enjoyed seeing the Rhine River and eating bratwurst.
Rome, Italy – January 31, 2009
This week Wilbert visited the huge Trevi fountain, which is over 85 feet tall. According to tradition, if someone throws a coin into the fountain they will someday return to Rome in the future. Figures show that over 3,000 Euros are thrown into the Trevi fountain each day!!
Amalfi, Italy – January 29, 2009
Wilbert is seen here above the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast. Back in the first century A.D. the Roman aristocrats built their luxury villas along this Mediterranean coastline, and to this day it remains a beautiful setting for pricey homes. Thank you Supriya Gujral.
Chicago, Illinois - January 23, 2009
They don't call it the Windy City for nothing! Here Harry Wang holds onto Wilbert to make sure he doesn't go flying into orbit. The giant metallic bean in the background is a artistic landmark that weighs 110 tons. Visitors love to walk under the bean and see their bizarre reelections in the stainless steel plates.
Chicago, Illinois - January 23, 2009
Here Wilbert is seen climbing in the snowy trees of Millennium Park. The 24 acre park is located in downtown Chicago and features many architectural achievements, such as the worlds largest rooftop garden, a giant metallic bean, and two 50 ft towers built of glass bricks.
Notre Dame, Indiana - January 16, 2009
Wilbert enjoyed his visit to the famous Golden Dome which sits atop the main administrative building at the University of Notre Dame. According to guardian Bristol Schmitz, temperatures reached a low of -20 that day. Seems like they should dedicate a mass or two toward praying for warmer weather… and a better football team (sorry, had to, they beat up on University of Hawaii this year in the Hawaii Bowl.)
Eugene, Oregon - January 13, 2009
Accompanying Samara Crasilneck, Wilbert took a tour of the University of Oregon campus. Here he is posing in front of the entrance gates at Autzen Stadium, where the Ducks football team plays. The stadium has sold out every game since 2002, and is claimed to be the nosiest college stadium in the nation, reaching levels of 127 decibels.
Siskiyou, Oregon - January 11, 2009
Wilbert saw snow for the first time on his trip to Oregon this week. Talk about bad timing, Oregon is experiencing one of their snowiest winters in over 10 years. Wilbert remained warm however, considering he is made of cotton! Thank you Cardiff Schmitz.
Cabo San Lucas - January 3, 2009
Wilbert was spoiled rotten by Miguel Aldez in Cabo San Lucas. Here he is seen riding on a sailboat with the picturesque "El Arco" in the background. This natural rock formation is very famous as seen on many posters and postcards displaying the beauty of Mexico.
Cabo San Lucas - January 3, 2009
Wilbert kicked off 2009 with a bang by soaking up the rays in Cabo San Lucas. Here he is plopped down in front of the Cabo Marina. Wilbert has seen his fair share of lighthouses! Happy New Year everyone, and let the adventure begin again
December 23, 2008
Merry Christmas everyone! Keith will be on vacation for the next week or two enjoying the holiday season, so will not be able to post any Wilbert photos. It was a fun year, and Wilbert really got around. I look forward to more travels in 2009. I encourage you to email me at cruisingwilbert@gmail.com and I will post some of the fan appreciation when I return.
Las Vegas, Nevada – December 13, 2008
Here Wilbert is seen outside the Luxor hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Some day Wilbert hopes to get a glimpse of the real pyramids and Sphinx in Egypt, but for now this will do. At least he didn't have to ride a camel to see this monument, just a inter-casino rail Tran.
Las Vegas, Nevada – December 13, 2008
"Vegas Baby, Vegas!" Wilbert gets a birds eye view of the Vegas strip from atop the Mandalay Bay Casino. The Luxor's spotlight illuminates the pinnacle of the dark pyramid in the near distance. To the left are the colorful castle tops of Excalibur. The green building is the MGM Grand. Thank you Dave Glazer for the trip.
Santa Rosa, California – December 7, 2008
Wilbert visited the Charles Shultz Museum in Santa Rosa, home to anything and everything that is Peanuts. That's right; the creator of Charlie Brown and Snoopy has his own museum which opened up in 2002. Thank you to Tony Rondonuwu and his family for the fun trip!
Clear Lake, California – December 6, 2008
About 2 hours north of Napa Valley, Wilbert visited Clear Lake, which is surprisingly the largest natural water lake in California, and one of the oldest in the nation. Visibility in this picture is amazing, as it seems like you can see the other side of the mountain in the distance. It makes you wonder if it is named clear lake for its clean water, or remarkable views.
Sunset Beach, Oahu - November 29, 2008
The surf was up, and Wilbert decided to hang 10 on a pole, staying safe on the dry sandy beach. He was privileged to watch heats of the Van's Triple Crown of Surfing, arguably the most important professional surfing competition each year.
Sunset Beach is the second stop of the 26th annual Triple Crown of Surfing competition, with Pipeline and Haleiwa rounding out the other breaks. Waves were 15 feet that day.
Diamond Head, Oahu - November 28, 2008
Diamond Head was created over 100,000 years ago by an explosive eruption of steam and ash. Wilbert climbed the 760-foot summit using trail, stairs, tunnel, and ladders for this view. Early sailors had thought some bright crystals sparkling in the crater were diamonds and gave it the name Diamond Head. The city skyline is Honolulu and Waikiki Beach. That big open patch of grass is where I (Keith) played numerous soccer tournaments growing up. The fields weren't the best, but the proximity to the beach was phenomenal!
Honolulu, Oahu - November 28, 2008
"The Life of the Land is Perpetuated in Righteousness" is Hawaii's state motto and written in Hawaiian on the coat of arms which is present on the gates of Iolani Palace. This palace housed the monarchs of Hawaii before the islands were annexed to the United States. Thank you Kimo Molina for escorting Wilbert around Oahu!
Amsterdam, Holland - November 24, 2008
Wilbert visited the Heineken Brewery in Holland this week. Although he didn't do any taste testing, he still felt as if his vision was blurred when he noticed the signs unusual spelling of "brouwery." Thank you to Jonathan Conrad for the awesome trip.
San Jose, California - November 18, 2008
Last night Wilbert accompanied Jackson and Alyssa Dovey to the tree lighting ceremony at Santana Row(an elegant shopping strip in the Silicon Valley). Local news crews were covering the even as people packed the grassy promenade and carolers sang.
San Jose, California - November 18, 2008
Wilbert sat on "Santa Monkey's" lap and told him how Wilbert really wanted a suitcase for Christmas. I know, I know, Wilbert doesn't share the spotlight, but he will if it's with a giant orange monkey named Gigante (the mascot of the local minor league baseball team).
Sierra Nevada's, California - November 8
This week Wilbert hiked to the 12,300 foot summit of Mount Morrison in California. Traveling with Ernie Bently and Susanne Bollinger, Wilbert took a deep breath of fresh mountain air and enjoyed the beautiful rock cliffs and valleys.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - November 1, 2008
Well, Wilbert has done it again. I am tremendously jealous of this little stuffed animal traveling the world. Thank you to Janet Bombard and daughter Eve for taking Wilbert on their South America vacation.If you look in the background, you can see the famous Sugarloaf Mountain, an egg shaped peak highlights the Brazilian coast.
Copacabana Beach, Brazil - October 30, 2008
Here Wilbert is seen over looking the famous Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro. The beach stretches almost 3 miles in distance. The beachside road is lined with dance clubs, restaurants, shopping , and tourists. The "Cariocas" (people born in Rio) welcomed Wilbert with open arms.
Amazon Rainforest, Brazil - October 28, 2008
Look at Wilbert go! He made it to the Amazon and saw real wild monkeys swinging from tree to tree. His guardian was going to take a picture of Wilbert with the monkeys, but she thought they might monkey-nap him, so she held on tight. Don't worry folks, Wilbert has had his malaria and tuberculosis shots, so no threat of a diseased Wilbert.
Freeport, Maine - October 24, 2008
This week Wilbert went shopping at the L.L Bean headquarters in Freeport Maine. Unfortunately none of the shirts were sized for little stuffed monkeys. Thank you Eva Rincon for showing Wilbert the beautiful fall foliage and colors of Maine.
Florence, Italy - October 17, 2008
After washing down some spaghetti with a glass of vino, Wilbert visited the Duomo of Florence. This cathedral is one of the largest in the world and thought of as an architectural and artistic wonder.
Florence, Italy - October 15, 2008
This week Kevin Moul atoned for his "Biggest Let Down" award and treated Wilbert to the sight of beautiful Ponte Vecchio, which is Italian for "Old Bridge." This famous stone bridge over the Arno River dates back all the way to 996 and was believed to have been built by the Romans.
Moro, Peru - October 10th, 2008
This week Wilbert traveled to a new continent, South America! Thank you to Melissa Torres for taking Wilbert to Peru with her. I just received this photo last night, so once I speak with Melissa, I will update you on the exact town and experience. Cheers!
Xi'an, China - October 3, 2008
Wilbert is seen here joining the Terracotta Army of Qin Shi Huang. This formation was recently discovered in China and is believed to be dated back to 210 BC! An army of over 8,000 of these soldiers were built and buried along side an ancient emperor to supposedly help rule in the after life. Wilbert missed the memo: "don't smile and look ominous!" Thank you Sue Duncan.
Santorini, Greece - September 26, 2008
Here Wilbert looks Teeny-Weeny on top a cliff in Santorini (forgot his polka-dot bikini). A collapsed caldera on this island forms the steep cliffs overlooking the ocean. Wilbert's baby blue color clashes nicely with the brightly colored homes on the cliffs edge. I guess you can't really play catch or frisbee in the backyards of these estates! Thank you to Jeff and Melanie Akers for taking Wilbert on their honeymoon.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma - September 19th, 2008
This week Wilbert paid his respects at the Oklahoma City National Memorial. Before September 11th, this bombing event was the deadliest act of terrorism on US soil. Thank you to Sadie Salazar for chaperoning Wilbert on this journey.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma - September 19th, 2008
Here Wilbert is seen in the Field of Empty Chairs, also a part of the memorial. Each vacant chair represents one of the 169 victims of the bombing.
Tokyo, Japan - September 12th, 2008
Here Wilbert is seen holding on for dear life on the Tokyo Metro. Wilbert got a good view of the whole train from this position and even picked up a few Japanese words. Domo Arigato Matt Bordoni!
Beijing, China - September 8th, 2008
How symbolic that Wilbert is seen here atop the Great Wall of China. Just as the wall spans over 4,000 miles and traverses China's countryside, Wilbert is putting miles on his odometer and circumnavigating the globe, now visiting three continents. This website and idea is getting cooler and cooler!
Seoul, Korea - September 6th, 2008
The Gyeongbok Palace was originally constructed in 1394. According to my research , it used to house the Korean royal family, and is fittingly the largest palace in Korea. Thank you to Michael Bordoni for taking Wilbert to this fabulous piece of Asian history.
Montreal - August 30th, 2008
Wilbert is a proponent of eco-friendly practices. He doesn't pollute or create harmful toxic emissions as he travels the globe. He was excited to visit the Montreal Biosphere, a museum dedicated to water and the environment. Now he has seen a towering glass pyramid, and a gigantic steel ball.
Montreal - August 28th, 2008
Wilbert is lucky he is incapable of sneezing, because one spasm could send him flying off the edge into oblivion. Rose Seng took this amazing picture of Montreal's skyline from Chalet du Mont Royal, famous park and scenic lookout just north of Montreal.
Paris - August 21st, 2008
This week Wilbert visited the most famous museum in the world. Some of the Louvre's prized possessions include the Mona Lisa and the Venus Di Milo. Wilbert was kept on a short lease while inside the museum, so as to not climb on any priceless objects. Thank you to Thomas Buckley for treating Wilbert to such a wonderful trip.
**Sorry for late post, was monkeying around!**
Jamaica - August 14th, 2008
This week Wilbert had to “Get up, Stand Up” on this fence to pose for a picture. That’s right! Wilbert was "Jammin" in front of Bob Marley’s house in Kingston, Jamaica. Thank you very much to local, Leighton Ridgard for this exclusive site that most tourists don’t know about. Wilbert fit right in with his three dreadlocks he has on is head! (I wonder if that colorful heart on the gate is symbolic of Marley's song "One Love, One Heart"...interesting?)
Aruba - August 8th, 2008
Wilbert, searching for shade, found comfort in an Aruba palm tree. He accompanied newlyweds Vince and Katherine Cafazza on their honeymoon. Katherine joked with me, revealing they took more pictures of Wilbert on their vacation than they did of themselves. Well…. he is a celebrity!
McCall, Idaho - August 2nd, 2008
The Raimondi's taught Wilbert to fly fish and wakeboard on Payette Lake in Idaho. McCall is a resort/vacation destination due north of Boise, featuring great winter and summer activities.
For those of you that do not know much about Idaho, I did some research:
State Flower: Potato
Governor: Mr. Potato Head
State Song: "Do the Mashed Potatoes" - James Brown
Idaho youth called: Tater-tots
…Wilbert's nickname after visiting Idaho: the Spud Stud
Reno - July 26th, 2008
Jeff Buckley, a Las Vegas native, took Wilbert (made in China?) gambling in the “biggest little city in the world.” Wilbert walked the tight rope at Circus Circus, attended a pool party at the Sands, and gambled his bananas away at the Silver Legacy. I knew he was a monkey, but I didn’t know he was a party animal!
Santa Cruz - July 19th, 2008
Thank you to the Simpkins’ family for this week’s adventure. Wilbert, attached to the rigging via a Carrick Bend knot, helped skipper this clipper into the Santa Cruz harbor. While singing a chantey, the crew trimmed the sails and enjoyed a beautiful sunset over the portside railing. …I’m no dinghy when it comes to yachting vocabulary!
Vancouver - July 12th, 2008
Wilbert is dwarfed by this huge rock statue atop Blackcomb Mountain in Whistler, Canada. This statue is quite significant because it symbolizes the mascot/logo of the upcoming 2010 Winter Olympics, and the pride Vancouver has gained from hosting such a prestigious athletic event. Fans should remember to keep their eyes peeled during television coverage of the events to see if the huge statue is featured! Thank you Jason Shueh for taking Wilbert to these great destinations.
Seattle - July 6th, 2008
I have concluded that Wilbert’s favorite sport is baseball since he has already been to three games/stadiums this year. SAFECO Field is home to the Mariners. Apparently if you are a resident of Seattle, that makes you a Seattleite (and no, that does not mean you get better television reception or cell phone coverage).
Martha's Vineyard - July 4th, 2008
Along side Phil Pankiewiz, Wilbert celebrated our nation’s birthday overlooking the 130 foot cliffs of Martha’s Vineyard. This lighthouse was originally built in 1799 (refurbishments have been made) to direct ships through the nautical passages of Vineyard Sound. Judging by the dense fog, it is no surprise why this lighthouse was national recognized as one of the top 10 most important in America. The name could use some tweaking however… Gay Head Lighthouse.
Dallas - June 27st, 2008
Traveling with Tamara Steffens, Wilbert checked his email and presented some PowerPoint presentations at one of the largest and most recognizable office buildings in Dallas, Texas. Apparently the Infomart building was created to be a beacon for entrepreneurial tech visionaries. Needles to say, the red carpet was rolled out for Wilbert in response to his ingenuity regarding travel and the World Wide Web.
Florida - June 21st, 2008
Wilbert, being a trickster, thought he could achieve his goal to “see the world” by going to one destination….Sea World. Sorry bub, nice try. This week Wilbert traveled to Florida with the Trice family and learned all about marine life. Did you know a group of whales is called a pod? Guess what a group of Keith DeVey’s is called ?….a blessing. (sorry, I had to!)
St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands - June 14th, 2008
One word describes this location… breathtaking. Am I really becoming jealous of a stuffed animal? Wilbert is seen here enjoying the sunset on famous Magens Bay Beach. It is no surprise that Magens Bay has been named the most beautiful beach in the world by National Geographic and Conde Nast Traveler. Although Wilbert wasn't "Ban Har" (born here) on the island, he definitely follows the island attitude of "Hey Mon, No Problem." After all, he is a hitchhiking blue monkey with no set destination!
British Virgin Islands - June 12th, 2008
Borders were crossed, passports stamped, and seas traversed! Wilbert traveled by plane, yacht, and fin, along side Devon Richstone to reach the white sands of the British Virgin Islands. Here he is pictured sun bathing (does he look a darker shade of blue?)on Jost Van Dyke , the "Barefoot Island" which can only be reached by boat. Boats dock at the harbor, and visitors swim ashore to buy drinks at the aptly named Soggy Dollar Bar. Population = hundreds.
New York City - June 7th, 2008
Wilbert also spent some time soaking in the hustle and bustle of the world’s greatest city at Times Square. New York City attracts over 40 million tourists from around the world each year, and one blue monkey named Wilbert.
New York City - June 7th, 2008
This week Wilbert flew to the Big Apple with Jason Burns. He was treated to a Yankee baseball game in a historic stadium that has been in operation since 1923, but is scheduled to be demolished at the end of this year.
Maui - May 31st, 2008
Alooooooooooooooha! This week Wilbert traveled to heavenly Maui with my parents Graham and Diane DeVey. He was treated like ohana (family) and given a flower lei, as is the tradition on the islands. Wilbert is seen here atop Haleakala volcano overlooking the entire Maui valley and south shore. In the far distance is Lanai.
Utah - May 24th, 2008
While in Utah, Leighton also snapped this beautiful picture of Bryce Canyon. The long cylindrical peaks in the background, formed by wind erosion are called hoodoos…who knew? (play on words intended). You will notice that Wilbert now has a name tag attached to his right arm, so travelers understand the game.
Utah - May 24th, 2008
Having already had his red boots blown off by the size and beauty of the Golden Gate Bridge a few weeks back, Wilbert now witnessed what is described as the largest natural bridge in the world. Leighton Ridgard, an amateur photographer who has submitted pictures to National Geographic, took this picture of Wilbert at Rainbow Bridge in Utah.
Boston Massachusetts - May 17th, 2008
Tragic events folks! Wilbert had an amazing time watching a Boston Red Sox game with guardian Kevin Moul. Kevin told me he stood shoulder to shoulder with crazy Red Sox fans holding Wilbert above his head to stage the perfect photo. As fans stared at Kevin in curiosity and questioned his maturity, Wilbert received a breath taking view of Fenway Park. When Kevin and his girlfriend Bryce were reviewing the photos on their plane ride home, the unthinkable occurred. All photos were accidentally erased. No documentation of Wilbert being in Boston. I apologize to all fans, and have awarded Kevin with a Cruisingwilbert lifetime achievement award for his blunder.
Phoenix Arizona - May 11th, 2008
This picture was taken by Mike Amico at Camelback Mountain, a landmark that draws
thousands of hikers to Phoenix each year. Wilbert avoided the Rattlers, cactus, and dehydration. Temperatures were in the high 90's in early May.
San Francisco California - May 4th, 2008
This picture was taken by Keith DeVey at his favorite San Francisco beach. Wilbert soaked up the rays on one of the rare fogless days in the city, while enjoying the view of the GoldenGate Bridge.