Great Places to Take the Grandchildren: Universal Studios, Orlando, FL

With the opening of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter,  what  better place to take the grandchildren.

Experience the two uniquely different lands of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™,  one located in each of Universal Orlando’s two theme parks.

Step inside a world where magic is real. Within Universal’s Islands of Adventure® theme park you can visit the iconic Hogwarts™ castle and explore Hogsmeade™ village. Then, this summer in Universal Studios Florida® theme park, you can enter Diagon Alley™ to enjoy a brand new ride, all-new magical experiences. Get ready to explore more of Harry Potter’s world than ever before.

Village of Hogsmeade™
Nestled at the foot of Hogwarts™ castle is the wizarding village of Hogsmeade™, where you can stroll the streets and explore all of the fascinating shops and eateries. Wander through the classrooms and corridors of Hogwarts™, and soar above the castle with Harry Potter™ on the groundbreaking ride, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™.  

he All-New Diagon Alley™
Follow in Harry Potter’s footsteps as you walk through the streets of London to Diagon Alley™, where you’ll find many of the wizarding world’s most famous establishments. Get ready for unforgettable thrills when you enter Gringotts™ bank and find yourself taking an incredible journey on an epic new ride! 

The Hogwarts™ Express
For the first time ever, Muggles™ will be able to take a ride aboard the iconic Hogwarts™ Express and go between London’s King’s Cross Station and Hogsmeade™ Station. Encounter characters and creatures from the Harry Potter™ films as you travel over the British countryside. And remember, you’ll need Park-to-Park admission to climb aboard!

Ther are many other things to do at Universal Studios. Universal Orlando® Resort's two spectacular theme parks offer over 25 of the world's most amazing rides and attractions, from state-of-the-art 4-D attractions to exciting water rides to some of the world’s most pulse-pounding roller coasters.

You're about to be plunged into a universe of mind-boggling, gravity-defying, pulse-pounding action. Together, Universal Orlando Resort's two spectacular theme parks offer 50 of the world's most amazing rides, shows, and attractions,  from state-of-the-art 4-D attractions, to exciting water rides, to some of the world’s most pulse-pounding roller coasters ,  each thrusting you into some of the greatest movies and most legendary stories of all time. 

Besides Harry Potter™ and his friends you can battle villains high above the streets in the 3-D thriller, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man®. Blast off on a high-speed roller coaster rampage on The Incredible Hulk Coaster® or brave white-water rapids on Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges® . Plunge into darkness on the Revenge of the Mummy® and careen and crash your way through Krustyland on the hilarious The Simpsons Ride™.

Your grandchildren are sure to have an unforgettable time.

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you plan the best Disney vacation ever! Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.

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Update: Rawhide Travel and Tours Holiday Tree

The Little tree is dressed up in red, white and blue plus a few fireworks to honor the 4th of July.

Independence Day is a day of family celebrations with picnics and barbecues, showing a great deal of emphasis on the American tradition of political freedom. Activities associated with the day include watermelon or hotdog eating competitions and sporting events, such as baseball games, three-legged races, swimming activities and tug-of-war games.

Many people display the American flag outside their homes or buildings. Many communities arrange fireworks that are often accompanied by patriotic music. The most impressive fireworks are shown on television. Some employees use one or more of their vacation days to create a long weekend so that they can escape the heat at their favorite beach or vacation spot.

Independence Day is a patriotic holiday for celebrating the positive aspects of the United States. Many politicians appear at public events to show their support for the history, heritage and people of this country. Above all, people in the United States express and give thanks for the freedom and liberties fought by the first generation of many of today's Americans.

It wouldn't be the Fourth of July in New York City without the annual Macy's fireworks show, which made its debut in 1976 to commemorate the nation's bicentennial.

Whether you're traveling with friends or family, San Diego is everyone's first choice for 4th of July celebrations. Even locals can't think of anything better than relaxing with loved ones on a long stretch of sand and watching an extraordinary show of lights in the sky.

Call Rawhide Travel and Tours and start planning that special vacation or event today. 602-843-5100 or visit our website rawhidetravel.com.

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In the News: New Small-Ship Cruise Line Debuts

It isn't often that a new cruise line makes its debut, but that's what's happening this week with the arrival of Pearl Seas Cruises, a new small-ship luxury operator.

The line's first vessel, the 210-passenger Pearl Mist, set sail Wednesday from Baltimore on an 11-night voyage to New England and Canada.

At just 335 feet long, the Pearl Mist is small enough to get into off-the-beaten-path scenic areas that are inaccessible to large ships  and built with comfort in mind.

Initially, the Pearl Mist will travel in the Canadian Maritimes, Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway, as well as the Caribbean, offering intimate, upscale adventures that the company says will be like nothing else available. All 108 of the Pearl Mist's cabins have balconies, and the ship has several lounges, a main dining room and deck-top areas.

The exceptionally large and gracefully appointed staterooms aboard the Pearl Mist surround you with a warm and inviting atmosphere.  The ship has been designed with a room for every preference, from the cozy private paradises to the massive luxury suites.  Every stateroom is fully-stocked with everything one needs to relax in this home away from home, with plenty of extras as well.  Enjoy breath-taking views out of the room’s large viewing window or appreciate the scenery first-hand by stepping onto your own personal balcony.  Modern conveniences like Wireless Internet access and Flat Screen TV’s will keep you connected to the outside world.  And our attentive crew is happy to help with any other special requests you’d need to make your trip perfect.

While the line is new, the people behind it are old hands in the small-ship cruise world. Pearl Seas Cruises is a sister company to Connecticut-based American Cruise Lines, which already operates six vessels along U.S. coastal areas and rivers.

Enjoy a 10, 11 or 14 night cruise through the Canadian Maritimes, Great Lakes, St. Lawrence Seaway,  and Caribbean Islands. Let Pearl Seas introduce you to the personalized service, fine dining, enriching onboard activities and guided shore excursions that are the hallmark of small ship cruising with Pearl Seas Cruises.

Looking for that uniquely different vacation destination. Call Rawhide Travel and Tours today 602-843-5100 or visit our website rawhidetravel.com. We can help!

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Culinary Travel: Taiwan

Imagine a land where snow-capped peaks and sparkling white sand beaches are just hours apart by car; where traditional indigenous people continue to practice centuries-old customs just miles away from the most sophisticated dust-free semiconductor facilities on the planet; where some of the most tantalizing and satisfying food is served by vendors in night markets and side streets; and where cosmopolitan cities retain distinctive neighborhood character.

Chinese cuisine goes back to ancient times and achieves its present level of excellence through the accumulation of thousands of years of practical knowledge and experience in cookery.

This dish brings together two of the island’s most popular offerings: mango fruit and fresh seafood in the form of wok-seared shrimp. The mango is such a staple of Taiwanese cuisine that even the Taiwanese government’s official website lauds it as the “most loved and sought-after fruit in the sweltering days of mid-summer.”

Shrimp with Mango

Ingredients
One large mango, cut into into cubes or small chunks
8 to 10 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, cut into 3 sections
2 medium size zucchini, cut into chunks of the same size as the mango pieces
¼ cup green onion, diced
1/8 tsp salt
1/8 tsp white pepper
Pinch of sugar


Directions
Marinate shrimp with some salt, cooking wine, and sesame oil, then add 1/8 teaspoons of corn starch and mix.
Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in the wok or frying pan, and first sauté the diced green onion until it is fragrant. Then add shrimp and stir-fry for about one minute. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add and heat one more tablespoon of cooking oil, then stir fry zucchinis for about two minutes and add mango, seasonings and reserved shrimp, continuing to cook for one more minute. This recipe makes 5-6 servings.

Tips
Mango should ideally be ripe, but not too soft. If you discover that your particular mango is excessively sweet, you can eliminate the sugar from the recipe to help balance the flavor. Salt can also be reduced in this dish, if desired. The fruit will enhance the flavor of the food.

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you with all your reservation needs. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.

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Great Places to Take the Grandchildren: Disneyland

Disneyland Park
Enter a magical kingdom where you can sail with pirates, explore exotic jungles, meet fairy-tale princesses, dive under the ocean and rocket through the stars, all in the same day. Disneyland Park is a beloved Southern California destination where generations of families have made their Disney dreams come true. Opened in 1955, Walt Disney’s original theme park is divided into 8 extravagantly themed lands; Main Street, U.S.A., Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, Mickey's Toontown, Frontierland, Critter Country, New Orleans Square and Adventureland. My personal favorites are Indian Jones and Peter Pan's Flight but you can't go wrong with any of the attractions.

Disney California Adventure Park
Explore 8 exciting lands that bring to life Disney and Pixar stories and characters through amazing attractions, entertainment and dining! Buena Vista Street and the awe-inspiring Cars Land, join the themed lands of Condor Flats, Grizzly Peak, Paradise Pier, Pacific Wharf, "a bug's land" and Hollywood Land. With so much to do day and night, Disney California Adventure Park has something for every member of your family. We were very impressed with Cars Land. We had great fun.

Downtown Disney District
Stroll along a lively promenade featuring distinctive dining, unique shopping and exciting nighttime entertainment. Eat at a rainforest temple overrun with exotic animals, watch the big game from inside an ESPN broadcast studio, catch a live performance by the latest musical sensation and discover wonderful new surprises around every corner! Get away for a few hours and spend some quality time in an immersive Disney environment, all without an admission fee.  We spent hours in World of Disney®. They have everything Disney you could want.

Take advantage of the long days summer has to offer with open-air experiences you won’t soon forget. Set out for a series of fun-in-the-sun attractions and entertainment options where you can choose to kick back and relax or explore the great outdoors, including:

Big Thunder Ranch
Goofy's Playhouse
Disneyland Railroad
Redwood Creek Challenge Trail
Games of the Boardwalk

If you want to cool off with a wet and wild ride there is always:

Grizzly River Run
Splash Mountain

You can also beat the heat all summer long with an assortment of escapes that help you keep your cool in style.

No matter which theme park you’re enjoying at the moment, take a break from the sunny Southern California weather with a series of attractions, entertainment and other refreshing locations:

Innoventions
Haunted Mansion
Disney Junior - Live on Stage!
Princess Dot Puddle Park
The Little Mermaid - Ariels' Undersea Adventure
Soarin' Over California

No matter your age or whether you are looking to satisfy you love for fantasy or your thrill seeking side you are bound to find yourself at Disneyland.

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you plan the best Disney vacation ever! Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.

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Let Us Help You Get Lost

Whether business or pleasure, Rawhide Travel and Tours delivers. Internet Travel sites list hotels and destinations, but offer little else. Our years of experience in the industry will help you design the perfect traveling experience. From romantic getaways to large events, our experienced agents will handle all the details. Traveling does not need to be stressful. You can count on us for great value and dependable service.

We arrange travel air, land and sea. We can arrange the perfect destination package including, resorts, conference rooms and meeting locations, special events, and attractions.

Call us and start planning that special vacation or event today. 602-843-5100 or visit our website rawhidetravel.com

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In the News: Delta Air Lines Reopens Museum at Atlanta Headquarters

Vintage flight attendant uniforms were showcased in an exhibit at the grand opening of the new Delta Flight Museum on Tuesday in Atlanta.

With a newly renovated museum at its Atlanta headquarters, Delta Air Lines hopes to lure tourists to the company's original aircraft maintenance hangars on the north edge of the world's busiest airport.

The 68,000-square-foot museum, housed in hangers that date to the 1940s, traces Delta's history from crop-dusting and air mail service to its first passenger flight from Dallas to Jackson, Mississippi, on June 17, 1929. 

The state-of-the-art Delta Flight Museum explores the history of Delta and the future of flight with an array of interactive exhibits and rare aviation items.

Strap in for a training session in the flight simulator, the only full-motion “sim” open to the public in the U.S. Find out more and schedule a departure time.

Check out a restored 1940 Douglas DC-3 passenger plane and the Waco 125 biplane, the only aircraft of its kind remaining. Engage kids (and kids at heart) with a scavenger hunt to collect passport stamps from various exhibits, a paper airplane-making station, Boeing 767 pre-flight pilot checklist, and more.

Whether you’re interested in a tour through the history of Delta and aviation, eager to test your own pilot skills, or looking for a hands-on experience for kids, you’ve landed at the right place.

Museum hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Adult (18-64 yrs. old) $12, Senior (65+ yrs. old) $9, Youth (5-17 yrs. old) $6, Child under 4 free

Looking for that uniquely different vacation destination. Call Rawhide Travel and Tours today 602-843-5100 or visit our website rawhidetravel.com. We can help!

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Off the Beaten Path: South Korea

For travellers who like their adventures a little more off the beaten path, South Korea has plenty to reward those who delve a little deeper. Here are my five tips for little-visited destinations in the Land of the Morning Calm.

Gangwon-Do
South Korea’s rural northeastern province, Gangwon-do will be thrust into the spotlight in 2018 when the resort town of Pyeongchang hosts the 2018 Winter Olympics and droves of sports fans from around the world descend upon the region.

The small city of Sokcho is home to Seoraksan National Park, arguably the most stunning in all of South Korea, with Seoraksan itself reaching a height of 1708m, perfect for hikers. Further down the coast lies Samcheok, a small town known for its caves, ocean railroad bike, and a park with giant statues of penises.
Chuncheon hosts an annual mime festival and is renowned for its dalkgalbi, a spicy fried stew consisting of chicken and vegetables. Fans of Korean cinema might also enjoy a trip to Jeongseon, hometown of hunky Korean actor Won Bin, although a glimpse of the star can’t be guaranteed.

Uponeup
Consisting of over sixty percent mountains, South Korea is a hiker’s paradise, but the country has other areas of natural beauty to offer. Uponeup is a wetland area, lush and green in the summer, desolate and frozen in winter, equally beautiful in both seasons.

Not particularly easy to get to, Uponeup can be accessed on public transport from Changnyeong, about forty-five minutes outside of Daegu, the nearest large city. Photography fans should make sure they stick around until sunset.

Korean Islands
Being on a peninsula, South Korea is home to a huge multitude of islands, but outside of Jeju, none are really known internationally.

Ranging from the gloriously sandy Imjado, the dramatic scenery of Ulleungdo, the beach camping of out-of-the-way Bijindo, and the hiking trails of remote Geumodo, there’s something for everyone when it comes to the Korean islands, and very few, if any, other travellers or tourists to contend with.

Unless you’re visiting in July and August, which is when most Korean families take their annual vacation, it’s unlikely that you’ll need a ferry reservation in advance, but you can check schedules on the Korean ferry website – although you’ll need a Korean-speaking friend to help you out with it.

If you get to Korea, you should spend at least one day walking aimlessly in the rural farm areas.

Get away from the busy chaos of the cities and view the side of Korea that not everyone knows of. That would be the quiet, secluded, small little rice field farmers in the mountains or the small fishing villages along the rocky coasts.

Looking for that uniquely different vacation destination. Call Rawhide Travel and Tours today 602-843-5100 or visit our website rawhidetravel.com. We can help!

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Culinary Travel: South Korean

Yin and yang: the blue and red circle at the heart of the South Korean flag neatly symbolizes not only the divided Korean peninsula but also the fluid mix of ancient and modern aspects of the country officially called the Republic of Korea (ROK). For the vast majority of visitors a trip to this part of the world means spending time in South Korea. Unfairly overshadowed by the headline-grabbing antics of its bad-boy neighbour, South Korea is a dream destination for the traveller, an engaging, welcoming place where the dazzling benefits of a fully industrialised, high-tech nation are balanced alongside a reverence for tradition and the ways of old Asia.

Daeji bulgogi is a popular Korean meat dish similar to bulgogi.  However, instead of using beef, thin sliced pork loin is marinated in a specially blended red chili pepper paste with various assortments of vegetables.

DAE-JI BUL-GO-GI (Spicy Marinated Pork)

Ingredients
1 lb thinly sliced pork (lean & boneless preferred)
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp crushed garlic
½ tbsp crushed ginger root
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp gochujang (red chili pepper paste)
1 tsp red pepper flakes
2 tbsp rice wine (sake)
2 tbsp sesame oil
1 onion

Directions
Combine all the ingredients except pork to make its base marinating sauce. Stir in a large mixing bowl.
Add the pork and marinate for 30-60 minutes.
Grill or pan-fry and serve with steamed rice.

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you with all your reservation needs. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.

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Happy Father’s Day From Rawhide Travel and Tours

Fathers' Day is the U.S. celebration honoring fathers and celebrating fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society. Many countries celebrate it on the third Sunday of June, though it is also celebrated widely on other days by many other countries.

Typically, families gather to celebrate the father figures in their lives. In recent years, retailers have adapted to the holiday by promoting greeting cards and traditionally masculine gifts such as electronics and tools. Schools and other children's programs commonly have activities to make Father's Day gifts.

Since 1966, when President Johnson signed a proclamation setting aside the third Sunday in June to honor all American dads, Father’s Day has been an uncomfortable fit for many men. There’s something a bit off about expecting 7-year-olds to be grateful. 

We know the best dads aren’t looking for praise: “Just go be a kid and I’ll do the work around here,” is how the tape in their heads runs. Still, we don’t ignore presidential proclamations around here! And we think it’s good for the all children, of all ages, to recognize the special father for all he does. 

To fathers, near and far, past and present, by birth or chosen, at the ball game or those deployed... Happy Father's Day - You make my life Special!

Father's Day was founded in Spokane, Washington at the YMCA in 1910 by Sonora Smart Dodd, who was born in Arkansas. Its first celebration was in the Spokane YMCA on June 19, 1910. Her father, the Civil War veteran William Jackson Smart, was a single parent who raised his six children there. After hearing a sermon about Jarvis' Mother's Day in 1909 at Central Methodist Episcopal Church, she told her pastor that fathers should have a similar holiday honoring them. Although she initially suggested June 5, her father's birthday, the pastors did not have enough time to prepare their sermons, and the celebration was deferred to the third Sunday of June. Several local clergymen accepted the idea, and on 19 June 1910, the first Father's Day, "sermons honoring fathers were presented throughout the city.

Other cities had held Father’s day celebrations in the years prior to 1910.

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help “You Get Lost” and with all your travel needs and dreams. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.

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Plan Your Next Vacation With Rawhide Travel and Tours

Rawhide Travel and Tours with combined total of “75 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.

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

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In the News: The Latest in Unusual Airplane Paint Jobs

Does the paint job of an airplane, otherwise known as its livery, make a difference to you? Airlines around the world have a proud tradition of getting goofy with the looks of their aircraft. Here are some of the last paint schemes.

EVA Air's Hello Kitty Boeing 777 themed "Sanrio Family hand-in-hand" has Hello Kitty and 18 other Sanrio characters all holding hands. Hello Kitty and her mates are hugely popular the world over, nowhere more so than in Asia where Taiwanese airline EVA Air flies five Kitty-themed planes in a tie-up with Sanrio.

Alaska Airlines turned a 737 into "Salmon-Thirty-Salmon" after a plane hit a fish (really happened) but not the reason behind the livery. The new "Salmon-Thirty-Salmon II" design is derived from an earlier version of the paint scheme Alaska Airlines unveiled on a 737-400 in 2005, which was re-painted with the carrier's traditional Eskimo livery last year. In addition to sporting the glimmering image of a wild Alaska king salmon like the original "Salmon-Thirty-Salmon," the new design is about nine feet longer and also features fish scales on the winglets and a salmon-pink colored "Alaska" script across the fuselage. The design is among the world's most intricately painted commercial airplanes and was produced in partnership with ASMI, which promotes wild, natural and sustainable Alaska seafood.

British Airways has launched a plane with panda-themed livery to mark the launch of a route from London to Chengdu, China. 

Brazil's team is using a plane completely covered by graffiti art. Low-cost carrier GOL commissioned Brazil's acclaimed artistic duo Os Gemeos to turn the Boeing 737 into a flying canvas. They used 1,200 cans of spray paint to shroud the entire plane, apart from the wings, in a theme of "Brazilianness, democracy and diversity."

Germany's Lufthansa has renamed eight of its planes to "Fanhansa"  and added a football and German flag motif. The team isa favorite to become champions behind only Brazil and Argentina is being flown on an Airbus A340.

Air New Zealand's has a Hobbit-inspired 777-300ER aircraft. The world's largest plane decal, taking more than 400 hours to complete, was unveiled in 2012.

Looking for that uniquely different vacation destination. Call Rawhide Travel and Tours today 602-843-5100 or visit our website rawhidetravel.com. We can help!

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Off the Beaten Path: Ha Giang, Vietnam

Ha Giang is the final frontier in northern Vietnam, a lunar landscape of limestone pinnacles and granite outcrops. The far north of the province has some of the most spectacular scenery in the country, and the trip between Dong Van and Meo Vac is quite awe inspiring. Ha Giang should be one of the most popular destinations in this region, but its proximity to the Chinese border still requires a travel permit. Roads are slowly improving, and the slight hassles of scoring a permit are effortlessly offset by some of Indochina’s most amazing scenery.

The remote and rugged mountains of Vietnam's north-west are home to some of South-East Asia’s most beautiful scenery and fascinating people. 

The most famous rocky area of Ha Giang is Dong Van Rock Plateau, which is recognized by UNESCO as one of 77 geological parks in the world. Lung Cu hamlet lying inside Dong Van Rock Plateau is another indispensible destination as it marks the very northern tip of Vietnam by Lung Cu Flag Tower on Dragon Mountain.

Ha Giang is a locale of fanciful natural caves such as Phuong Thien Cave, Chui Cave, Fairy Cave and Swallow Cave. Although all the caves offer wonderful scenery with fantastic shapes of stalactites, each one has its own story and traits. Legend says that fairies used to bath in Fairy Stream inside Fairy Cave which is the source of its name.

Ha Giang is also well-known for its magnificent forests in which there are more than 1,000 species of good woods, drug trees as well rare animals like tigers, peacock or pangolin.

A unique spot only be seen in Ha Giang is “Khau Vai Love Market”. The market-day is held monthly only on the 26th and 27th of a Lunar Year. In there, both single and married people in different ethnic groups can come to find ones’ ideal life-partner and sharing their feeling and understanding to each other. Lunar New Year seem to be the best time to visit Ha Giang when ones can see a wide variety of traditional customs of ethnic minorities here, such as celebrating success, rain ritual, sons ritual, crossbow shooting competition, pan-pie performance or “Còn” Throwing competition.

The path is approximately 125 miles long. Ma Pi Leng Pass is located in the Dong Van Geoparks which is recognized as the global geoparks. The road along the mountainside has romantic, spectacular scenery that is ideal destination for tourists. Ma Pi Leng Pass is not long but it is the most dangerous pass in the northern border mountain area. It is considered as the “King” of the Vietnam’s pass or Great Wall of Vietnam or the Pyramid of the Meo. At the top of Ma Pi Leng mount is the “happiness” road, there has a stone stele recording the marks in the construction process.

Scenery in Ma Pi Leng pass is unique with majestic and wild beauty. Looking to the north and northeast, thousands of gray mountains. Next to the road is an abyss, below is the Nho Que River with cool water.

Looking for that uniquely different vacation destination. Call Rawhide Travel and Tours today 602-843-5100 or visit our website rawhidetravel.com. We can help!

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Culinary Travel: Vietnam

Blessed with a ravishing coastline, emerald-green mountains, breathtaking national parks, dynamic cities, outstanding cultural interest and one of the world’s best cuisines, Vietnam has it all.

This is a country of myriad influences and reference points. In the south, Indian and Hindu culture had a lasting influence in the Cham temples and spicy regional cuisine, spiked with chilli and tempered with coconut. Head north and Chinese connections are far more apparent. Between these two competing cultures, you’ll find a quintessential Vietnam in the central provinces: the graceful historic old port of Hoi An, and the royal tombs, pagodas and imperial cuisine of Hue.  Factor in an enduring French colonial legacy, which is evident in Hanoi’s graceful boulevards, in Ho Chi Minh City’s stately museums and in the crispy baguettes and coffee culture you’ll find on every street corner.  You’ve got Vietnam: heady, intoxicating and unique.

Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls

Recipe makes 8 spring rolls

Ingredients
 2 ounces rice vermicelli
 8 rice wrappers (8.5 inch diameter)
 8 large cooked shrimp - peeled, deveined and cut in half
 1 1/3 tablespoons chopped fresh Thai basil
 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
 2 leaves lettuce, chopped

Fish Sauce Mixture
 4 teaspoons fish sauce
 1/4 cup water
 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
 1 clove garlic, minced
 2 tablespoons white sugar
 1/2 teaspoon garlic chili sauce

 Hoisin Sauce Mixture
 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
 1 teaspoon finely chopped peanuts

Directions
Bring a medium saucepan of water to boil. Boil rice vermicelli 3 to 5 minutes, or until al dente, and drain.

Fill a large bowl with warm water. Dip one wrapper into the hot water for 1 second to soften. Lay wrapper flat. In a row across the center, place 2 shrimp halves, a handful of vermicelli, basil, mint, cilantro and lettuce, leaving about 2 inches uncovered on each side. Fold uncovered sides inward, then tightly roll the wrapper, beginning at the end with the lettuce. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

In a small bowl, mix the fish sauce, water, lime juice, garlic, sugar and chili sauce.
In another small bowl, mix the hoisin sauce and peanuts.

Serve rolled spring rolls with the fish sauce and hoisin sauce mixtures.

The fish sauce, rice vermicelli, chili garlic sauce, hoisin sauce and rice wrappers can be found at Asian food markets.

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you with all your reservation needs. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.

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Great Places to Take the Grandchildren: San Diego

With more than 4,000 rare and endangered animals representing 800-plus species and subspecies, the San Diego Zoo is one of the most diverse in America. The Polar Bear Plunge, which has reopened after a $1 million makeover. Aside from permanent polar residents Kalluk, Chinook, and Tatqiq, new features include a snow den you can burrow into (the snug space mimics where female bears birth their cubs); a helicopter used on actual Arctic explorations that invites climbers into the cockpit; and the Experience Wall, where zookeepers open the glass panels surrounding the bears' habitat, letting them sniff at visitors through wire mesh.

At the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, lions lounge in the grasslands while rhinos and antelopes cool off in a nearby watering hole. You can see the best of African wildlife on this memorable safari adventure in a park that's home to more than 3,500 animals representing 429 species!

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a wildlife preserve that mimics the natural habitats of African and Asian animals. Its 33,000-square-foot Lion Camp even provides guests an opportunity to experience a face-to-face encounter with lions!

Sea World San Diego continues the wild theme of this Southern California city, allowing kids to have a Dolphin Interaction, Shark Encounter, splash along one of its many thrill rides, and of course take in one of the park's legendary sea mammal shows.  Two must-do rides include Journey to Atlantis, an exciting water ride through a lost city, and Manta, the park’s newest high-speed coaster that will twist and turn you through the world of the majestic Manta Ray!

The USS Midway Museum aircraft carrier, 972 feet and 74,000 tons of military muscle, has become a mainstay of San Diego and is absolutely worth the trip for the whole family. Located at the city’s Navy Pier, this museum takes guests back in time aboard the 20th century’s longest-serving aircraft carrier. Get a glimpse into the day-to-day lives of the 225,000 sailors that served aboard this “city at sea” from 1945 to 1992 in places as far away as the South China Sea.

The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center is a scientific complex, full of fascinating, hands-on learning experiences for visitors of all ages. It is also home to the world’s first IMAX Dome Theater, presenting the biggest films on earth! Stop by and try your hand at designing images with a sand pendulum, analyzing the vibrations of guitar strings, or just learning something new about our universe. Little ones will love Kid City, with its conveyor belts and cranes. Bonus: there's a free IMAX movie daily, included with admission!

Whale Watching! Approximately 20,000 Gray Whales pass through San Diego’s waters in their 10,000-mile annual, epic migration from the Bering Sea to Baja California. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals, sea lions, and migrating birds as well!

These are just a few of the many activities that San Diego has to offer. There are many more places that children would enjoy seeing.

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you with all your reservation needs. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.

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

In the News: Hershey's Chocolate World Is Now Open On The Las Vegas Strip

Over the past couple of weeks, the already larger-than-life Las Vegas has gotten a big dose of candy, in the form of an 18-foot Reese's Peanut Butter Cup and a 64-foot Hershey's Chocolate bar tempting visitors on the Strip. The whole of Las Vegas got a little bit sweeter with the June 3 grand opening of Hershey's Chocolate World at New York-New York Hotel Casino.

The two-story retail space offers more than 800 types of candy, including such popular brands as Hershey’s, Ice Breakers, Jolly Rancher, Reese’s and Twizzlers, among others.

Visitors are also be treated to a million Hershey's Kisses. In addition, visitors are being welcomed with a centerpiece 11-foot, 800-pound replica of the Statue of Liberty carved from Hersey's Milk Chocolate, as well as a replica Empire State Building made of 1,800 Hershey's Milk Chocolate bars.

You can create your own, customized candy wrappers, and can star in your own Reese’s ad.

Hershey's has similar stores in Times Square, Niagara Falls, Chicago, Singapore, Dubai and Shanghai.

The store is not the only place on the Strip where tourists can satisfy their sweet tooth. A four-level M&M's World across the street is a shrine to rival company Mars' signature candy.

The Bellagio is home to a floor-to-ceiling chocolate fountain that's certified as the world's largest.

Looking for that uniquely different vacation destination. Call Rawhide Travel and Tours today 602-843-5100 or visit our website rawhidetravel.com. We can help!

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
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Off the Beaten Path: Yading Natural Reserve, Sichuan Province, China

This natural reserve is located in the remote and mountainous western part of Sichuan and is one of China's best kept secrets. Even today, tourism is still not well established here, which is good because you get to experience things in their natural environment.

If the altitude of Daocheng County doesn't leave you speechless, the magnificent mountains and meadows in the vicinity of this 4,000-meter-high plateau surely will. Holy snow-capped mountains, lakes and temples, once accessed only explorers, now attract a host of visitors seeking ``the last Shangri-la.'' 

The Yading Nature Reserve covers an area of 520 square miles and has an average elevation of well over 13000 feet.

Inside the Yading Nature Reserve are the 3 holy mountains of Chenresig, rising to 19,790 feet, Chana Dorje and Jampelyang, which both rise to 19,457 feet. These 3 snow-capped peaks sit in a triangle formation with forested valleys, clear rivers, glacier-fed lakes and abundant wildlife between them. The Tibetan name for Yading is “Nyiden”, which means “facing the sun”.  The local Tibetan name for the area around the 3 holy mountains is “Rigsum Gonpo”. In Tibetan, the names of the mountains mean “Wisdom” (Jampelyang), “Power” (Chana Dorje) and “Compassion” (Chenresig). This region was designated as a nature reserve in the late 1990’s. 

Due to its remoteness, the Yading Nature Reserve is still relatively unknown to foreign travelers. It is not listed in any of the major guidebooks for Tibet or China and getting accurate travel information for the area is difficult. Yading is becoming more popular among Chinese tourists, but even during the high season the tourists numbers are relatively low.

There are a number of lakes, some smaller and others larger, in the Reserve. Wuse ("Five Color") Lake and Niunai ("Milk") Lake are located inside the triangle formed by the three sacred peaks, while Zhenzhu ("Pearl") Lake is located outside this triangle, near Gongga Chonggu Temple, which is situated due north of Mount Xiannairi.

Luorong Grassland, with an elevation of 13616 feet above sea level, is one of the famous lodging sites inside Yading Nature Reserve. The grassland is surrounded on three sides by the Three Sacred - and snowy - Peaks of Konkaling. A delightful contrast is thus formed by the nearby snowy peaks, the forests, the meadows, the streams, the lakes, the waterfalls and the log houses. The best vantage point to appreciate Luorong Grassland is against the backdrop of the Three Sacred Peaks, Wuse Lake and Niunai Lake.

Looking for that uniquely different vacation destination. Call Rawhide Travel and Tours today 602-843-5100 or visit our website rawhidetravel.com. We can help!

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

Culinary Travel: Sichuan Province China

Sichuan, known formerly in the West by its postal map spellings of Szechwan, is located in the southwest part of China. Sichuan means ‘Four Rivers’ and the name pays tribute to that most essential element, water. Indeed, the ‘four’ are but the mightiest of the 1300-plus rivers roiling or sedately meandering across the southwest’s most expansive province and long dominating the ethos.

Sichuan is gifted with lush mountains and exquisite waters, and abounds in historical and cultural resources. Its main scenic spots and historical sites include Emei Mountain, Qingcheng Mountain, and Long Valley, the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, Leshan Giant Buddha, and Jiuzhaigou (Nine-Village Valley). The Wolong Nature Reserve in Sichuan is home to the Chengdu Giant Panda Research Base, one of the most important centers in the world for the captive conservation of the Giant Panda.

People immediately think of Sichuan food as being hot, sour, sweet, and salty; using fish sauce; or having a strange taste. Actually, these flavors were introduced only in the last 100 years, and initially were popular only in the lower strata of society. Hot pepper, an important flavoring in Sichuan cuisine, was introduced into China only 200 to 300 years ago.

Stir-Fried Shrimp in Garlic Sauce

Servings: 3-4

Ingredients:
1 lb large shrimp, cleaned and deveined
3 1/2 cups assorted fresh vegetables, chopped
1/3 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon chili paste (sambal oelek)
1 tablespoon dry sherry or 1 tablespoon sake
1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil
9 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons minced ginger
10 Thai chiles, stemmed and left whole
1 tablespoon cornstarch
3 tablespoons water
hot steamed rice

Directions:
In a small bowl, mix together chicken broth, vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, chile paste (if using) and sherry; set aside.

In another small bowl or cup, stir together the tbsp of cornstarch with the 3 tbsp of water and set aside.

Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a wok; add ginger and garlic and sizzle briefly, then add vegetables and Thai chilies (if using).

Stir-fry vegetables for approximately 3 minutes, then add the shrimp.

Cook the shrimp 2 minutes or until it curls and turns opaque or pink.

Add the sauce mixture and cook 1 minute more; then stir in the thickener (briefly stir first) and stir-fry until mixture thickens, about 1 minute.

Serve with hot cooked rice.

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you with all your reservation needs. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
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Great Places to Take the Grandchildren: Arizona Science Center

Want to stay close to home here in Arizona but want something exciting for the Grandchildren to do. The Arizona Science Center has a new exhibit that is an exciting educational activity that the children are sure to enjoy. The exhibit will be at the Science Center through the summer.

"Lost Egypt: Ancient Secrets, Modern Science" is a new traveling exhibition that is at the Arizona Science Center May 31 - Sept. 1, 2014.

Lost Egypt is an immersive quest for knowledge that reveals how archaeologists use modern science and technology to uncover and understand the ancient civilization of Egypt. Through hands-on challenges, authentic artifacts and guidance from real archaeologists, visitors will unearth the mysteries of Egypt, its culture and its people. 

This interactive exhibit features a real human mummy and animal mummies, as well as scans, forensic facial reconstructions and for the first time ever, a life-size rapid prototype of a mummy in a stage of "unwrapping." Visitors explore a re-creation of an Egyptian tomb, and authentic art and artifacts from the daily life and funerary culture of ancient Egypt.

Exhibit Highlights:
• A real human mummy and a life-size rapid prototype
• Animal mummies, plus scans and information about animals in ancient Egypt
• Art and artifacts from the daily life and funerary culture of ancient Egypt
• Connections to real scientists working on projects in Egypt
• Connections to the scientific process used by archaeologists and other scientists, including hands-on challenges, interactive exhibits and technology
• Connections to how ancient Egyptian people and culture relate to us today

To compliment the "Lost Egypt" exhibit there is an IMAX presentation “Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs 3D”. 

"Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs 3D" brings to life ancient wonders, historic intrigue and a modern-day forensic adventure, all in one eye-popping new film.

Why are people endlessly fascinated with mummies? The worldwide curiosity about mummification is an age-old phenomenon as enduring as mummies themselves. During Egypt’s history, literally millions of mummies were made. In "Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs," film goers will marvel at the sight of these human time capsules, shown in larger-than-life detail on the giant screen. 

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you with all your reservation needs. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.

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