Experience Full Service

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

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

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

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Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
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In the News:Smartphones Replace Room Keys at Select Starwood Hotels

Got a smartphone? Never lose your hotel key, or even have to stop at the registration desk, again.

Travelers staying at select Starwood Hotels and Resorts will soon be able to unlock their hotel rooms with their smartphones.

The Aloft Harlem in New York and Aloft Cupertino in California will be the first to try the new technology, powered by Assa Abloy, a lock company in Sweden. The pilot program will begin within the next 60 days, says Brian McGuinness, senior vice president of Starwood's Specialty Select brands. If it goes well, guests will see the new technology roll out at three Starwood brands, Aloft, Element and W Hotels, by 2015.

Guests will first check in through their smartphones using Starwood's mobile app. They will then receive a text message with their room number and the virtual key so they can bypass the front desk. The technology operates through Bluetooth on any iPhone 4s or above and the Android 4.3 or newer.

Other hotel companies have experimented with letting people check in through their mobile phones. For instance, members of Marriott's Rewards program can check in through their mobile phones at 350 of its Marriott Hotels. They then pick up their key at a desk. Marriott will expand that program to 150 more hotels.

At Crowne Plaza Hotels and Resorts, guests can check in through their smartphones with Anywhere Check In. They then scan in their check-in code at a kiosk to retrieve their keys, bypassing the front desk.

Hilton Worldwide and Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, parent company of Radisson and Country Inns & Suites, are also experimenting with mobile check-in, but not virtual keys yet.

If all goes well, the company says it could have the feature in all of its hotels by next year.

But there are some challenges to adopting the technology, hotel executives say.

Thorsten Kirschke, president of the Americas for Carlson Rezidor, says adopting virtual keys can be expensive because it can involve changing a hotel's entire lock system. He also says there are unresolved security questions.

Kirk Kinsell, president of the Americas for InterContinental Hotels Group, parent company of Crowne Plaza, says that mobile check-in has been successful so far, but that there are still people who prefer to interact with the front desk.

McGuinness says the company is constantly working on making sure their lock systems are secure.

And for those who want to use traditional key cards, they will still be available, he says.

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

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

Off the Beaten Track: Burlington Breakwater Lights Burlington, VT

In the 1800s, Lake Champlain became a major shipping route after the establishment of canals connecting it to the Hudson River, the Great Lakes, and north to the St. Lawrence River. Burlington grew into the third-largest lumber port in the nation.

Burlington's harbor was ideally situated, but it was exposed to strong winds. In an effort to protect the harbor, a granite breakwater was constructed beginning in the 1830s. By 1896, the breakwater reached 4,200 feet in length.

Wooden lighthouses were first placed on the ends of the breakwater in 1857 to mark the entrances to the harbor, and as the breakwater grew, the lights were relocated. A third light was placed at the center of the breakwater in 1890. The wooden towers were exposed to wind, ice, and even fire – the northern tower burned in 1870, and in 1876 the southern light was knocked over in a storm.

The wooden towers were eventually replaced with steel light towers: the north and middle lights in 1925, and the south light in 1950. Though less susceptible to damage from the elements, the modern towers lacked the charm of the breakwater’s wooden end-pieces.

The lights were manned until 1938. On the evening when the lights were manually lit for the last time, Keeper Rolla W. Hill was ceremoniously accompanied back to shore by a small flotilla of twelve boats carrying seventy-five people.

“Given the historic significance of the breakwater,” says Burlington’s Mayor Peter Clavelle, “we came up with the idea of recreating the original lighthouse structures, and approached Senator Patrick Leahy’s office about the possibility of creating the replicas.” Leahy was able to obtain $250,000 for this project through a transportation bill in 2001.

The lighthouses were built on the Burlington waterfront by Atlantic Mechanical, Inc. of Wiscasset, Maine, so the public could view the construction process. Nearby, a kiosk, staffed with a historical interpreter, provided information about the Burlington breakwater and the lighthouse project.

It is obvious to even the casual observer that the northern and southern breakwater lighthouses are different. The original lighthouse plans could not be located according to Art Cohn, director of the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum. “What we did,” he says, “was use photographic evidence to create a set of plans that from the outside seem historically correct, and of course we chose two different time periods to represent - the smaller, southern light tower, which is circa 1857, and the larger, northern light tower which is circa 1890. We worked with the photographs and other historical images to ensure that people seeing the towers today would be actually viewing the same façade that they would have seen during those time periods.”

The lighthouses are located at both ends of the breakwater along Burlington Harbor. Both are best viewed from one of the many tour boats out in the harbor.

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

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

Culinary Travel: A Taste of Vienna

The famous "Wiener Schnitzel" probably originally came from northern Italy. It was in the 14th or 15 Century that it made its way to Vienna. The Italian recipe was then refined in Vienna and then started from here to conquer the gourmet plate. A guess is that the otherwise mostly unsuccessful Field Marshal Radetzky may have brought the recipe to Vienna.

Did you know that each year more than 450 balls take place in Vienna. The city of waltzes exuberantly celebrates Carnival in January and February. The three-quarter rhythm is supplemented by more contemporary sounds, offering enjoyable dancing for every taste. 

This popular veal dish is very easy to make and a family favorite. Start by preparing your side-dish, whether it's mashed potatoes or rice which cook in less than 30 minutes. Wiener Schnitzel´s total cooking time (including preparation) will be about the same as your side dish´s cooking time. 

Servings: 4

Ingredients:
4 veal scaloppini
1 egg
1 tablespoons water, buttermilk or milk
½ tablespoons canola oil (and more for frying)
6 tablespoons flour
6-8 tablespoons bread crumbs
salt, pepper

Equipment: a well-seasoned 10-12 inch cast-iron or stainless steel skillet

Garnish: 4 slices of lemon and some chopped fresh parsley

Preparation
Dry the veal scaloppini with paper towels. Tenderize the veal on both sides evenly with a meat mallet. Season with salt and pepper on both sides.

Prepare three dishes: 6 tablespoons flour in first dish, whisked egg with 1 tablespoon water and 1/2 tablespoons oil (or 1 tablespoon buttermilk or milk) in the second dish and 6-8 tablespoons bread crumbs in the third dish.

Coat the veal with the flour on both sides, shake off any excess, dip in the egg mixture on both sides and lastly into the bread crumbs shaking off any excess. 

Prepare a stainless steel or cast-iron skillet with some canola oil just enough to cover the bottom of the skillet and let it get hot on medium-high heat. Drop in a few bread crumbs, if the oil starts to sizzle carefully place the Schnitzel inside. Reduce heat to medium. Fry veal until golden brown turning once. Do not cover the skillet. Garnish with lemon slices and parsley.

If you have a taste for culinary travel, let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you plan your next vacation and all of your other reservation needs. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.

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

Alcatraz Island offers a close-up look at the site of the first lighthouse and US built fort on the West Coast, the infamous federal penitentiary long off-limits to the public, and the 18 month occupation by Indians of All Tribes which saved the tribes. Rich in history, there is also a natural side to the Rock—gardens, tide pools, bird colonies, and bay views beyond compare.

In 1850 Alcatraz was declared a military reservation by President Millard Fillmore, and by 1859 troops were permanently garrisoned at the post on Alcatraces for the defense of the Bay Area.

Alcatraz is most famous for the 29 years it operated as a U.S. penitentiary. This is due in no small part to Hollywood movies which have created their own not particularly accurate Alcatraz, with underground tunnels and haunted dungeons and other flights of fantasy.

In 1964, and again in 1969 American Indians - many whose tribes were being terminated by federal policy, laid claim to Alcatraz Island. Their 18 month occupation would cause a great change in federal policy towards American Indians that would save the tribes.

The most important thing to know when planning a trip to Alcatraz is that all access to the island is through a private ferry company under contract with the National Park Service, Alcatraz Cruises LLC.

As tickets are limited they strongly recommend advance purchase - in summer and around holidays we frequently sell out up to three or more weeks in advance.

Visiting Alcatraz is partially a self guided experience which you can do at your own pace. Park Service staff offer numerous free programs throughout the day on a variety of topics: escapes, military history, American Indian occupation, natural history, etc.

Once on the island you can stay as long or as short as you wish - there is a ferry departing about every half hour and you can return to San Francisco on any ferry. We generally recommend at least 2 to 3 hours to fully visit the island.

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

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

Ron Oster of Rawhide Travel Runs P.F. Chang’s Half Marathon 2014

The winner and maybe second place gets all the headlines when it comes to running in a marathon.  With the running of P.F. Chang’s Rock and Roll Marathon Arizona on Sunday January 19th this year (2014) more than 24,000 people took part as runners.

I know that each and everyone of them can’t be part of the story or the written word. It would be nice if there could be press coverage for all of the participants.  

Here at Rawhide Travel and Tours we are going to take some time and talk about Ron Oster.  While he is the owner of Rawhide Travel it is also important to know that he did a great job representing both his business and all of the “a bit older” crowd.  

Over the last few years Ron has participated in many shorter runs here in the Valley of the Sun and Las Vegas Nevada.  Most times finishing at or near the front of the pack in his running group.

With this year’s P.F. Chang’s Marathon Ron chose to do the half marathon running the 13.1 mile course in two hours, thirty-one minutes and seventeen seconds (02:31:17) – Way to go Ron!!!

Ron proves that even with a bit of a late start to running you can always achieve your goals with a bit of hard work and perseverance.  

So if you are thinking that it is too late to pursue your youthful travel dreams, nothing could be further from the truth. Don’t just dream of traveling… Just Do It, to borrow Nike phrasing.

Let Ron or Diana help you run your travel dreams.

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

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

Holiday Tree Update

For all of you who have been wondering about what our holiday tree has been doing this month.  Well, like many people our little tree had some weather travel issues.

He went to visit his cousin in New Hampshire and got snowed in. We are hoping he will be returning sometime in February. We will keep you up dated.

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

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

In the News: Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley

There's not a stitch of clothes for sale at Madam Malkin's Robes for All Occasions. Not yet anyway. And the shelves at Borgin and Burkes are still bare as well.

Even though The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley is still basically a construction site, there's really only one word that describes this soon-to-open addition to the Universal Orlando Resort. And that word is magical.

Though visitors to Universal Studios Florida will have to wait until Summer before they can then grab a cone at Florean Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlour or discover what's hidden in the shadows of Knockturn Alley, a few lucky reporters and bloggers got to go behind those five-stories-tall London facades which shield this new "land" from prying Muggle eyes yesterday. And while onsite, they also got the chance to talk with key members of Universal Creative. Who have been working with Warner Bros. Entertainment on this USF expansion ever since The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Hogsmeade first opened over at Islands of Adventure back in June of 2010.

Diagon Alley and London will be located within the Universal Studios Florida theme park, which is adjacent to Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park, where guests now experience Hogwarts and Hogsmeade. The new area within Universal Studios will be just as expansive, immersive and authentic as the existing themed environment.

Just like in the books and films, guests will be able to travel between ‘London’ and Hogsmeade aboard the Hogwarts Express.

Work on the new area is still underway. When complete, it will feature shops, a restaurant and an innovative, marquee attraction based on Gringotts bank, all directly inspired by the fiction and films.

To bring Diagon Alley and ‘London’ to life, Universal’s creative team is working closely with Warner Bros. and the production design team from the Harry Potter films, just as it did for Hogwarts and Hogsmeade.

And it's not just those little touches that Universal Creative is striving to get right. There's also Diagon Alley's big main attraction, "Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts." Which is this ambitious coaster-like attraction which will recreate one of the more memorable moments from "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part II." Not to mention that full-sized recreation of the Hogwarts Express. Which will carry Universal Orlando visitors from Diagon Alley over to Hogmeade (or visa versa) and provide them views of London and the English countryside. Not to mention a few other surprises along the way.

Keep in mind, that the magic is about to go global. There's a version of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter that's nearing completion at Universal Studios Japan Thierry Coup, senior vice president of Universal Creative, will be flying over to Osaka later this month. Where he'll then spend ten days straight riding that theme park's version of "Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey" as Thierry fine-tunes this high tech thrill ride. Not to mention the Potter-themed project that's about to rise on the Upper Lot at Universal Studios Hollywood. What's great about all of these other Harry Potter-themed things that are going into Osaka and Hollywood is that they're all going to have their own unique elements.

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

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
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Off the Beaten Track: Cotswold Way, England

England has an extensive network of well-marked footpaths and bridle ways, many of them dating back centuries, and the public has the right to travel them even when they cross private land. Much of the Cotswold Way is on these trails.  A short five miles up and over the Cotswold escarpment to the picturesque village of Broadway, will get you accustomed to the stiles and kissing gates that allow humans access but keep livestock from escaping.

Just over 100 miles long the Cotswold Way walk runs from Chipping Campden in the north to Bath in the south. It can be walked in either direction but some recommend starting in Chipping Campden. The trail leads you through some of the most beautiful scenery, passing through quaint villages and towns that seem almost lost in time, landmarks of history, character and charm. There are very few trails in England with National Trail status, epitomising the uniqueness of the Cotswold Way walk. 

The Cotswolds has a well-deserved reputation for picturesque rolling green hills, honey colored sandstone housing and villages full of antique shops, traditional cafes and historical architecture. It’s no wonder the Cotswold Way is a firm favorite with walkers who return year after year to experience the beauty and tranquillity the area offers. 

Here are a few sites along the Cotswold Way:

All Saints Church, Selsley
The Church of All Saints, Selsley, is a major attraction to lovers of the Arts & Crafts Movement. Nestled below Selsley Common, it has a wealth of gorgeous stained glass by the likes of William Morris, Dante Gabriel Rossetti and Ford Madox Brown.

A signed Cotswold Way circular walk passes right by the main entrance, before following the canal and climbing back up to the top of the common.

Belas Knap
Near Charlton Abbots, Gloucestershire
A particularly fine example of a Neolithic long barrow of c.3800 BC, featuring a false entrance and side chambers. Excavated in 1863 and 1865, the remains of 31 people were found in the chambers. The barrow has since been restored.

Belas Knap Long Barrow
Belas Knap, Winchcombe, Gloucestershire 
This neolithic burial mound is one of the best preserved in the Cotswolds.The Cotswold Way passes through the site so you can't miss it. It is free and open all year round.

Prestbury Hill Butterfly Reserve
Prestbury Hill, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire 
The Cotswold Way runs right through this beautiful area of limestone grassland which is owned by Butterfly Conservation. The land is managed to encourage more butterflies by ensuring their food source is in abundance. In spring and early summer you can see cowslips, orchids and rare butterflies and all year round the views are stunning. 

Bath
The City of Bath is at the southern end of The Cotswold Way National Trail. Designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1987, Bath presents some of the finest architectural sights in Europe such as the Royal Crescent, the Circus and Pulteney Bridge alongside a diverse collection of museums and attractions including the Roman Baths, Jane Austen Centre, No.1 Royal Crescent and Thermae Bath Spa.

Bath's compact city centre offers irresistible shopping and there are plenty of activities to enjoy in the surrounding area. The city has a variety of theatres, museums, and other cultural and sporting venues, which have helped to make it a major centre for tourism, with over one million staying visitors and 3.8 million day visitors to the city each year. Bath offers a unique experience with stunning architecture, great shopping and iconic attractions. 

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

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

Culinary Travel: A Taste of Italy

There is a belief that the heart of any culture can be illuminated by exploring its food, wine, and culinary traditions. Culinary travel has become very popular in recent years so we woud start a series of blogs and share recipes from around the world. We hope you find them enjoyable.

We are going to start with an Italian recipe. This is a traditional cacciatore from the Calabria region of Italy. Calabria is at the toe of the boot, the extreme south of Italy - lapped by the splendid crystal blue Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas and separated from Sicily by the Strait of Messina. The warm climate, the beautiful colors of the sea, rocky coasts that alternate with sandy beaches, a nature that is wild and mysterious, the strong and genuine flavors of local food and the vestiges of its ancient origins make Calabria a unique place that vacationers can enjoy in both winter and summer. 

Chicken Cacciatore

Prep time is about 15 minutes, cook time is about 1 hour

Serves 4

Ingredients
2 chicken thighs
1 chicken breast (with bones) cut in half (2 pieces)
1 teaspoons salt (+ extra to taste)
1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (+ extra to taste)
1/4 cup wheat flour
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
1/2 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 cup large chopped mushrooms
1/2 cup red wine
1 (14-ounce) can diced or peeled tomatoes (with juice)
1/2 cup fresh chicken broth (or low sodium store bought)
1/2 (14-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 box Campanelle or similarly shaped short pasta (or Farro is good)

Directions
Sprinkle the chicken pieces with 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper. Dust the chicken pieces with flour to coat lightly.

In a large heavy skillet, heat the oil over a medium-high flame. Add the chicken pieces to the pan and saute each side until brown, about 5 minutes per side. Set chicken aside on a plate.

Put the bell peppers, onion, garlic, and mushrooms in the same pan the chicken was cooked in, and saute over medium heat until the onion is tender (about 5 minutes).

Season with salt and pepper. Add the wine and simmer until reduced by half (about 3 minutes).

Add the tomatoes with their juice, broth, tomato sauce, oregano, and basil. Return the chicken to the pan and turn them to coat in the sauce. Bring the sauce to a simmer. Cover and continue simmering over low heat until the chicken is just cooked through (about 50 minutes).

Cook Campanelle in a large pot according to the package instructions until al dente

Using tongs, place a piece of chicken on top of a bed of pasta. If necessary, boil the sauce until it thickens slightly. Spoon off excess fat from atop the sauce, and spoon sauce over chicken and pasta.

Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves, or parmigiano reggiano, as desired, and serve.

If you have a taste for culinary travel, let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you plan your next vacation and all of your other reservation needs. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
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Martin Luther King, Jr. Natioanl Memorial District of Columbia

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial is located in West Potomac Park in Washington, D.C., southwest of the National Mall (but within the larger area commonly referred to as the "National Mall").

Covering four acres, the memorial opened to the public on August 22, 2011, after more than two decades of planning, fund-raising and construction. A ceremony dedicating the Memorial was scheduled for Sunday, August 28, 2011, the 48th anniversary of the "I Have a Dream" speech that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963 but was postponed until October 16 (the 16th anniversary of the 1995 Million Man March on the National Mall) due to Hurricane Irene.

Captured in a moment of reflective thought, the figure of Dr. King, sculpted by renowned artist Master Lei Yixin serves as the forward element of the Stone of Hope. The detachment of the Stone of Hope from the Mountain of Despair reflects not only victory borne from disappointment, but allows the visitor a clear view of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial which reflects the principles of freedom and liberty which gave birth to the nation.

As you explore the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, you will have views of quotes from throughout King's lifetime and of a striking sculpture of the civil rights leader. You will also have views of cherry trees and the Tidal Basin.

A bookstore is located near the memorial, offering a wide variety of products to commemorate your visit and learn more.

Kids can pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at the information window at the bookstore. The book is filled with activities to explore the National Mall and Memorial Parks and find out more about the memorials.

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

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

Plan Your Next Vacation With Rawhide Travel and Tours

Rawhide Travel and Tours with combined total of “75 years of travel experience" provides amazing deals for your dream vacation with experienced, friendly travel experts.

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

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

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

In the News: How to Beat the Post-Vacation Blues

We all know that feeling: the one when you return home from a great trip and struggle to readjust to everyday life. Post-travel hangovers can leave you exhausted, unmotivated, or blue (maybe all three). But with a few simple tricks, you can beat the lethargy, get right back into a productive routine, and even put some of the excitement and inspiration you felt while you were away into your everyday life. Here are some helpful tips.

Unpack
Unpack your bags as soon as possible. While you might tell yourself that tomorrow is just as good as today to begin the bothersome task of removing all signs of your recent trip, you're really just fooling yourself. Each day that you let that packed suitcase take up space in the corner is another day that you're not fully committing yourself to the present time and place.

Do laundry
Leaving a mound of dirty vacation clothes in your hamper is almost as bad as leaving it in your suitcase. Take some time to launder, fold and put away the clothes that are only serving as reminder of the time away you spent just a few days ago.

Go grocery shopping
Your fridge is most likely empty and maybe smelly from that food you forgot to throw away before you left, so clean it out, then head to the grocery store and stock up on your regular essentials. It may seem like a small thing, but having your go-to snacks and food items right where you're used to seeing them will go a long way toward making your house seem like home again.

Detox from vacation food
One of the best parts of traveling is trying out new foods and savoring every last special treat. But when you get back, your body will probably be craving fruits and veggies, so give it what it needs. Take a break from rich, heavy feasts by avoiding takeout and preparing a few healthy dinners yourself. While it might seem ho-hum after a week of dressing up for fancy out-of-town restaurants, making a meal in your own kitchen can really help you settle back in and get a healthier eating routine back on track.

Get some exercise
Beat the post-travel blues by releasing some endorphins with physical activity, whether it's getting back into the swing of your exercise class or going on a run. The disappointment you might feel as a result of your vacation's end can lead to the feeling that nothing, aside from getting on a plane and heading straight back, can bring about that same energy again. Blast away those thoughts with a good workout session and remind yourself that there are many ways to get that feel-good boost.

Balance your budget
Make sure to check your bank-account balance as soon as you get home, if you weren't already keeping up with it while you were away. Not only will your travel spending inform your budget decisions for the immediate future, but you'll want to take a close look at your statement, while the recent charges are still fresh in your mind, to make sure there are no transactions you need to dispute.

Beat the jet lag
On your first Monday back in the office, don't give in to that urge to crawl under your desk and take a nap at 2 p.m. Instead, fight your jet lag by going to bed at the normal hour for your current location and staying hydrated.

Organize your photos
Don't wait too long to download, edit and share your travel photos or you'll run the risk of forgetting the details of your trip. Don't let your camera collect dust: Block out a few hours and organize your pics. Instead of mourning the loss of those scenic vistas, relive your vacation by making a photo album that serves as a reminder of why you love to travel.

Plan the next one
In the midst of this thrust to readjust to regular life, make sure you take time to reflect on your trip and share the details of your getaway with friends and family. Think about everything you learned and what you most want to take away from the experience. And then start planning again! There's no better way to cure a travel hangover than to pull out a map, do some research and get excited about the amazing adventures to come.

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

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

Off the Beaten Track: Roquefort, France

A visit to the village of Roquefort, France, means being assaulted by pungent aromas, exploring damp underground caves and tasting the most delicious cheese ever made.

Take the road from Toulouse to the small town of Roquefort, perched on the mountainside, and the trip became part of the experience. Tight winding roads snake their way up the midi-Pyrénées, through hidden villages via two-way roads big enough for only one car (an exciting challenge when greeted by headlights halfway through a mountain tunnel), and the intoxicating vistas only added to the anticipation.

The town itself is heavily touristed, as one would expect from a place that has earned a global reputation for its moldy cheese. But the crowds, the heart-stopping drops off the road, and the difficulty in finding parking in a town that was most certainly not made for such an influx of cars is all part of the charm of getting there.

The only thing better is the free cheese offered at the end of the tour of Société’s 11-story-high caves. As with all things touristy, the exit from the caves at the end leads you through a gift shop – but this one is lined with refrigerated counters filled with the three main types of Roquefort that the company produces. 

Never has a company had an easier time convincing visitors to part with their money. And rarely is it so worth it.

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

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
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How to Avoid the Flu While Traveling and What to Do if You Get It

If you have a trip planned, you could be even more susceptible to getting the flu because you’re coming into contact with more people than you normally would (think planes, cruise ships, etc.), as well as potentially deviating from your healthy eating, exercise and sleep habits. With that in mind, here are some tips for travelers looking to protect their health and well-being this flu season:

How to avoid the flu:

Research the current flu activity in your destination and make sure you are up-to-date on your flu vaccine, your single best protection against the flu, since flu seasons vary by location.

Get your shot at least two weeks before your trip: It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body that provide protection against the flu, so travelers should definitely leave enough time between when they get the shot and their upcoming trip. Good news: The U.S. vaccine will protect against the major flu viruses found in other parts of the world.

Practice common-sense healthy habits: Keep your hands off your face—especially your eyes, nose and mouth. Avoid people who are visibility sick and wash your hands regularly with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds (the time it takes to hum the song “Happy Birthday” from beginning to end twice). If warm water and soap are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Bring disinfectant wipes along with you to clean germ-prone surfaces like the airplane’s seatback tray and the remote control in your hotel room. 

What to do if you get the flu while traveling

Seek medical attention quickly if you’re at high risk: Most people recover from the flu at home without medical treatment. However, those at increased risk should be vigilant about their symptoms and seek medical attention. High-risk individuals include those with compromised immune systems and/or chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, asthma and neurological conditions, those 65 years or older, pregnant women, and young children. 

Take an antiviral flu medication: There are four antiviral drugs approved for treating the flu in the United States—oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza), amantadine (generic), and rimantadine (Flumadine). These meds prevent serious complications from the flu and work best when started within the first two days of getting sick. Antiviral drugs aren’t sold over-the-counter (over the counter medications can relieve flu symptoms, but will not make you less contagious), so you’ll need a prescription. If you did not pack prescription medicines with you (in their original containers to avoid questions, or confiscation, at customs, of course!) contact your travel assistance provider to recommend a local pharmacy.

Stay in and rest. It’s best to get the rest your body needs by staying in your hotel room to recover for at least 24 hours after your fever has completely subsided naturally—not just through the use of fever-reducers. Typically, a person is infectious from about 1 day before getting sick to 5-7 days after getting sick.

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

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Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
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John Day Fossil Beds National Monument Oregon

Colorful rock formations at John Day Fossil Beds preserve a world class record of plant and animal evolution, changing climate, and past ecosystems that span over 40 million years. Exhibits and a working lab at the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center as well as scenic drives and hikes at all three units allow visitors to explore the prehistoric past of Oregon and see science in action.

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument consists of three units: the Clarno Unit, the Painted Hills Unit, and the Sheep Rock Unit. These three locations are dispersed through east-central Oregon, and visiting all three units is difficult to do in a single day, but is possible with an early start.

The Clarno Unit is located 18 miles west of the town of Fossil. The Palisades are the most prominent landform. 44 million years ago a series of volcanic mudflows, swept up and perserved a diverse assortment of plants and animals that inhabited a near-tropical forest. Tiny four-toed horses, huge rhino-like brontotheres, crocodilians, and meat-eating creodonts that once roamed ancient jungles are now found in the rocks of the Clarno Unit, as well as an incredibly diverse range of plant life. Leaves, fruits, nuts, seeds, and petrified wood from 173 species of trees, vines, shrubs, and other plants have been found here thus far.

The yellows, golds, blacks, and reds of the Painted Hills are beautiful at all times of the day, but are best lit for photography in the late afternoon. Changing light and moisture levels can drastically affect the tones and hues visible in the hills. The Painted Hills at the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument are made of heavily eroded volcanic ash layers.

Multiple exposures of the Turtle Cove strata can be seen at the Sheep Rock Unit. This blue-green rock layer represents millions of years of volcanic ash accumulation. Surprisingly enough, the green tint is not due to copper, but rather a complex blending of the elements hydrogen, oxygen, sodium, magnesium, aluminum, silicon, potassium, calcium, iron, strontium, and barium.

Contructed in 2003, the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center is the best place to see fossils at the monument. Here, fossils from all three units of the park, as well as those from other federal lands in the area, are on display for visitors to see up close.

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

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

Let Us Help You Get Lost

Choosing the right vacation is an important decision. Choosing the right agent is an even bigger decision. Don't leave your vacation to chance. Insist on the best, Rawhide Travel and Tours.

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

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

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

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

In the News: Russia airports to Ban All Liquids on Flights Ahead of Sochi Olympics

Planning to travel to the Sochi Olympics? Here is a report to keep in mind if you are.

Two of Moscow’s major airports have banned passengers from taking any form of liquid in their hand luggage as Russia ramps up security ahead of the Winter Olympics in Sochi next month.

Vnukovo and Sheremetyevo airports will strip people of any liquid, gel, or aerosol in their carry-on baggage, The Moscow Times reported Thursday.

In a statement on its website, Sheremetyevo airport said all liquids, including essential prescription medicine and baby food, would need to be sorted in check-in luggage. Direct flights from New York to Sheremetyevo take around 10 hours and 30 minutes.

Vnukovo airport said it would allow medicine in carry-on luggage, but only if the passenger carried an official doctor’s statement as proof, The Moscow Times said, citing Russian-language media.

Airports in Sochi, St. Petersburg and Moscow’s Domodedovo airport said they would allow liquid containers of 100 milliliters or less.

The new rules are part of a wider security crackdown and will run until Mar. 21. Safety concerns have been inflated ahead of Sochi following two bombings in the city of Volgograd.

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

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
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Unique Destinations: Spring Festival or Chinese New Year

The Spring Festival is the most important festival for the Chinese people and is when all family members get together, just like Christmas in the West. All people living away from home go back, becoming the busiest time for transportation systems of about half a month from the Spring Festival. Airports, railway stations and long-distance bus stations are crowded with home returnees.

The Spring Festival falls on the 1st day of the 1st lunar month, often one month later than the Gregorian calendar. It originated in the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600 BC-c. 1100 BC) from the people's sacrifice to gods and ancestors at the end of an old year and the beginning of a new one.

Strictly speaking, the Spring Festival starts every year in the early days of the 12th lunar month and will last till the mid 1st lunar month of the next year. Of them, the most important days are Spring Festival Eve and the first three days. The Chinese government now stipulates people have seven days off for the Chinese Lunar New Year.

Many customs accompany the Spring Festival. Some are still followed today, but others have weakened.

Chinese New Year 2014 is on Friday, January 31, 2014

Celebrate in Hong Kong

Chinese New Year is without a doubt the biggest (and most-adored) festival of the lunar calendar, with 15-days packed with age-old traditions, cultural festivities and family celebrations! Starting on the first day of the new year, (31 January) and right up until the Spring Lantern Festival (14 February), locals flock to aromatic temples to pray for good fortune, fill themselves with auspicious foods and string up shock-red lanterns.

In true Hong Kong style, the city will welcome the Year of the Horse with festive flamboyancy, timeless traditions and that unique touch of cosmopolitan flair! Festivities are spread out over three weeks, so whether you’re squeezing into festive flower markets and incense-filled temples, gasping at breathtaking pyrotechnics or cheering at lively sports events, you’ll be sure to experience a Chinese New Year here like no other!

The night parade is one of the best-loved events of all the Chinese New Year celebrations in Hong Kong. Thousands line the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui to watch local and international performers and brightly-coloured floats turn the harbour front into one big outdoor party. 

The Chinese New Year period in Hong Kong is packed with a wide array of events. From fireworks displays and well-wishing rituals to horse racing and football, there’s something for everyone. So, be sure to check out these events if you are going to Hong Kong.

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

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

Blizzard conditions in the Northeast and winter weather across much of the United States mean a whole lot of waiting for people itching to be on their way.

Here are some tips to ease the trip home, but above all else, patience and caution will be key.

Rebook your flight for free. Airlines rolled out their customary winter weather waivers this week, so most passengers traveling to, from or through affected areas can make one itinerary change without paying a change fee. Delta, American, US Airways, United, Southwest/AirTran and JetBlue have all posted weather policies on their websites.

Act quickly. Rebook your itinerary as soon as possible. Other passengers are snapping up open seats as you mull over a new itinerary. Be sure that your airline has your e-mail address and phone number. If you didn't provide this information when you purchased the ticket, go online and add it.

Follow your airline and airport on social media. Many airlines and airports post the speediest updates to their Twitter feeds, so start following them now. Sign up for airline alerts to get flight updates e-mailed to your smartphone.

If you're stranded, multitask. Get online, get on the phone and get in the ticketing line (if you're already at the airport). With thousands of flights delayed or canceled, competition will be fierce for seats when operations start humming again. Get airline apps for your phone and try to contact your airline on Twitter.

Elite fliers should use their loyalty program hot lines and head to frequent flier lounges for better access to airline reps. 

Charge your devices. Hopefully, you're not among those travelers stranded at the airport, where jockeying for electrical outlets is inevitable. Charge up before you head out, and keep a car charger and a power pack or a few battery chargers for your portable electronic devices handy.

Check your flight, no matter where you're going. Think you don't have to worry about bad weather because you're flying from sunny California to sunny Florida?  Because airlines operate networks, a storm affects not only flights in its immediate location but even those in far-removed locations not affected by the storm. Check your aircraft's journey on your airline website or with an app like Flightview.

Don't be a jerk. The airline representatives did not make it snow. We've heard many anecdotal stories over the years from airline representatives who tell us it's a lot easier to find a good flight for a pleasant passenger than for one who is screaming at you.

Use common sense: Don't drive into a storm. It's treacherous out there. Monitor your local and regional forecasts, and don't drive if you don't have to.

AAA advises motorists to check tire pressure and make sure car batteries, cooling systems and antifeeze levels are in order. Keep gas tanks close to full, the automobile association advises, so that you'll be able to run the engine for heat in case you get stranded.


AAA suggests keeping the following items in your car: a shovel and a bag of sand, a snow brush and ice scraper, jumper cables, a spare tire, windshield wiper fluid, a cell phone and car charger and blankets, gloves, hats and food, water and essential medication.

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

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