Planning Your Vacation? We Can Help!

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

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

Off The Beaten Path: Isola del Liri Italy

Would you like to enjoy a beatiful town that has yet to be over run with other tourists? Isola del Liri is an inland island about 60 miles south of Rome. And the only Italian town with two waterfalls within the old city limits.

The town is totally surrounded by water from the river Liri which forks out northeast of the city only to merge again a few miles further south.

The island has been known from pre-Roman times. It has been mentioned by Plinio the Elder and Dante. Some claim Cicero, the writer who has tortured every student of Latin, had his villa right outside town. And for many years it was the center of the mid-Italian paper industry.

Sadly, the town and the area suffered severe destruction during WWII, but Isola del Liri has recovered. In 2008 it was classified as ‘area di elevato benessere, istruzione superiore e sistema locale organizzato’, which is a mark of distinction for Italian municipalities indicating that the 12 000 people living on the island are doing well in terms of education, economy and infrastructure.

So you do not have to sit at a café enjoying the view of Cascata Grande with a vertical fall of 75 feet to find Isola del Liri attractive. But it definitely helps. And after a short walk along the main street through the historical center to the other smaller Cascata del Valcatoio waterfall I was whirled along and wanted to stay in Isola del Liri for as long as possible.

The town's main sight is the Castello Boncompagni-Viscogliosi, a fortified palace near two waterfalls, Cascata Grande and Cascata del Valcatoio, each about 98 feet high, and a bridge on river. It is mentioned for the first time in 1100. After the acquisition of the Duchy of Sora by the della Rovere family, it became one of their main residences. It was also housed by their successors as dukes, the Boncompagni; in the 17th century Costanza Sforza turned into a luxurious palace, with biblica frescoes and basreliefs of the duchy's lands, as well as a garden.

Of Volscan origin, after the fall of the Western Roman Empire Isola del Liri was ruled by the Byzantines and then the Lombards. Later it was part of the Duchy of Sora, becoming a ducal seat under the Boncompagni family. In 1796 it was annexed to the Papal States.

The city fell in the Middle Ages, alternatively, under the rule of the Byzantine and Lombard, until it became part of the county of Sora in the Principality of Capua. Isola del Liri was the feud of the dell'Isola (de Insulae) of the twelfth century to the fourteenth century. Among the famous personalities of this family, were Roffredo dell'Isola, Abbot of Monte Cassino, Count d'Arce, and Bartholomew dell'Isola who enjoyed the honors in the seat of Capuano Naples. At the end of the fourteenth century, Isola del Liri was ceded to the Cantelmo family.

It was once in the old Terra di Lavoro region of Campania, but was transferred into Lazio during the Fascist period.

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

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

Culinary Travel: Venetian Rice and Peas Recipe

Almost a risotto and yet not quite a soup, risi e bisi (Rice and Peas) was once reserved for special occasions. Thanks to food processors, high-quality frozen peas, and this super-fast stir-it-once method, you need not wait for a special day.

Ingredients

5 cups chicken stock
1 garlic clove
1 medium onion, quartered
1/4 pound sliced pancetta
2 (2- by 1-inch) strips lemon zest
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 (10-ounce) box frozen baby peas
1 cup Arborio rice
1/3 cup grated parmesan

Directions

Bring broth to a simmer in a saucepan, then keep at a simmer.

Meanwhile, turn on a food processor and drop in garlic, processing until finely chopped. Turn off processor, then add onion and pancetta and pulse until finely chopped.

Cook onion mixture with zest in oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium-high heat, stirring once or twice, until onion is softened and just beginning to turn golden, about 6 minutes.

Cook peas in broth 2 minutes. Strain broth into onion mixture, reserving peas, then stir in rice. Cook, covered, over high heat, stirring once after 5 minutes, until rice is al dente, 10 to 12 minutes. Stir in peas, cheese, remaining tablespoon butter, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. 

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

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

Is Your Dream Vacation in Venice?

Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and the capital of the Veneto region. It is situated across a group of 117 small islands that are separated by canals and linked by bridges. These are located in the shallow Venetian Lagoon, an enclosed bay that lies between the mouths of the Po and the Piave Rivers. Parts of Venice are renowned for the beauty of their settings, their architecture, and artwork. The lagoon and a part of the city are listed as a World Heritage Site.

Are you ready for a gondola ride?

In 2014, 264,579 people resided in Comune di Venezia, of whom around 55,000 live in the historic city of Venice (Centro storico). Together with Padua and Treviso, the city is included in the Padua-Treviso-Venice Metropolitan Area (PATREVE), with a total population of 2.6 million. PATREVE is only a statistical metropolitan area without any degree of autonomy.

The name is derived from the ancient Veneti people who inhabited the region by the 10th century BC. The city was historically the capital of the Republic of Venice. Venice has been known as the "La Dominante," "Serenissima," "Queen of the Adriatic," "City of Water," "City of Masks," "City of Bridges," "The Floating City," and "City of Canals."

The Republic of Venice was a major financial and maritime power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and a staging area for the Crusades and the Battle of Lepanto, as well as a very important center of commerce (especially silk, grain, and spice) and art in the 13th century up to the end of the 17th century. The City State of Venice is considered to have been the first real international financial center which gradually emerged from the 9th century to its peak in the 14th century. This made Venice a wealthy city throughout most of its history.

It is also known for its several important artistic movements, especially the Renaissance period. After the Napoleonic Wars and the Congress of Vienna, the Republic was annexed by the Austrian Empire, until it became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1866, following a referendum held as a result of the Third Italian War of Independence. Venice has played an important role in the history of symphonic and operatic music, and it is the birthplace of Antonio Vivaldi

Although no surviving historical records deal directly with the founding of Venice, tradition and the available evidence have led several historians to agree that the original population of Venice consisted of refugees from Roman cities near Venice such as Padua, Aquileia, Treviso, Altino and Concordia (modern Portogruaro) and from the undefended countryside, who were fleeing successive waves of Germanic and Hun invasions. Some late Roman sources reveal the existence of fishermen on the islands in the original marshy lagoons. They were referred to as incolae lacunae ("lagoon dwellers"). The traditional founding is identified with the dedication of the first church, that of San Giacomo on the islet of Rialto (Rivoalto, "High Shore") — said to have taken place at the stroke of noon on 25 March 421 (the Feast of the Annunciation).

Beginning as early as AD 166 to 168, the Quadi and Marcomanni destroyed the main center in the area, the current Oderzo. The Roman defences were again overthrown in the early 5th century by the Visigoths and, some 50 years later, by the Huns led by Attila. The last and most enduring immigration into the north of the Italian peninsula, that of the Lombards in 568, left the Eastern Roman Empire a small strip of coast in the current Veneto, including Venice. The Roman/Byzantine territory was organized as the Exarchate of Ravenna, administered from that ancient port and overseen by a viceroy (the Exarch) appointed by the Emperor in Constantinople, but Ravenna and Venice were connected only by sea routes; and with the Venetians' isolated position came increasing autonomy. New ports were built, including those at Malamocco and Torcello in the Venetian lagoon. The tribuni maiores, the earliest central standing governing committee of the islands in the Lagoon, dated from c. 568

Call us and start planning that business trip, magic vacation or special event today. 602-843-5100

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

When You Are Ready We Can Make Your Rome Vacxation Happen

Choosing the right vacation, at the right time 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. Just need a rental car and a hotel? Then count on us!

Call us and start planning that business trip, magic vacation or special event today. 602-843-5100

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

Off The Beaten Path: Cemetery In Rome

The Cimitero Acattolico ("Non-Catholic Cemetery") of Rome, often referred to as the Cimitero dei protestanti ("Protestant Cemetery") or Cimitero degli Inglesi ("Englishmen's Cemetery"), is a public cemetery in the rione of Testaccio in Rome. It is near Porta San Paolo and adjacent to the Pyramid of Cestius, a small-scale Egyptian-style pyramid built in 30 BC as a tomb and later incorporated into the section of the Aurelian Walls that borders the cemetery. It has Mediterranean cypress, pomegranate and other trees, and a grassy

meadow. It is the final resting place of non-Catholics including but not exclusive to Protestants or British people. The earliest known burial is that of a University of Oxford student named Langton in 1738. The English poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley are buried there.

Shelley, who did not know how to swim, drowned in 1822 while sailing in his yacht off the Italian Riviera. When his body washed up upon the shore, a copy of Keats' poetry was discovered in his pocket - doubled back - as though it had been put away in a hurry. He was cremated on the beach near Viareggio by his friends, the poet Lord Byron and the English adventurer Edward John Trelawny. His ashes were sent to the British consulate in Rome, who had them interred in the Protestant Cemetery some months later.

Shelley's heart supposedly survived cremation and was snatched out of the flames by Trelawny, who subsequently gave it to Shelley's widow, Mary. When Mary Shelley died, the heart was found in her desk wrapped in the manuscript of "Adonais," the elegy Shelley had written the year before upon the death of Keats, in which the poet urges the traveler, "Go thou to Rome ...".

Shelley and Mary's three-year-old son William was also buried in the Protestant Cemetery.

Shelley's heart was finally buried, encased in silver, in 1889, with the son who survived him, Sir Percy Florence Shelley, but his gravestone in the Protestant Cemetery is inscribed: Cor cordium ("heart of hearts"), followed by a quotation from Shakespeare's The Tempest:

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

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

Culinary Travel: Bucatini All’amatriciana Recipe

Claudio Gargioli is the chef at the Armando al Pantheon restaurant in Rome. He wraps tender veal in prosciutto and sage, marinates it in white wine and then frys it up. No wonder the name “saltimbocca” means “jump in your mouth” in Roman dialect. In general, Roman restaurants do their antipasti and primi better than their secondi — but this is one meat dish to be sure to try.

Bucatini all’amatriciana (Pasta with pork and tomatoes)

Amatriciana is another of those dishes that are part of Armando al Pantheon’s history. The dish is named after a town in Lazio called Amatrice. But is that really important? The wholesomeness of the ingredients and its overall simplicity are what really make it one of the city’s tastiest dishes. 

Ingredients 

1¼ pounds bucatini pasta
4½ ounces guanciale (cured pig’s jowl)
6-7 tomatoes 
3½ ounces grated Pecorino Romano cheese 
½ glass dry white wine
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Salt to taste

Directions

Start by filling up a large pot with hot water, salt it and put it on to boil. While you’re waiting to throw in the bucatini, make the sauce that will wow your guests.

Pour some extra virgin olive oil into a frying pan, as that’s where you’re going to cook the superior quality guanciale. Chop it into thick strips and fry until crisp in the oil. Now it’s time works to simmer with white wine, a Castelli Romani works great. Reduce then take the guanciale out of the pan right away and set aside.

Add six or seven San Marzano tomatoes to the pan along with the oil and fat released by the pig's jowl. Flatten them with a wooden spoon and simmer for a few minutes. That's the sauce taken care of. Tip the pasta into the boiling water, and while you're waiting, grate the Pecorino Romano, the one with the black rind and nicely matured.

Transfer the crispy guanciale back into the pan where the sauce is waiting, then tip in the pasta, cooked al dente.  Toss together and split into portions, being careful not to splash your outfit (bucatini are terrible for this). Sprinkle with Pecorino and a grating of black pepper.

The applause will be deafening and no doubt you'll be stuck with the burden (or honour) or inviting your friends for dinner another ten, hundred, million times so they can savour your super Amatriciana, time and time again.

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

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

rawhidetravel.com

Travel To Rome This Year

This week we will be talking about an epic place for you to visit.

Rome is a city and special commune (named Roma Capitale) in Italy. Rome is the capital of Italy and of the Lazio region. With 3 million residents in 500 square miles, it is also the country's largest and most populated commune and fourth-most populous city in the European Union by population within city limits. The Metropolitan City of Rome has a population of 4.3 million residents. The city is located  in the central-western portion of the Italian Peninsula, within Lazio (Latium), along the shores of Tiber river. The Vatican City is an independent country geographically located within the city boundaries of Rome, the only existing example of a country within a city: for this reason, Rome, has been often defined as capital of two states.

Rome's history spans more than two and a half thousand years. While Roman mythology dates the founding of Rome at only around 753 BC, the site has been inhabited for much longer, making it one of the oldest continuously occupied sites in Europe. The city's early population originated from a mix of Latins, Etruscans and Sabines. Eventually, the city successively became the capital of the Roman Kingdom, the Roman Republic and the Roman Empire, and is regarded as one of the birthplaces of Western civilization and by some as the first ever metropolis. It was first called urbs aeterna (The Eternal City) by the Roman poet Tibullus in the 1st century BCE, and the expression was also taken up by Ovid, Virgil, and Livy. Rome is also called the "Caput Mundi" (Capital of the World).

After the fall of the Western Empire, which marked the beginning of the Middle Ages, Rome slowly fell under the political control of the Papacy, which had settled in the city since the 1st century AD, until in the 8th century it became the capital of the Papal States, which lasted until 1870.

Beginning with the Renaissance, almost all the popes since Nicholas V (1422–55) pursued coherently along four hundred years an architectonic and urbanistic programmer aimed to make of the city the world's artistic and cultural center. Due to that, Rome became first one of the major centers of the Italian Renaissance, and then the birthplace of both the Baroque style and Neoclassicism. Famous artists, painters, sculptors and architects made Rome the center of their activity, creating masterpieces throughout the city. In 1871 Rome became the capital of the Kingdom of Italy, and in 1946 that of the Italian Republic.

Rome has the status of a global city. Rome ranked in 2014 as the 14th-most-visited city in the world, 3rd most visited in the European Union, and the most popular tourist attraction in Italy. Its historic center is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Monuments and museums such as the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum are among the world's most visited tourist destinations with both locations receiving millions of tourists a year. Rome hosted the 1960 Summer Olympics and is the seat of United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

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

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

What Or Where Is Your Dream Vacation

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.

Your dream vacation... If Not Now ... When?

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: Ski Train Denver To Winter Park

Amtrak has debuted a ski train between Denver and Winter Park. Skiing and snowboarding are a lot of fun. Getting to the resorts isn't.

Unless you're staying in slopeside lodgings, driving to the action often involves dicey two-lane roads. And at the end of the day, you're back behind the wheel -- fuming, stuck on gridlocked access roads. Now Amtrak is improving the lot of Colorado skiers as it debuts the Winter Park Express seasonal route on January 7. Linking Denver's recently renovated Union Station to the Winter Park Resort, this is ride-in/ride-out skiing. A handful of small American resorts, like Massachusetts' Wachusett, have rail access but they also involve shuttles. The Winter Park Express is different. 

"It's the only rail connection that takes you to the ski lifts themselves," says Amtrak spokesman Marc Magliari.

After a two-hour ride, passengers disembark just yards from the resort's Gemini Express quad. "There's no other mode of transportation needed: You can just grab your skis, hop on the lift and you're skiing within minutes," says Steve Hurlbert, Winter Park's director of communications. "You're also steps from the rental shop if needed."

The Winter Park Express is the successor to the Ski Train, which was not affiliated with Amtrak and ran the same route from 1940 to 2009, when losses proved too big even for billionaire owner Philip Anschutz. For its first season, the Express will operate a round trip every Saturday and Sunday and on holiday Mondays until March 26. One-way tickets cost $39-$59. 

Reviving the route actually was a grassroots initiative from train employees in the Denver area. Brad Swartzwelter, the president of the conductors' union, worked for the Ski Train when he was in college and thought it'd be great to bring it back. He and other conductors presented the plan to Amtrak and Winter Park management, who got on board. In March 2015, Amtrak ran a couple of test trips that sold out in hours.

Call Rawhide Travel and Tours and start planning that special Ski 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

Off The Beaten Path: Hiking The Adirondacks

The Adirondack Region of Northern New York offers some of the best year-round hiking experiences in the country. From spring's fresh air and greenery, to fall's spectacular foliage - the Adirondack Mountains provide unlimited outdoor recreation - no matter the season.

Winter Hiking

In the Adirondacks, even several feet of snow and freezing temperatures won't discourage avid outdoors enthusiasts. Adirondack hiking trails beckon with adventure even in winter and most trails are open for recreation. Before setting out, check the DEC's website to find out if there are any avalanche or storm warnings.

The Adirondack Loj just outside of Lake Placid is open for winter camping in the Adirondacks. Winter hiking and camping can be strenuous, so it is important that participants understand the symptoms and signs of frostbite and hypothermia, as well as plan their routes and overnight sites carefully.

Winter Hiking Routes:

    Whiteface Mountain
    Scarface Mountain
    Giant Mountain
    Pitchoff Mountain
    Cascade Mountain
    Haystack Mountain
    Ampersand Mountain

What To Wear:

    Base layer that is made of a wool blend, polypropylene or polyester
    Wool or synthetic fleece shirt fleece or wool jacket
    Waterproof pants
    Waterproof jacket with a hood
    Winter hat with ear protection
    Balaclava / facemask
    Mittens / gloves (preferably waterproof)
    Moisture wicking socks and dry spares
    Winter boots
    Gaiters to keep snow out of your boots

Don't Forget To Bring:

    Fire starting supplies
    Heat blankets
    Extra food and water

Call Rawhide Travel and Tours and start planning that special vacation adventure hike 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

Culinary Travel: Southern Pot Roast Chicken

Southern Pot Roast Chicken is the meal many think of, when they can’t think of anything else to make. You will love this meal for three reasons. One you can’t go wrong with a roasted chicken it pretty much pleases everyone. Two, you may have everything on hand to make this easy meal. And three it’s pretty economical, whole chickens are always on sale. You can find them in most places for less than $1.00 a pound. you can get two pretty good sized chickens under $7.00. When you find them for a great price stock up and freeze several at a time..

Ingredients 

Brine:

6 cups of water

1/2 cup of packed brown sugar

1/4 cup of kosher salt

Springs of fresh thyme, optional

1/2 teaspoon of whole peppercorns, optional

To 6 cups of cool, filtered water, add the brown sugar and kosher salt. Whisk until everything is dissolved; add in the thyme and peppercorns. Place the chicken into a gallon sized zippered bag and pour the brine over the chicken. Seal and place into a container in the refrigerator for about 3 hours, or up to 12 hours.

Casserole:

1 (4-5 pound) whole chicken

Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper

3 cloves of garlic, smashed & peel removed

5 slices of bacon

1 cup of sliced onion

1 tablespoon of canola or vegetable oil

3 tablespoons of butter, softened at room temperature, divided

2 pounds of potatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick

1/4 cup of water

 2 sprigs of fresh parsley

 2 sprigs of fresh thyme

 2 small bay leaves

 1 loaf of French bread

Directions 

Prepare the brine and add the chicken at least 3 hours before cooking. Before cooking, rinse well and pat dry with paper towels. Season the chicken cavity generously with salt and pepper and stuff the smashed garlic into the cavity; truss the chicken and set aside.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Slice bacon into the bottom of a large skillet and lightly brown. Add onion and cook until slightly softened. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon and onion to a Dutch oven. Add the oil and 1 tablespoon of the butter to the pan drippings in the skillet and add the chicken, browning on all sides, about 15 minutes total; remove and transfer to the Dutch oven.  To the pan drippings in the skillet add the potatoes, sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper and toss to coat. Add water and bring to a boil. Cover the skillet and boil the potatoes for about 3 to 4 minutes to steam them. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the potatoes; toss to coat completely.  Transfer the potatoes to the Dutch oven, placing them around the chicken.

Sprinkle chicken with salt, add the parsley, thyme, and bay leaves; cover and place into the oven. Cook at 325 degrees Fahrenheit, covered, basting a couple of times with the pan juices, for about 1-1/4 to 1 hour 40 minutes, depending on the size chicken, or until chicken is cooked through. Carefully remove the chicken to a carving board, tent with aluminum foil and let rest for 5 - 10 minutes; cut into serving pieces.

If serving with French bread, while the chicken rests, turn the oven up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, wrap French bread in aluminum foil and place in oven until warmed through. Transfer the chicken pieces to a platter, and using a slotted spoon, remove the potatoes and onion, placing those on the side of the chicken or in a separate serving dish. Pour the pan juices all over the top of the chicken, saving some to spoon over the individual servings, if desired. Remove and slice the hot French bread and use it to sop up the juices. Serve with a side salad or green vegetable.

Note: You can use butcher's twine to tie together fresh thyme, parsley, and bay leaf, if you prefer. 

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

Presented By:

Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc

6008 West Bell Rd # F105

Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793

(602) 843-5100

rawhidetravel.com

Hotels With A Very Different Past

Oklahoma City's 21c Museum

Housed in an old Ford Model T assembly plant, Oklahoma City's 21c Museum Hotel is one of many hotels giving new life to Original concrete columns and other historic elements have been incorporated into 21c spaces that now mix contemporary art, fine dining and lodging. 

Original concrete columns and other historic elements have been incorporated into 21c spaces that now mix contemporary art, fine dining and lodging. 21c's Oklahoma City location opened in June.

Housed in an old Ford Model T assembly plant, Oklahoma City's 21c Museum Hotel is one of many hotels giving new life to historic buildings. Oklahoma City's 21c Museum Hotel is one of many hotels giving life to historic old buildings. Model T Fords used to roll across the floors of a vast, century-old building that now houses contemporary art and hotel guests.

Hoteliers are keenly aware that many travelers are moving beyond cookie-cutter experiences in search of something local -- spots that reflect the history and texture of their locations.

Hotel Emma, San Antonio

Once devoted to beer, a new brewery-turned-hotel quenches 21st-century thirsts on several levels. – Located in an 1894 brew house, Hotel Emma in San Antonio folds elements of the building's past into its decor. A light fixture at hotel bar Sternewirth incorporates components once used in the brewery's bottling room.


Hoteliers are keenly aware that many travelers are moving beyond cookie-cutter experiences in search of something local -- spots that reflect the history and texture of their locations.

To that end, more companies in the United States are involved in adaptive-reuse projects -- rehabbing buildings with a variety of past lives into hotels and other businesses that have a bit more pep and personality than some of the new-construction alternatives.

Call us and start planning that special vacation now. Let us help ypou book either of these two hotels!. 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

Two Great Cruises, Nashville to St. Louis and Memphis

More than just the Country Music Capital of the World, Nashville, TN is a city that typifies the American Heartland. We offer two intriguing cruises, Nashville to St. Louis and Memphis to Nashville that journey along the Cumberland and Mississippi Rivers, showing off the rustic beauty of lands virtually untouched since the early days of American history. These cruises offer the distinct sounds of Nashville, St. Louis and Memphis, three of the country's most important music centers. Is it time for you to cruise America's Heartland rivers? River cruises are a very special kind of adventure.

Personal Service is a hallmark of distinction for American Cruise Lines. Each member of their staff is ready to create an exceptional cruise experience for you. Their guiding principle is simple; if it’s important to you, it’s important to them. An all-American crew will get to know you by name and quickly learn your preferences. They may even surprise you with your favorite snack when you return to the ship after a day of exploring the local culture. Their culinary team is ready to serve you the finest local cuisine plus your personal menu favorites, while meeting all dietary requirements.

Let them help you celebrate a special event in unforgettable style. Or, invite your friends to join you for dinner aboard the ship when they dock near them.

Cumberland River Cruise
The American heartland is a storied region steeped in history and culture. Relax on a first-class paddlewheeler as you pass rolling farmlands and tree-lined riverbanks as the leaves begin to change in September. Enjoy guided shore excursions including a tour of the River Heritage Museum in Paducah, KY and a walking tour of Chester, IL, situated atop the bluffs of the Mississippi River Valley offering unparalleled views.

Ports of Call - Nashville, TN - Clarksville TN - Dover, TN - Lake Barkley, KY - Paducah, KY - Cape Girardeau, MO - Chester, IL - St. Louis, MO  

Memphis to Nashville Cruise

A journey from Memphis to Nashville not only retraces the voyages of intrepid pioneers of American history but also features two cities known for great contributions to our nation's music heritage. From the rhythm and blues of Memphis to the bluegrass country style of Nashville, this river cruise traverses the Mississippi and Cumberland Rivers offering amazing scenery and lively entertainment. Explore the fascinating history of Cape Girardeau and its significance in the American Civil War and learn about the art of wine making during a visit to Clarksville. 

Ports of Call - Memphis, TN - Cape Girardeau, MO - Paducah, KY - Dover, TN - Clarksville, TN - Nashville, TN

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

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

Explore Jewel Cave for Adventure

Explore and Discover One of the Last Frontiers in the World

Immerse yourself within the third longest cave in the world. With over 180 miles of mapped and surveyed passages, this underground wilderness appeals to human curiosity. Its splendor is revealed through fragile formations and glimpses of brilliant color. Its maze of passages lure explorers, and its scientific wealth remains a mystery. This resource is truly a jewel in the National Park Service.

By 1979, Herb and Jan Conn had discovered, named, and mapped more than 64 miles of passages. Although they largely retired from caving by the early 1980s, exploration has continued unabated. Because the areas being explored take many hours to reach, explorers now sometimes camp in the cave during expeditions of as long as four days. The cave is mapped by traditional survey techniques, using compass, clinometer and today with lasers instead of tape measures.

Its 181.89 miles of mapped passageway make Jewel Cave the third longest cave in the world, after Mammoth Cave System in Kentucky and Sistema Sac Actun at the Yucatán Peninsula (Mexico), at 198 miles.


The discovered areas in the cave account for only about 3 to 5% of the estimated total air volume of the cave. The cave volume is estimated by measuring the amount of air that the cave "exhales" when the outside air pressure drops and "inhales" when the outside air pressure rises.

Jewel Cave was formed by the gradual dissolution of limestone by stagnant, acid-rich water. The water enlarged a network of cracks that had formed during the uplift of the Black Hills approximately 60 million years ago. The layer of calcite crystals that covers much of the cave walls was created by the re-deposition of calcite from water saturated with the mineral.


After the water that formed the cave drained, speleothems (cave formations) began to form. Jewel Cave contains all the common types of calcite formations, such as stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and frostwork, although not in the same abundance as other well-known caves. The dry parts of the cave contain some formations created by the deposition of gypsum, such as gypsum needles, beards, flowers, and spiders. Finally, Jewel Cave contains a very rare formation called a hydromagnesite balloon. Those are created when gas of an unknown source inflates a pasty substance formed by the precipitation of the magnesium carbonate hydroxide mineral.

Guided tours are required to enter Jewel Cave and are offered at scheduled times. All tours must have a minimum of 2 participants. Reservations are NOT ACCEPTED for the Scenic Tour, Historic Lantern Tour (summer only), or the Discovery Talk.

Important Information for all Tours:

In summer (June - August), wait times between purchasing tickets and select tour time can be over 4 hours.

It is common for tours to fill by 12 p.m. daily during the summer season. Arrive early to increase your chance of getting on your preferred tour.

You may arrive early in the day to purchase tickets for an afternoon tour.

Reservations are accepted only for the Wild Caving Tour.

All other tour tickets are available ONLY in person on the day of the tour.

There are NO self-guided tours at Jewel Cave.

The temperature in the cave is 49°F/9°C year-round.

Jackets and low-heeled, closed-toe shoes are recommended for all tours.


Tennis shoes or hiking boots are REQUIRED for the Historic Lantern Tour. Closed toe sandals are NOT ACCEPTABLE.

Call us and start planning that special vacation now. See Jewel Cave and we can help with airfare, rental car and hotel. Visit Mount Rushmore as well.. 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

Viking River Cruise Dutch Cheese Soup Recipe

Dutch Cheese Soup The Dutch are great soup eaters, often featuring soup as a meal’s main dish. This hearty soup is perfect for a fall or winter evening. Serve it piping hot with thick slices of a crusty bread.

Destination-Focused Dining. With Viking, cuisine and wine are part of the journey. Both engage your senses and open a window to the traditions and essence of a place. Our highly trained chefs are passionate about food and committed to providing an enriching culinary experience, whether you’re savoring local specialties or American classics. And our ships’ dining areas are the ideal setting for hospitable, attentive and personalized service. 

Courtesy of Vikiking River Cruise lines, here is a wonderful dish you can make right at home. It will remind you of the great food you had onboeard. 

Ingredients

    1/4 Cup vegetable oil
    1/2 Cup onions, diced
    1 Cup cauliflower, diced
    2 potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
    1/2 Cup carrots, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
    4 Cup chicken stock
    2 Tablespoons butter
    4 ounces Canadian bacon, diced
    5 ounces Gouda cheese, thinly sliced
    Salt & pepper to taste

Topping:

8 slices sourdough baguette

Directions

Heat oil on medium-high heat in a 1 1/2-quart saucepan. Add onion and sauté until softened. Add cauliflower, carrots and potato; sauté for 5 minutes. 

Stir in chicken stock and bring to a boil. In a small skillet, heat butter. Add Canadian bacon and sauté until lightly browned; add bacon to soup. Reduce heat to low and cover, simmering until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes. Pour soup into 4 individual ovenproof crocks or bowls. 

Top each portion with 2 bread slices and 1/4 of cheese. Place under the broiler until cheese is bubbly. Serve immediately.

Makes 4 servings.

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

We Have Two New and Different 2017 Cruises For You

Do you long for water based adventures?, The wind in your face and the adventure that awaits in exotic ports of call?

Do your whims include gourmet cuisine, duty-free shopping, high-tech experiences, a go-cart track or water park and a bedroom far more luxurious than the one you sleep in at home?

Or do wish for a small vessel that has adventure in its DNA.?

The cruise industry has your lust for adventure and luxury travel uppermost in its mind.

In 2017, many of the major cruise lines, and an ambitious fleet of smaller ones, will launch new ships, each one touting new features, new ports, moves toward sustainability and cultural partnerships -- all in the interest of giving passengers a soul-stirring travel experience far removed from the workaday worries of daily life.

These two new vessels are scheduled to go into service later this year, so passengers can hit the high seas in style.

Seabourn Encore

Exotic ports of call are the hallmark of luxury cruise line Seabourn. Pioneers of the small-ship, ocean-going experience, the company recently launched the Seabourn Encore, the fourth in its fleet.

Designed to feel like a luxury yacht, the Encore embodies the finer things in life -- from the ship's crafted and curving lines down to the custom carpet and materials.

Launched in Athens, the Encore's first voyage occurred in December 2016, departing from Dubai on its way to Singapore, before making its way around the Java and Coral seas, the Barrier Reef and Queensland coast and New Zealand, before heading back to Dubai for excursions around various Mediterranean ports throughout 2017.

The ship was born at the hands of master designer Adam D. Tihany, who saw to it that the vessel will carry 600 guests in 300 elegant suites with mahogany and nautical touches, each with a private veranda and stylish marble baths.

Three-star Michelin chef Thomas Keller heads up culinary offerings in the Grill, and guests can dine in the restaurant Sushi as a culinary alternative.

Encore features a casino, pool and whirlpool, plus a water sports marina offering complimentary use of kayaks, pedal boats and windsurfers.

Guests can take advantage of the Retreat, a top-deck covered expanse with 15 cabanas available for rent. It also offers a centrally located hot tub as well as a bar, a spa cabana, lounge chairs and food and beverage service.

Seabourn is also a proud partner of UNESCO to promote sustainable tourism at World Heritage sites.

The Encore gets its official christening at a ceremony in Singapore on January 7, 2017, featuring international recording artist Sarah Brightman, who will officially name the ship during the celebration. The vessel will then depart on its true inaugural voyage, the 10-day Gems of the Java Sea cruise, bound for Indonesia.

National Geographic Quest

On the other end of the spectrum. The National Geographic Quest will be the newest Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic ship.

The National Geographic Quest will be the newest Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic ship.

Intimacy and exploration are the hallmarks of the new National Geographic Quest, a 100-passenger vessel ready to launch in June 2017. Plying the waters of Alaska's Inside Passage south to the tropical coasts of Costa Rica, Panama and through the canal to Belize, Quest is a shining star in the hunt for understanding our physical world.

The newest Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic craft offers 50 cabins, including 22 with balconies. Eight rooms can be configured into four adjoining cabins for families or groups.

Designed for nature and wildlife viewing, Quest features easily accessible public spaces and a sun deck with an outdoor walkway and alfresco bar and grill, in addition to a restaurant and a lounge with bar, facilities for presentations, including a state-of-the-art audiovisual system, a fully-equipped fitness room and a spa.

For those who need a closer look, Quest features a fleet of 24 sea kayaks, paddle boards and specially-designed landing craft.


For science geeks and knowledge-seekers, Quest will include remotely-operated vehicles (ROV), a video microscope and a hydrophone and bow-cam designed to hear and film humpback whale vocalizations and witness bow-riding dolphins. The ship also carries complete warm- and cold-water diving gear and underwater cameras so that an onboard expert can bring back underwater images.

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