Skiing in Spain

 Photo by Javier Martin

Spain is the second most mountainous country in Europe (the first one is Switzerland), it caters superb skiing conditions regardless of its comparatively southern location.

There are plenty of Spanish ski resorts not only in the Pyrenees in the north, but also as south as the Sierra Nevada in the south of Spain. Resorts are nested in the proximity to the major cities, like Madrid and Barcelona. Major Spanish ski resorts cater to snowboarders as well.The most privileged skiing in Spain is considered to be in the Pyrenees. The ski slopes outer Madrid, though they are less advanced, is accessible in about one hour by public transportation, by car, or by buses served by ski clubs. And if you have no equipment you can easily rent it there.

The best Spanish ski resorts are in the Pyrenees which are comparable with the mid-sized Alpine resorts.  Further south, above Granada in Andalucia is the Sierra Nevada which in spite of its sunny climate has hosted the World Alpine Ski Championships.

If you're considering a ski holiday in Spain the main destinations to consider are as follows.  In the Catalan Pyrenees:  Baqueira-Beret, Boí-Taüll and La Molina.  In the Aragon Pyrenees:  Astún, Candanchu, Cerler, Formigal and Panticosa.  In Andorra:  Pas de la Casa, Grau Roig, Soldeu, El Tarter and Pal.  In Andalucia:  the Sierra Nevada above Granada.

You'll also find some delightful skiing in the mountains to the north of Madrid in La Pinilla, Navacerrada, Valcotos and Valdesquí.  Further north there is skiing in La Rioja at Valdezcaray, at Alto Campoo in Cantabria and at San Isidro in León though none of these lesser known stations are geared up to large scale tourism as in the Pyrenees and to a lesser extent in the Sierra Nevada.

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

Winter Travel Tips

You'll need plenty of high-energy foods because you burn more calories in the cold. Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid caffeine.

Tip from the modelling world to prevent your hands from chapping, ALWAYS wear gloves when you're going out in the cold, even if it's just for a short time.

You'll want a layer that wicks moisture away from your body. Wear layers to stay warm. Loose clothing assists in circulation. Wear a neck gaiter to keep your neck and lower face warm. Pack a couple of 100% cotton T-shirts. They're breathable, warm and flexible - great for layering - and they can double as nightshirts.

It will be warmer if you do a few exercises before you get on the lift, and right after you get off. Go inside frequently to warm up.

Your face should be protected. Use moisturizer to provide protection from the wind. Don't forget the sunblock. Use a face mask or neck gaiter up over your mouth and/or nose.
Thermal socks are warm and help absorb moisture. Be sure you can move your toes in your boots to keep circulation moving. Toe warmers are great.

Your hands may be better protected by mittens than gloves. Glove liners help. Remove metal rings and bracelets. Hand warmers are a good idea.

Your head is an escape route for more than 50% of your body heat. Keep your head and ears covered. Remove metal earrings.

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

Christmas In United States

Photo by Matt Kozlowski

New York, Texas, Los Angeles, San Jose, Las Vegas, and California are among the top places to experience the best Christmas celebrations. New York has the ice-skating events, Christmas tree lightings, and fireworks. Las Vegas and Los Angeles are renowned for the casinos, pubs, and clubs where Christmas parties are organized. California beaches have the beach cruises. Walt Disney World is host to many adventurous shows and movies. The Epcot Christmas Party is one of the noted celebrations. Events to attend in US include Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Illinois and Winter fest of Lights, Maryland.

Santa Claus was born in US in the 1860's he was named this as he had a white beard and a belly, so he was named Santa Claus as this was the Dutch word for St Nicholas, Sintaklaas. Although the Dutch had bought him with them in the 17th century, he did not become an important person at Christmas until the Novelist Washington Irving put him in a novel that he wrote in 1809. This first Santa Claus was still known as St. Nicholas, he did smoke a pipe, and fly around in a wagon without any reindeer, but he did not have his red suit or live at the North Pole, he did however bring presents to children every year. In 1863 He was given the name Santa Claus and bore the red suit, pipe, and his reindeer and sleigh.

Now Christmas celebrations vary greatly between regions of the United States, because of the variety of nationalities which have settled in it. In Pennsylvania, the Moravians build a landscape, called a putz - under the Christmas tree, while in the same state the Germans are given gifts by Belsnickle, who taps them with his switch if they have misbehaved. In Alaska, a star on a pole is taken from door to door, followed by Herod's Men, who try to capture the star. Colonial doorways are often decorated with pineapple, a symbol of hospitality. They sing carols and are invited in for supper. In Washington D.C., a huge, spectacular tree is lit ceremoniously when the President presses a button and turns on the tree's lights. In Boston, carol singing festivities are famous. The singers are accompanied by hand bells. In New Orleans, a huge ox is paraded around the streets decorated with holly and with ribbons tied to its horns. In Arizona, the Mexican ritual called Las Posadas is kept up. This is a ritual procession and play representing the search of Mary and Joseph for a room at the inn. Families play the parts and visit each other's houses enacting and re-enacting the drama and, at the same time, having a look at each family's crib. In Hawaii, Christmas starts with the coming of the Christmas Tree Ship, which is a ship bringing a great load of Christmas fare. Santa Claus also arrives by boat. In California, Santa Claus sweeps in on a surf board. In Colorado, an enormous star is placed on the mountain, it can be seen for many kilometers around, while in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a star is lit in early December.

In America the traditional Christmas dinner is roast turkey with vegetables and sauces. For dessert it is rich, fruity Christmas pudding with brandy sauce. Mince pies, pastry cases filled with a mixture of chopped dried fruit.

The majority of Americans celebrate Christmas with the exchange of gifts and greetings and with family visits. For many, the day begins on Christmas Eve with the Midnight Mass. At Christmas it snows in many states, so dinner is usually eaten indoors. Dinner usually is roast turkey, goose, duck or ham served with cranberry sauce, then plum pudding or pumpkin pie followed by nuts and fruit.

American homes are decorated with holly, mistletoe and branches of trees, most have a Christmas tree hung with electric lights, tinsel, baubles, and strings of popcorn and candy canes.

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

KICK ICE ALASKAN GLACIER ROUTE SUPER CRUISE

RAWHIDE TRAVEL and TOURS

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

 August 22-31, 2012

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

photo by LCGS Russ at en.wikipedia

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

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

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

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

Travel Tips When Visiting London

Photo by DAVID ILIFF. License: CC-BY-SA 3.0

London has been called a ‘world in one city’ and that’s not just empty rhetoric. The brilliant feat carried off here is that while immigrants, the city’s life blood, continue to flow in and contribute their energy and cultures to the capital’s already spicy melting pot, London nevertheless feels quintessentially British, whether it’s those boxy black cabs, the red double deckers or those grand symbols of Britain – the mother of all parliaments at Westminster, the silhouette of Tower bridge above the muddy Thames or the already world-famous London Eye, barely a decade old.

England's royal family has, over the centuries, added much to the London scene for today's traveller: the Albert Memorial, Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, Royal Albert Hall, Tower of London, Kew Palace and Westminster Abbey being prominent examples.

Don’t miss these essential sights of course, but equally ensure you partake in what really makes London great: a pint and a plate of fish n’ chips by the river, a day in the park or a night out in Soho or Shoreditch. Take a deep breath and prepare to fall in love with the British capital.

While summer is a great time to visit, spring and autumn are also good times to come. The crowds are far thinner and sights less crowded. Winter’s all cold, wet and dark, although if you’re after outdoor pleasures, you’ll have them largely to yourself.

The black London taxicab is as much a feature of the cityscape as the red bus. Licensed black-cab drivers have know London better than almost anyone else.  They undergo rigorous training and exams, and are supposed to know every central London street. London’s iconic double-decker Routemaster was phased out a couple of years ago, only to be brought back to serve the more scenic routes.  Even getting on the modern double-deckers and single-decker ‘bendy’ buses, you see more of the city than while underground on the tube. Just beware that the going can be slow, thanks to traffic jams and the nearly four million commuters that get on and off the buses every day.

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

Jackson Hole Ski Resort, Wyoming

On a clear day the toy town airport of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, offers an unforgettable ringside view of a frozen tidal wave of granite, the fabulous Grand Tetons.

Jackson Hole is surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery in North America and offers a unqiue experience both on and off the slopes. This is a real, old fashioned, Western town, with raised wooden boardwalks and authentic cowboy saloons.

The main ski area is at Teton village, about 12 miles away, but reached by the regular shuttle buses.

In addition there is also the Snow King ski area in town which has some surprisingly steep runs and is open for night skiing.

Jackson Hole is in the U.S. known for its relatively steep terrain and it has one of North America's highest vertical drop of 1262 meters. The size is comparable with a small ski resort in the Alps. The ski area partially covers two mountains; known for its challenging terrain, the runs are 50% expert, 40% intermediate, and 10% beginner. The intermediate terrain is primarily on Apres Vous Mountain, while Rendezvous Mountain has Jackson Hole's more advanced terrain that includes bowls, glades, and chutes, and over 4100 vertical feet of skiing, the greatest continuous inbounds rise in the U.S.

Jackson Hole has become the home to many of the world's best free skiers as the terrain is considered to be some of the most challenging in North America. In addition to the skiable terrain inbounds, there is an even larger area to be explored off-piste (out of bounds). These areas are accessed through marked gates by expert skiers/boarders who are equipped with avalanche safety gear. The terrain has not only attracted the top skiers in the world but also one of the leading ski film companies, Teton Gravity Research. Jackson Hole is home to one of the most well known expert ski runs in the world, Corbet's Couloir.

In addition to skiing, there are many other outdoor activities in both the winter and summer. Nordic skiing, dog sledding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, balloon rides, paragliding, fishing, hiking, biking, and climbing are some of the activities visitors and year round residents enjoy at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

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

How to Survive a Long Flight

A long domestic or international flight can often sour what should be a pleasant holiday or business venture. These tips can help your necessary travel time be as comfortable and painless as possible.

Reserve a good seat. Even within the same class and fare, some seats are far superior to others. Consider an aisle or exit row seat for leg room, or a window if you want to sleep. Try to avoid seats near the toilets/lavatories, as other passengers will be accessing these regularly. It is common on long-haul flights for there to be queues, and people walking to or from the toilets may bump or knock your seat. Also keep in mind that the noise and light that escapes when the door is opened may be disturbing, particularly when trying to sleep.

If you plan on trying to sleep, come prepared. Bring a travel pillow or head restraint, and try to avoid using the inflatable ones.

Bring something to entertain yourself. Usually, movies don't start for some time, and the built-in music selection can be quite poor, so bring an iPod(the night before you go away try to download some of the latest songs or movies as it will be more entertainment than the old movies you already have),iPhone, iPad, Nintendo DS, or CD player. You could also bring a new book that you like or portable game.

Don't look at the time during the flight. You can't do anything about it and the flight will feel a lot longer if you keep looking at the time. Don't check your watch regularly and avoid looking at the in-flight map showing the current position of the plane.

Bring your own headphones. The headphones available on the plane (whether for purchase or for free) are usually of poor quality. Noise-canceling headphones and in-ear headphones are great if you have them, and can help block out engine noise.

Minimize your carry-on luggage. One backpack is fine for the plane, and it is easier to find a place in the overhead bins or under the seat for a small backpack than for a larger roller bag.

Bring a toothbrush, and anything else that isn't a liquid or a gel, that you need to help freshen up before meeting your loved ones at the end of your long flight. They, and your neighbors in-flight, will be glad you did.

Consider bringing your own food on board if you care about taste or health. On some airlines, plane food is quite poor. Check airlinemeals.net before and look through the reviews and decide if you should buy food before the flight.

Move around. This is especially important on longer flights, to prevent your body from aching due to poor circulation. Some airlines provide guidance on in-seat exercises you can do (such as circling ankles and stretching arms). The long mid-flight stretch on overnight flights is an excellent time to take a stroll up and down the aisle a few times. There is usually room to do some back stretches at the back of some of the cabins.

Take steps to protect yourself from the dry air on board the plane. The air in a plane is very dry and may dehydrate your system.

1. Drink plenty of water. Although you can request water from your flight attendants, it is a good idea to bring plenty of water on board with you. You may either purchase bottled water once you pass security or bring an empty bottle with you to fill from a water fountain. Remember that you should never drink the water from airplane bathrooms; it may contain bacteria.
2. Use eye drops (eye drops may now be carried through security) whenever your eyes feel dry. If you are really uncomfortable, don't hesitate to inform cabin crew.Consider saline nasal gel if your nostrils feel uncomfortable breathing dry air.
3.  Saline nasal gel, which can usually be found near the saline nasal wash at a drugstore, can help keep the inside of your nose moist and make breathing more comfortable.
4. Bring lip balm in a 3 oz or smaller container and use it to protect your lips from becoming painfully dry. Bring a small container of hand lotion or cocoa butter if your skin dries easily.

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