Great Basin National Park, Nevada

In the shadow of 13,063-foot Wheeler Peak, 5,000 year old bristlecone pine trees grow on rocky glacial moraines. Come to Great Basin National Park to experience the solitude of the desert, the smell of sagebrush after a thunderstorm, the darkest of night skies, and the beauty of Lehman Caves. Far from a wasteland, the Great Basin is a diverse region that awaits your discovery.

With the arrival of the spring season comes a new beginning. The gradually warming temperatures awaken Rock Squirrels, and other critters, from their long sleep reminding them to forage. Even though days in the valley may be hot, there is generally snowpack in the high elevations. With the gradual melting of snow, streams dance down the mountain. Diversity explodes. Bouquets of Prickly-Pear Cacti, Indian Paintbrush, and Globe Mallow begin to dot the desert with shades of yellow, pink, red, and orange.

So arrives the season full of activity. Temperatures are comfortable with highs around 85 and lows 55 at 6,825 ft above sea level. Even the Yellow-bellied Rock Marmots who hibernate nine months out of the year reveal themselves to sunbathe on rocky outcrops. Fishermen practice their angler skills in creeks. Hikers enjoy moderate to strenuous hikes early in the day to avoid common afternoon thunderstorms. As darkness falls, anticipation arises for another activity: connecting with the night sky. Stargazers enjoy the best visibility of the Milky Way in the continental United States.

When autumn arrives, Great Basin National Park shows its colors, with groves of aspen trees dotting the mountains in hues of yellow and gold. The air is cool and crisp, uncrowded trails beg to be explored, and pine nuts are ready for picking. Great Basin National Park takes some effort to get to, but those who make the journey reap the rewards: spacious campsites, friendly and available staff, and the company of the oldest trees on Earth, the bristlecone pines.

When winter arrives in Great Basin National Park you experience the true meaning of solitude and silence. Frost delicately ornaments blades of grass along stream beds as water gently runs under sheets of ice. As snow accumulates on mountain peaks, mule deer begin their seasonal migration patterns, moving down to lower elevations. With the arrival of fresh powder brings the anticipation of winter recreation. Trails and roads are explored by a few adventurous visitors on skis and snowshoes. Just when you think you are alone, a series of paw prints in the snow provide alluring signs of an animal that was recently in that same place.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel & Tours Inc
6008 W Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, AZ 85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

"KICK ICE ALASKAN GLACIER ROUTE SUPER CRUISE"

RAWHIDE TRAVEL and TOURS

                  presents it's famous.....    
 "KICK ICE ALASKAN GLACIER ROUTE SUPER CRUISE"  
 (and Anchorage sleepover)

 August 22-31, 2012

   $3499 per person based on double occupancy
(triple and quad staterooms also available at even a lower price)

Think you've seen Alaska before? Unless you've been with Rawhide Travel and Tours, better think again! If you're looking for that "different vacation" mixed with some of the worlds most stunning natural beauty, majestic scenery, spectacular wildlife along with relaxation and luxury, then this is your ticket to see and experience some of the most awesome sights in the world......ALASKA!


Join us as we discover the land of the midnight sun, 100,000 glaciers, moose, whales, Gold Rush towns and soaring peaks on our 10 day grandeur journey through the "Last Frontier." Enjoy a TWO NIGHT pre-cruise stay in awesome Anchorage for some free time and "Ron's Alaskan Surprise" the second day (shhhh......it's a surprise). Transfer from Anchorage to Seward "the ultimate Rawhide way" on the Alaska Railroad (no bus for us!) on board the Wilderness Express in double decked glass-domed rail cars with spectacular 360 degree views of the Alaskan outback bush! Then enjoy a SEVEN NIGHT Southbound cruise on Royal Caribbean's dazzling 90,000 ton Mega-Superliner, the M/S Radiance of the Seas sailing from Seward to Vancouver, British Columbia! During the cruise, savor HUBBARD GLACIER (one of the most active blue ice glaciers in North America), then visit the "rowdy Gold Rush towns" of JUNEAU (Alaska's capitol with tons of outdoor action), SKAGWAY  (over 20 excursions offered here including dog-sledding!), ICY STRAIGHT POINT (might only have a population of 900 but has the world's longest zipline at 5,330 feet in length.....eeeeha!), KETCHIKAN (get ready for 1,000 foot waterfalls and low-hanging mists) and finally, the world famous INSIDE PASSAGE (home to humpback whales and sea lions). Feast on scrumptious Alaskan salmon, crab and lobster! See verdant mountains, waterfalls, snowcapped mountains and fields of Alaskan summer wild flowers in full bloom! You'll see and do it all on our unforgettable and electrifying adventure! And, as if this dazzling adventure and all of the astonishing excitement and sights weren't enough, the price includes just about everything (but the kitchen sink).


 Round trip air from Phoenix (air is also available from 171 other U.S. cities including San Juan, Honolulu and 18 Canadian towns but price may vary if departing from a city other than Phoenix), all U.S. and foreign airport taxes, all security, government and departure fees, all ship port taxes, all transfers throughout (including "the ultimate Rawhide way" Alaska Railroad Wilderness Express transfer), a seven night luxury cruise in a category E1 DELUXE OUTSIDE PRIVATE BALCONY STATEROOM including SEVEN MEALS per day (meals on your own during the Anchorage sleepover), nightly "Las Vegas style" entertainment, several gala parties during the cruise, deluxe hotel accommodations in Anchorage including all hotel taxes and service fees, Ron's Alaskan Surprise on August 23......even cancellation insurance and ship tips! So what are waiting for? Most people wait a lifetime for their ship to come in. You only have to wait until August 22, 2012. WARNING: eyes in the back of your head recommended for this thrill-related adventure. Experience life without a ripcord and call RAWHIDE TRAVEL and TOURS TODAY  (602) 843-5100.  Happy "Kick Ice" sailing trails to you......


Presented By:
Rawhide Travel & Tours Inc
6008 W Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, AZ 85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

A Vacation Home for the Family Dog

It’s likely the most common travel conundrum of dog owners: What to do with Fido when we  go on vacation? While it’s true that hotels have become more pet-friendly in the past few years, the number of places that don’t accept dogs still far outnumbers  the number that do.

Dogvacay.com,  a recently launched website that pairs dogs with host homes while owners are away, saves both dog and owner from kennel boarding.  Dogvacay’s boarding is cage-free, said Aaron Hirschhorn, the site’s co-founder and CEO.  Hirschhorn, along with his wife, Karine Nassim Hirschhorn, decided to create a website around home dog boarding.

Dog owners can create an account on dogvacay.com, providing details about their pet, and then search listings for matching  hosts in their area.

Owners can email potential hosts to work out the details and get any questions answered. Payment is made in advance to dogvacay.com, which holds the money until after the dog has been dropped off at the host home.

The site vets hosts through phone calls and social media channels, but ultimately it’s the dog owner’s responsibility to pick a host they are comfortable with. Since the host home is likely in or very close to the host-seekers  hometown, it’s probably worth arranging a visit before making a commitment. The site provides insurance should anything go wrong and offers a money-back guarantee.  Hosts can also send photo updates to the dog’s owners by email or text while they’re away.

If you’re a dog lover willing to open your home to other canines, you can make extra money by registering as a host for a dog whose family needs a sitter. Hosts post their own rates, and can distinguish the kinds of dogs they’re looking to house and look after.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

The Boot Bed & Breakfast, Tasman, New Zealand

Experience the peaceful, serene country surroundings of the unique romantic bed and breakfast accommodation in Tasman, Nelson.The Boot is a retreat ideal for romantic weekends and special occasions. The private boutique bed and breakfast accommodation is a two storey cottage in the shape of a giant boot, furnished especially for two. It is located in the heart of the beautiful Tasman region, centrally between the Able Tasman National Park, Kahurangi National Park and Nelson. A perfect position for exploring the highlights of Tasman Bay, Nelson, New Zealand.

The Boot stands nestled within a grove of hazelnut trees. Outside, the courtyard, surrounded by a fragrant garden, offers sun loungers for relaxing on hot afternoons and an alfresco dining area for spending lazy evenings beside the outdoor fireplace. Inside luxuriate on the comfy couch in front of the open fire, or enjoy an early night in the comfort of the upstairs bedroom. In the morning the choice of breakfast will be delivered to the door.

The relaxed, quiet bed and breakfast adopts sustainable practices without deterring from the luxury experience that they want all their guests to enjoy. They use organic produce as much as possible, including their own free-range eggs and fresh fruit from the orchard. Guests are welcome to wander the paths of the almost 6 acre garden during their stay.

Whether in Nelson and Tasman on holiday, or for some special time together, the two of you will enjoy your nights of escape from the world at The Boot.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

Protecting Against Crime While Traveling

1. Choose clothing carefully when traveling overseas.  Learn how to blend in by consulting with travel agents or tourist bureaus at your destination. These experts can share information about local cultural norms and types of apparel to pack. Select comfortable clothing preferred by locals. For example, khakis, modest cotton skirts and sandals are often seen in temperate summer climates around Europe. When overseas, avoid apparel such as white athletic shoes and clothing emblazoned with Western flag insignia, which may indicate to thieves that you're not a local and possess money to travel abroad.


2. Wear your currency in several places on your body. In addition to keeping a wallet in your pocket, discreetly place money in a traveler's money belt or envelope worn around your waist, ankles or bra. If you get mugged and the mugger only takes one stash, at least you'll have additional funds immediately available.


3  Practice safety in numbers. Whether you're male or female, you can help to avoid criminal activity abroad and domestically by traveling with a group.


4. Explore well-lit areas when out at night. Watch for places you can go in case of an emergency.
If you suspect you're being followed, look for the nearest cafe, gas station or other gathering place with other people inside. If you can't quickly find one, briskly walk in the middle of the street until you do.


5. Stay alert when interacting with street vendors and sidewalk entertainers. Be aware of your surroundings and other people in the vicinity. An entertainer may be working with a criminal partner who's attempting to lift your wallet. Don't allow street entertainers or passers-by to get close to you.


6. Alert suspicious people that you are aware of their presence. Criminals may be less likely to harm you if they know you're aware of their movement. When visiting a Western country, look the suspicious person in the eye. Eye contact is considered acceptable in Western societies.While staying in an Eastern country, wear dark sunglasses. Criminals won't be able to tell if you're watching their activity. Avoid direct eye contact since most Eastern societies consider this practice aggressive and rude. Don't underestimate the elderly lady or well-dressed business person sitting next to you, she or he may be working with a partner in a criminal ring targeting tourists.


Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve

Found in the Snake River Plain in Idaho, the Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve is a beautiful volcanic landscape that appears alien. Geologic formations found on the lava fields of the preserve include cinder cones, spatter cones, and lava tube caves, all formed from volcanic activity in the Great Rift Volcanic rift zone. The volcanic activity within the preserve occurred as long as 15,000 years ago and as recent as 2,000 years ago.

The solitude of this fragile environment haunts and mystifies park visitors. Enjoy the scenery of the volcanic terrain on foot in the backcountry or on the scenic Loop Drive.

Take a hike to the top of Inferno Cove where, on clear days, panoramic views stretch as far as the Teton Range to the east.

The Monument was established on May 2, 1924. In November 2000, a presidential proclamation by President Clinton greatly expanded the Monument area. The National Park Service portions of the expanded Monument were designated as Craters of the Moon National Preserve in August 2002.

All three lava fields lie along the Great Rift of Idaho, with some of the best examples of open rift cracks in the world, including the deepest known on Earth at 800 feet (240 m). There are excellent examples of almost every variety of basaltic lava as well as tree molds (cavities left by lava-incinerated trees), lava tubes (a type of cave), and many other volcanic features.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

Come one, Come All, to the Greatest Cruise of All

RAWHIDE TRAVEL and TOURS   
               presents it's famous.....    
 "KICK ICE ALASKAN GLACIER ROUTE SUPER CRUISE"  
 (and Anchorage sleepover)
 August 22-31, 2012
   $3499 per person based on double occupancy
(triple and quad staterooms also available at even a lower price)

All Aboard! Hurry!  Last chance for this fun filled cruise.

Think you've seen Alaska before? Unless you've been with Rawhide Travel and Tours, better think again! If you're looking for that "different vacation" mixed with some of the worlds most stunning natural beauty, majestic scenery, spectacular wildlife along with relaxation and luxury, then this is your ticket to see and experience some of the most awesome sights in the world......ALASKA!

Join us as we discover the land of the midnight sun, 100,000 glaciers, moose, whales, Gold Rush towns and soaring peaks on our 10 day grandeur journey through the "Last Frontier." Enjoy a TWO NIGHT pre-cruise stay in awesome Anchorage for some free time and "Ron's Alaskan Surprise" the second day (shhhh......it's a surprise). Transfer from Anchorage to Seward "the ultimate Rawhide way" on the Alaska Railroad (no bus for us!) on board the Wilderness Express in double decked glass-domed rail cars with spectacular 360 degree views of the Alaskan outback bush! Then enjoy a SEVEN NIGHT Southbound cruise on Royal Caribbean's dazzling 90,000 ton Mega-Superliner, the M/S Radiance of the Seas sailing from Seward to Vancouver, British Columbia! During the cruise, savor HUBBARD GLACIER (one of the most active blue ice glaciers in North America), then visit the "rowdy Gold Rush towns" of JUNEAU (Alaska's capitol with tons of outdoor action), SKAGWAY  (over 20 excursions offered here including dog-sledding!), ICY STRAIGHT POINT (might only have a population of 900 but has the world's longest zipline at 5,330 feet in length.....eeeeha!), KETCHIKAN (get ready for 1,000 foot waterfalls and low-hanging mists) and finally, the world famous INSIDE PASSAGE (home to humpback whales and sea lions). Feast on scrumptious Alaskan salmon, crab and lobster! See verdant mountains, waterfalls, snowcapped mountains and fields of Alaskan summer wild flowers in full bloom! You'll see and do it all on our unforgettable and electrifying adventure! And, as if this dazzling adventure and all of the astonishing excitement and sights weren't enough, the price includes just about everything (but the kitchen sink).

 Round trip air from Phoenix (air is also available from 171 other U.S. cities including San Juan, Honolulu and 18 Canadian towns but price may vary if departing from a city other than Phoenix), all U.S. and foreign airport taxes, all security, government and departure fees, all ship port taxes, all transfers throughout (including "the ultimate Rawhide way" Alaska Railroad Wilderness Express transfer), a seven night luxury cruise in a category E1 DELUXE OUTSIDE PRIVATE BALCONY STATEROOM including SEVEN MEALS per day (meals on your own during the Anchorage sleepover), nightly "Las Vegas style" entertainment, several gala parties during the cruise, deluxe hotel accommodations in Anchorage including all hotel taxes and service fees, Ron's Alaskan Surprise on August 23......even cancellation insurance and ship tips! So what are waiting for? Most people wait a lifetime for their ship to come in. You only have to wait until August 22, 2012. WARNING: eyes in the back of your head recommended for this thrill-related adventure. Experience life without a ripcord and call RAWHIDE TRAVEL and TOURS TODAY  (602) 843-5100.  Happy "Kick Ice" sailing trails to you......

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

Why cruises continue to be popular

"No fly" vacations involving cruising continue to rise in popularity because of these factors.  They are:

1. There are 29 North American ports. Without flight expenses, couples or families can save their money for spa treatments, shore excursions and also skip the tribulations of checking airline bags.

2. Travelers leaving directly from home to go to the pier don’t have to wait for transfers to the airport or be afraid they might miss flights (not to mention cancellations).

3. Leaving from close to home means no hotels, avoiding the expense and time spent checking in and out. Cruisers’ first "check-in" is on the boat.

4. Only short notice is needed to book a cruise and there are choices of cruises as short as three days.

5. Not flying reduces carbon footprints, which is appreciated by the environmentally-concerned.

6. Where once cruises were strictly aimed at couples and the older generation, the market has evolved, and now more families choose to take to the seas for their vacation.

Combine that with an eco-conscious cruise, and you’ve got a cost effective family vacation you can truly feel good about.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

Sanya Nanshan Treehouse Resort and Beach Club, Sanya, China

For the most tranquil holiday imaginable, picture treehouses nesting in beautiful tamarind trees, in the midst of 5000 acres of Buddhist parkland. Surrounded by peaceful gardens, pagodas and temples and encircled by miles of white sandy beaches, this isle of calm is the perfect place for romance and relaxation. The luxurious treehouses are all near the beach.

There probably isn't any place in China that resembles an Ewok settlement more than Sanya Nanshan Treehouse Resort and Beach Club.

But rather than being home to the pint-sized, bear-like buddies of the Star Wars heroes, these rustic structures in Hainan province's Nanshan Cultural Tourist Zone are meant for habitation by tourists.

Nestled in a tropical thicket just a skipping stone's throw from a virgin beach, some of these dwellings offer vistas of the 108-m-tall bronze Guanyin Buddha. Built in the tourism zone's Buddhism Culture Park in 2005, the bronze likeness, which is 15 m taller than the Statue of Liberty, has the extraordinarily particular distinction of being the world's largest Buddha statue standing in the sea.

Each of the houses, which are made mostly of planking and raw timber, is as unique as the trees in which they're built.

Cradled in the branches of a knotted tamarind tree above a sand dune leading to the seaside, Big Beach in the Sky Treehouse can only be accessed via a rope-and-plank suspension bridge. The two-story structure accommodates six.

The grounds also feature a barbecue pit and rope swing. But just beyond the woods are the three parks of the 5,000-acre tourism zone, and the tree house compound makes for a great base camp - camp being the operative word here - for exploring them.

In addition to the Buddhism Culture Park, there''s the Hainan Cultural Customs Park, and the Felicity and Longevity Culture Park.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

Airline Fees and Taxes

When Allegiant recently joined Spirit Airlines for the once unthinkable-notion of charging for carry-on baggage, some thought fees had reached their ultimate end. Perhaps not so.

The fees are small and none of the major competing airlines have followed their example, but this might change.

It took 20 months for the contagion of carry-on fees to spread from Spirit to Allegiant. How long will it take to jump to a bigger airline? 

You only have to look to Irish carrier Ryanair to see the endless possibilities to charge passengers supplementary fees. It charges fees for processing credit cards, for checking-in luggage, for printing boarding passes, for seat selection, the list goes on and on. 

Airlines are also developing sophisticated new technologies that personalize ticket buyers, including the fees they will pay.

There’s no predicting what new fees will pop up, but they will probably be coming soon. 
However, airlines are at least fighting for the reduction in passenger taxes, another unwelcome addition to ticket prices. The airline trade organization Airlines for America (A4A) and a coalition of other interested groups says passengers are overtaxed.

In a campaign clearly timed to coincide with this month’s deadline for filing  federal income tax returns, they’ve called on Congress to "reform" the way the government taxes US fliers.

The aviation industry and their passengers currently pay 17 separate federal taxes and fees, a hodgepodge thrown together and added to over the years without any guiding rationale or consideration for their overall impact on demand or affordability. 

A4A says a chart on its web site shows taxes on air travel jumped from $5 in 1972 to $17 this year.

Those taxes can raise the cost of a round-trip airline ticket by 20%. 

But more taxes may be coming.  The Obama administration’s deficit reduction plan calls for raising the passenger security fee of up to $10 per flight to $14. Future increases may also be on the horizon.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park is a land of beauty and variety.  A day's exploration can take you from breathtaking mountain vistas with meadows of wildflowers to colorful ocean tidepools.  Nestled in the valleys are some of the largest remnants of ancient forests left in the country.  Olympic is like three magical parks in one.

With three major ecosystems and almost a million acres to choose from, Olympic National Park is filled with possibilities.  One of the key challenges that visitors face is how to tackle all of these choices.

Wilderness Coast
Olympic National Park includes 73 miles of wild coastline. These beaches offer a glimpse into an environment that local tribes have called home for generations. Short trails or overnight backpacking trips offer ways to explore the rugged coast and its teeming tidepools.

Ancient ForestsTowering trees and rushing water greet visitors to Olympic's old growth forests. Lake Crescent, Heart O' the Hills, Sol Duc and Elwha offer old growth forests on the northern peninsula. Staircase is a popular eastern destination. The west side Quinault, Queets, Hoh and Bogachiel valleys are superb examples of temperate rain forests.

Snowy MountainsHead to Hurricane Ridge for vistas of the rugged Olympic Mountains. A winding 17-mile paved road climbs from Port Angeles to the nearly mile-high Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center. On a clear day the park's mountainous interior and the Strait of Juan de Fuca and islands to the north are visible. The steep, dirt Deer Park Road (east of Port Angeles) also leads to the mountains and a small campground. This winding road is not suitable for trailers and RVs.

Most visitors to Olympic arrive in Seattle then drive to the park either via Tacoma or by taking one of the frequent Washington State car ferries across Puget Sound. Ferries also connect Port Angeles to Victoria, British Columbia. There are daily flights into Port Angeles and private bus lines provide shuttle service to Seattle. There is limited or no public transportation into many areas of the park. Olympic is a wilderness park. No roads cross the rugged interior.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

Our New eNewsletter

Our newsletter just went electronic. Please go to our website, rawhidetravel.com  and sign up to receive it. Below is our first enewsletter. Thanks for taking the time to check us out. Here are a few special updates.

Enjoy! 



FLASH - RAWHIDE TRAVEL NEWS ALERT - FLASH

G'Day everyone - sending you a "Alaska Alert Notice" via the new Rawhide eNewsletter system to let you know that I must release all unsold staterooms on my "Kick Ice" Alaskan Glacier Route Super Cruise and Anchorage Sleepover on April 20.

If you, any of your friends or relatives were contemplating going on this spectacular adventure, once I release my unsold staterooms, I most likely will not be able to get them back as the ship is sold out. Further, if I am able to get a stateroom back, the cost will be MUCH higher than my current contracted rate at $3499 each.

So please let me know ASAP 602-843-5100 if you are interested.

Our Next Special Cruise

Lastly, I am currently dreaming up a CARIBBEAN SUPER CRUISE ADVENTURE for the Fall of 2013. I don't have the routing as of yet but I will be using Royal Caribbean once again. If you think you'd be interested in going, simply let me know and I'll jot down your name and call you when dates and prices are finalized once negotiations are finished. That's about it - hope you like my alert!  

RAWHIDE QUOTE OF THE DAY:
I slept like a log last night and woke up in the fireplace this morning!  

Feel free to contact us with any questions regarding the tips or deals. We can be reached at (602) 843-5100.

Sincerely,
Ron Oster

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

Lilac Festival, Rochester, NY

It’s a community wide celebration! It’s an international springtime party! It's nearly time for Rochester’s annual Lilac Festival and everyone is invited to enjoy ten full days of entertainment and fun!

The only 10-day free festival of its kind in North America it is inspired by a magnificent lilac collection at Highland Park that plays host to over 500 varieties of lilacs on more than 1,200 bushes.   What was first planted in 1892 by horticulturist John Dunbar has turned into the world’s largest lilac collection that even Martha Stewart has enjoyed when she visited the festival in 2007.  This event is perfect for all ages and was even voted as a top 100 event by the American Bus Association for 2010.

Ten days of free entertainment on our main stage including performances by national recording artists.  Free children’s entertainment during the week and on the weekends! Special events such as our Business ROCs Lilacs on Tuesday, "As Seen On TV" on Wednesday, Wine & Farmer's Market on Thursday and Medved Lilac 10K & 5K Family Fun Run on Sunday, plus much more! The 2012 Lilac Parade will bring dozens of marching bands, decorated floats, clowns, dancers and costumed characters. 

Visitors will see not only nature's bounty in abundance, but exhibitors, food vendors, entertainment, children's activities and so much more. We encourage you to travel to the Lilac Festival, there is something for everyone!

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

Jules Undersea Lodge, Key Largo

When guests visit Jules' Undersea Lodge in Key Largo, Florida, they discover that the name is no marketing gimmick. Just to enter the Lodge, one must actually scuba dive 21 feet beneath the surface of the sea. Jules' really is underwater. Diving through the tropical mangrove habitat of the Emerald Lagoon and approaching the world's only underwater hotel is quite an experience. Even from the outside, Jules' big 42 inch round windows cast a warm invitation to come in and stay a while, relax and get to know the underwater world that so few of us have even visited.

Entering through an opening in the bottom of the habitat, the feeling is much like discovering a secret underwater clubhouse. The cottage sized building isn't short on creature comforts: hot showers, a well stocked kitchen (complete with refrigerator and microwave), books, music, and video movies. And of course there are cozy beds, where guests snuggle up and watch the fish visit the windows of their favorite underwater "terrarium". Jules' Undersea Lodge manages to reach a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.

Although the underwater hotel may sound like the latest tourist fun spot, Jules' Undersea Lodge, actually began its existence as La Chalupa research laboratory, an underwater habitat used to explore the continental shelf off the coast of Puerto Rico. The authenticity of the underwater habitat is what really sets it apart from amusement parks and other similar attractions. The mangrove lagoon in which Jules' is located is a natural nursery area for many reef fish. Tropical angelfish, parrotfish, barracuda, and snappers peek in the windows of the habitat, while anemones, sponges, oysters and feather duster worms seem to cover every inch of this underwater world. Guests of the Lodge explore their marine environment with scuba gear provided by Jules' Undersea Lodge and are given an unlimited supply of tanks. Jules' Undersea Lodge may have a comfortable futuristic decor, but its sense of history is inescapable. It is the first and only underwater hotel, but is also the first underwater research lab to have ever been made accessible to the average person.

"Jules' Undersea Lodge serves as an artificial reef, providing shelter and substrate for marine animals. And the flow of air to the Lodge constantly adds oxygen to the entire surrounding body of water, creating a symbiotic relationship between the technology of man and the beauty of nature."

The entire structure of Jules' Undersea Lodge is underwater, sitting up on legs approximately five feet off the bottom of the protected lagoon. The Lodge is filled with compressed air, which prevents the water from rising and flooding the rooms. A five by seven foot "moon pool" entrance in the floor of the building makes entering the hotel much like surfacing through a small swimming pool. Divers find themselves in the wet room, the center of three compartments that make up the underwater living quarters. The wet room, as the name implies, is where divers leave their gear, enjoy a quick hot shower and towel-off before entering the rest of the living area. Designed for comfort, the air conditioned living space has two private bed rooms and a common room. The eight by twenty foot common room is a multi-purpose room providing the galley, dining and entertainment areas. Each of the bedrooms and the common room is equipped with telephone, intercom, VCR/DVD and our latest addition of the, "i home", so you can enjoy your own choice of music from home. But the main focus of attention is the big 42 inch round window that graces each room. "Waking up to view a pair of angelfish looking in your bedroom window is a moment you'll never forget".

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

Inside Passage of British Columbia

 Come! step back in time aboard a vintage tugboat and access the silent, hidden world that lies tucked away between Vancouver, B.C. and Juneau Alaska.

Adventure cruise the waters from Vancouver to British Columbia's most northern seaport, Prince Rupert. This magnificent piece of the "Inside Passage" is cut with picturesque channels and fiords, bordered by snow capped mountains, glaciers and evergreen forests that seem to grow right out of the water.

Wildlife is in abundance as we cruise close to the shoreline bringing you and your camera close enough to feel the experience, Whales and Porpoise play in the bow wave as we gaze at waterfalls and dine on the best cuisine.

The 1941 heritage wooden tugboat, the Parry is lovingly maintained and beautifully appointed with comfortable two berth cabins, fireside lounge, spotless bathrooms and showers plus a busy galley serving unbelievable food and desserts. Creature comforts are provided with bathrobes, extra pillows, hairdryers and a complimentary selection of wines from around the world. The tugboat accomodates twelve passengers.

The skipper and crew are eager to pamper you and the shipboard atmosphere is totally relaxing. Guests are encouraged to visit the pilot house and take a turn at the wheel or a tour of the spotless engine room and watch the smooth operation of these antique engines.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

Easter Traditions Around The World

As with other Christian festivals, the celebration of Easter extends beyond the church. Since its origins, it has been a time of celebration and feasting and many traditional Easter games and customs developed, such as egg rolling, egg tapping, pace egging and egg decorating. Today Easter is commercially important, seeing wide sales of greeting cards and confectionery such as chocolate Easter eggs, marshmallow bunnies, Peeps, and jelly beans. Even many non-Christians celebrate these aspects of the holiday while eschewing the religious aspects.

Many central and eastern European ethnic groups, including the Albanians, Belarusians, Bulgarians, Croats, Czechs, Hungarians, Lithuanians, Macedonians, Poles, Romanians, Russians, Serbs, Slovaks, Slovenes, and Ukrainians decorate eggs for Easter.In Croatia and Slovenia, a basket of food is prepared and covered with a handmade cloth, and brought to the church to be blessed. A typical Easter basket includes bread, colored eggs, ham, horseradish, and a type of nut cake called "potica". The butter lamb (Baranek wielkanocny) is a traditional addition to the Easter Meal for many Polish Catholics. Butter is shaped into a lamb either by hand or in a lamb-shaped mould. In Hungary, Transylvania, Southern Slovakia, Kárpátalja, Northern Serbia - Vojvodina and other territories with Hungarian-speaking communities, the day following Easter is called Locsoló Hétfő, "Watering Monday". Water, perfume or perfumed water is often sprinkled in exchange for an Easter egg. In Bulgaria the Easter eggs are decorated on Thursday before Easter.

Throughout the English-speaking world, many Easter traditions are similar with only minor differences. For example, Saturday is traditionally spent decorating Easter eggs and hunting for them with children on Sunday morning, by which time they have been mysteriously hidden all over the house and garden. Other traditions involve parents telling their children that eggs and other treats such as chocolate eggs or rabbits, and marshmallow chicks (Peeps), have been delivered by the Easter Bunny in an Easter basket, which children find waiting for them when they wake up. Many families observe the religious aspects of Easter by attending Sunday Mass or services in the morning and then participating in a feast or party in the afternoon. Some families have a traditional Sunday roast, often of either roast lamb or ham. Easter breads such as Simnel cake, a fruit cake with eleven marzipan balls representing the eleven faithful apostles, or nut breads such as potica are traditionally served. Hot cross buns, spiced buns with a cross on top, are traditionally associated with Good Friday, but today are often eaten well before and after.

In Scotland, the north of England, and Northern Ireland, the traditions of rolling decorated eggs down steep hills and pace egging are still adhered to.

In Louisiana, USA, egg tapping is known as egg knocking. Marksville, Louisiana claims to host the oldest egg-knocking competition in the US, dating back to the 1950s. Competitors pair up on the steps of the courthouse on Easter Sunday and knock the tips of two eggs together. If the shell of your egg cracks you have to forfeit it, a process that continues until just one egg remains.


In the British Overseas Territory of Bermuda, historically famous for growing and exporting the Easter lily, the most notable feature of the Easter celebration is the flying of kites to symbolize Christ's ascent. Traditional Bermuda kites are constructed by Bermudians of all ages as Easter approaches, and are normally only flown at Easter. In addition to hot cross buns and Easter eggs, fish cakes are traditionally eaten in Bermuda at this time.

In Finland, Sweden and Denmark, traditions include egg painting and small children dressed as witches collecting candy door-to-door, in exchange for decorated pussy willows. This is a result of the mixing of an old Orthodox tradition (blessing houses with willow branches) and the Scandinavian Easter witch tradition. Brightly coloured feathers and little decorations are also attached to birch branches in a vase. In Finland, it is common to plant rye grass in a pot as a symbol of spring and new life. After the grass has grown, many people put chick decorations on it. Children busy themselves painting eggs and making paper bunnies.

No Matter what your Easter Tradition is we would like to wish you a Happy Easter.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

"KICK ICE ALASKAN GLACIER ROUTE SUPER CRUISE"

RAWHIDE TRAVEL and TOURS
                  presents it's famous.....    
 "KICK ICE ALASKAN GLACIER ROUTE SUPER CRUISE"  
 (and Anchorage sleepover)
 August 22-31, 2012
   $3499 per person based on double occupancy
(triple and quad staterooms also available at even a lower price)

All Aboard! Hurry! Last chance for this fun filled cruise.

Think you've seen Alaska before? Unless you've been with Rawhide Travel and Tours, better think again! If you're looking for that "different vacation" mixed with some of the worlds most stunning natural beauty, majestic scenery, spectacular wildlife along with relaxation and luxury, then this is your ticket to see and experience some of the most awesome sights in the world......ALASKA!

Join us as we discover the land of the midnight sun, 100,000 glaciers, moose, whales, Gold Rush towns and soaring peaks on our 10 day grandeur journey through the "Last Frontier." Enjoy a TWO NIGHT pre-cruise stay in awesome Anchorage for some free time and "Ron's Alaskan Surprise" the second day (shhhh......it's a surprise). Transfer from Anchorage to Seward "the ultimate Rawhide way" on the Alaska Railroad (no bus for us!) on board the Wilderness Express in double decked glass-domed rail cars with spectacular 360 degree views of the Alaskan outback bush! Then enjoy a SEVEN NIGHT Southbound cruise on Royal Caribbean's dazzling 90,000 ton Mega-Superliner, the M/S Radiance of the Seas sailing from Seward to Vancouver, British Columbia! During the cruise, savor HUBBARD GLACIER (one of the most active blue ice glaciers in North America), then visit the "rowdy Gold Rush towns" of JUNEAU (Alaska's capitol with tons of outdoor action), SKAGWAY  (over 20 excursions offered here including dog-sledding!), ICY STRAIGHT POINT (might only have a population of 900 but has the world's longest zipline at 5,330 feet in length.....eeeeha!), KETCHIKAN (get ready for 1,000 foot waterfalls and low-hanging mists) and finally, the world famous INSIDE PASSAGE (home to humpback whales and sea lions). Feast on scrumptious Alaskan salmon, crab and lobster! See verdant mountains, waterfalls, snowcapped mountains and fields of Alaskan summer wild flowers in full bloom! You'll see and do it all on our unforgettable and electrifying adventure! And, as if this dazzling adventure and all of the astonishing excitement and sights weren't enough, the price includes just about everything (but the kitchen sink).

 Round trip air from Phoenix (air is also available from 171 other U.S. cities including San Juan, Honolulu and 18 Canadian towns but price may vary if departing from a city other than Phoenix), all U.S. and foreign airport taxes, all security, government and departure fees, all ship port taxes, all transfers throughout (including "the ultimate Rawhide way" Alaska Railroad Wilderness Express transfer), a seven night luxury cruise in a category E1 DELUXE OUTSIDE PRIVATE BALCONY STATEROOM including SEVEN MEALS per day (meals on your own during the Anchorage sleepover), nightly "Las Vegas style" entertainment, several gala parties during the cruise, deluxe hotel accommodations in Anchorage including all hotel taxes and service fees, Ron's Alaskan Surprise on August 23......even cancellation insurance and ship tips! So what are waiting for? Most people wait a lifetime for their ship to come in. You only have to wait until August 22, 2012. WARNING: eyes in the back of your head recommended for this thrill-related adventure. Experience life without a ripcord and call RAWHIDE TRAVEL and TOURS TODAY  (602) 843-5100.  Happy "Kick Ice" sailing trails to you......

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

Jumbo Stay, Stockholm, Sweden

A night on a jumbo jet typically means tossing and turning in a seat, trying to snatch a few quiet moments of sleep. Not so at Jumbo Stay in Stockholm, a real once-functioning jumbo jet now operating as a hotel/hostel at Arlanda airport. A ten minute walk from the terminal, this highly unusual accommodation has a wide variety of rooms on offer, ranging from a budget dormitory through to a luxury suite in the cockpit, with most needs catered for in between.

Jumbo Stay offers 27 rooms with most having three beds each. All together, the hostel offers 76 beds; one of the more luxurious are to be found at the uper deck. The rooms are circa six square meters wide and measure three meters from floor to ceiling. All rooms have a flat screen TV where you can, among other things, watch the times of departure for all flights. Everywhere in the jumbo jet you have access to wireless broadband. All rooms offer a shower and toilet in the corridor, except from Cockpit suite, Black Box suite and one sigle room which boast their own shower and WC.

Located at Arlanda Airport, 22 miles to the south of Uppsala.

You can explore and experience the fourth largets city in Sweden. Rich of culture monuments, historic sites and rich student life. The largest cathedral in Sweden and the oldest University in Scandinavia are to be found in city center of Uppsala.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel & Tours Inc
6008 W Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, AZ 85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

The North Pole Expedition

Expect the unexpected...
Perhaps nowhere on Mother Earth can the excitement of a new experience be any greater than by taking a voyage into the Arctic or even beyond, by braving the polar ice cap to reach the North Pole. This region is one of the most remote and extreme on the planet, sadly, it is disappearing at an alarming rate. The polar ice cap has been retreating for almost thirty years now and along with it the delicate Arctic habitat that is home to some of the most endangered flora and fauna on Earth. Polar bears, arctic foxes, walruses and seals and snow owls are only a few of the species native to this wild, untamed land. A voyage to the Arctic and the North Pole Expedition is a sense arousing, heart-opening experience that touches the very soul of all who have ever ventured into this unique domain.

Nowadays the Arctic is one of the last ecologically intact wilderness sanctuaries on our planet. The Arctic’s ecological balance, however, is extremely precarious. Under the region’s extreme climatic conditions, animal and plant life exists on the verge of their tolerances. Therefore the expeditions are arranged in a way that minimizes disturbance to wildlife and the fragile natural environment of the Arctic. All the expeditions comply with all International ecological requirements and requirements for conservation of natural resources.

The “50 Years of Victory” is the largest and most modern nuclear-powered icebreaker in the world. For those with an appreciation of such vessels, the “Victory” is a new generation ship, an upgrade of the Arktika-class. Among its state-of-the-art features are a spoon-shaped bow designed for greater icebreaking ability, an automated, digitized control system, the most up-to-date nuclear safeguards and protection systems. As a working icebreaker, the “Victory” is vastly more suitable to life onboard than was its predecessor the “Yamal”. Though its cabins and suites are as comfortable and spacious as were those on the “Yamal”, the “Victory” offers its passenger much more room for socializing and get-togethers. Qualified chefs prepare a variety of international cuisine and experienced waitresses attend your needs. The bar has a large supply of alcoholic and soft beverages.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel & Tours Inc
6008 W Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, AZ 85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

Crater Lake, Oregon

Crater Lake has inspired people for hundreds of years. No place else on earth combines a deep, pure lake, so blue in color; sheer surrounding cliffs, almost two thousand feet high; two picturesque islands; and a violent volcanic past. It is a place of immeasurable beauty, and an outstanding outdoor laboratory and classroom.

For a brief time each year, Crater Lake National Park emerges from winter hibernation to bask in summertime glory. Early season visitors are often surprised by the amount of snow which remains long into months which are considered mid-summer in most parts of the country. Even most park roads are closed into the late spring which gives a picture of the far more dominant winter scene sensed even in June and early July.

During this brief summertime window, one maginficent day typically follows another. For visitors, these few months provide the best opportunity for a comfortable visit. Many interpretive programs are offered which encourage a deeper understanding of the lake and the park. Hiking and camping are popular activities. Fishing for trout and salmon in the lake is also a favorite pastime.

While there's no "best" way to experience the park -that depends on your interests, time and ambitions- there are different activities, trails and opportunities to enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of this special place.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel & Tours Inc
6008 W Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, AZ 85308-3793
(602) 843-5100