Jan. 19--Yee-haw! Budding cowboys and cowgirls can have their dreams realized thanks to the Colorado Cattle Company Guest Ranch in New Raymer, in the northeast part of the state. From May through October, the ranch is the place to go to learn cowboy skills. This is an adult-only experience, with a maximum of five guests matched up with a wrangler. This is a working ranch with 800 head of cattle, and the typical six-night package will find guests spending an average of 50 hours on horseback. Depending on the time of year, activities may range from mending fences to branding, feeding and driving cattle. Guests can choose what activities they want to participate in. There's also a stocked fishing pond for anglers. Price for a six-night stay is from $2,199 per person double occupancy. Though this is aimed at ages 18 and up, exceptions may be made for family reunions, whole-ranch group bookings and mature teens of advanced riding ability. Info: 970-437-5345, www.coloradocattlecompany.com.
They're somebody's top picks
What's on your travel calendar for 2016? The folks at Jetsetter say they've picked the brains of more than 200 travel insiders to see what they think are the places to visit this year. We're not sure we'd necessarily agree with their picks, but it's always interesting to check out these lists as long as we take them with a grain of salt. For instance, topping the list of 16 destinations is Miami. Hard to believe that with a big world out there, Miami -- and maybe anywhere in the U.S. -- would rate the No. 1 spot. America's national parks come in at No. 4 and, being partial to nature, we have to think they outrank Miami. New Zealand, at No. 8, is a favorite of ours and a worthy destination, as is Tel Aviv at No. 13 and Greenland, 15th. Though, we have to say Antarctica, which didn't make the list, outranks them all. See the Jetsetter picks at www.tinyurl.com/hv8uvhv.
Exploring another side of Ireland
Exploring Dublin or your Irish heritage are popular reasons to visit the Emerald Isle, but the folks at Ireland Tourism are promoting another area of their lovely country that doesn't get as much notice. The Wild Atlantic Way is billed as Ireland's only long-distance driving route, running about 1,500 miles from the country's most northerly point to past its most southerly. It traces the Atlantic coastline on the island's western side, and tours offered run from seven to 14 nights. The 10-night version, for example, starts from Shannon and ends in Galway, with highlights including Blarney Castle and the Cliffs of Moher. Depending on the time of year and the type of lodging selected, it can be as cheap as $833 per person double occupancy, including car rental. International airfare is extra. Check out this option and others at 877-298-7205, www.tinyurl.com/zver8bo.
Phil Marty is a freelance reporter.
