"KICK ICE ALASKAN GLACIER ROUTE SUPER CRUISE"

RAWHIDE TRAVEL and TOURS

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

 August 22-31, 2012

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

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

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

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

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

How to Prepare for the Unexpected

Traveling is an amazing, life changing experience but it is always wise to be prepared for those unpredictable and unexpected things that could set you just a little off kilter.

“There are no foreign lands. It is the traveller only who is foreign.” Robert Louis Stevenson

This quote is worth remembering because there will be times during your trip when you’ll come face to face with people, beliefs, customs, food and attitudes that seem very strange to you. This is what makes travel exciting but it’s also what makes it a little intimidating.  Remembering the customs in the places you are visiting where even the acts of eating and greeting remind you that you are a long way from home. Remember though, the unfamiliar is what makes travel worthwhile and without it we’d all just stay at home.

The more open you are to new experiences the more likely you are to experience things you’ll never forget. For example in many African countries it’s a custom to welcome the lonely traveller into not just their towns but their homes too. Fear of the unknown may stop you accepting these kinds of great opportunities. Here are a few tips which should help you cope with all the new things you’ll see while you’re away so that you’re in a position to really enjoy them.

Prepare yourself, that way you’re in the right frame of mind to deal with anything you experience. The first thing to remember is not to expect too much from yourself; you’re bound to feel a little odd when you first arrive so there’s no need to panic.

Hit the books.  A great book provide a welcome retreat during bouts of culture shock and reading up on your destination before you go will help make you less shockable. Teach yourself a little about the religious beliefs and cultural practices of a country and you’ll see that far from being strange they normally make perfect sense.

Go with an open mind. It’s difficult not to spend time daydreaming about a trip because we normally book it months in advance but don't create a fantasy in your head of what you expect to find. A combination of travel guides, photos and other people’s stories tend to paint an idealistic picture of a place. They don’t show the moments just after you’ve missed your bus, the parts of the city that aren’t so pretty or the seedy parts of town it’s best to avoid. None of these are reasons not to travel, but it’s worth remembering that you’re not travelling to a fantasy. Realize that and you’ll love it.

Travel Insurance! Then of course, there’s the other sort of ‘unexpected’; the bad sort! The sort of ‘unexpected’ that puts your luggage on a flight to India when you’re going to Japan, or rips a whole in your pocket just big enough for your passport to fit through! For all of these and more there’s insurance. Good travel insurance is well worth the investment even if you don’t need to use it, because you get great peace of mind from the moment you set off. Talk to your travel agent for recommendations on what's right for you.

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

The New Forest, England

England has plenty of fine places to see the best of autumn season. One of the best is the New Forest, which is the largest remaining open heathland and forest in the otherwise heavily-populated South East England. Ablaze with colour at this time of year, the area is a paradise for walkers and cyclists. You’ll find miles of traffic-free tracks through the forest as well as picnic spots, cosy tea shops and traditional English pubs. Also don’t miss the adorable new forest ponies which roam freely throughout the heathland.

The New Forest is a former royal hunting area in the south of England. It was created in 1079 by William I (known as William the Conqueror) as a hunting area, principally of deer.

It is a unique area of historical, ecological and agricultural significance, and retains many of the rural practices conceded by the Crown in historical times to local people. Principal of these is the pasturing of ponies, cattle, pigs and donkeys in the open Forest by local inhabitants known as commoners. The New Forest has also been an important source of timber for the Crown.

It is an outstanding recreational area for walking and riding. It is now designated as a National Park.

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

Holiday Travel Tips

Let’s start with the basics. Booking far in advance is generally ideal, so if you haven’t made your travel plans yet, get moving. The best place to start is with your travel agent.

If the destination you have in mind is outside the country, be sure to review the passport requirements, and make sure those all-important documents are up-to-date. Remember, when flying between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and nearly all of the Caribbean, you need a passport.  U.S. citizens can travel to and from U.S. territories like Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands without passports, though you will need other forms of official identification, like a birth certificate or a driver’s license.

Here are some Holiday travel tips to make your planning easier:

Be flexible with travel dates.

It pays to think about where most people aren't during the holidays. Forget ski resorts and the beach, especially during Christmas to New Year's. And consider places like New Orleans and Las Vegas, where you can find great prices in December.

If traveling with a group of people, use your numbers as an advantage and negotiate for discounts and/or special perks wherever you're going.  Your Travel Agent can get you the best group rates.

Traveling during the holidays is chaotic, and while you can't control the disheveled, stressed-out family fumbling through bags and holding up the airport check-in line, you can do a few simple things to keep yourself in order. Check in for your flight a day ahead and print your boarding pass at home before heading to the airport.

Try to pack light enough to travel only with a carry-on. If you must check bags, keep each under 50 pounds, the limit for most domestic and international flights nowadays, to avoid getting hit with an excess weight charge at the airport. Bring a snack, a book, pillow, portable DVD player, and whatever else you'll want on board the flight. And confirm all your reservations before leaving, because hotels and car rental agencies are often overbooked during the holidays.

The restrictions regarding carrying liquids and gels onto the plane are still in effect. Just remember 3-1-1, meaning liquids or gels must be in containers of 3 ounces or less, the containers must be placed in 1 clear quart-size zip-top bag, and only 1 bag per person is allowed. At holiday time, there are additional concerns for carry-ons. For example, don't bother wrapping gifts until after you've flown, because they'll likely be opened at security gates. Also, think before buying a present you're going to carry with you. (Toy guns?  bad idea) A bottle of brandy may make a nice gift, but because it's liquid you won't be able to bring it on board.

There are services at most airports, both on and off the grounds, that allow you to reserve ahead, assuring that you have a parking spot, often for less money.

Most of all relax and enjoy your holiday trip.

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

150th Anniversary of the Unification of Italy

The city of Turin is, obviously, the center of the 150th anniversary celebrations, as that is where the first Italian Parliament was held and where Vittorio Emanuele II was named Italy’s first King. In 1861, Rome was not part of the newly-unified Italy yet, so Turin was also the first capital of the country. The “Beautiful Italy. Art and identity of capital cities” exhibition will be on display at the Venaria. In the impressive setting of the Scuderie Juvarriane della Reggia, over three hundred masterpieces trace the route that goes from antiquity to the eve of 1861 via pre-unity capitals: Turin, Florence, Rome and then Milan, Venice, Genoa, Bologna, Naples and Palermo.

From 17 March through to 20 November, 2011, in the Officine Grandi Riparazioni a great exhibition, “Making Italians”, will offer an overview of our history from national unity until today. Italy's 150 years are on stage through a touching route, via which one can relive not only virtuous moments, but also more critical ones, which have though contributed to making Italians more united.

As part of celebrations for Rome as capital, the exhibition “Second Risorgimento in colour: painters, patriots and patriot painters in 19th century Rome” was inaugurated on 19 September at the Museum - Palazzo Braschi. On display is a work by Roberto Capucci inspired by the architecture of the Capital, next to a fascinating selection of works of Italian and foreign artists.

The exhibition “Volturno 1860. The last battle of the Thousand” is held at the Reggia di Caserta, until 15 November. The exhibition 'Giuseppe Garibaldi and the Thousand", in Livorno until 12 December, at Villa Mimbelli, is one of the most significant events of the Garibaldian Year. Through a vast repertoire (over 250 pieces) including paintings, sculptures, antiques but also original historical documents and autographs, the exhibition offers the possibility to embark on a journey in the epic deeds of the Risorgimento.

The anniversary is also an opportunity for a holiday break. You can find a range of holiday options. There are many beautiful places to visit in Italy, contact your travel agent to help you plan a dream holiday.

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

Ketchikan, Alaska

Ketchikan is five hundred miles north of Seattle, is Alaska's "first city," and as the first port of call for many cruise ships, its historic downtown is wedged between water and forested mountains. Beyond the souvenir shopping the city is a delight to explore,  built into steep hills and partly propped on wooden pilings, with boardwalks, wooden staircases and totem poles dotted throughout. By 1886, white settlers had opened the first of dozens of canneries in what was soon to be the "salmon capital of the world." 

Ketchikan also has the world's largest collection of standing totem poles, located at three major locations: Saxman Village, Totem Bight, and the Totem Heritage Center.

One of the great places to visit while in Ketchikan is Misty Fiords National Monument. It is a pristine masterpiece featuring some of Alaska’s most spectacular scenery. Seventeen thousand years ago the area was covered in ice. Massive glacier action carved out its present landscape- long saltwater fjords hemmed in by cliffs that soar as high as 3,000 feet into the air. Scenery ranges from tidewater estuaries to mountains often shrouded in mists, sky-blue lakes, waterfalls and the seemingly endless evergreen forest. Misty Fjords' road-less location is only accessible by floatplane or boat from Ketchikan.   Highlights of the area include pictographs (native rock art) painted along the cliff walls, New Eddystone Rock and Punchbowl Cove. Look for sea lions, killer whales and porpoises, brown and black bear and mountain goats which are often sighted in the monument area.

Ketchikan is one of the planned stops on Rawhide Travel and Tours' "Kick Ice Alaskan Glacier Route Super Cruise".  Join us  August 22-31, 2012. Call (602) 843-5100 for more information.

A Few Business Travel Tips

 If the plane is not packed, look at the back and see if you can find an empty row. It’s a gamble, but if the plane is light you can often get the entire row. It’s one way of getting the “flat seat” comfort you’d be enjoying in business class.

Don’t rush getting on and off the plane. How many times does everyone jump up as the plane gets to the gate, only to wait in line for 30 minutes or more before the door actually opens.

If you’re on the red-eye or dealing with time-zone changes, consider handling the time change on the plane versus on the ground when you need to be productive. That may mean sleeping right away or forcing yourself to stay awake, whatever the time change requires.

Using Skype when traveling abroad can be handy. The program allows you to connect to various Wi-Fi hot spots without signing up and paying the typical hot-spot fee. Instead you pay a few cents per minute to Skype and you can upload and download e-mails quickly. Wireless modems are great, too. In the United States,  AT&T iPhone can serve as a mobile hot spot. People with Verizon use a Mifi, which lets up to five devices go wireless in hotels or on trains and taxis. If you require your staff to be on Skype throughout the day, you’ll be amazed at how effective you can be, connecting with people instantaneously, even when you are in remote locations.

If you’re late to the airport and the check-in agent says that you’ve missed the 30-minute cut-off, don’t bother yelling. Instead, ask for a gate pass (the agents will usually give that to you) and if you can get to the gate within 15 minutes of take-off, the gate person will often get you on the flight. Of course, check in before you get to the airport, so that you already have your boarding pass.

Book your tickets and hotels with a travel agent. Their expertise can save you a lot of time and money.

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

Autumn Travel Destinations: Portugal's Douro Valley

High on this list is Portugal’s Douro Valley. The Valley is one of the few places in the world where grapes are still trodden by foot. In late September, early October you can join the locals as they tread the grapes accompanied by a local accordionist (at the Quinta de la Rosa winery). The scenery is also very beautiful in this part of rural Portugal, the river valley is surrounded by steep green hills.

Generally, though, there is little in the way of developed tourism, visitors are comparatively few and, as far as crowds are concerned, getting around is fairly easy. However, the roads zigzagging up and down the mountainsides and between the tributary valleys can be difficult driving but it does offer fantastic unspoilt scenery. More relaxing modes of transport are available, however. Cruise boats ply up and down the valley negotiating the dams via locks of sometimes breathtaking height. Trips run from Porto, Regua and Pinhao. Alternatively, the Douro railway line which runs 175 kilometres from Oporto to Pocinho joins the river at Mosteiro and for the next 100 kilometres does not leave the bank, making this one of Europe´s great rail journeys.

Apart from the port, the excellent Douro wines, both white and red, make excellent accompaniments to the food of the region. Whilst fresh fish is readily available (just as it is everywhere in Portugal) here the meats of the interior start to come into their own with excellent smoked hams and some spicy sausages. If lucky you might see wild boar (javali) on some of the menus.

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

Things to Know While in Hawaii

Things to Know
The Hawaiian Islands continues to be what many people consider as paradise. In fact, many visitors consistently give Hawai‘i high marks for attributes relating to our natural beauty and safety and security.

While you are out and about in the Hawaiian Islands, please keep the following in mind to help you to have a safe and satisfying experience.

Ocean Water Safety Tips
Hawaii is famous for its beautiful beaches and ocean activities. Review and familiarize yourself with information about specific beaches, ocean conditions and other important safety tips before you head into the water.

Pedestrian Safety
Be a safe and smart pedestrian and know the rules. Review information provided by the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation on Walkwise Hawai‘i a program aimed at helping pedestrians to be safe. Information is available in Japanese, Filipino, Hawaiian, Samoan, Vietnamese, Chinese and Korean languages.

Personal Safety
• Keep valuables in your hotel room or a hotel safe. When out for the day, keep essentials with you; don’t lock valuables in the car.
• Keep an eye on your belongings while on the beach.
• If you must leave items in your trunk, place them there prior to arriving at your destination.
• Carry travelers' checks instead of large amounts of cash. Divide money and credit cards.

Recreational Safety: Parks and Trails
Hawai‘i enjoys an abundance of great parks and hiking trails on all of its islands. Many of them are open to the public and can be enjoyed whether you are a novice or an experienced hiker.

Sun Protection
We want you to enjoy Hawai‘i's tropical climate and be sun smart at the same time. Even when the sun is hidden by clouds, visitors will want to protect themselves from ultra-violet rays that come through. Before going out for the day, it is a good idea to liberally apply sun-block with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating of 30 or higher, and to reapply after swimming. Visitors may also consider wearing a brimmed hat, sunglasses and long-sleeved shirts and pants for added protection from the sun's rays.

Civil Defense
Hawai‘i's State Civil Defense agency has developed a warning system to alert the public of an emergency. If you hear Civil Defense sirens (a steady siren tone for 3 minutes and repeated if necessary), listen to your car radio for emergency instructions on what to do. Please note that civil defense sirens are routinely tested at 11:45 am on the first working day of each month.

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

Celebrating 175th Anniversary of Texas Independence

photo by Daniel Schwen

Texans are celebrating the 175th anniversary of the Texas Revolution by travelling with a new "Passport to Texas History."
The Texas Revolution began with the first shot fired on October 2, 1835 in Gonzales and ended with the Texan victory at the Battle of San Jacinto on April 21, 1836.  In between these two iconic dates are the numerous events and skirmishes that are an important part of the state's illustrious history.

Historic sites across Texas have created a way for visitors to re-live the events of the Texas Revolution by offering a "Passport to Texas History."  Travelers can learn about the Revolution as they visit the sites where Sam Houston, Davy Crockett and Santa Anna made history.  Just like an official government passport, visitors can get their book stamped at each site they visit.  Collect stamps from all sites and receive a commemorative gift from the Texas Independence Trail Region (through December 2011).

Share Texas history with family and friends this year! Travel with your Passport to:

Gonzales - When Mexican soldiers tried to steal the settlers' cannon - the fight was on!

San Felipe - Where Stephe F. Austin established his colony in 1823.  It was considered the social, economic and political center of the region.

San Antonio - Five Catholic missions were built here in the early 1700s to convert the native popluation.  In 1836, defenders at the Mission San Antonio de Valero (Alamo) were defeated by Mexican soldiers and the battle cry "Remember the Alamo" was born.

Washington-on-the-Brazos - Where representatives of Texas settlements met to make a formal declaration of independence from Mexico in early March 1836.

Goliad - In late March 1835, Colonel Fannin's forces were imprisoned after surrendering in defeat.  They were then shot outside their prison cell in Goliad, marking this as the largest single loss of life during the days of the Texas Revolution.

La Porte (22 miles east of Houston) - The San Jacinto Monument stands as the world's tallest memorial stone column on the site where Mexican rule over Texas came to a dramitic close on April 21, 1836.

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

Juneau, Alaska

Here, you'll find an unexpected mix of fishermen and teachers, legislators and artists, lawyers and homemakers, dock workers and frontier entrepreneurs, students and Native elders. Somehow they make it all work.

Spend a few days and you'll see why so many folks choose to visit and live here. In Juneau, you can watch humpbacks in the morning, take in a performing arts performance in the evening, and toss back a few locally brewed beers at night.  . And there are all the activities and attractions you'd expect in a state capital.
There are several glaciers to choose from, but Mendenhall Glacier is the largest and you can actually drive right to it if you're so inclined. Alaska's most popular attraction  is located just 13 miles from downtown and right near the airport.

Everyone wants to see a little wildlife, even if from afar. Juneau has such an abundance of air, land and sea creatures that you are more than likely to catch a glimpse of a bear, bald eagle, or even a humpback whale while you are there, especially April through November.

Juneau is one of the planned stops on Rawhide Travel and Tours' "Kick Ice Alaskan Glacier Route Super Cruise".  Join us  August 22-31, 2012. Call (602) 843-5100 for more information.

Airport Internet Tips

Tips for getting online at the airport and in flight:

Waiting out yet another flight delay? The Department of Transportation reports that only about 77 percent of U.S. flights arrive on time. Luckily, your e-mail, the latest news headlines and favorite social networks are just a mouse click (and perhaps a credit card) away.

The use of laptops, PDA's, smartphones and other electronic gadgets is on the rise and airports are wooing tech-savvy travelers by offering  Wi-Fi  access throughout their terminals.

Not all airport Internet options are the same, and you'll have to come to the terminal prepared. Does your airport charge for wireless Internet or will it let you connect  for free?  For some travelers wishing to log on,  the airline club lounge might be the savviest choice. For others, the in-air connection will do the trick. 

While you should be prepared to pay to use the Web at most airports, either at a wired kiosk or via Wi-Fi, there are a number of places that offer the service as a "courtesy." Two of the largest U.S. airports offering free Wi-Fi is Las Vegas and Denver. Other major freebie airports include Philadelphia, Boston, Charlotte, Phoenix and Fort Lauderdale.

Outside the U.S., cities that will give you a Wi-Fi fix for free include Hong Kong, Vancouver, Toronto, Vienna, Oslo and Osaka, to name just a few.

But free of charge doesn't necessarily mean free and easy. The overall consensus seems to be that the free services can be spotty. And some airports put a cap on how long you can surf for free (for example, the Athens airport starts charging after an hour).

In the airports where you must pay, your wireless radio will often pick up a number of different providers. Some of the most popular are Boingo, T-Mobile, Sprint and AT&T, all of which require a credit card for payment. Most of the services cost between $8 and $10 for a full day. Of course, you'll be in the airport for a fraction of that time (unless your flight is seriously delayed), but not all providers offer hourly or per-minute rates.

Battery life is a frequent concern for those using electronic devices in the airport. Many airports, especially those well frequented by business travelers (O'Hare, Philadelphia, JFK), have installed popular charging stations where you can restore battery life in your cell phone, laptop or other device.

Other airports feature only traditional outlets, often oddly located, requiring those in need of a charge to camp out on the floor. And where outlets are few, demand will be high.  A good suggestion is packing an adapter that can turn one outlet into four. It may look like all charge options are taken, but if you come prepared and ask politely if other travelers would be willing to share, problem solved.

One last note: If you're traveling to an international airport, don't forget to consider plug style and voltages. 

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

Autumn Travel Destination: Churchill, Manitoba, Canada

Cooler temperatures, striking colors, smaller crowds—autumn is the perfect time to travel.

No roads lead through the remote northern boreal wilderness directly into tiny Churchill, so plan to arrive by train or plane to see the area’s most famous fall residents, the polar bears. More than a thousand of the world’s largest bear migrate through the “polar bear capital of the world” during October and November, when the first ice forms on the edge of Hudson Bay. The frozen conditions make it easier for hungry bears to hunt for seals and give Tundra Buggies solid ground on which to carry small tour groups out to see the wildlife. Prepare for snowy, winter weather by wearing insulated boots, jacket, and gloves; layered clothing; thermal underwear; and wool socks and hat.  Stay in town at the cozy, trading-post-style Lazy Bear Lodge and take a sled dog ride next door at Wapusk General Store, or bunk among the bears in the bare-bones Tundra Buggy Lodge at Polar Bear Point. These module units are assembled annually in a Wildlife Management Area site chosen for optimal 24/7 polar bear viewing.

In the Fall, the sub-arctic coniferous forest, with its miniature shrubs and flowers located just south of Churchill, burst into reds, violets and yellows.

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

What a Travel Agent Can Do For You

A travel agent is a professional who specializes in making travel arrangements on behalf of other people.  The services of a travel agent can be extremely useful; travel agents often have access to cheaper fares, hotel deals, and other travel perks which average consumers cannot get on their own. A travel agent may choose to work freelance, or as part of a larger travel agency. Some agents specialize in a particular field of travel like business travel, exotic travel, or honeymoon arrangements. In some cases, a travel agent also provides overseas support and referrals, which can  be incredibly useful.

A travel agent can book tickets for people who wish to travel to a particular destination; most travel agents focus on air, rail, and sea travel and the myriad options available, including varying classes and routes. The agent will also arrange a rental car and accommodations,  along with services like a pickup at an airport or dock, or a gourmet meal waiting on arrival. Travel agents also have a lot more to offer,  thanks to their extensive experience in the industry and as travelers themselves.

A travel agent can offer recommendations about vaccinations and preventative medicine regimens which may be required for foreign travel. Travel agents can also help to organize visas and passports for their clients, ensuring that they move smoothly during their trip. Some travel agents can also recommend language classes and other preparations for a trip, while others might have helpful hints and tips for their customers to ensure that the clients enjoy the trip.

A specialty travel agent who focuses on something like business travel may include things in a travel package which are tailored to businesspeople, such as specially organized tours, or accommodations which include needed services like Internet access. Travel agents sell themselves on their ability to organize complex and fun trips, whether they be whirlwind tours through Europe or leisurely luxury cruises.

 A travel agent is also experienced in all of the quirks of the travel system, and a trip can run more smoothly with a travel agent at the helm.

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

Commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War

2011 started a four-year commemoration of the Civil War’s 150th Anniversary. If you are a U.S. history buff or just want to tour some beautiful cities with a story behind them, then consider the battlefields of one of America’s most controversial wars. While 60% of the war was fought in Virginia, there are other places that are well worth the trip.

Charleston

Visit the spot where the first shot was fired at Fort Sumter in Charleston, SC.  Much of the old plantation architecture has been wonderfully preserved and a visit to the city is a great way to further your understanding of pre-Civil War America. Charleston is a walking city and it is, by far, the best way to see it and appreciate its history, architecture and southern charm whether on your own or by guided tour. With great bed & breakfasts in the historic downtown, romance in Charleston is alive and well.

Atlanta
In downtown Atlanta, The Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. had a dream that was instrumental in obtaining equal civil rights for all citizens of the United States, regardless of skin color. A visit to the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site is made up of several facilities, including the Visitor Center, Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, The King Center and the Birth Home. There are several exhibits that document the life and career of Martin Luther King Jr. as well as the progression of the Civil Rights Movement, which began around the centennial year of the Civil War.

While in Atlanta you can celebrate the 75th anniversary of the publishing of Gone With The Wind by visiting Margaret Mitchell House. The  tours showcase the Crescent Avenue apartment (which she affectionately called "The Dump") and feature exhibits on Mitchell's pre- and post-Gone With The Wind life, along with details on the making of the movie.




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

Spectacular Hubbard Glacier

Seventy-five miles long and covering over 1,350 square miles in area, the Hubbard Glacier is the largest tidewater glacier in North America. It is also one of the most impressive, a 300-foot wall of ice rising sheer and jagged from the ocean. It has been thickening and advancing toward the Gulf of Alaska since it was first mapped by the International Boundary Commission in 1895. This is in stark contrast with most glaciers, which have thinned and retreated during the last century.

This atypical behavior is an important example of the calving glacier cycle in which glacier advance and retreat is controlled more by the mechanics of terminus calving than by climate fluctuations. If Hubbard Glacier continues to advance, it will close the seaward entrance of Russell Fiord and create the largest glacier-dammed lake on the North American continent in historic times.

Hubbard Glacier is one of the planned sites to be enjoyed on Rawhide Travel and Tours' "Kick Ice Alaskan Glacier Route Super Cruise" . Join us  August 22-31, 2012. Call (602) 843-5100 for more information.

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

Food Ettiquette When Eating Outside the United States

Here are some general rules of etiquette to follow when you are confronted with unfamiliar food in a foreign land:

If you don't know what it is, you might be better off not asking. Taste it. If you don't like it and are asked for your opinion, say something like “It has a very distinctive flavor.”

If you know what it is and don't want to try it, politely refuse. Or you can say something like “I know this is quite a delicacy, but I've tried it before and found it doesn't sit well with me.”

If you sense that a refusal would offend your host or fellow diners, cut it up and move it around on your dish so that it looks as if you are eating.

What Americans call diapers are napkins in England. This could lead to some hilarious and/or embarrassing misunderstandings. When speaking to someone from the British Isles, refer to the linens you put on the table as serviettes.

It is particularly important to respect the dietary rules of Muslims. They do not eat the flesh of any animal that scavenges, including pigs, goats, some birds, and sea scavengers like lobster. Food may not be prepared using the products derived from these animals, such as oils. Muslims do not drink alcohol and avoid foods cooked with alcohol.

 Do not point with your chopsticks or suck on them. Do not stick chopsticks upright in your rice. This placement is thought to bring bad luck.

In Europe you may expect salads to be served after, rather than before, the main dish.

Orthodox Jews do not eat pork or shellfish. Meat and fowl must be kosher, which means they must be ritually prepared.

In Europe and elsewhere, the main dish is served at the beginning of the meal, so don't think of it as an appetizer. Also be careful at formal Chinese banquets. These events consist of many more courses than Westerners expect. Don't fill up too early, or you'll be too full to eat some wonderful delicacies later in the meal.

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

Dublin, Ireland

© Christine Matthews & licensed reuse under Creative Commons Licence

Dublin is the rarest of beasts: a capital that puts an equal premium on the joys and benefits of heritage and hedonism. History and culture rise up from the foundations, but what’ll put a smile on your face is the city’s garrulous sociability and irrepressible humor. Though Dublin’s in a slightly sour mood these days, thanks to its troubled economy, the city does its very best to welcome visitors.

Grab a pint at the Guinness Storehouse located in the heart of the legendary St James's Gate brewery in Dublin.  This production site has been home to the "Black Stuff" since 1759, when Arthur Guinness signed a lease for 9,000 years. The Storehouse, a former fermentation plant, has now been remodeled into a visitor center dedicated to the history of Guinness. Ireland's number one visitor attraction unfolds its tale across seven floors shaped around a giant pint glass which, if full, would contain 14.3 million pints of Guinness. The highlight of the visit for many is the Gravity Bar, symbolically the "head of the pint", where one can enjoy 360 degree views across Dublin while savoring a complimentary pint of Guinness.

Explore Dublin Bay with its spectacular views of the coastline surrounding Dublin.  Malahide Castle, set on 250 acres of Parkland,  dates back to the 12th century. It has a rich and fascinating history. A journey by boat through the heart of Dublin on the River Liffey and enjoy Dublin’s rich literary history.

There are many tours that originate in Dublin to other parts of Ireland so there is something for everyone.

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

Tips for Getting Through Customs and Immigration Easier:

If you know you will have a tight connection when you land in the states, leave the flowers or produce behind. Agriculture inspection sometimes adds up to one hour or more.

Always carry a photocopy of your passport separately from your passport. Many officials will accept it if you misplace it.

Turn your cell phones off. Customs and Immigration are strict on that rule and will confiscate and not return them.

Don’t make wisecracks or jokes to the officials; it only makes you look like you are trying to hide something.

Read your forms carefully, and fill them out as soon as you get them. There is a complete guide to filling out your form and a list of contraband items at the back of your in-flight magazine.

You can register high-value items, such as cameras, laptop computers and watches, with customs agency before you travel. Taking this step will help provide Customs and Border Protection officers with proof of ownership of these items. 

If you are unsure, declare it. The “I didn’t know reply” won’t work. You must declare all items you are bringing back with you from your travels, whether you bought them for yourself, as gifts or for resale.

Bring an envelope or zip-top plastic bag with you for receipt storage. Any time you buy something during your travels, tuck the receipt into your envelope or bag. When the time comes for you to fill out your customs declaration form, you'll have a handy record of your purchases.

Don’t make a scene. If it’s a long wait and your connecting flight is soon, so is everyone else’s and you definitely won’t make your flight if you are sent to secondary screening.

If you are uncomfortable with the opposite sex searching through your luggage, ask for an official of the same sex. Many don’t know that they can make such a request.

Don’t put any fruit in your bag during your vacation. You may have carried around some mangos in a sack a week ago but the persistent aroma will have the fruit dog all over it and you will be delayed in agriculture.

Leave any photos or videos of you and a partner in a compromising position at home. They could be considered pornography and when they are confiscated, they will probably go up on their “wall of shame” in some back office.

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

"KICK ICE ALASKAN GLACIER ROUTE SUPER CRUISE"

RAWHIDE TRAVEL and TOURS

                  presents it's famous.....     

 "KICK ICE ALASKAN GLACIER ROUTE SUPER CRUISE"   

 (and Anchorage sleepover)

 August 22-31, 2012

   $3499 per person based on double occupancy

(triple and quad staterooms also available at even a lower price)

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

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

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

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

European Restaurant Tips

To find a good restaurant, ask your hotel receptionist, or head away from the tourist center and stroll around until you find a place with a happy crowd of locals. Look for menus (usually posted outside), handwritten in the native language and offering a small selection. This means they're cooking what was fresh in the market that morning for loyal, return customers. If no menu is posted, ask to see one. And be aware the word "menu" can mean a fixed-price meal, particularly in France and Italy. What we call the menu in the US usually goes by some variation on the word "card" in Europe — for instance, "la carte" in French, "Speisekarte" in German.

Many small eateries offer an economical "menu of the day". These are sometimes limited to early seatings — usually before 7:30 p.m. In Great Britain and Ireland, look for early-bird dinner specials, allowing you to eat well and affordably, but early (about 5:30 to 7 p.m.). Restaurants and pubs in Europe don't usually serve meals throughout the day. They're typically closed late afternoon (about 2 p.m. until dinner starts). In between meals, you'll find plenty of snack bars happy to feed you.

To save money at restaurants, order smartly. Main dishes are often big enough to split. Add a bowl of soup or something small to supplement. Don't worry about coming off as cheap — prices are high for Europeans, too. Waiters are generally understanding and accommodating. But be careful in France, where splitting meals at restaurants can be frowned upon. Instead, head for a café, where it's perfectly acceptable to split meals or order just a salad or sandwich, even for dinner.

In Italy's restaurants,  forgo the expensive second course.  Order appetizers and a first course, asking for the best meats and cheeses and the chef's favorite pasta dish of the day.

A carafe of wine or a glass of beer are generally affordable at restaurants, but are priced very high in Scandinavia.

To really save money, seek out alternatives to restaurants. Ethnic eateries are usually cheap and provide a welcome break from Europe's often heavy fare. Eat in, or get your meal to go. Cafeterias, delis, and fast-food chains with salad bars are tourist-friendly, good for a quick meal.

One of the biggest surprises for Americans at Europe's restaurants is the service, which can seem excruciatingly slow when you're eager to get out and sightsee. Europeans spend at least two hours enjoying a good dinner. At fine restaurants, fast service is considered rude. But if you're rushed, say so, and you'll get snappy service.

Tips are considered a small bonus to reward great service. Usually you can just round up the bill a bit. In many countries, a 5 percent tip is adequate and 10 verges on excessive. Tipping 15 to 20 percent in Europe is unnecessary, if not culturally insensitive.

Eating in Europe is sightseeing for your taste buds. Make sure to experience it. The memories of good meals can satisfy you for years.

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