BEHIND THE WHEEL: Tough competition compact crossover, but 2018 Mazda CX-9 stands out

The 2018 Mazda CX-9 has a few new features to tout this year including automatic emergency braking and G-Vectoring Control.  For the backseat passengers expect heated seats in the upper trims and safety has been factored in for better efficiency as a key option on the lower trims.

BEHIND THE WHEEL: New entry in subcompact crossover market; the 2018 Toyota C-HR

You have a need for a subcompact crossover?  The 2018 Toyota C-HR is an option you don’t want to ignore.  A standout with this Toyota entry is the fact that while a subcompact vehicle is practical it is usually not sexy.

BEHIND THE WHEEL: Same ride, new name for the 2018 Lexus NX 300

New name, same ride with the 2018 Lexus NX 300 formerly known as the NX 200t. With few changes to mention, Lexus lovers won’t have anything to be disappointed about with this new iteration.

BEHIND THE WHEEL: Who’s up for the three-row hybrid version of the Toyota Highlander

Families looking for a three-row crossover stop and take a look at the 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited.  A sport utility vehicle with the seating capacity for up to eight and a towing capacity up to 3,500 pounds – it’s a family vehicle on steroids.

BEHIND THE WHEEL: On or off road, the 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser looks and feels right

Heralding a spirit of the great outdoors the 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser is all about a cool vibe when on or off-road driving. Trust me, I know because when in Africa on safari this is always the vehicle of choice for taking trips across the wild tundra.

BONJOUR WORLD: Natural, pure Laos ignites the soul

When I arrive in Vientiane, Laos I know the trip is going to be interesting. The hotel, which is part of Secret Retreats picks me up in a vintage 1960 Mercedes Benz for the short ride to the first property in the capital city, Ansara Hotel.

BONJOUR WORLD: Finding bliss along Florida’s Paradise Coast

For a southern Florida destination any time of year you can do no better than a visit to what is called the Paradise Coast. This blissful little niche consists of Naples, Marco Island, Everglades City and the Gulf Coast Everglades along with Big Cypress wilderness areas.

BONJOUR WORLD: Get that Palm Springs state of mind

When I lived in Los Angeles, Palm Springs was always that weekend getaway where you could relax and unwind.

BONJOUR WORLD: I am a Fan of West Virginia

I am a fan of West Virginia. I can say that now since I visited earlier this year and I fell deeply in love. The story goes that West Virginia is the northernmost southern state and the southernmost northern state.

BEHIND THE WHEEL: The 2018 Infiniti QX30 crosses SUV, coupe and crossover offering a unique blend

While taking a spin few weeks ago in Los Angeles I found the Infiniti QX30 was a crowd pleaser.