Family Vacations: Rafiki Safari Lodge

Not far from the monkeys and sloths of Manuel Antonio National Park, yet far away from the touristy feel of Quepos is one of the most unique lodgings in Costa Rica. Drive inland on the country's typical rutted roads, through fields of African palm trees, and your reward is the wonderful Rafiki Safari Lodge. Nestled deep in the verdant mountainside, the South African-born owners have created an upscale safari-style lodge like the ones found around South Africa's Kruger National Park. The lodge is perched on a hilltop, surrounded by 842 acres of jungle and little else.

The owners fell in love with the grounds and its potential to create a wildlife sanctuary. Toucans and monkeys can already be spotted on the property, and the large mammal, the tapir, is being reintroduced. In essence, they hope to create their own private game reserve in Central America. As soon as you arrive on the grounds, you're lost in the sounds of the jungle and far removed from the woes of modernity. This is a place to lose yourself in the environs and truly savor the pura vida, "the good life."

The 10 luxury tents were imported from South Africa and work well in the jungle. The large windows keep fresh air flowing through while the canvas walls keep the insects and other undesirables out. All of the tents are spacious, sleeping four comfortably, with a big outdoor patio to rock away the hours gazing at the mountains. Bathrooms are modern, with heated water for the showers. Just don't expect a sterile hotel room with some commercial print on the walls. This is an eco-lodge, immersed deep in the forest, a place where the sounds of the jungle surround you.

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

Shady Dell, Bisbee, Arizona

Nine lovely, fully restored vintage aluminum travel trailers await you at the Shady Dell in Bisbee, Arizona. Whether it is the 33 foot Royal Mansion built in 1951 and restored with leopard carpet, martini glasses, Diner-style breakfast booth and phonograph with a collection of 78rpm records, or the 1947 Tiki Bus Polynesian Palace, complete with hand-carved outrigger bar and your own Tiki God, the Shady Dell’s individual trailers will surely send you back to a time when freedom was just another word for jumping in your aluminum house on wheels, finding the Rat Pack on the radio and navigating the open road in search of your own slice of the American Dream.

The sleek collection of vintage travel trailers are all perfectly restored to combine mid-century Americana kitsch with the comforts of home in a way that only the 1950s were capable of.  Each trailer, such as the 1949 Airstream, or the 1950 Spartan Manor, are available for an overnight stay. For once, experience the 1950s in full Technicolor.

Interiors are the rich blonde woods or highly polished aluminum of the original and authentic décor. Outside each trailer is a grassy yard with lounge chairs so you can enjoy the beautiful evening weather of southern Arizona. In the various trailers, vintage radios play era-appropriate radio programs, televisions only broadcast in two colors, period books and magazines allow for even more mental time travel and big band, early rhythm and blues and original rock and roll are available for your listening entertainment. The trailers are also equipped with original kitchens, refrigerators and vintage electric percolators. Dishes and linens are also furnished.

The Shady Dell’s long and epic journey began in 1927 as a place to provide trailer and camping spaces to weary travelers along the famous Highway 80, which stretched from Savannah, Georgia to San Diego, California.  Like its more famous brother Route 66, Highway 80 was a center of travel, exploration and family getaways in the early portions of the 20th century.  Today, the park is a nice mix of practicality and vintage fun-seeking.

Step off the premises and experience the beauty and charm of Bisbee, Arizona, a mile-high historic copper mining town nestled in the Mule Mountains and a stone’s throw from the Mexican border. Founded in 1880, Bisbee was a true hot spot around the turn of the century, known as one of the West’s most roaring towns on the route between St. Louis and San Francisco.

Today, Bisbee is captivating and full of historic buildings, museums, art galleries, antique shops, hidden walkways and plenty of ghosts. Its close proximity to the Chiricahua National Forest, Cochise Stronghold, and the Ramsey Canyon Nature Conservancy provides numerous opportunities for bird watching, rock hunting, biking, hiking or just leisurely explorations of the wonders of southern Arizona’s high desert area.

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

Tips for Women Traveling Alone

More and more women are discovering the adventure and excitement of traveling solo. 9 million American women travel abroad alone each year, according to reports.  Traveling alone provides the opportunity to see things and meet people you may never meet when traveling in a group. Traveling alone is also a thrill, a rush of excitement and empowerment of being completely independent and in control of one's own situation. However, there are still some important considerations and issues to be aware of for a woman traveling alone.

Although more widely accepted than in the past, it is still important to remember that in many parts of the world, women who exert independence are not seen favorably. While this should in no way dissuade any woman from traveling, it is always important to be familiar with the customs and culture of the country you are visiting.

•Dress with respect for the culture of the country you are visiting. In many countries of the world, any kind of exposure is considered an invitation. Short skirts, shorts, and even swimsuits can be considered offensive in some cultures.

•Be aware of your surroundings. The first step in avoiding an unpleasant situation is to be alert and aware of what is going on around you.

•Avoid risky situations. Hitchhiking alone in unfamiliar areas and accepting favors from or disclosing your travel plans to strangers can expose you to danger.

•Do not panic. Try and gain control of an unpleasant situation in a calm and decisive manner. However, if you feel in extreme danger, do not hesitate to draw attention to yourself.

•Always carry a personal safety device with you. A whistle or an alarm may provide the extra time needed to escape to safety. Be aware that certain personal safety devices are illegal in some destinations and cannot be carried on board an aircraft.

•Carry all your necessities with you. Some products  are sometimes difficult or expensive to acquire. Carry supplies to last the entire trip.

•Find out whether your hotel is located in a safe area before you make reservations. Ask around for recommendations from people who have traveled and stayed in the area.

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

Memorial Day

http://oldbluewebdesigns.com/raggedoldflag.htm

"That Ragged Old Flag"

I walked through a county courthouse square
On a park bench, an old man was sittin there.
I said, "Your court house is kinda run down,
He said, "No, it will do for our little town".
I said "your old flag pole kinda leaned a little bit,
And that’s a ragged old flag you got hanging on it".
He said "have a seat", so I sat down,
He said, "is this your first visit to our little town"
I said, "I think it is"
He said "I don’t like to brag, but we’re kinda proud of
"That Ragged Old Flag"

"You see, we got a little hole in that flag there,
When Washington took it across the Delaware.
It got powder burned the night Francis Scott Key sat watching it, writing
"Oh Say Can You See"
It got a rip in New Orleans, with Packingham & Jackson
tugging at its seams.
It almost fell at the Alamo beside the Texas flag,
But she waved on tho.
It got cut with a sword in Chancellorsville,
Got cut again at Shiloh Hill.
There was Robert E. Lee and Beauregard and Bragg,
And the south wind blew hard on
"That Ragged Old Flag"

On Flanders Field in World War I,
She took a bad hit from a Bertha Gun,
She turned blood red in World War II
She hung limp and low by the time that one was through,
She was in Korea, Vietnam, She went where she was sent
by her Uncle Sam.

The Native Americans, The Black, Yellow and White
All shed red blood for the Stars and Stripes.
And here in her own good land,
She’s been abused, burned, dishonored, denied and refused,
And the very government for which she stands
Has been scandalized throughout out the land.
And she’s getting thread bare, and she’s wearing kinda thin,
But she’s in pretty good shape, for the shape she’s in.
Cause she’s been through the fire before
and she can take a whole lot more.

So we raise her up every morning
And we bring her down slow every night,
We don’t let her touch the ground,
And we fold her up right.
On second thought
I do like to brag
Cause I’m mighty proud of
"That Ragged Old Flag"

Written by Johnny Cash

We  honor those who serve and those that gave their all.
Have a Safe Memorial Day

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

Experience Full Service

Need to travel on business or leisure, Rawhide Travel and Tours will make it happen. We will arrange your flights, rail, hotel and car rentals. Let us assist you in planning your upcoming business trip. We're also available to help you plan that exciting vacation.

Want a small hotel or a luxury resort? Let Rawhide Travel and Tours customize the perfect spot just for you! We have many choices.  Let Us Help You Get Lost.

Call us at (602) 843-5100. Check out our website: rawhidetravel.com or email us at flythis@rawhidetravel.com.

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

Catching a Cab

Even the seasoned traveler may be caught unaware when hailing a cab in an unknown city. The transportation industry has done much to regulate the cost of hiring a cab or car, but the smart traveler can follow a few simple rules to avoid the rogue scam artist.

Established cab companies offer this advice:

•Always use an established company when hiring a car.

•Independent or non-licensed drivers may pretend to offer a better deal but can be dangerous, as they need not follow industry regulations.

•Look for ride share opportunities. At cabstands in many major airports like Chicago's O'Hare and New York's LaGuardia, there are special rates for people willing to share rides into the city. This practice benefits the traveler, the cab company, and the other travelers by keeping the queue moving.

•Carry small bills. Some cabbies will take travelers checks in foreign cities; however, many travelers have been taken for big tips because drivers don't carry change. Having $20 broken into small bills will help you to avoid a traditional scam. Remember that if you're caught without exact change many established cab companies will take credit cards and provide receipts.

•Don't hesitate to write. Established companies internally police their own drivers; however, if you have a disappointing experience, take down the registration number inside the cab. Drivers also carry company business cards that will provide a mailing address.

•Give yourself extra time. If you plan to call a cab, count on a 45-minute wait. Many cab companies run on a computer system that lists calls as they come in. Each company can track where they have drivers. However, if one isn't in your area it means assigning a driver to get to you. Planing ahead and calling in advance will help alleviate the stress of trying to get to your destination on time.

•Tipping practices vary from country to country. A good rule for the United States is 15% of the total fare. This may change for ride shares, though. As ever, tip for good service.

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

Cinderella Castle Suite, Disney World

Cinderella Castle is the iconic fairy-tale fortress that serves as the gateway to Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom theme park. It is not only one of the central icons of Walt Disney World Resort, but its romantic beauty has also come to represent all of the Walt Disney Company.

The castle is located in the heart of Magic Kingdom theme park—just above the central hub of the Park. Many Guests catch their first glimpse of the castle from Main Street, U.S.A. When you first see the soaring spires, ornate turrets and shimmering moat, you know you've left the world of today and entered a magical new land full of fun and fantasy.

While it may be initially startling to see a medieval castle rising 190 feet into the sky at the end of a street right out of classic small-town America, the dream-like magic of the contrasting images captures the promise of the enchanted adventures awaiting you.

Did you know that there is a fairytale suite in the castle?  The Castle Suite is the only hotel room inside Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Unfortunately the answer is that it is not exactly straightforward! Many of us dream of staying in Cinderella’s Castle but few will ever get the opportunity as it takes rather more than just a little bit of Disney Pixie Dust to get the chance to spend a night in Magic Kingdom. A Disney Cinderella Castle Suite Reservation is unfortunately something which not even money can buy and is open only to a very fortunate few.

Disney World first announced the creation of the Cinderella Suite in 2006. The space which is now the Cinderella Castle Suite was originally intended to be a place that Walt Disney and his family would stay in the park. Sadly of course Walt never got to see his creation as he died in December 1966, almost five years before the Magic Kingdom opened. Before 2006 the space in Cinderella Castle was empty, although at times it was used for storage and was also the home of the Disney telephone operators for a while.

But with the launch of The Year of A Million Dreams in 2007, Disney wanted something as a very special prize for a select few lucky guests. Someone was chosen at the parks each day to spend the night, with up to 5 guests in Cinderella’s Castle Suite.

What exactly is inside Cinderella’s Castle Suite? It has the kind of amazing detailing that you would expect from the Disney Imagineers. The Suite is intended to make you feel not just that you are inside the Castle but that you are immersed in the whole experience.

The inspiration for the design of the Cinderella Suite were the 17th century French chateaus upon which the Castle was modeled. The Suite has ornate furnishings in dark woods with opulent fabrics.

So how do you make a reservation for Cinderella’s Castle Suite. Unfortunately you can’t. Disney occasionally gives away a nights stay as a prize. The latest guest to stay at the Cinderella Suite was Kevin Jonas and his wife Danielle as they celebrated their first wedding anniversary on December 19th 2010. So obviously being an international superstar who has made Disney many millions of dollars must help in getting a reservation!

So what would you give to stay inside Cinderella Castle Suite?

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

Rental Car Tips

 Renting a car can enhance the flexibility of any trip, whether it's business or leisure. Here are a few suggestions to help you avoid the frustration and wasted time that sometimes accompanies the process of renting a car.

•Always ask for the total price of renting a car at the time of reservation. Rental agents usually quote the basic rate when asked. Keep in mind the basic price does not include tax, insurance, gas and other surcharges.

•Extra insurance coverage is a ploy devised by the rental companies to make money. In most cases you are usually covered by the terms of your primary auto insurance or a credit card. Check out these options before buying the LDW or Lost Damage Waiver.

•If you do decide to buy the extra coverage, make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the policy. Certain LDW's only cover damage to the car's frame, so you have to pay for any other damage.
•Make sure you get a sign-off sheet from the attendant when you return the car. This ensures that you are not charged for damages that may occur after you return the car.

•In case you do have an accident, compare the rates charged for repair to the rates of other workshops in the area. If the rental company charges you for revenue lost, make sure you get the records for other cars in the same category. The company is not entitled to compensation if similar cars were available for rent at the time your car was being fixed.

•Request a car without stickers or other marks that distinguish the car as a rental. This keeps you from looking like an out-of-towner.

•Be aware that some rental companies freeze a part of your credit limit for the duration of the car rental. This freeze could continue even after you have returned the car and paid in cash.

•An extra fee is usually charged if a car is returned to a different city or location from where it was picked up. Be sure to advise the agent when making your reservation that you wish to drop off the car at a different location. The drop-off charge may already be included in the car rental rate.

•Rates are usually based on a 24-hour period, with a one-hour grace period allowed to return the car. If you keep the car for more than four hours after it is due, it is usually worth extending the contract for another day since overtime charges average $12 to $15 per hour. 

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

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

It's wonderland. Old Faithful and the majority of the world's geysers are preserved here. They are the main reason the park was established in 1872 as America's first national park—an idea that spread worldwide. A mountain wildland, home to grizzly bears, wolves, and herds of bison and elk, the park is the core of one of the last, nearly intact, natural ecosystems in the Earth’s temperate zone.

Yellowstone is located primarily in the U.S. state of Wyoming, although it also extends into Montana and Idaho.

The human history of the Yellowstone region goes back more than 11,000 years. From about 11,000 years ago to the very recent past, many groups of Native Americans used the park as their homes, hunting grounds, and transportation routes. These traditional uses of Yellowstone lands continued until a little over 200 years ago when the first people of European descent found their way into the park. In 1872 a country that had not yet seen its first centennial established Yellowstone as the first national park in the world. A new concept was born and with it a new way for people to preserve and protect the best of what they had for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations.

With half of the earth's geothermal features, Yellowstone holds the planet's most diverse and intact collection of geysers, hot springs, mudpots, and fumaroles. Its more than 300 geysers make up two thirds of all those found on earth. Combine this with more than 10,000 thermal features comprised of brilliantly colored hot springs, bubbling mudpots, and steaming fumaroles, and you have a place like no other. Geyserland, fairyland, wonderland--through the years, all have been used to describe the natural wonder and magic of this unique park that contains more geothermal features than any other place on earth.

Yellowstone is home to the largest concentration of mammals in the lower 48 states. Sixty-seven different mammals live here, including grizzly bears and black bears. Gray wolves were restored in 1995 and more than 100 live in the park now. Wolverine and lynx, which require large expanses of undisturbed habitat, are also found in the Yellowstone ecosystem. Seven native ungulate species—elk, mule deer, bison, moose, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, and white-tailed deer live here. Non-native mountain goats have colonized northern portions of the park and numerous small mammals are found throughout the park.

Records of bird sightings have been kept in Yellowstone since its establishment in 1872; these records document 330 species of birds to date, of which approximately 148 species are known to nest in the park. Yellowstone is surprisingly rich in bird diversity given the harsh environmental conditions that characterize the landscape. The variation in elevation and broad array of habitat types found within the park contributes to the region's relatively high diversity.

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"

Time is running out for

RAWHIDE TRAVEL and TOURS 
                  famous.....    
 "KICK ICE ALASKAN GLACIER ROUTE SUPER CRUISE"  
 (and Anchorage sleepover)

 August 22-31, 2012

  Call for pice and availability (602) 843-5100

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

Before You Travel: A Health Checklist

•Allow at least one month for adequate health preparation before departing on an international trip. Sometimes it may take two to three months to ensure that all required and recommended vaccinations are given in their proper sequence. Immunization against Hepatitis A, for example, can take 6 months before full protection is afforded.

•Check the immunization requirements of the country you are visiting. Certain countries might require vaccinations against various diseases before you are allowed to enter, or before you are allowed to return home to your country.

•Consult your doctor before you embark on any trip. Your doctor may be able to prescribe extra doses of medication and give you some tips on maintaining your health.

•Buy and pack a supply of all medications you take regularly. Make sure your supply is sufficient to last the entire trip, including any unexpected delays. Make sure you know the generic name of the medicine you take, as brand names vary around the world.

•Carry your medical supplies in your hand baggage. This way if you are separated from your checked luggage, your health will not be at risk.

•If you are leaving children behind, make sure you leave a signed emergency treatment consent form on file with your hospital or caregiver.

•Check your insurance coverage before you leave the country. Most insurance policies do not cover medical expenses incurred abroad, and medical expenses may be prohibitively high for travelers without insurance. Confirm your coverage and/or get extra insurance to cover you during your trip.

•Carry some form of identification which states your special medical problems or needs. An identity bracelet or metal tag on a chain, stating your allergies to certain drugs or the fact that you are a diabetic or epileptic, is an example of identification which should be worn at all times.

•Carry a copy of your prescription with you. If you wear glasses or contacts or take any kind of special medication, it is a good idea to carry your prescription in case you need replacements.

•Have a thorough dental check-up before you leave on a long trip. A dental check-up just before you travel prevents the risk of painful and expensive treatment abroad.

•Always carry copies of your health records. In a situation where medical attention is necessary, your medical records can help determine the best treatment possible.

•Leave your medical information with someone who is readily accessible in case of an emergency. Your emergency contact should also have all your medical information in the event of a medical emergency.

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

Anantara Golden Triangle Resort and Spa, Chiang Rai, Thailand

photo from TripAdvisor

Many hotels are able to offer their guests transport, perhaps to the airport or even to explore the surrounding area. Few can claim an on-site elephant camp housing 34 pachyderms! The Anantara Golden Triangle has no need of gimmicks, it sits in the heart of lush bamboo forest, housing rooms of supreme luxury enjoying awesome views over Laos and Myanmar. The onsite elephants are a regular part of rural Thai life and guests can get involved in many aspects of their day to day life, either riding them through the jungle or learning about their husbandry from the mahouts.

An elephant 'drive' at sunrise. A dip in the river. Treks through bamboo groves and rice paddy. A rare glimpse at life in a traditional mahout's village. The Elephant Camp at Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa is designed along the lines of the traditional mahout's villages found in the hills of Northern Thailand in the days when logging employed the majority of Thailand's elephants.

The Royal Thai Government, with Royal support, set up the Thai Elephant Conservation Centre (TECC) to act as a central body for the conservation of elephants, both domestic and wild and the communities that depend on them for their livelihood. Anantara Golden Triangle is proud to host the Northern extension of the Centre's activities.

A true highlight of the Anantara Experience at Anantara Golden Triangle, the Elephant Camp and its resident cast of jumbo beauties offers guests a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with these gentle giants. Some of the activities include:

Elephant Driving
A skilled mahout can guide his elephant through its working day with around 70 soft commands, light touches behind the ear and years of understanding between the elephant and his master. But did you know that anyone can drive an elephant? A short half-hour lesson will teach you the basic commands and actions, give you the thrill of riding on the neck of this magnificent beast and having it respond to your commands.

Elephant Trekking
A trek through the forest will include many habitat types from thick bamboo to riverine flood plain and an ideal chance to see the birds and small mammals that inhabit the area.

Elephant Bathing
During the hot weather, elephants love nothing more than to take to the water. Bathing is fun to watch and even more fun to take part in! Take a pair of sandals and some shorts down to the Ruak River or the bathing pool, help the mahout and really get to know the elephants.

Forest Living Skills
Ask the mahouts to share their knowledge of edible herbs and jungle medicines for human and elephant. And learn the best places to search for the insects that spice up the diet of the mahout!

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

Beat the Heat

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two serious illnesses quite common among people traveling to climates warmer than those they are accustomed to. Travelers sometimes underestimate how dangerous these illnesses are, and fail to take simple precautions to avoid them. The following recommendations will help ensure that these debilitating illnesses don't cut your next holiday short:

•Drink a lot of liquids. It is easy to get dehydrated in hot climates, especially if you are not used to high temperatures. Always carry a water bottle and drink from it often. Just because you aren't thirsty doesn't mean your body doesn't want water; by the time you feel thirsty, you are already a little dehydrated. A good rule of thumb is: if you aren't visiting the restroom as often as you would normally, you aren't getting enough water.

•Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, as they tend to promote dehydration; you need two cups of non-caffeinated and non-alcoholic beverages for every cup of coffee, tea, beer, etc. that you consume just to break even.

•If you don't have a health reason to avoid them, eat salty snacks such as olives and pickles throughout the day. The salt will help you retain some of the extra fluids you're consuming.

•People who are sweating more than usual may be losing electrolytes, which can cause headaches and other symptoms. If you find yourself feeling headachy, try replacing your electrolytes with a sport beverage or a high-potassium snack such as a banana.

•Pack lots of sunblock. There are few better ways to ruin a vacation than a painful sunburn. Make the application of sunscreen or sunblock a part of your morning routine, and reapply regularly.

•Keep your head covered with a light-colored hat or scarf. By keeping your head and the nape of your neck covered, you can help avoid sunstroke.

•Seek the shade. No matter how much sunblock you use or how wide your hat is, you can still overheat easily just sitting in direct sunlight. Whenever possible, walk, stand, or sit in the shade.

•Avoid heat exhaustion by pacing yourself and taking it easy. Most people don't realize they are overexerting themselves just by sticking to their usual activity level while exposed to temperatures they are unaccustomed to.

•Avoid wearing synthetic fibers that do not allow your skin to breathe. Wear natural fabrics like cotton or linen that are absorbent and allow air through. Rayon, while it tends to be lightweight and cottony in appearance, tends to trap heat next to your skin. Additionally, opt for light-colored clothes over darker ones that tend to absorb heat rather than reflect it.

•Avoid the midday sun. This is the time of the day when the sun's rays are at their highest intensity, and the maximum skin damage can occur; plan traveling and sightseeing for the early morning or evening.

•Take at least two pairs of shoes so that you can let each pair dry out on alternate days. Sandals are not advised due to the threat of insect bites, sunburn, stubbed toes, and blisters.

•Try to stay in air-conditioned hotels and use air-conditioned transportation vehicles.

•If you find yourself experiencing symptoms such as dry, flushed skin, difficulty breathing, and/or dizziness, faintness, or light-headedness, immediately seek relief from the heat: get into some shade, preferrably in an air-conditioned room; sit or lie down quietly; put a rag dipped in cool water or wrapped around a piece of ice against your wrists and the back of your neck; and generally get yourself cooled off as soon as possible. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek immediate medical assistance.

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

Bryce Canyon Utah

Bryce Canyon, famous for its worldly unique geology, consists of a series of horseshoe-shaped amphitheaters carved from the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. The erosional force of frost-wedging and the dissolving power of rainwater have shaped the colorful limestone rock of the Claron Formation into bizarre shapes, including slot canyons, windows, fins, and spires called "hoodoos".Bryce Canyon became a national park in 1928.

Small by National Park standards, the 56.2 square miles of Bryce Canyon National Park occupy the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau in south-central Utah. The park is not a canyon. Rather, it is a spectacular series of more than a dozen amphitheaters, each of which is carved at least 1,000 feet into the chromatic limestone of the Paunsaugunt Plateau.

Spend a week or spend a few hours. Bryce Canyon National Park offers something special for all ages of every interest.  Hopefully you will plan to stay overnight - will it be camping or lodging? Enjoy a ranger program or two: moonlit guided hike, telescope stargazing, or an entertaining geology lesson. Perhaps you would prefer a horseback ride?

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

More About Rawhide Travel and Tours

Photo by Ron Oster

Rawhide Travel and Tours with combined total of “68 years of travel experience" provides amazing deals for your dream vacation with experienced, friendly travel experts.

Services offered include booking domestic and international air travel, hotel and resort reservations, car rental and cruises for individuals, corporate, group and incentive travel. Also tour packages of every type from a weekend getaway, to San Diego or Disneyland to involved and detailed vacations worldwide.

Rawhide Travel also arranges special meetings for incentive groups. Further, they annually put together their very own Rawhide Travel Adventure Tours at greatly reduced rates to exotic places such as Australia, China, Egypt, New Zealand, Tahiti and many, other areas of the world.

They also create their very own Rawhide Travel Cruises to exciting areas such as Alaska, Europe, the Caribbean and the Panama Canal. One of the biggest benefits of taking a Rawhide Travel Adventure, besides the cost reduction of the trip, is that Ron Oster, the owner, actually goes on the tour or cruise with the group from start to finish, a definite “comfort level” for most travelers. Two to three of the adventures are put together each year and usually sell out fast.

Plan your next great vacation with Rawhide Travel and Tours. Call today (602) 843-5100 or email us at flythis@rawhidetravel.com.

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

Want to Go to the Olympics? Part 2

Are Affordable Hotels Sold Out? It’s not difficult to find a room, it’s just difficult to find a deal.

Even at bare-bones accommodations, prices are up considerably, with many charging double the standard rate or more. Even cramped two-star hotels are offering rooms from £230 (about $362 at $1.56 to the pound) a night, up from £115 on average.

But for the budget-minded, there are other options, from apartments to home stays to hostels. To avoid scams, check with yout travel agent for lodging companies recognized by the London Olympic organizing committee.

You can even pitch a tent at designated sites in the city.  Camp In London, a pop-up campsite on a field in Walthamstow, East London, is just four miles from the heart of the city and a less than 10-minute free shuttle bus ride from the Olympic Park. Pre-erected tents cost £40 a person or you can pitch your own for £15 a person.

Wherever you decide to stay, be sure to consult a map before booking. London has more than 100,000 hotel rooms throughout the city and its 32 boroughs, according to VisitLondon.com, and the Olympic Games are taking place across the city.  In fact, some destinations like parts of southern Essex or even Hertfordshire, which is north of London, are more conveniently located in relation to the Olympic Village than parts of West London.

Also, while London is the host city, events will be taking place across England, including soccer matches in Coventry (an hour by train from London), Manchester (two hours away) and Newcastle (three hours); sailing events in Weymouth (two and a half hours away); and cycling in Essex (an hour away). So, you may want to make sure you are near the event you are interested in, or at least near a train station.

What About The Crowds?Whether you’re a procrastinator or not, you’re going to have to deal with crowds. The huge number of spectators, combined with the usual tourist mobs and people using the transport system, means that London will be significantly busier than normal. Heathrow is bracing for the crunch, with a temporary terminal dedicated for Olympic athletes and with 1,000 volunteers to help travelers. Approximately 80 percent of spectators are estimated to be traveling by rail, placing extra demand on an already busy network, according to London2012.com, the official Olympics site.

At this point there is still time to map out a strategy for getting around so you’re not stuck watching Jordyn Wieber’s balance beam routine on a TV in an overcrowded bar.

Getaheadofthegames.com, developed by Transport for London, offers an interactive map that shows how mass transit will be affected in London during the Games by date and time so you can plan your trip accordingly. In general, allow extra time to get where you need to go. Mass transport will be particularly busy before the start and at the end of sporting sessions.

You can also sign up for free travel alerts for warnings of Tube and Docklands Light Railway service delays at the Transport for London Web site, tfl.gov.uk.

Walk whenever possible, or consider biking. Although demand for bike rentals is expected to be high, parking stations may be within walking distance of events. For more information, visit the London Cycling Campaign at lcc.org.uk.

A lifelong Londoner, recommends the Thames Clipper, a scheduled ferry that tends to be less congested than the Tube or buses. For about £6, you can ride from the London Eye to Greenwich, getting a great view of the capital’s main sights along the way.

Museums, monuments and other tourist attractions are also expected to be mobbed, so try to buy any tickets online in advance. The London Pass, which starts at £46 per adult and £29 per child for one day, gives you free admission to more than 55 attractions and the ability to skip the lines at various tourist sites, including the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, Windsor Castle and the London Zoo. And festival.london2012.com offers ticket information for the Cultural Olympiad, a series of live concerts and events — some of which are free — from June 21 to Sept. 9.

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

Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival

Excitement is in bloom at Epcot theme park this spring with the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival presented by HGTV!

Watch Disney spring to life with colorful flowers and gardens, dazzling Disney character topiaries, live music and fascinating programs. Held through May 20, 2012, this special event beckons you to be inspired by nature at its finest.

•Educational presentations at the Festival Center
•Themed weekends
•Special displays
•Fun for kids
Designer Presentations

See how green your thumb can be as some of the nation's top designers help you plan everything from planting your first garden to enhancing your home's curb appeal. With expert advice from HGTV and DIY designers and Epcot gardening experts, you're sure to be inspired!

You'll find more than 100 topiaries throughout Epcot theme park—including more than 75 Disney character topiaries! Highlights include character topiaries representing Buzz, Woody and Lotso from the Disney•Pixar film Toy Story 3, Lightning McQueen and Mater from the Disney•Pixar film Cars 2, and other classic favorites.

Enjoy unforgettable live music from the 1960s and 1970s during the Flower Power Concert Series. You'll find a different artist every weekend during the festival at America Gardens Theatre. Show times are Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 5:15 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 7:45 p.m.

Epcot theme park admission is required. Most Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival events are included with admission to Epcot theme park. Availability is limited for some events. Events may be rescheduled or cancelled at any time.

Whether you want to improve your gardening skills or simply savor colorful scenery, a spectacular array of experiences awaits you at Epcot theme park during this year's festival.

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

Want to Go to the Olympics? Part 1

There is less than 100 days until the opening ceremony of the London Olympics, but people can still get to the Games, which run July 27 to Aug. 12, if they’re willing to spend a little more money, be flexible when it comes to flight times and crowds, and don’t wait a moment longer.

Are There Still Tickets? Yes. Though most tickets have been allocated, some are still available for certain competitions, including some basketball, gymnastics and volleyball tournaments, according to a recent search on the internet.

Even without tickets, visitors can watch several events live by staking out a good spot on the sidelines. The Olympic marathon will pass such landmarks as the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral and Buckingham Palace. The men’s and women’s road cycling races will begin on the Mall in central London and head southwest through the city and out to Surrey for several circuits around Box Hill. And Weymouth will be welcoming 60,000 to 70,000 visitors a day to watch sailing events from its shores.

If all else fails, the BBC is running official “big screens” around the country — from Norwich to Plymouth and from Dover to Middlesborough — with live coverage of the events.

What About Flights? Flights are still available to London during the Olympics, but fares are high, about 13 percent higher than this time last year. Act fast, as fares are only expected to rise as the Games near.

Travelers can usually find some relief by flying into an alternative European airport and making their way to London by train or a low-cost carrier like Ryanair — although if you’re late booking your ticket, even this strategy will prove tricky.

There is a special rail pass BritRail London Plus Pass that may be a convenent way to get around London area during the games.

Continued on Thursday

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

Grand Canyon National Park

A powerful and inspiring landscape, the Grand Canyon overwhelms our senses through its immense size; 277 river miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and a mile deep.

Nearly five million people see the Grand Canyon each year. Most of them see it from their car at overlooks along the South Rim (this includes Grand Canyon Village, Hermits Rest, and Desert View). The South Rim is the most accessible part of the park and is open all year.

A much smaller number of people see the Canyon from the North Rim, which lies just 10 miles (as the condor flies) directly across the Canyon from the South Rim. The North Rim rises a thousand feet higher than the South Rim, and is much less accessible. Heavy snows close the road to the North Rim from late October to mid May of each year. Even in good weather it's harder to get to. It is 220 miles by car from the South Rim, or 21 miles by foot across the Canyon by way of the North and South Kaibab Trails.

The Inner Canyon includes everything below the rim and is seen mainly by hikers, mule riders, or river runners. There are many opportunities here for adventurous and hardy persons who want to backpack, ride a mule to Phantom Ranch, or take a river trip through the Canyon on the Colorado River (which can take anywhere from a few days to three weeks - there are no one-day river trips through Grand Canyon).

 How Do People Get Across the Canyon?
If you are hiking across the canyon, the South  Kaibab Trail crosses the Colorado River on a narrow foot bridge 70 feet above the water. It is a 21 mile hike to go "Rim To Rim," with a vertical descent -  followed by a climb - of 1 mile. That makes this an overnight hiking trip for 99.5% of hikers.

There is only one way to cross by automobile, and that is 137 miles from the South Rim Village (at Marble Canyon, AZ) via the  Navajo Bridge, a few miles downstream from Lees Ferry, where the Canyon is only 400 feet.

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

One Stop Travel Solutions

Are you looking for a family vacations,  honeymoon, adventure travel, historical and cultural excursions, relaxing beach vacations—even business travel?

Whatever destination you’re seeking, Rawhide Travel has the education, first-hand travel experience and travel industry relationships to help make your dream vacation a reality.

Call today (602) 843-5100 and talk to Bonnie, Diana or Ron.

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

Why Did My $300 Cruise Cost $4000

With the popularity of cruise travel, and the reduction in its cost, people who once would never have dreamed of taking a cruise vacation are now taking cruises in record numbers. Unscrupulous travel promoters are aware of this, and attempt to cheat people with the promise of free travel or huge discounts. Thus, when you get an unsolicited announcement that you will receive a cruise vacation - free or discount - you should investigate the offer thoroughly before you make any payment.

Common Problems With Discount Cruise Offers
Common complaints about this type of free or discount cruise offer include:

•Hidden Fees - Once you book the cruise and pay a down payment (or pay for the entire cruise package), you are told of additional fees, such as port fees, taxes, registration fees, or service fees, or other surcharges.

•Different Amenities - Once you arrive on the cruise ship, you discover that it lacks the features you were promised.

•Not Free After All - Sometimes the promoters of a "free cruise" offer start hitting you with extra fees from the moment you call, and will pressure you to pay immediately by credit card.

Protecting YourselfYou can help avoid being cheated by taking the following steps:

•Remember - if a travel deal sounds too good to be true, it almost always is.

•Cruise offers that come via unsolicited telephone calls or by spam email are much more likely to be fraudulent.

•Don't be afraid to say "no". Don't let them pressure you. If they call you and "won't take no for an answer", hang up.

•Whenever possible, purchase cruise services only from businesses you know to be genuine.
•Take your time. If you are pressured to make a quick decision, the chances are much higher that you are being scammed.

•Get the details before you buy - in writing. Insist that you get a complete description of the cruise in writing, including all costs and fees, before you book. Investigate the cruise ship. If air travel is included in the package, find out what airline and airport they use. If they won't provide details, or won't provide them in writing, you can be quite certain that they are trying to cheat you.

•Check out similar packages with other, legitimate travel agencies and services. You may find that you can get this "spectacular fantasy cruise vacation" for less money through a reputable travel service.

•Make sure you know all date restrictions on any cruise package - if there are so few days available that you can't schedule a holiday, you're throwing your money away.

•Make sure that you are dealing with a genuine travel promoter or agency before giving them a credit card number by telephone, email, or through a website.

•Do not send money by courier or overnight mail. Unscrupulous cruise promoters want your money as soon as possible, and sometimes use couriers or overnight delivery services to avoid the possibility of federal mail fraud charges.

•If in doubt, pay by credit card. While there is no guarantee that you will be able to effect a charge-back if the travel deal turns out to be a fraud, you effectively have no chance of recovering your money if you pay by check, money order, wire transfer, or cash.

•If you encounter problems during the cruise, complain at that time. If you don't complain until after the cruise is over, you will be in a much weaker position to secure any sort of refund or legal assistance after the cruise is over.

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

Magic Mountain Hotel, Panguipulli, Chile

In the heart of the Hulio Hulio reserve in Southern Chile, the Magic Mountain Hotel is an architectural marvel. With barely a right angle to be found, the mountain is a conical building built from local timber and stone, giving the impression of a small volcano. A waterfall cascades down the walls and Tolkein-esque windows peak out from behind mosses and ferns. It is a surreal and beautiful structure rising out of the jungle.

Although a long way from civilization, there are plenty of creature comforts to be found, including an ingenious miniature golf course and hot tubs fashioned from massive tree trunks. The thirteen rooms are each named after a different local bird.

Beyond the obvious eye catching architecture of the Magic Mountain Hotel are the long list of services. Many of these services are beyond what you would typically find at hotels in Chile. Imagine playing mini golf on a walk way that snakes through the forest and around hundred years old trees as part of the course 40 feet above the forest floor. There are no gimmicky windmill challenges on this course; just a spectacular setting with natural impediments such as trees that the walkway was built around and are allowed to grow directly through the floor of the course.

The hot tubs at the Magic Mountain are made out of huge trunks of trees, dug out, and then filled with hot water perched on a deck overlooking the forest. This is really a place to take a very good glass of Chilean wine and relax at the end of the day.

The Magic Mountain has very very good Chilean Wines. The restaurant is simply one of the best in Southern Chile. Even if you never stay at the Magic Mountain, we would definitely encourage you to stop by for lunch, dinner, or even just a drink.

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

Why Do I Need Travel Insurance?

While individual circumstances may vary, its always recommended to any traveller to make buying travel insurance a part of your planning -- don't leave home without it ...

When you're travelling, even a minor accident or sickness can become a major expense and inconvenience.

As soon as you have made any payment for your travel, including a deposit, you should ask your travel consultant to arrange Travel Insurance for you.

You pay only for the period that you are actually away, but once you have effected the insurance you will be covered for costs you might incur should you have to cancel prior to your departure (subject, of course, to the conditions of your policy).

To demonstrate the importance of purchasing travel insurance, and emergency travel services, here are 10 common examples of what could go wrong.

1.It's 10 p.m. and you and your immediate family arrive at the airport for a connecting flight, only to find that your flight has been cancelled. Who can assist you with finding new flights to get everyone home?

2.Your bag was lost with your insulin inside. You need help to locate your bag as soon as possible and have your emergency prescription filled. Who do you call?

3.Your first visit to Europe, and your passport and wallet are stolen. Where do you turn for emergency cash, and how will you get your passport replaced?

4.You're involved in an accident and adequate medical treatment is not available. Who will help arrange and pay for a medical evacuation?

5.If your sister-in-law becomes seriously ill and you must cancel your trip, what happens to your non-refundable deposits or pre-payments?

6.You arrive in Jamaica and your luggage doesn't. If it's lost, who will help you find it? If it's delayed, who will pay for your necessities? If it's stolen, who will pay to replace it?

7.Your cruise line, airline or tour operator goes bankrupt. Who will pay for your non-refundable expenses? Who will help get you to your destination?

8.You're walking down a street in Rio and twist your ankle. Who can help you find an English-speaking physician?

9.Three weeks before your scheduled arrival, a terrorist incident occurs in the city to which you are planning to visit. Who will pay if you want to cancel your trip?

10.You are at a beach resort in North Carolina, and you are forced to evacuate due to an approaching hurricane. Who will help you evacuate and who will reimburse your lost vacation investment?

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