Culinary Travel: Lamb Braised In Pomegranate

Ring in the new year or close out the old, with this tasty lamb dish, soon to become a family or party favorite. This pomegranate braised lamb shoulder is about as seasonally appropriate as it gets, and one of the best things you will taste this year.

Ingredients

3 pounds lamb shoulder blade chops
salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 onion, sliced
1 pinch salt
4 cloves garlic, sliced
2 cups pomegranate juice
1/3 cup aged balsamic vinegar
1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
8 fresh mint leaves
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon honey, or more to taste
2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds
1 tablespoon sliced fresh mint leaves
1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds

Directions

Preheat oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Generously season lamb chops with salt and black pepper.

Heat vegetable oil in a Dutch oven over high heat. Place lamb chops in Dutch oven and cook until browned on all sides, about 8 minutes. Transfer lamb to a plate and reduce heat to medium.

Stir onion and a pinch of salt into the Dutch oven; cook until onions are slightly golden, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Pour pomegranate juice into the Dutch oven and scrape any browned bits off of the bottom of the pot. Pour in balsamic vinegar, increase heat to high, and bring to a boil.

Stir rosemary, mint leaves, and red pepper flakes into pomegranate juice mixture. Continue to boil until liquid is reduced by half, about 10 minutes. Return lamb and any accumulated juices to Dutch oven, spoon pomegranate mixture over lamb, and cover.

Cook in the preheated oven until meat is fork tender, about 2 hours. Transfer lamb to a plate and set Dutch oven on the stovetop over high heat. Bring pomegranate mixture to a boil; cook, skimming any fat that accumulates, until liquid is reduced by 1/3, about 5 minutes.

Stir in honey and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Return lamb to the Dutch oven; stir to combine. Garnish with pomegranate seeds, sliced mint leaves, and pumpkin seeds.

Makes: 6 servings.  Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

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

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2016 Winter Cruises For You

Treat yourself to a winter cruise. Here are five that you are sure to love, but come in or call for many other options and dates that are sure to thrill and meet your needs.

MSC Cruises

Cruise: 5-Day Caribbean and Antilles Cruise on MSC Divina 

Itinerary: Round-trip from Miami, Florida, to Freeport, Grand Bahama, to Little San Salvador Island, Bahamas. 
Date: January 21, 2016 

Already a well-established operation in Europe, Switzerland-based MSC Cruises entered the Caribbean cruise market in 2013 with MSC Divina. A few of the unique offerings on Divina are Aqua Cycling, a new fitness craze that puts bikes in pools, and MSC’s exclusive Yacht Club, a luxurious area of the ship where a personal butler; complimentary wines and spirits; and an exclusive lounge, restaurant, and pool offer a premium experience. 

Oceania Cruises

Cruise: 10-Day Mayan Mystique Voyage on Riviera

Itinerary: Round-trip from Miami to Key West, Florida, to Costa Maya, Mexico, to Belize City, Belize, to Santo Tomas, Guatemala, to Roatán, Honduras, to Cozumel, Mexico, to George Town, Cayman Islands. 
Dates: Select dates in December 2015, and January–March 2016. 

Offering refined elegance in a low-key atmosphere, Riviera is Oceania Cruises’ largest and newest ship. The vessel features two of Oceania signature components: comfortable lounges for socializing, and an extensive library. When it comes to cuisine, nearly a dozen dining options aim to please any appetite, from a café serving up complimentary cappuccinos to expansive menus at specialty restaurants at no additional cost. 

Disney Cruise Line

Cruise: 4-Night Bahamian Cruise on Disney Magic 

Itinerary: Round-trip from Miami, Florida, to Disney Castaway Cay to Nassau, Bahamas.
Dates: Select dates in January and February 2016. 

In November, Disney Magic welcomed its newest attraction: Tangled: The Musical, a stage version of the 2010 animated film. As with any of the four ships in Disney’s fleet, a getaway on Magic delivers consistent and attentive service, charm, and a few chance encounters with Mickey Mouse himself. The ship’s Rotational Dining program allows families to change things up nightly at three themed restaurants: Lumiere’s (French cuisine), Carioca's (Brazilian cuisine), and Animator's Palate (Contemporary American). 

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Cruise: 10-Night Exotic Sands & Hidden Treasure Voyage on Seven Seas Navigator 

Itinerary: Round-trip from Miami, Florida, to Turks & Caicos Islands to San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Philipsburg, St. Maarten, to Gustavia, St. Barts, to Tortola, British Virgin Islands, to La Romana, Dominican Republic, to Frinassau, Bahamas. 
Date: January 20, 2016 

Once you board Seven Seas Navigator, your all-inclusive rate offers a premium experience. The midsize ship is one in a fleet of four vessels that pride themselves with an “unusual level of luxury.” Following a decadent meal at one of the eight onboard restaurant, enjoy a cigar and fine Port at the Connoisseur Club, or a cocktail at the Stars Lounge, a party spot where karaoke and dancing continue late into the night. 

Silversea Cruise

Cruise: 8-Day Caribbean Voyage on Silver Spirit

Itinerary: Round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Key West, Florida, to Belize City, Belize, to Santo Tomas, Guatemala, to Costa Maya, Mexico, to Cozumel, Mexico. 
Date: January 7, 2016 

A pioneer of all-inclusive cruising since 1994, Silversea Cruises has a fleet of eight midsize vessels, with Silver Spirit ranking as its newest and largest. The ship has only suites, with amenities that include a butler, plush robes, and Pratesi bed linens. When it comes to cuisine, six dining options include the world’s only Relais & Châteaux restaurant at sea, Le Champagne (per-guest reservation fee of $40), and Seishin Restaurant (per-guest reservation fee of $40), where you can dine on Kobe beef and fresh sushi.

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

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Holidasy Travel - Travel In The Best Way

“I heard the bells on Christmas Day

Their old, familiar carols play,

And wild and sweet

The words repeat

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!” 

 ― Henry Wadsworth Longfellow 

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

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Experience Full Service

This Christmas Eve are you thinking about upcoming travel? If you need to travel on business or leisure, Rawhide Travel and Tours will make it happen. We will arrange your flights, rail, hotel, car rentals and cruises. 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 travel adventure 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.

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Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc

6008 West Bell Rd # F105

Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793

(602) 843-5100

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Fantasy Destinations - Balkans

The Balkan Peninsula has many destinations including the states of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, the Republic of Macedonia, and many others. Despite the history of its disputed borders, The Balkans have much to offer any traveler and many areas lack the hordes of tourism you would find in the rest of Europe.

Breathtaking Landscapes

The Balkan mountain range - a mountain range in the eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. The mountains are the source of the name of the Balkan Peninsula. They provide many activities for tourists such as hiking, climbing, wildlife viewing and winter sports. The mountain range forms the watershed between the Black Sea and Aegean Sea catchment areas, with the exception of an area in west, where it is crossed by the spectacular Iskar Gorge. There are a large number of caves, including Magura, featuring the most important and extended European post-Palaeolithic cave painting. The most notable rock formation are the Belogradchik Rocks in the west. There are several important protected areas: The Balkan Mountains are remarkable for their flora and fauna. Edelweiss grows there in the region of Kozyata stena. Some of the most striking landscapes are included in the Central Balkan National Park with steep cliffs, the highest waterfalls in the Balkan Peninsula and lush vegetation. Most of Europe's large mammals inhabit the area including the brown bear, wolf, boar, chamois and deer.

Botev Peak, Bulgaria -  7,795 ft above sea level, the highest peak of the Balkan Mountains. It is located close to the geographic center of Bulgaria, and is part of theCentral Balkan National Park. The average temperature is 16 °F in January and 46.2 °F in July. the easiest route for climbing is a two and a half hour climb from Ray Resthouse at the south foot. 

Cappadocia, Turkey - Anatolia’s volcanoes erupted with such genius persistence that they created one of the most fantastic landscapes on the planet: valleys strewn with sand cones; tall stone pillars with triangular roofs all causing the imagination to soar as you view them.

Differing Climates

On the Adriatic and Aegean coasts the climate is Mediterranean, on the Black Sea coast the climate is humid subtropical and oceanic, and inland it is humid continental. In the northern part of the peninsula and on the mountains, winters are frosty and snowy, while summers are hot and dry. In the southern part winters are milder. 

Amazing History

Golubac Fortress, Serbia -  a medieval fortified town on the south side of the Danube River, 4 km downstream from the modern-day town of Golubac, Serbia. The fortress, which was most likely built during the 14th century, is split into three compounds which were built in stages. It has ten towers, most of which started square, and several of which received many-sided reinforcements with the advent of firearms. Golubac Fortress has had a tumultuous history. Prior to its construction it was the site of a Roman settlement. During the Middle Ages, it became the object of many battles, especially between the Ottoman Empire and the Kingdom of Hungary. It is a popular tourist attraction in the region and a sightseeing point on Danube boat tours.

Apollonia Ruins, Albania - These ruins are situated in the Fier region, near the village of Pojani, in modern-day Albania. Apollonia was founded in 588 BCE by Greek colonists from Corfu and Corinth, on a site initially occupied by Illyrian tribes and was perhaps the most important of the several classical towns known as Apollonia. Apollonia flourished in the Roman period and was home to a renowned school of philosophy, but began to decline in the 3rd century AD when its harbor started silting up as a result of an earthquake. It was abandoned by the end of Late Antiquity.

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

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Culinary Travel: Cevapi Sandwich

Southeastern European Meat and Onion Sausages that make excellent sandwiches. This a grilled dish of minced meat, a type of skinless sausage, found traditionally in the countries of southeastern Europe (the Balkans). They are considered a national dish in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia and are also common in Croatia, Montenegro, Slovenia, as well as in Albania, Republic of Macedonia, Bulgaria, Romania.

Cevapi has its origins in the Balkans during the Ottoman period, and represents a regional speciality similar to the kofte kebab.

They are usually served of 5–10 pieces on a plate or in a flatbread, often with chopped onions, sour cream, kajmak, ajvar, feta cheese, minced red pepper and salt. Bosnian ćevapi are made from two types of minced beef meat, hand mixed and formed with a funnel, while formed ćevapi are grilled. Serb ćevapčići are made of either beef, lamb or pork or mixed. Macedonian, Croatian, Bulgarian and Romanian varieties are often made of both pork and beef.

Ingredients

3/4 pound ground beef
3/4 pound ground lamb
3 tablespoons finely grated onion
1 tablespoon freshly minced garlic (about 3 medium cloves)
1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
1 1/2 teaspoons Kosher salt
1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
Type of fire: Direct
Grill heat: medium-high

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, mix together beef, lamb, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and baking soda by hand until thoroughly combined.

2. Form meat mixture into finger-length sausages 3/4-inch in diameter.

3. Light one chimney full of charcoal. When all the charcoal is lit and covered with gray ash, pour out and spread the coals evenly over entire surface of coal grate. Set cooking grate in place, cover grill and allow to Preheat for 5 minutes. Clean and oil the grilling grate. Grill sausages over medium-high direct heat until well browned on all sides and just cooked through, about 8 minutes total. Remove to a serving tray or plates, let rest for 5 minutes, then serve immediately. 

Serve with rice. 

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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The Christmas Tree Tradition

This month our little tree is looking very much like a Christmas Tree right now but unlike most trees you know it isn't going to hide away after Christmas. It is going to get new colorful decorations and celebrate new holidays through-out the year.

Make sure you stop by the the blog frequently as we will feature the tree every so often. Or better yet, stop by Rawhide Travel and Tours' office at 6008 West Bell Road and visit our tree and office in person and make sure you say hi to Ron, Diana and Debbie. You will be more than welcome.

Speaking of stopping by, stop by our revamped Facebook page for the latest Travel News.

The Christmas Tree Tradition

Christmas trees are a decorated tree, usually an evergreen conifer such as spruce, pine or fir, traditionally associated with the celebration of Christmas. An artificial Christmas tree is an object made to resemble such a tree, usually made from PVC plastic.

In the past trees were traditionally decorated with edibles such as apples, nuts or dates. In the 18th century, it began to be illuminated by candles, which with electrification could also be replaced by Christmas lights. Today, there are a wide variety of traditional ornaments, such as garland, tinsel, and candy canes.An angel or star may be placed at the top of the tree, to represent the host of angels or the Star of Bethlehem from the Nativity.

The custom of the Christmas tree developed in early modern Germany with predecessors that can be traced to the 16th and possibly the 15th century. It acquired popularity beyond Germany during the second half of the 19th century. The Christmas tree has also been known as the "Yule-tree", especially in discussions of its folkloristic origins.

While it is clear that the modern Christmas tree originates in Renaissance and early modern Germany, there are a number of speculative theories as to its ultimate origin. Its 16th-century origins are sometimes associated with Martin Luther.

It is frequently traced to the symbolism of evergreen trees in pre-Christian winter rites, especially with the story of the Donar Oak and Saint Boniface.

According to the Encyclopædia Britannica, "The use of evergreen trees, wreaths, and garlands to symbolize eternal life was a custom of the ancient Egyptians, Chinese, and Hebrews. Tree worship was common among the pagan Europeans and survived their conversion to Christianity in the Scandinavian customs of decorating the house and barn with evergreens at the New Year to scare away the devil and of setting up a tree for the birds during Christmastime."

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

Presented By:
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6008 West Bell Road # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
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A New Class Of Cruise Ships

No matter how you like to Caribbean, you've never done it like this. Onboard the world's most revolutionary ship, Anthem of the Seas^SM. Feel the rush skydiving right on the deck of the ship with the RipCord^SM by iFLY® skydiving simulator. Or play at the SeaPlex^SM, an activities space that's a real game changer, offering bumper cars, a roller rink, circus school and more. If leisurely pursuits are more your speed, enjoy breathtaking island sights from the best seat in any house, the North Star^SM. Take in transformative entertainment at Two70^SM. Or grab a drink at Bionic Bar, where mixology meets technology. There's only one way to Caribbean like this. Only on Royal Caribbean®.

North Star^SM
Take yourself to new heights with the jewel-shaped capsule that gently ascends over 300 feet above sea level. Breathtaking 360° views of the sea and our destinations make the North Star one of the most anticipated features on this ship.

Leave it to Royal Caribbean International to literally and figuratively take you to a higher place. The exclusive North Star^SM promises to elevate you both physically and emotionally, revealing 360-degree views of a world you've truly never seen before! Simply step into the North Star^SM intimate, jewel-shaped capsule and gently ascend over 300 feet above sea level, where you can take in breathtaking views of the ocean, the ship, and the exciting destinations that they visit.

RipCord by iFly®
Fly In The Face Of Ordinary Experience the exhilaration of skydiving without ever leaving the deck onboard Anthem of the Seas^SM, courtesy of RipCord by iFly®. For the first time ever, feel what it's like to fly, as you float on air within the safe confines of this groundbreaking simulator. It's a whole new thrill for thrill seekers of all kinds.

SeaPlex^SM

Have The Play Time Of Your Life The largest indoor active space at sea is also the most revolutionary. There's never been a venue like SeaPlex^SM before: offering a circus school, full-size basketball court, and the first-ever roller rink and bumper cars at sea. Not to mention delicious bites provided by the first food truck to ever set sail and music from a floating DJ booth suspended overhead. This is going to change the way you play.

Bionic Bar
Mixology meets technology as the first true robotic bar in the world delivers innovation and delight on every level. With laser precision, robotic arms powered by Makr Shakr work in perfect synchronization, assembling beverages designed to energize and enthrall. These cocktails are engineered to perfection.

Learn more about their revolutionary new features on Anthem of the Seas, and explore a world where innovation rules. Call Rawhide Travel and Tours at 602-843-5100

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

Presented By:
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6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
602-843-5100

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In the News - European Train Trips

Much of European train travel is about efficiency and comfort, but rail travel in the United Kingdom and in Europe is also about experience. Who wouldn't want to find themselves gaping out the window at Alpine glaciers or savoring gourmet cuisine in a restored last-century dining car. Accordingly, this list of favorite European trains don’t necessarily offer the fastest journeys, just the most memorable.

Sweet Switzerland: The Chocolate Train

This charming train running in summer and fall climbs from Montreux overlooking Lake Geneva to the medieval town of Gruyères. Tour the cheese factory and the local castle, have lunch, then reboard the train and continue on to Broc. From there you’ll bus to the Cailler-Nestlé chocolate factory for free samples, before making the return trip.

Route: Montreux to Broc, Switzerland
Duration: 9 hours, 45 minutes, roundtrip

The Bernina Express

This narrow-gauge, vertigo-inducing train takes on seven-percent inclines, a 360-degree spiral, 55 tunnels, and 196 bridges—reaching an apex of 7,391 feet and then descending 5,905 feet before coming to a stop. The word “express” refers to the availability of short-notice seat reservations, rather than the train’s velocity as it courses through the Alps south from Switzerland’s oldest town to a charming Italian town of Tirano.

Route: Chur, Switzerland, to Tirano, Italy
Duration: 4 hours, 14 minutes

Francisco de Goya
Enjoy a three-course dinner and the increasingly rural scenery as you leave Paris. Slumber to the soothing rhythm of the rails, and wake the next day as you arrive in Madrid, rested and ready to tour this fabulous city. 

Route: Paris to Madrid
Duration: 13 hours, 30 minutes

The Castles of Britain
Discover the United Kingdom’s historic fortresses on this itinerary combining a two-week BritRail pass with the Great British Heritage pass. You’ll get entry to 580 attractions, as you hop off for local touring. Start in Inverness, Scotland, near Loch Ness, to tour Urquhart Castle. Continue south to Stirling Bridge, where William Wallace triumphed over the English in 1297, and on to Edinburgh Castle. English sights include Dover Castle, with its wartime tunnels. In Gwynedd, Wales, tour Caernarfon Castle.

Route: Inverness, Scotland, to Gwynedd, Wales
Duration: 15 days

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Step aboard the VSOE, as the train is known, and the calendar turns back to the 1920s and ’30s, the golden age of rail on the Continent.  $16 million was spent restoring 35 sleeping cars to their original art deco sophistication; passengers are expected to dress elegantly for dinner: at a minimum, suit and tie for men and the equivalent for women; black tie and gowns encouraged. 

Route: London to Venice
Duration: Two days, one night

The Transylvanian Odyssey
At the top of the food chain among European trains is the Danube Express, a private train with classical elegance, modern conveniences, and fine dining. On this route, which begins in Budapest after your flight from London, you penetrate the heart of Transylvania and enjoy a walking tour of the medieval town that was the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Eventually you approach Istanbul along the Bosporus, where the Topkapi Palace marks the skyline.

Route: London to Istanbul, Turkey
Duration: 8 days (including stays in Budapest and Istanbul)

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

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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 - New Zealand

New Zealand has fascinating areas for the intrepid traveler to explore. with this small list you will discover some of New Zealand's most beautiful, untouched and rugged areas. Step away from the crowds and see why New Zealand is renowned as an outdoor paradise 

Cape Brett
As you head north towards the Bay of Islands region on New Zealand's North Island, make a detour to Cape Brett. This is a place of outstanding scenic beauty offering views over the Bay of Islands including the 'hole in the rock' and beyond. It is also home to the Cape Brett lighthouse – the only history lighthouse managed by the Department of Conservation that still has its internal workings.

The lighthouse has stood at the entrance to the Bay of Islands since 1906. In 1908 a small isolated settlement was established including three houses for the lighthouse keepers and their families. Cape Brett is of particular spiritual and traditional importance to local and Northland Maori. 

George Sound
The Fiordland National Park in the southwest corner of New Zealand's South Island is the largest national park in the country and forms a major part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage site. George Sound is for intrepid, fit and adventurous travelers wanting a real (and remote) hiking challenge. If you are not looking for true off the beaten track adventure, then Milford Sound would be a better option for you.

George Sound is accessible by boat, float plane and helicopter – several boat operators take groups from the track end on the Middle Fiord and provide boat transport on Lake Hankinson. Once there, hikers can take between 2-3 days to complete the George Sound track.

For the longest section of the hike, a tent may be required. For safety purposes, you should let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return as well as completing an intentions form at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Center in Te Anau before you depart and sign the hut books. For the George Sound track, you should also carry a mountain radio or emergency locator beacon and topographical maps B41/C41 George Sound and C42 Mount Irene.

Aorangi Forest Park

It's well worth driving to the Aorangi Forest Park in the Wairarapa (east of Wellington on the North Island). This park features some of New Zealand's most striking landforms and spectacular views which can enjoyed after a short walk. These landforms include: the Putangirua Pinnacles, (part of lord of the rings was filmed here) earth pillars formed by the erosive forces of rain and floods; high slabs of rock known as Kupe's Sail and the coastal Whatarangi Bluff.

The park is also of interest for its fur seal colony, historic lighthouse, archaeological sites and sites of Maori occupation - a kainga (a resting and eating place for travelers) and the Putangirua Pa site located on a steep outcrop.

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

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6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
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Culinary Travel: Pavarotti's Glazed Ham with Seville Oranges

This is a big meat main course, so I hope you intend to feed a great many friends and family. Reading over this ham recipe the one word that came to mind was "feast." Add you favorite sides (and lots of them) to complete this holiday meal.

Ingredients

3 oranges (use Seville oranges, if available, or tangelos)
1 cup runny honey
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
1 cup brown sugar
2 tsp Dijon-style mustard
1 cooked free-range New Zealand ham on the bone
You can substitute a 25 pound ham from a local source.
cloves
heavy-duty aluminum foil

Directions

1. Peel the rind from the orange skin and cut it into short strips. In a small bowl mix the honey, orange juice, brown sugar and mustard.

2. Carefully strip the skin off the ham, trying not to disturb the layer of creamy fat beneath it. Score the surface of the fat into small diamond shapes and stud each diamond with a whole clove.

3. Line a large roasting tin with a double thickness of aluminum foil, raising the foil above the edges of the tin. This will catch drips of glaze falling off the ham and prevent flare-ups in the oven. Place the ham in the tin, making sure the foil stays upright.

4. Pour the glaze over the ham and put the ham in an oven preheated to 435°F. Mix the strips of orange peel in the glaze bowl, coating them with any remaining glaze. Spoon the orange strips over the top of the ham about halfway through cooking. If glazing for appearance only, it will take about 45 minutes. As parts of the fat take on enough color, place small pieces of foil on top to deflect the heat.

If you want to serve the ham hot, allow an hour longer (1 1/2 - 1 3/4 hours in total) to heat through, but lower the heat to 355°F after one hour. You may need to protect the entire surface of the ham with foil after 50-60 minutes. The ham should be basted with the glaze every 15 minutes.

Slicing The Ham
There are many methods. I find the following one easiest to remember and it ensures that every slice gets a little fat. If you are right-handed, place the shank of the leg to your left. Slice vertically down through the fat, about two-thirds along the leg from the shank end. Stop when you meet the bone. Slice another cut parallel to the first, but at a slight angle, making a thin wedge-shaped slice which can be levered out. 

Now slice out thin wedges, first from the right side, then from the left. When you are no longer able to slice like this, turn the ham over and slice the underside, cutting across the grain as much as possible.

(Serves 40-50)

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

Presented By:
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6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
602-843-5100
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Fairytale Destinations - Hobbiton, New Zealand

Since we're in the neighborhood (last Monday's post) how about a quick jaunt over to another fairytale setting, Hobbiton. When Peter Jackson spotted the Alexander Farm during an aerial search of the North Island for the best possible locations to film The Lord of The Rings film trilogy, he immediately thought it was perfect for Hobbiton. Site construction started in March 1999 and filming commenced in December that year, continuing for three months. The set was rebuilt in 2011 for the Hobbit Trilogy.

It is now a permanent attraction complete with hobbit holes, gardens, bridge, Mill and The Green Dragon Inn. For your own Middle-earth adventure, daily tours are available to visit the original Hobbiton Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy and The Hobbit films. Hobbiton has more than 44 unique hobbit holes, including Bag End (Bilbo's house). As you wander through the heart of the Shire, you'll get to hear the fascinating commentary about how it was all created.

Food and Drink
The Green Dragon Inn is a replica of the inn that featured in The middle earth based movies. Masterfully recreated, you are invited to relax at the Inn of the Hobbits as part of your tour. All guests receive one complimentary refreshment from their exclusively crafted Southfarthing range. The inn also offers traditional fare, including their famous beef and ale pie.

Another place to rest and relax is in the Shires Rest café, conveniently located at the Entrance to Hobbiton Movie Set. You can relax and soak up the unique atmosphere with a great cup of coffee or a light meal in The Shires Rest Cafe.  Both venues are also available for functions, conferences or other occasions. 

Shopping
Situated below The Shire's Rest Cafe, The Shire Store features many items that will tempt the enthusiast or the general shopper. In the Shire Store you can purchase a wide range of products and in the Ticketing Office the friendly staff can assist you in booking your tour of Hobbiton Movie Set. Make sure you allow plenty of time to allow a visit to the store and soak up the themed atmosphere and browse the many items for sale. These include hand-crafted items from Weta Studios, exclusive Southfarthing beverages, woolen products, cloaks from Stansborough Fibers, books and memorabilia from Hobbiton Movie Set. The Shire Store is open seven days a week. 

The Tour
Your guided tour starts with a drive through the picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Take a look at Bag End, where Frodo and Bilbo’s adventures began. Get lost among the hobbit holes and visit the Green Dragon Inn, the mill and the Party Tree. Listen to spell-binding tales of how Hobbiton came to be. Tours depart daily from the Shire's Rest Cafe, 501 Buckland Road Matamata and from the Matamata & Rotorua.

If you'd like to stay awhile, comfortable Farmstay accommodation can be arranged for you in Matamata. Matamata is a must see if you're a Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fan. Take a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set and enjoy the town's fabulous cafes.

Two hours south of Auckland lies the lush farmland of the Hamilton - Waikato region. Famous for dairying and fine thoroughbred horses, it's easy to see why these green pastures and rolling hills were chosen to portray Hobbiton and The Shire. 

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you with all your business and leisure travel 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

We Can Help You Get Lost In The Best Possible Way

Whether for business or for 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

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

Arizona Holiday Light Displays – Day 2

As promised, even more amazing and wonderful displays for your family and friends to visit. 

Chris Birkett's "Winter Wonderland Christmas Light Spectacular"
 Chris Birkett is a true entertainer and outstanding showman. Bringing Back The Real Feeling Of Christmas! 250,000 Christmas lights performing to music (computerized) With Snowfall and Bubbles. Backyard is the Island of Misfit Toys! Just Believe and Remember Dreams Come True!

Details: Winter Wonderland is open December 6 Thru the 31st From 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm! 8414 E Valley Vista Drive Scottsdale AZ 85250 Admission is free. However, donations are Appreciated (Suggested Donation $5) This winter wonderland is located at a residence, please be courteous.

Ahwatukee Foothills Festival of Lights 
Hundreds of thousands of lights are strung in trees, over shrubs and around saguaro cactuses along Chandler Boulevard for this festive annual display. 

Details: Until 11 p.m. nightly through the first week of January. Along Chandler Boulevard from 24th Street to Desert Foothills Parkway.  

Anthem Christmas Tree 
Outlets at Anthem will show off its 115-foot-tall tree. The tree is 27 feet wide and weighs about 16 tons when it’s fully decked out in lights and ornaments. It will have 180 strands of LED lights, 6,000 ornaments, bows and a 3-foot tall copper star at the top. 

Details: Daily until January 2. 4250 West Anthem Way, Anthem. Free.  

Heroes Christmas Display / Light Show 
This display is dedicated to veterans, active military and first responders. Guests are welcome to bring blankets and/or lawn chairs. Parking is available in front of the house or on the street. Just make sure not to block any driveways. 

Details: 6-9 p.m. daily, weather permitting. Through January 2. Magical Christmas Light Show Spectacular, 10324 E. Jones Ave., Mesa. Free; canned food donation suggested.

CitySkate Holiday Tree 

Central Avenue is transformed into a skating rink with decorated with hundreds of thousands of lights and a 36-foot-tall holiday tree in the center. The tree will glow with light shows at 7, 8, 9 and 10 p.m. nightly. Folks watching the rink from Patriots Park will enjoy a nightly snowfall during the same hours. Santa will be available for photos from 4-8 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. 

Details: Through January 11. CitySkate Phoenix, One East Washington St. $12-$15; $8 for seniors, military and children ages 4-8; free for children 3 and younger.  

Winter Wonderland 
Walk among some 3,000 butterflies in a glass atrium as you enjoy festive decor and 7-foot-tall angel statues adorned in head-to-toe silver. The lobby will have a huge decorated Christmas tree, and the foliage in the rainforest exhibit will have twinkling lights too. Holiday music will be played from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Fridays through Sundays. 

Details: Through December 23. Call for times. Butterfly Wonderland, 9500 East Via de Ventura, Scottsdale. $19.95; $17.95 for students, age 62 or older and military; $11.95 for ages 3-11; free for 2 or younger.  

Westgate Winter Wonderland 
Westgate Entertainment District has free, festive happenings daily, including horse-drawn carriage rides, snowfall, a skating rink and visits with Santa Claus. The 33-foot-tall tree has more than 3,000 lights. 

Details: Call for times. Through December 24. Westgate Entertainment District, 6770 N. Sunrise Blvd., Glendale. Free. 623-385-7502. 

Scottsdale Quarter Holiday Lights 
The Scottsdale Quarter’s 30-foot tree will be decked out with 20,000 LED lights and the quad, fountain and palm trees also will be aglow. Holiday music will accompany the display. 

Details: Nightly through January 1. Scottsdale Road and Greenway-Hayden Loop.  

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you with all your business and leisure travel 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

Arizona Holiday Light Displays

Our list of holiday light events and displays around the Valley will keep your family busy for the weeks to come. A list so big we've had to split it into two blogs, today and tomorrow, so be on the lookout.

It includes festivals, parades, tree lightings, a block party, luminarias, ice skating, snow and the jolly old elf himself. There’s even a tribute to military members, veterans and first responders.

So grab some cocoa and the kids and venture out into the December chill with family and friends to enjoy the warm glow.

Las Noches de Las Luminarias 

The Desert Botanical Garden will glow from the candlelight of thousands of luminarias as you walk among the plants and trees in the night. Along the way, sip a cup of hot cider and listen to the holiday sounds of carolers, handbell choirs and mariachi bands.

Details: 5:30-9:30 p.m.  Dec. 10-13; Dec. 16-23; Dec. 26-31. 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. $30; $12.50 for ages 3-12. Members: $25; $10 for ages 3-12. 

Carefree Christmas Festival 
Frolic in 32 tons of snow, get your picture taken with Santa and shop for gifts. There will be an Electric Light Parade at 6 p.m. Dec. 12, followed by a fireworks display, and holiday pet parade at 10 a.m. Dec. 13. If your pooch enjoys dressing up, this is the perfect time for him to show off its cute costumes. 

Details: Dec. 11-13. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Carefree Town Center, 101 Easy St. Free.  

Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade 
The parade on Tempe Town Lake, presented by SRP, features as many as 50 illuminated boats of all sizes. There will be a fireworks show and a visit from Santa Claus. 

Details: 5 p.m. Dec. 12. Tempe Beach Park, Mill Avenue and Rio Salado Parkway. Free.  

Holiday Lights at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park 
All aboard for a magical ride through the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. It’s not the Polar Express, but it’s as close as you can get in the Valley. The holiday event features light displays, a tree-lighting ceremony, entertainment, Santa Claus and more. Board the 5/12 replica of a narrow-gauge train at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park and ride through colorful Christmas lights. I've been here well worth it and kids love it.  

Details: 6:30-9 p.m. Dec. 11-Jan. 2 (excluding Dec. 24-25 and 31). 7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale. Free admission $4 for train rides; $2 for carousel rides; free for children younger than 3 riding with a paying adult.  

Arizona Temple Christmas Lights and Concerts 

The temple grounds will be decorated with a nativity scene and Christmas lights and there will be live music nightly at 7. Performers include local children’s, handbell and adult choirs, including the Resonance Vocal Ensemble, Inspire Chorus and Spirit of Phoenix Choir. 

Details: 5-10 p.m. daily. Through Dec. 31. Arizona Temple, 525 E. Main St., Mesa - Image Credit*

ZooLights 
The Phoenix Zoo is aglow with millions of lights, including new 3-D light sculptures of stingrays, flowers and more. There will be ice sculptors and live performances to enjoy. Two new Music in Motion shows feature songs from “The Polar Express” and “Winter Palace,” by Trans-Siberian Orchestra. 

Details: 5:30-10:30 p.m. daily. Through Jan. 10. 455 N. Galvin Parkway. $8-$18; free for age 2 or younger.  

Glendale Glitters 
Let your holiday spirit sparkle at Glendale Glitters. The display, on 16 blocks of the historical downtown, includes 1.5 million LED lights and a 30-foot holiday tree. The lights are on nightly, and special activities such as music and dance performances take place on Friday and Saturday evenings. 

Details: 5-10 p.m. Through Jan. 9. Murphy Park, 5800 W. Glendale Ave. Free.  

Tumbleweed Tree 

Kick off the season with this Southwestern tradition: a Christmas tree made of about 1,000 flocked tumbleweeds. This marks the 59th year for the festival, which on Dec 5th included a tree-lighting ceremony, entertainment and the Parade of Lights, but you can still see the tumbleweed tree. 

Details: The tree remains lighted through Jan. 11. 3 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Free. 

Call Rawhide Travel and Tours 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

Image Credit* "2008-12-22-mesa-temple-reflec-66163" by Robertbody at English Wikipedia. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Commons - ttps://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2008-12-22-mesa-temple-reflec-66163.jpg#/media/File:2008-12-22-mesa-temple-reflec-66163.jpg