How can Star wars and Travel be in the news together? Have we finally invented a hyperdrive? Is there an Island where one can rent speeders to race through forested lands? Perhaps space cruisers to Endor? unfortunately we aren't quite there yet, but hopefully Star Wars themed aircraft will still make you smile.
To coincide with the release of the new trailer for "The Force Awakens", Japan carrier All Nippon Airways (ANA) has launched a five-year "Star Wars Project" that includes a new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner painted with an R2-D2 livery. The "Star Wars Project" includes a special ANA website that plays the iconic theme song and features videos and photos of the plane.
The promotional tie-in comes ahead of the release of "Star Wars: The Force Awakens", which is due to hit theaters December 18, it's likely to be one of the biggest box office hits of the year. It's the first film in the franchise to be released under Disney's ownership. According to the airline, the "Star Wars" themed plane is due to start flying international routes this fall.
World's largest 787 Fleet
ANA was the launch customer for the 787, which entered service in 2011. With 34 Dreamliners, it currently operates the world's largest 787 fleet. The airline has an additional 49 787s on order, says manufacturer Boeing. Late last month, Boeing announced ANA had finalized an order for three 787-10 Dreamliners, valued at approximately $900 million at list prices. ANA is also hoping to expand its presence at airports in the United States. The latest expansion will include service between Houston and Tokyo beginning in June.
Unfortunately, it is not yet clear what routes the R2-D2 Dreamliner will fly.
This cross-promotion between airline and entertainment franchise is not new. In recent years, Air New Zealand has paired up with the “Lord of the Rings” and “Hobbit” movies and declared itself the airline of middle earth. Scenes from the movie were painted on Air New Zealand aircraft. Eva Air has a Hello Kitty airplane and Brussels Airlines has a Tintin airplane. We can also go back a couple of decades to Western Pacific Airlines, which painted its airplanes with the Simpsons’ characters.
Traveling to Japan, cool. Traveling to Japan in an R2-D2 themed airplane, EPIC! Wonder if they'll play the star wars movies as a marathon on the way or have the flight attendants in costumes. Probably too much to ask, but we can always dream.
Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you get there and if you want to stay in comfort rather than camping out we can help. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com
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6008 West Bell Road # F105
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Beach life is great, but sometimes that sun gets too hot and the waves just die down, and you think to yourself what else can I do. Adventure abounds when you explore in the outdoors and national parks are just the place. The first national parks in Japan were established in 1931 to designate and preserve places of scenic natural beauty for people to enjoy. Today, there are 31 national parks scattered across the country from the northern tip of Hokaiddo to the southernmost islands of Okinawa.
From volcanoes to forests, marshes, beaches, coastlines and even underwater marine habitats, Japan's national parks cover a wide range of environments. Visitors to these parks can choose from a variety of outdoor activities. Go hiking, boating, fishing, snorkeling, diving or you can visit some hot springs. Some parks have also established eco tourism activities such as whale and dolphin watching and guided nature hikes.
If you have ever wanted to explore an ancient forest Yakushima is the place to go.
Yakushima is a subtropical island off the southern coast of Kyushi. As a subtropical island with high mountains, Yakushima attracts a lot of rainfall around the year, there is some rain almost on a daily basis, especially in the mountainous interior. In higher elevations the precipitation falls as snow during the winter months.
It is covered by an extensive cedar forest that contains some of Japan's oldest living trees. Trees more than 1,000 years old are affectionately called yakusugi, the most ancient of which, known as Jomonsugi, may be over 7,000 years old. The island's cedar forests were logged extensively in the past for the production of cedar shingles. Today the forests have well recovered from past logging and is a national park. Most tourists come to the island to hike through the forests and see the ancient cedar trees.
Jomonsugi
The Jomonsugi, the main attraction of Yakushima, is a giant cedar tree which scientists estimate to be 2,000 to 7,200 years old. Said to be the oldest tree in Japan, it dates to the Jomon period (14,000 - 300 BC). It is not very tall, standing around 82 feet high, yet it has a massive trunk about 16 feet in diameter.
Yakushima Wildlife
For such a small island the wildlife of Yakushima is surprisingly rich. There are 16 species of mammal, around 150 bird species, 15 species of reptile including the loggerhead turtle and the green turtle, as well as 8 kinds of amphibian and an incredible 1900 species of insects.
Hiking through the forests, you may well not be aware of the abundance of wildlife around you. The tree cover is so dense that birds are difficult to spot, but if you are an avid bird watcher, the majority of Yakushima birds are found around the lowland and coastal region. Yakushima is a migratory destination for some birds and so species differ according to the season. Small lizards and frogs are numerous, but hibernate in the winter. From spring to late autumn spiders, butterflies and a plethora of other insects are everywhere. The Sea Turtles arrive in the late spring and the largest animals are the deer and the monkeys which can be seen all year round particularly on the hiking courses and the western forest road.
Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you get there and if you want to stay in comfort rather than camping out we can help. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com
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6008 West Bell Road # F105
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If you are thinking of travel to Japan you may want to eat a traditional Japanese meal to get into the mood.
Ton, which means “pork” in Japanese and katsu, which is an abbreviation of katsuretsu, the Japanese transcription of “cutlet”, this meal is a favorite among the Japanese.
Since Tonkatsu is a simple dish that only has a few ingredients, the quality of the ingredients matter. The most important component is the pork and you’ll want to splurge here on a tender cut with some fat marbled in.
Try using either a loin chop or rib chop but look for a cut with even marbling and without much connective tissue and you should be okay. Traditionally Tonkatsu is served with a nest of shredded raw cabbage, spicy mustard and a sweet fruit-based sauce. If you end up with leftovers they’re great in sandwiches (Katsusando), and they can also be used to make Katsudon(Tonkatsu with onions and eggs over rice).
Ingredients
1/2 head of cabbage
pork - loin chops (about 4 1" thick chops)
salt
pepper
flour - all-purpose for dusting
1 large egg
60 grams panko ~ breadcrumbs
1 1/2 cups oil for frying
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
Directions
Cabbage
To prepare the cabbage salad, separate the leaves from the head, trim off the tough stems, roll a few leaves together and use a sharp knife to slice the cabbage into thin threads. If you have a mandoline, you can leave the half-head of cabbage whole and just mandoline the cabbage and then pick out the tough bits.
Soak the cabbage in cold water while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. This not only crisps the cabbage it tames some of the cabbagy funk.
Tonkatsu
Prepare two bowls, one with a well beaten egg and the other with the panko. Prepare a wire rack lined with 2 paper towels.
Add 1 1/2-inches of oil to a heavy bottomed pot and then add 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil. Heat the oil to 340 degrees F (170 C).
For the pork, salt and pepper both sides. You can also add other seasonings here.
Dust the chops with an even coating of flour.
Dip the cutlet in the egg and coat evenly.
Transfer the pork to the panko and dust evenly, pressing down gently on the cutlet to ensure you get a good coating of breadcrumbs.
Fry the cutlets until the panko is golden brown and they register 145 degrees F (63 C) with an instant read thermometer. Flip once to ensure even browning and use a skimmer to remove any foam that accumulates on the surface of the oil. Be sure to remove the katsu from oil before measuring the temperature or you'll end up getting a false reading. Depending on how thick your chops are they will take anywhere from 7-10 minutes to cook through.
Drain the pork on the paper towel lined rack and let it rest for a few minutes.
While the pork rests, drain the cabbage and use a salad spinner to remove any excess moisture. Place big mounds of cabbage on each plate.
Slice the tonkatsu and plate with the cabbage. Serve with Tonkatsu sauce. If you don't have tonkatsu sauce, you can make a simple version by mixing a 1:1 ratio of ketchup and worcestershire sauce.
Notes
This is recipe is for a very basic tonkatsu, but if you want to do something a little different you can add seasonings such as grated ginger or garlic or even curry powder when you salt and pepper the chops. Alternatively you can also brine the pork ahead of time to give it even more flavor.
Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you get there and if you want to stay in comfort rather than camping out we can help. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com
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What better place to visit the beach than the "Land of the Rising Sun". Japan has numerous islands full of culture, cuisine, and pristine white sand beaches bordering crystal clear oceans. With current sea temperatures at 61° F surfing and swimming would be perfect activities for these three gorgeous beaches.
Yonaha Maehama Beach - Miyako Island
Miyako Island is known for some of Japan's best beaches and is a great destination for snorkeling and diving in the coral reefs. The sub-tropical climate provides mild weather year around. Miyako is the fourth largest island in Okinawa prefecture and has few towns, among which Hirara is the largest with a moderate range of restaurants and bars. Resort hotels and pensions are found across the island. Beaches are Miyako's most famous attraction. There are picturesque sand beaches for swimming and relaxing and coral reefs that provide excellent snorkeling. While the beaches are open year round, they are best enjoyed from April to November when the water is very warm.
Yonaha-Maehama Beach is a white sand beach in the southwestern corner of Miyako and usually leads rankings of Japan's best beaches. It is suited for swimming and various other water sports. The beach is also known for beautiful sunsets. Its facilities include showers, toilets and a rental shop. This is the beach that has made Miyako Island a popular destination. With its 4 mile long stretch of super fine white sand, Yonaha Maehama Beach is amazingly beautiful. Rarely crowded, the beach is an ideal destination for people looking to just relax and unwind.
Kondoi Beach - Taketomi Island
Taketomi Island is an island just off the coast of Ishigaki Island and the site of a beautifully preserved, traditional Ryukyu village. As Taketomi Island is fairly small, it is often visited as a day trip from Ishigaki. Most visitors either walk or rent a bicycle to travel through the village's white sand roads and to the nearby beaches along the western shore of the island. Taketomi Island has both sandy beaches and rocky beaches where you can enjoy swimming and snorkeling. Except for Kondoi, the beaches do not have any public facilities. In addition the beach is easily accessible from Ishigaki, with regular ferries departing every 30 minutes for Taketomi.
Featuring the longest stretch of sand on Taketomi Island and tranquil water with a smooth sandy bottom, Kondoi Beach provides a great swimming experience for everyone, although the water is too shallow to swim in during low tide. Kondoi Beach is Taketomi Island's best beach with emerald green water and It has a large white sand beach that is perfect for laying out in the sun. Grassy, shaded picnic areas as well as restroom, changing, and rental facilities are also available.
Nishi no Hama Beach - Hateruma Island
Located near Kuroshima Port, this is the longest and most popular beach on the island of Hateruma -- the southernmost inhabited island in Japan. The contrast between the white sand and emerald green water of Nishi no Hama Beach is simply amazing. The sand is super fine and soft and it's very comfortable to lie on, while the water is relatively shallow and offers a great snorkeling experience for everyone. Gazebos are available on the beach for a rest in the shade.
Across the transparent ocean, you can observe Iriomote Island and Aragusuku Island, the recommended spot for sunset view. Sea turtles sometimes come to lay eggs during spring to fall on this beautiful beach.
Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you get there and if you want to stay in comfort rather than take a chance we can help. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com
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6008 West Bell Road # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
602-843-5100
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As our regular readers know we are doing three Special Holiday Trees this year. They are Mother’s Day, Memorial Day and Father's Day. We would like to have everyone send us a picture of the person they would like to honor along with the name of that person.
Mother's Day is just around the corner and you can honor your mother on our special tree. You can share the event with a Facebook post of your mother on our tree, She will get a real kick out of it.
Make sure that the picture you send is a copy because the pictures cannot be returned. Stop by or mail your picture (indicate the correct Holiday and the name of the person you are honoring) to the address at the bottom of this blog.
We are just about two weeks away from the Mother’s Day Tree so be sure to honor your special people and of course Mothers by getting a spot on our tree.
Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you get there and if you want to stay in comfort rather than camping out we can help. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com
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6008 West Bell Road # F105
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602-843-5100
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In case you’ve found yourself among the throngs of other parents, bashing your head against the wall, trying to come up with your next family trip - don’t worry Rawhide Travel and Tours has some convenient tips for family friendly vacations.
A National Park
I can speak from experience, the natural world will provide memories for a lifetime. Around the country and the world, national parks help children forge connections with nature and all of its beauty. And according to a news report, starting in the fall, the nation's fourth graders and their families will get Free Access to national parks.
Native American Ruins
Warning, exploring ancient Native American sites with kids may give them more info than a school history book. It will introduce them to a complicated part of our history in an inspiring way. Many have activities geared toward younger kids. A number of sites, including Canyon de Chilly and Navajo National Monuments, have junior ranger programs. There are self-guided tours in many places allowing families to go at their own speeds as they explore.
Visit An Historic Location
I know what you are thinking, you can hear their meltdown happening and you haven’t even got them to a battlefield or history museum. Experience suggests that more interactive environments can bring the past alive and give children a better understanding about their world. Think Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia. Families can learn 18th-century dances and go on evening ghost walks. Or perhaps Indiana's Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, which invites kids to participate in a 19th-century prairie town. They can try being healers, merchants or farmers or simply learn an old-fashioned game like hoop and stick.
A Beach Outing
Give your children early memories of warm sand, sunny days and swimming. As soon as kids are old enough to understand that sand is not for eating, they're ready for a beach vacation. Just remember that when you're a kid, sand toys are not optional. Lakes, oceans or even lazy rivers can provide the perfect backdrop for a family beach escape.
A Skill-building Experience
Some parenting theories suggest that kids who have a feeling of purpose or expertise weather their teenage years better than those who don't. Do your future self a favor and combine a vacation with fun skill building for kids. Children under 10 can learn to farm on Martha's Vineyard, discover acrobatics at Club Med's soon-to-debut CREACTIVE by Cirque du Soleil, which is set to open in June at Club Med Punta Cana, or even take up surfing in Hawaii.
Your State Capital
Seeing where laws are made and politicians debate will breathe life into textbook descriptions (make sure it’s not on the schools agenda already). As a bonus, capitals tend to have a lot of family-friendly attractions. Washington, D.C., is bursting with free museums and incredible monuments. Sacramento has an incredible train museum and a historic Old Town. In Santa Fe, kids can take cooking classes, explore nature and visit a Children's Museum.
Have A Very Disney Adventure
Did you know that Disney offers more than just it famous parks? Adventures by Disney provides group guided family vacations to various domestic and international destinations. It is jointly managed between Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and Walt Disney Travel Company. When you travel to worldwide destinations on an Adventures by Disney vacation you do much more than sightsee. You experience firsthand the people and cultures of the places you visit, and you do so with the service, VIP experiences and unique local opportunities you can only expect from Disney.
Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you get there and if you want to stay in comfort rather than camping out we can help. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com
Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc.
6008 West Bell Road # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
602-843-5100
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Being on an Island, you can’t really escape the beach, but you can still take a peek at some fantastic Nature reserves. Sicily is home to 26 various protected areas, with the very first, Zingaro, being opened in 1981. Zingaro Nature Reserve is well known and therefor extremely busy, but there are other reserves less explored but equally as beautiful.
The Vendicari Nature Reserve
For anyone holidaying in the south-east of Sicily, you would be amiss if you missed the Vendicari Nature Reserve. There are many reasons for a visit, none more convincing than the fact that its beautiful selection of beaches are amongst the least frequented in Sicily……at least by humans. Vendicari is a mixture of lagoons, sand dunes, rocky coastlines, and sandy beaches. It was instituted in 1984 and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The high salinity of the ground provides an ideal habitat for Mediterranean maquis, herbs such as thyme and rosemary and other prickly customers such as juniper bushes.
Thousands of migrating birds pass a few days here on their way to or from Africa. Flamingos, herons, storks and cormorants are regulars during autumn, while in the winter, ducks, mallards, pintails and terns take over. An ornithologists' paradise, there are several hides for those who bring their binoculars.
For those whose interests are of a more active kind, Vendicari offers a wonderful environment for a good seaside walk with only the sound of the waves, birds and the wind for company.
Swimmers (and sunbathers!) will find it hard to choose between the numerous beaches and rocky coves that abound.
There are three entrances to the park, all off the main Noto-Pachino road. The middle entrance, signposted Torre di Vendicari, gives you the opportunity of heading north or south. Wherever you decide to enter, you will have to park you car and walk some way, though this is a greatly pleasurable experience.
Also within the reserve are a series of buildings, including a 15th Century tower built by Peter of Aragon (known as the Torre Sveva), a tonnara (tuna fishery) and several old fishermen’s houses.
Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you get there and if you want to stay in comfort rather than camping out we can help. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com
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6008 West Bell Road # F105
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602-843-5100
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Since we’re off and exploring Sicily, we can’t forget to eat. Today we’ll skip right to dessert with Sicily’s Traditional cannoli. These are not the ones you’ll find in an American bakery, these are made with Ricotta filling.
Traditional Cannoli Shells
(Makes about 18)
Ingredients:
3 cups flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons shortening
2 eggs, well beaten
2 tablespoons white vinegar
2 tablespoons cold water
1 egg white, slightly beaten
Vegetable oil for deep frying
Directions:
Sift together flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut shortening in with a pastry blender until the pieces are the size of small peas. Stir in eggs. Blend in the vinegar and cold water. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes. Add additional flour, if needed, to get a smooth dough. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate 30 minutes.
Set out 6 aluminum cannoli tubes. Heat oil in a deep saucepan to 360 degrees F. Cut an oval shaped pattern from cardboard about 6x4-inches.
Roll chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness.
Place the cardboard pattern on dough and cut out as many as will fit on the dough. Wrap dough loosely around tubes slightly overlapping opposite ends.
Seal ends by brushing with egg white and pressing together. Fry only as many shells as will float uncrowded in the hot oil. Fry until light golden brown, 3-4 minutes. Remove cannoli shells to paper towels to drain. Cool slightly and remove the tubes. Cool shells completely. Continue forming and frying cannoli shells.
Using a pastry bag or a small spoon, fill the shells with the filling from both ends. Do not fill the shells until up to an hour before serving, as the filling will make the shells soggy. Sprinkle ends with reserved chopped pistachio nuts and dust with confectioner’s sugar.
Traditional Ricotta Cannoli Filling
Ingredients:
4-1/2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or candied fruit
1/2 cup pistachio nuts, coarsely chopped
Confectioners sugar for dusting
Directions:
Combine ricotta, sugar, and vanilla. Beat until smooth.
Stir in chocolate chips or candied fruit.
After filling the cannoli shells, dip the ends in chopped pistachios.
Dust the top of the cannolis with confectioners' sugar.
Alternate Ricotta Filling:
4 cups ricotta cheese and 1/2 cup cream cheese
1 cup sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla
3/4 - 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped chocolate or candied fruit, if desired
Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you get there and if you want to stay in comfort rather than camping out we can help. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com
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6008 West Bell Road # F105
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602-843-5100
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Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, it is located in the central Mediterranean and extends from the tip of the Apennine peninsula towards the North African coast. Sicily has more sandy beaches and dramatic coastline than any other region of Italy, and it's warm enough for swimming 6 months of the year (May-Oct). On almost any average spring day, temperatures in Sicily are 64 - 72 °F with water temperatures in the 50s and 60s, perfect for a day at the beach. Fantastic shorefront restaurants abound, and there are plenty of ways to get out on the water. The following beaches are just a sample of what Sicily has to offer.
Mondello
A crescent bay with shallow water,white sand and a carnivalesque atmosphere make this the perfect beach for families. Windsurfing and snorkeling are popular here, and the grand Stabilimento Balneare (bathing club), built in 1913, is an excellent example of the old-fashioned European good life. Mondello is an easy 15-minute bus ride from Palermo, so it's best to visit as a day trip from there.
Mazzarò
At the bottom of the cableway is a small bay with several beach clubs and kayak rentals. The larger bay to the south is punctuated in the middle by Isola Bella, a gorgeous island and World Wildlife Federation nature reserve that's connected to the beach by a narrow spit of sand that you can walk or wade to the island, depending on water level. If you are interested in seeing where young Italians party, take a bus to Giardini-Naxos, a modern resort development with budget hotels and thumping nightclubs on the beach.
San Vito lo Capo
A glittering sandy beach, irresistible turquoise water, and a dramatic mountain at land's end (Monte Monaco) make this spot between Trapani and Palermo one of Sicily's best up-and-coming resort destinations. At first glance it might remind you of a postcard from Rio de Janeiro -- a broad expanse of white sand lines a curving bay, with a massive mountain promontory at one end. However there are no high-rises or wild nightlife here. This is a popular summer destination for Italian families and couples. Swimming in the turquoise waters here, with the imposing contours of Monte Monaco to the east, is an unforgettable experience. You can catch organized boat tours of the nearby Zingaro and Scopello nature reserves and it is a great way to access hidden coves and see unspoiled Sicilian flora and marine wild life.
Selinunte
On the south west coast of Sicily, not far from Mazara del Vallo, lies one of the largest and most impressive archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. Selinunte has lain abandoned for over 2,000 years and has numerous temples, acropolis and agora in dignified ruins. It is on par with pretty much anything found in Greece itself. Selinunte is beautifully located, sitting on a high plain and overlooking the sea. It is flanked on either side by golden beaches, not quite a mile wide, is an excellent excuse for a good walk, though it is also possible to get around on electric buggies.
Slide at Città del Mare
Not a beach but possibly worth a look, Located on the northwest coast of Sicily, on the Gulf of Castellammare, the hotel Città del Mare boasts one of the coolest waterslides. Carved into the side of the cliffs and heading straight into the Mediterranean, this water slide could add an exciting touch to a memorable trip.
Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you get there and if you want to stay in comfort rather than camping out we can help. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com
Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc.
6008 West Bell Road # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
602-843-5100
rawhidetravel.com
Rawhide Travel and Tours with combined total of more than “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.
Presented By:
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6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
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With many cruise liners in the news, travelers are eager for a glimpse of the Viking Star -- the much-awaited first ocean ship from river cruise giant Viking. Viking is a fast growing company and the move into ocean cruising comes as the company increasingly dominates the world of river cruising. The line last month christened 12 new river ships, on top of 18 vessels added in 2014. The company now has 64 river ships in all.
The Viking Star is the prototype for at least two but more likely many more new ocean vessels. Scheduled to be christened in May in Bergen, Norway, Viking Star is being hailed by some as the most significant new cruise ship of the year. Compared to the mega ships of Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line, the Viking Star is a third the size, but is designed to mix onboard elegance with a focus on destinations that Viking executives say has been lost across much of the cruise industry in recent years.
Supposedly the Viking Star's itineraries will feature more time in ports than at many other lines, and it is being said that shore excursions will be included in the price, not common among the other lines. Don’t frown at the ship’s smaller size, the Viking Star will be able to access smaller ports that often are off limits to today's megaships.
The Viking Star, a 930 passenger vessel, has a modern Scandinavian design that echoes what is found on Viking's river ships. Cabins are large for a cruise ship, with the smallest of five cabin categories having 270 square feet of space. In addition, every cabin has a balcony. Fourteen two-room suites on the ship range from 757 to 1,448 square feet and offer sweeping views from wrap-around private balconies.
Viking encourages you to expand your horizons on comfortable, state-of-the-art ships, intimate and thoughtfully created by experienced nautical architects and designers to enrich your interaction with your destination in every way. Everything is set in tasteful elegance and designed to deliver a life-enriching experience that stays with you forever.
What can you expect on these cruises?
There is the Wintergarden, perfect for a calming cup of tea; a Library, packed with books to add to your knowledge or try the Spa, a Nordic sanctuary of wellness.
Also onboard you can attend inspiring talks that help you understand every destination in depth. The company believes the best way to understand a country is through enrichment. Each cruise is thoughtfully curated with hand-picked itineraries so you can immerse yourself in history, music, art, cuisine, everything you need to know about your destination.
The ships offer multiple restaurant venues and unique dining experiences, from cafes and pool grills to wine-pairing menus and regional specialties. Savor the rustic Tuscan cuisine of Manfredi's Italian Restaurant and sample a delicious array of global and destination-based cuisine at the World Café.
As with all cruise liners you can’t forget about the pool. You can swim surrounded by your destination in the glass-backed Infinity Pool cantilevered off the stern or experience the Main Pool, complete with a retractable roof. The main pool is where you can enjoy an outdoor movie as you sail under a canopy of stars.
Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you get there and if you want to stay in comfort rather than camping out we can help. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com
Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc.
6008 West Bell Road # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
602-843-5100
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If sand, sun and sea have you beat The Cornwall area has some unique and varied habitats to explore. Just a 24 minute drive and you will enter the Goss Moor National Nature Reserve or for a longer drive (approx. 44 min) You can view the ancient forests surrounding Golitha Falls.
Goss Moor
A National Nature Reserve in Cornwall, England, located 7.5 mi south-west of Bodmin. It is overlooked by Castle an Dinas to the north, and the church of St Dennis in the south. It is the largest continuous mire complex in south-west Britain and consists of mainly peatland and lowland heath. This reserve is situated in a broad relatively flat, valley basin which forms the headwaters of the River Fal. It contains areas of dry and wet heath, mire, fen and open water, and a diverse mix of wildlife habitats. These are home to some of the country’s rarest species. The River Fal rises on the moor at Pentivale and flows (11 mi) to the English Channel at Carrick Roads. Together with the neighboring moor to the east, it forms the Goss And Tregoss Moors Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), as well as the Breney Common and Goss and Tregoss Moors Special Area of Conservation (SAC).
History
Between 1908 and 1916 steam powered suction and cutter dredges were used for the mining of alluvial tin on the moor. Drilling took place in 1908 and 1909 but the position of the boreholes and what they contained have been lost. Approximately 70 tons of tin concentrate was extracted and the dredges were later moved to Breney Common, Molinnis and Red Moor. The area was designated as the Goss and Tregoss Moors Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1988.
Features of Interest
The reserve’s range of habitats and species has resulted in its being designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation. It is home to a number of scarce and rare species including:
Plants
Some of Cornwall’s rarest vascular plants can be found on the site, such as the nationally scarce yellow centaury (Cicendia filiformis), marsh clubmoss, cornish moneywort and pillwort.
Invertebrates
18 species of dragonflies and damselflies present, including the nationally scarce small red damselfly and the variable damselfly.
Butterflies and Moths
29 species of butterfly have been recorded at the reserve, including the marsh fritillary, Silver-studded Blue, Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary, Grizzled Skipper. Moths include the narrow-bordered bee hawk and double line.
Mammals
Dormice reside both in the grassy open areas and in the areas dominated by willow. Otters are nocturnal visitors, as are roe deer, which can be seen at dawn and dusk as they venture out to graze.
The River Fal and associated wetlands support populations of eel and brook lamprey. Over 70 species of birds breed on the site, with others arriving on the reserve to spend winter. These include bittern, great grey shrike and hen harrier.
Golitha Falls
Golitha Falls NNR is a steeply sided wooded valley, with the River Fowey flowing through it in a series of spectacular cascades that drop 295 feet in altitude. Much of the reserve is a long gorge, lined with ancient oak woodland, with Draynes Wood recorded in the Domesday Book (1086),that gives way to the River Fowey at the bottom.
Like Goss Moor, this site is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its woodland flora. The dramatic landscape created by the River Fowey is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s one of Cornwall’s richest valleys for bryophytes in Cornwall, with more than 120 species recorded here. It is equally important for lichens, with 48 species including the nationally rare Parmelia minarum. Woodland wildflowers include bluebells and wood anemone. In spring the woodland floor is carpeted with bluebells and wood anemones, while the meadow areas see bugle, self-heal, white clover, common tormentil and valerian species flourish.
The reserve is also home to dormice, which reside in the ancient hazel coppice. Noctule, brown long-eared and lesser horseshoe bats have also been recorded.
The river supports healthy populations of both salmon and sea trout. Otters are often seen exploring the falls.
The reserve supports 83 species of moth, including the notable double lines. Butterflies include the meadow brown, marbled white, green veined white, gatekeeper, small skipper, ringlet, speckled wood and silver-washed fritillary.
Extra care should be taken when visiting after heavy rainfall as the waterfalls can become torrential.
Let Rawhide
Travel and Tours help you get there and if you want to stay in comfort
rather than camping out we can help. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit
our website: rawhidetravel.com
Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc.
6008 West Bell Road # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
602-843-5100
rawhidetravel.com
The recipe for a Cornish pasty, as defined by its protected status, includes diced or minced beef, onion, potato and swedes (rutabaga) in rough chunks along with some "light peppery" seasoning. The cut of beef used is generally skirt steak. Swedes is sometimes called turnip in Cornwall but the recipe requires use of actual swedes, not turnip. Pasty ingredients are usually seasoned with salt and pepper, depending on individual taste. The use of carrot in a traditional Cornish pasty is frowned upon, though it does appear regularly in recipes.
The type of pastry used is not defined, as long as it is golden in color and will not crack during the cooking or cooling, although modern pasties almost always use a shortcrust pastry. There is a humorous belief that the pastry on a good pasty should be strong enough to withstand a drop down a mine shaft, and indeed the barley flour that was usually used does make hard dense pastry.
Variations
Although the official pasty has a specific ingredients list, the earliest recorded pasty recipes include venison, not beef. "Pasty" has always been a generic name for the shape and can contain a variety of fillings, including stilton, vegetarian and even chicken tikka. Pork and apple pasties are readily available in shops throughout Cornwall and Devon, with the ingredients including an apple flavored sauce, mixed together throughout the pasty, as well as sweet pasties with ingredients such as apple and fig or chocolate and banana, which are common in some areas of Cornwall.
Cornish Pasty Recipe
This recipe is for six good sized Cornish pasties.
Ingredients
For shortcrust pastry:
3 ¾ cups strong bread flour (it is important to use a stronger flour than normal as you need the extra strength in the gluten to produce strong pliable pastry)
½ cup lard or white shortening
9 tablespoon Cornish butter
1 teaspoon salt
¾ cup cold water
For the filling:
1 pound good quality beef skirt, cut into cubes
1 pound diced potato
6 ounces diced swedes (substitute a rutabaga)
½ pound sliced onion
Salt & pepper to taste (2:1 ratio)
Beaten egg or milk for glaze
Directions
1. Rub the two types of fat lightly into flour until it resembles breadcrumbs.
2. Add water, bring the mixture together and knead until the pastry becomes elastic. This will take longer than normal pastry but it gives the pastry the strength that is needed to hold the filling and retain a good shape. This can also be done in a food mixer.
3. Cover with cling film and leave to rest for 3 hours in the fridge. This is a very important stage as it is almost impossible to roll and shape the pastry when fresh.
4. Roll out the pastry and cut into circles approx. 8 in diameter. A side plate is an ideal size to use as a guide.
5. Layer the vegetables and meat on top of the pastry, adding plenty of seasoning.
6. Bring the pastry around and crimp the edges together (see crimping).
7. Glaze with beaten egg or an egg and milk mixture.
8. Bake at 450 degrees F for 10 minutes. Turn oven down to 350 degrees F, and bake for 35 minutes or until golden.
Top Tips:
Beef skirt is the cut traditionally used for Cornish pasties. This is the underside of the belly of the animal. It has no gristle and little fat, cooks in the same amount of time as the raw vegetables and its juice produces wonderful gravy. Use a firm waxy potato such as Maris Peer or Wilja. A floury potato will disintegrate on cooking.
How to crimp
Crimping is one of the secrets to a true Cornish pasty. A good hand crimp is usually a sign of a good handmade pasty. To crimp a Cornish pasty;
1. Lightly brush the edge of the pastry with water.
2. Fold the other half of pastry over the filling and squeeze the half circle edges firmly together.
3. Push down on the edge of the pasty and using your index finger and thumb twist the edge of the pastry over to form a crimp.
4. Repeat this process along the edge of the pasty.
5. When you have crimped along the edge, tuck the end corners underneath.
Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you get there and if you want to stay in comfort rather than camping out we can help. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com
Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc.
6008 West Bell Road # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
602-843-5100
rawhidetravel.com
Newquay is a town, seaside resort and fishing port in Cornwall, England. It is situated on the North Atlantic coast of Cornwall approximately 20 miles west of Bodmin and 12 miles north of Truro. A lovely get away that is famous for the sandy beaches, blue sea and captivating coastlines. The beaches are truly the beating heart of Newquay. Wherever you are in Newquay, you are guaranteed not to be far from one of these stunning beaches, each of them offering a different beach experience, anything from family visits, surfing, boating, horseback riding and fishing.
Great Western
A popular family beach, just north of Towan beach, it is comprised of several coves offering some degree of seclusion. The beach is backed by high cliffs so the best time to visit this beach is at low tide when it joins with Towan and Lusty Glaze to create a vast expanse of golden sand. The beach is exposed to moderate Atlantic swells which can create surf – this beach is also ideal for novice surfers. Great Western Beach is 2 minutes walking from the town centre where there is also parking. Facilities include a café, public toilets and deckchairs. There are lifeguards from 21st May – 25th September.
Lusty Glaze Beach
A popular sandy horseshoe shaped cove, surrounded by high cliffs with direct access to the sea on the outskirts of Newquay. This is a great family beach with fun activities for all ages and abilities and superb beach-side facilities. This beach ‘village’ is a first-class attraction with a lot going on. As well as the beautiful sandy cove to explore, there's a beach-side restaurant, a range of activities and the opportunity to experience fantastic live music and events both during the day and evening. The beach is surrounded on 3 sides by cliffs 150ft high creating the perfect setting for the only beach zip wire in Cornwall. At 750ft long and 120ft high, this aerial runway is one of Europe’s longest, highest and fastest. Lusty Glaze Beach is developing a reputation as a live music venue. The natural amphitheatre of this horseshoe shaped cove surrounded by high cliffs makes a truly remarkable concert venue. There is parking adjacent to the beach and toilets and showers and beach huts are available to hire.
Towan Beach
The most central of Newquay's beaches, It is sheltered by Towan Head and provides either small waves, ideal for novice surfers or calm waters for safe swimming. At high tide the beach gets covered and people retreat to the Promenade with its shops and cafes or to the grassy slopes on the clifftops. Towan is a popular and often very busy beach, right in the centre of town. Good size of sand and rock, popular with both surfers and families. The Blue Reef Aquarium right by the beach is a fascinating attraction for young and old. Use Town Centre parking which is a few minutes away from the beach, there are facilities including a café and public toilets. Lifeguard coverage runs from mid May to the end of September.
Tolcarne Beach
Nestled in a beautiful crescent shaped bay set against a background of cliffs with caves to explore, this beach offers soft sand, easy swimming, surfing, exciting rock pools to investigate at low tide, sea fishing and the unique 'Tolcarne wedge' for boogie boarding. It is an ideal beach if you are looking for organised activities and plenty of amenities. Tolcarne offers lock up huts and beach tents with sunbathing platforms, surfboard rentals and a cafe. The surf school on the beach offers individual and group surf lessons for novice or intermediate surfer, is open all year with qualified BSA instructors with top quality equipment and suits. The beach is a short walk from the Town Centre. Lifeguard coverage is from mid May to September.
Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you get there and if you want to stay in comfort rather than camping out we can help. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.
Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc.
6008 West Bell Road # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
602-843-5100
rawhidetravel.com
