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Experiencing exceptional travel destinations with the Alumni Association has always been one of the most popular programs we offer. For the coming 2021 travel season, I am pleased to present more than 50 exciting and enriching tour possibilities throughout the world. I have carefully selected each destination with our adventurous and discerning alumni and friends in mind. Travel with us and relax knowing that all the details are taken care of and you’ll have a memorable experience alongside friends, new and old! A special part of traveling with the UMAA is getting to know other Gophers and friends. Last year, more than 550 travelers joined us on tours around the United States and the world, averaging 11 UMAA travelers per tour. Europe remains our most popular region, but we continue to offer unique tours that touch every continent, even Antarctica! Some of the exciting new destinations we’re offering this year include: Central Asia’s Silk Road, Springtime Coasts of the South (U.S.), Kentucky Derby, Arctic Expedition, Stunning Scotland and Legendary Turkey. Audra Gerlach Ferrall (‘04) Director of International Alumni and Travel, University of Minnesota Alumni Association
Don’t miss out on the tours that interest you—simply fill out the card at the center of this guide, mail it back to us in the postage-paid envelope and we’ll make sure you receive the full tour details once they become available. Check our website (at umnalumni.org/travel) for up-to-date tour details throughout the year or to view 2020 tours with remaining availability. Please email umtravel@umn.edu or call 800-862-5867 with any travel questions. We look forward to hearing from you!
Happy Traveling and Ski-U-Mah!
WHAT OUR PAST TRAVELERS HAVE TO SAY... Look for these icons to help you find the type of trips you are most interested in:
River/Lake Cruise Ocean Cruise Land Tour Solo-Friendly Pricing Please direct alumni travel program questions to umtravel@umn.edu or 800-862-5867. Visit UMNAlumni.org/travel for complete tour information. Details and pricing are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, visit UMNAlumni.org/travel
YOUNG ALUMNI TOURS Travel with alumni and friends on tours designed for those age 22–35. The UMAA is partnering with AESU to offer exciting and affordable tours with the interests and budget of younger travelers in mind: Explore Dubai, Croatia and Morocco with us in 2021!
Destination Dubai: Desert Safaris, Skyscrapers & Luxury Retreats May 14 – 21, 2021 • from $1,895 Highlights: • 2 nights Dubai city, 1 night desert camp, 3 nights Jumeirah Beach • Arabian ‘dhow’ evening cruise • Dubai city tour guided by local historian • Spice market and ‘Gold Souk’ • Desert safari and dune surfing • Jumeirah Beach
Captivating Croatia: Dalmatian Treasures
July 10 – 17, 2021 • from $1,865 Highlights: • Zabreb, Split, Mostar (Bosnia-Herzegovina), Dubrovnik • Split tour with local historian, including Diocletian’s palace and dungeons • Dubrovnik city tour with local historian, including Fortress Lovrijenac • Plitvice Lakes National Park nature hike • The Blue Grotto, Green Caves and Stiniva Cove • Medieval Mostar and Stari Most Ottoman bridge, UNESCO site
Moroccan Magic: Ancient Kasbahs & Atlantic Dunes August 14 – 22, 2021 • from $2,498 Highlights: • 4 nights Marrakech, 2 nights Essaouira, 1 night Casablanca • Guided visit to Palais Badii in Marrakesh • Camel ride in the Agafay Desert • Tagine cooking class, led by an expert chef • Wine tasting with lunch at local vineyard near Essaouira • Guided visit of Essaouira’s walled medina, UNESCO World Heritage site 2 02 1
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JANUARY Antarctica Discovery
January 16 – 27, 2021 • From $9,995 Join this truly life-changing adventure to experience the boundless beauty and pristine vastness of Antarctica. Embark from Ushuaia, Argentina on the 186-guest Ocean Victory, and cruise through the Drake Passage to the South Shetland Islands amid the Antarctic Peninsula— exploring the dramatic landscapes and remarkable wildlife, discovering the sites of both past and present scientific expeditions. Orbridge
Journey through Vietnam
January 16 – 30, 2021 • From $4,597
Vietnam
A Small Country Packed with Wonders By Christine Bauer
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o experience Vietnam—one of the world’s most beautiful countries—is to revel in its contrasts. Ancient landmarks, stunning temples, bustling cities, former colonial structures, and military citadels all serve as reminders of the nation’s long and storied history.
With a population of more than 95 million, Vietnam is the world’s 15th most populous country, and its density and diversity are on display everywhere, especially in Hanoi, the nation’s capital. On nearly every street, crowds of people perch on small plastic chairs near pots of simmering pho while flower vendors roll past on bikes that overflow with bundles of flowers. Cars and motorbikes carry everything from families of four to small refrigerators and constantly dart around each other and pedestrians in the ever-present traffic, yet somehow, it all works. Outside the cities, visitors will find many villages have not changed in centuries. Vietnam has 54 ethnic minority groups, many of whom live as their ancestors did, with multiple generations living together; women cook over open fires in the middle of the house and gather outside to sew. Chickens, cows, and water buffalo also roam freely. And don’t forget the food! Food in Vietnam is fresh and savory, benefiting from a land rich in herbs and spices, fresh vegetables and meats, and the area is an epicurean hot spot. While relatively small in size—Vietnam is about the same landmass as New Mexico—this country is giant in so many ways. Visit Vietnam with the UMAA on our tour, Journey through Vietnam, January 16-30, 2021.
Encounter Vietnam’s breathtaking natural beauty, abiding tradition, and profoundly hospitable people on this comprehensive 15-day journey from French-accented Hanoi and stunning Ha Long Bay to imperial Hue and charming Hoi An; from the Mekong Delta to Saigon. Discover amazing Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh with an optional 5-day/3-night post-tour extension. Main program single supplement: $1,595. Odysseys Unlimited
Tales of the Tasman
January 17 – February 2, 2021 • From $6,999 Board Oceania Cruises’ Regatta and see the Māori history of the Bay of Islands, explore the waterfalls and beaches in Tauranga, and discover the vineyards of Napier. Indulge in upscale dining in Wellington and look for yellow-eyed penguins in Dunedin. Cruise the fjords of Milford Sound. Taste local cheese or whiskey in Burnie and stop in at an awardwinning winery in Melbourne. Go Next, Inc.
Wondrous Wildlife of Africa
January 18 – February 2, 2021 • From $5,199 Set sail on Oceania Cruises’ Nautica and take in the dramatic natural beauty of Cape Town. Enjoy wildlife sightings in Walvis Bay and stroll along golden sand beaches in Port Elizabeth. Experience the energy of Durban, a thriving metropolis set against pristine beaches, and tour some of the most magnificent wetland scenery in Richards Bay and Maputo. Go Next, Inc.
Details and pricing are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, visit UMNAlumni.org/travel
Costa Rica’s Natural Heritage
MARCH
January 28 – February 7, 2021 • From $4,281
Chilean Wonders
In this small Central American democracy kissed by nature, your small group enjoys a relaxed yet comprehensive 11-day exploration of four distinct regions, encountering staggering biodiversity from cloud forest to rainforest; Central Valley to Pacific Coast. Discover more ecological wonders with a 4-day/3-night pre-tour option in celebrated Tortuguero National Park. Main program single supplement: $1,095. Odysseys Unlimited
Experience the wild nature and welcoming culture of Chile on this nine-night adventure of a lifetime. Explore dynamic Santiago and savor an asado—or barbecue— with Chilean cowboys. On Chiloé Island, peek at penguins in their natural habitat. Then surrender yourself to the icy mountain splendor of Patagonia’s famed national parks. AHI Travel
FEBRUARY Tanzania During the Great Migration
February 6 – 17, 2021 • From $8,795 Experience Africa’s premier safari destination on game drives during the annual Great Migration. This 12-day journey of a lifetime includes one privately chartered flight and daily game drives in Tanzania’s finest game parks—Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire—with deluxe accommodations in Serena Safari Lodges and a comfortable tented camp. Gohagan & Co.
Wonders of the Galapagos
February 8 – 16, 2021 • From $5,795 This incredible nine-day journey features the Galápagos Islands, where the unique wildlife accepts up-close human interaction like nowhere else. Accompanied by certified naturalists, cruise for four nights and visit six islands each with their own ecosystem. Enjoy three nights in UNESCO-designated Quito. Six-night Machu Picchu, Cuzco, Sacred Valley and Lima Post-Program Option. Gohagan & Co.
March 3 – 14, 2021 • From $4,495
Legends to Lagoons
March 5 – 15, 2021 • From $4,599 Board Oceania Cruises’ Regatta and experience the black sand beaches of Papeete, relax on the beaches of Moorea, and see the coral churches of Fakarava. Visit the tallest waterfall in the world in Nuku Hiva and explore the marine life of Rangiroa. Slow down on the romantic island of Bora Bora and wade the calm waters of Raiatea. Go Next, Inc.
Brazilian Spotlight
March 8 – 19, 2021 • From $3,399 Set sail with Oceania Cruises’ Marina and visit the wineries in Montevideo and the art galleries in Punta del Este. Snorkel the warm waters of Porto Belo, browse the museums of São Paulo, and stroll the cobblestone streets of Paraty. Wander the banana groves in Ilha Grande and relax in a café in Búzios. Go Next, Inc.
Morocco: Land of Enchantment
March 12 – 21, 2021 • From $3,495 Embrace the charms of Morocco on this eight-night journey in Marrakech and Casablanca. Explore the colorful souks and medina, tour ornate gardens and marvel at minarets. Enjoy tea with a Berber family in the Atlas Mountains, relish cosmopolitan Casablanca and marvel at the wonders of ancient Rabat. AHI Travel
Cuba Discovery
March 29 – April 3, 2021 • From $4,449 Travel with us to the largest Caribbean island nation and discover a country with the population is warm and scintillating as its tropical climate and colorful arts. Spend five nights in the nearly 500-year-old city of Havana and explore the amazing Cuban culture while visiting local artist and historic sites all while learning the unique history of the area. Premier World Discovery
Japan in Bloom
March 31 – April 11, 2021 • From $4,599 Board Oceania Cruises’ Nautica with us to enjoy Shimizu’s world-class sushi and take in the sacred places of Kyoto. Explore Hiroshima’s bustling streets and see Busan, where tradition and modernity blend harmoniously. Experience Nagasaki’s history and charm before enjoying a day in the hospitable city of Kagoshima, home to Japan’s most active volcano. Go Next, Inc.
Mystical India
February 21 – March 9, 2021 • From $5,587 Mystical and spiritual, chaotic and confounding, India overflows with riches. Your small group travels the classic Golden Triangle – bustling Delhi; Agra, with its sublime Taj Mahal; and Jaipur, the “pink city” – searches for Bengal tigers at Ranthambore, and experiences Varanasi’s holiness. Absorb Nepal’s beauty on an optional 5-day/4-night post-tour extension. Main program single supplement: $1,595. Odysseys Unlimited 2 02 1
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APRIL Antiquities of the Red Sea and the Aegean Sea April 10 – 23, 2021 • From $7,995
Join this 12-night sojourn exploring ancient treasures and engineering marvels of Jordan, Egypt and Greece. Spend three nights in Amman, one night outside Petra and eights nights cruising from Aqaba, Jordan, to Athens, Greece, through the Suez Canal aboard the exclusively chartered, Five-Star Le Bougainville. Visit Luxor, the Great Pyramids, and Santorini. Gohagan & Co.
Springtime Coasts of the South
April 19 – 27, 2021 • From $2,999 Try your hand at snorkeling in Freeport and discover the Kennedy Space Center in Port Canaveral on this journey aboard Victory Cruise Lines’ M/V Victory I. See a cannon firing in St. Augustine and soak up the sun in Fernandina Beach. Spend two days in Savannah—the “Hostess City of the South.” Visit the art galleries and charming cafés of Beaufort. Go Next, Inc.
Along Central Asia’s Silk Road
The Kentucky Derby
Traveling the ancient Silk Road connecting East and West, encounter a mélange of culture and religion, art and architecture that conjures tales of trade and treasure, intrigue and empire. On this exciting 17-day small group journey, relish the exotic – embracing the humanity shared with the welcoming people of Central Asia. Single supplement: $1,295. Odysseys Unlimited
Delight in the horse capital of the world with an exclusive Kentucky Derby experience in Lexington. Sit front and center for all the excitement on Derby Day, take in the sights, grandeur (and hats!!) at Churchill Downs. Enjoy downtown accommodations and special experiences including Dawn at the Downs, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, working horse farm tours, Keeneland race track, and more! Sports & Entertainment Travel
April 20 – May 6, 2021 • From $6,994
Panama to Palms
April 22 – May 10, 2021 • From $ 4,599 Board Oceania Cruises’ Regatta and view colorful fish off Catalina Island, enjoy water sports in Cabo San Lucas and stroll the Puerto Vallarta waterfront. Explore Antigua’s Spanish history, catch a sunset in Nicaragua, and visit a rainforest outside of Puntarenas. Pass through the Panama Canal, take in old town Cartagena, and relax on the beach in George Town. Go Next, Inc.
April 28 – May 2, 2021 • From $3,399
Aegean Glories
April 29 – May 12, 2021 • From $4,099 Stroll labyrinthine cobbled streets in Mykonos, explore magnificent ruins at Ephesus, and visit sacred sites in Patmos. Take in the sunny beaches of Marmaris. Admire Chania’s Venetian-influenced old town and discover ancient Olympia. Walk Dubrovnik’s medieval walls, see Ravenna’s mosaics and frescos, and glimpse Rijeka’s Habsburg glory. End your journey aboard Oceania Cruises’ Marina with a day in the celebrated city of Venice. Go Next, Inc.
MAY European Coastal Civilizations
May 3 – 12, 2021 • From $5,595 Join this eight-night cruise along coastal Portugal, Spain, France and England aboard the Five-Star Le Boréal, featuring a memorable cruise up the River Thames. Visit the beaches of Normandy with special guest speaker Dwight D. Eisenhower II and tour Oporto, Santiago de Compostela, Bilbao and Mont-St-Michel. Gohagan & Co.
Southern Grandeur
May 9 – 16, 2021 • From $2,599 Travel from Memphis to New Orleans aboard the American Queen Steamboat Company’s newest ship, the American Countess, and discover the history and hospitality of the South. Visit the site of a dramatic Civil War battle in Vicksburg and peruse the shops, restaurants, and museums in Natchez. Visit one of the many homes on the National Register of Historic Places in St. Francisville. Go Next, Inc. Details and pricing are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, visit UMNAlumni.org/travel
Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast
May 10 – 21, 2021 • From $4,095 Trace Croatia’s dazzling Dalmatian Coast to the magnificent walled city of Dubrovnik. Along the way, discover villages rich with Roman landmarks, seafaring legends and a buzzing cafe culture brewing along cobblestone lanes. Meet master craftsmen, savor traditional dishes and get to know the storied history and soulful people of this sun-kissed country. AHI Travel
Gems of the Danube
May 14 – 25, 2021 • From $3,999 Cruise the Danube aboard the Scenic Opal and see Nuremburg’s medieval old town, sample brews from one of the oldest monastic breweries in the world and visit an eighteenth-century Benedictine abbey in Melk. Explore the birthplace of Mozart in Salzburg and enjoy a private concert at Palais Liechtenstein in Vienna. Take in breathtaking views of the Danube atop Budapest’s Buda Hill. Go Next, Inc.
Apulia: Undiscovered Italy
May 26 – June 3, 2021 • From $3,095 Life is different in Apulia, Italy’s rustic, sun-kissed southern region. Experience Mediterranean meals savored slowly amidst olive groves and family vineyards. Tour ancient villages atop limestone cliffs and see boats bobbing in Adriatic seaports where time stands still. Relish Apulia’s heart-warming charm, its landmarks, and its famously fresh, simple dishes on this journey. No single supplement! AHI Travel
JUNE Great Journey through Europe
June 11 – 21, 2021 • From $3,995 This extraordinary 11-day “Grand Tour” of Europe combines river, rail, lake and mountain travel and features Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands. Cruise aboard the deluxe Amadeus Imperial along the Rhine River. Ride aboard three legendary railways—the Pilatus Railway, the Glacier Express and the Gornergrat Bahn. Amsterdam Post-Program Option. Gohagan & Co.
A Taste of the Exotic in
Tanzania By Elizabeth Foy Larsen
T
he mooing and moaning were so loud it felt as though the wildebeests were standing just outside my tent. That they were barely within sight was not a testament to the species’ ability to project—taken on their own, the calls were no louder than a cow’s. It’s just that when you are bellowing alongside two million of your fellow ungulates, those noises add up. I was with my family on a 10-day safari through Tanzania. On this evening we were sleeping in a camp in Serengeti National Park. We’d seen lions resting on the branches of acacia trees and giraffes loping through the tall grasses. At night, we’d been made dizzy by the millions of stars that popped through the African night sky. Now, we were witnessing one of the natural wonders of the world as these shaggy-maned creatures followed the rain through Tanzania and Kenya. Tanzania and its national parks are legendary for a reason. At Tarangire National Park, you’ll see gargantuan baobab trees—some a thousand years old. At the Ngorongoro Crater, which is a sprawling volcanic caldera that’s now home to tens of thousands of animals, flocks of flamingos take off from Lake Magadi. In flight they look like pink mist rising from the water. The crater is also your best chance to spot a rhinoceros; they have their own personal guards to protect them from poachers. In Tanzania, wildlife can be fragile, but as the wildebeests prove, it is also adaptable and resilient. Experience Tanzania with us during our UMAA tour, Tanzania During the Great Migration, February 6-17, 2021.
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France: Normandy
June 12 – 20, 2021 • From $3,295 Experience Normandy’s history and heritage on this 7-night journey. From your first-class hotel in harbor-town Honfleur, you’ll set out to the D-Day beaches, watch mystical Mont-Saint-Michel rise above tidal waters, delight in Monet’s garden in Giverny and sip Calvados, the region’s celebrated apple brandy, on a farm. No single supplement! AHI Travel
Voyage Under the Midnight Sun: Arctic Expedition
June 16 – 26, 2021 • From $6,995
Norway
Celebrates the Great Outdoors By Elizabeth Foy Larsen
I
t’s raining in Bergen but that’s not stopping the Norwegians, who zip their jackets and head straight up the hiking trails of Mount FlØyen, one of the seven peaks that surround this charming city on Norway’s western coast. Welcome to friluftsliv, the Scandinavian concept of getting outdoors. Translated as “open air living,” the expression was first coined in 1859 by Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen to celebrate the physical and emotional benefits of time in nature. Which, in case you haven’t heard, Norway has in spades. There are snow-capped mountains that shoot straight out of fjords and glaciers that shine in the summer sun like unpolished aquamarines. There are jagged coastlines and cozy orchards and waterfalls that spout from rockfaces. And, chances are, there’s also a Norwegian or five outside enjoying them. These residents know they are spoiled by all this beauty. But they don’t squander their opportunities to appreciate it.
Even the train ride that snakes through the mountains between Oslo and Bergen is renowned for the awe-inspiring scenery that slides past. Watching as the land transitions from forest to fields to lakes is so relaxing that you’ll hardly notice you’ve been traveling for seven hours. And when you get hungry, head to the dining car for a grilled hot dog wrapped in lefse or heartshaped waffles topped with raspberry jam or gjetost, a brown goat cheese that tastes a bit like caramel. You’ll work it off in no time once you reach your destination. Because even in the big cities, nature is everywhere in this Scandinavian gem of a country. Experience Norway and Denmark with us during our UMAA tour, Nordic Magnificence, July 11-21, 2021.
Voyage through the Arctic Circle on this extraordinary 11-day itinerary featuring a seven-night cruise on the exclusively chartered, Five-Star Le Boréal. Sail through an ethereal topography of red sandstone mountains, lush green tundra and aweinspiring ice formations. Enjoy expert-led excursions to diverse terrains where wildlife roam. Flights round trip Paris/ Longyearbyen included. Gohagan & Co.
Mediterranean Vistas
June 16 – 27, 2021 • From $4,099 Set sail with us from iconic Rome on Oceania Cruises’ Riviera. Visit the ruins of Pompeii, explore Mt. Etna, experience Valletta’s historic architecture and stop in Saint-Tropez’s beach clubs. See Monte Carlo’s Grand Corniche, and seek out the lavender fields in Provence. Enjoy a day at the beach before ending your journey in the cultural hub of Barcelona. Go Next, Inc.
Gaelic Serenade
June 22 – July 3, 2021 • From $4,899 Board Oceania Cruises’ Sirena and discover London’s cultural treasures, stroll Falmouth’s beaches, and take in Waterford’s medieval flavor. Learn about Welsh culture in Holyhead. Trace The Beatles history in Liverpool, see Viking treasure in Douglas, and explore Glasgow’s architectural variety. See Shetland ponies outside of Lerwick and wander palace ruins in Kirkwall. Experience Stornoway’s Celtic heritage and visit Edinburgh’s thirteenth-century castle. Go Next, Inc.
Details and pricing are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, visit UMNAlumni.org/travel
Changing Tides of History: Cruising the Baltic Sea
July 24 – August 2, 2021 • From $6,995 Experience the cultural rebirth of the Baltic states, with eight nights aboard the exclusively chartered, Five-Star Le Dumont-d’Urville. Enjoy a speciallyarranged presentation by former president of Poland Lech Wałęsa. Visit Visby, Helsinki, St. Petersburg, Tallinn and Gda´nsk. Splendors of Stockholm Pre-Cruise and Wonders of Norway Post-Cruise Options. Gohagan & Co.
Discover Southeast Alaska June 25 – July 2, 2021 • From $3,695
Enjoy the flexibility of small-ship travel, aboard the 66-guest Admiralty Dream, with up-close encounters with wildlife, stunning scenery, cultural experiences, and the guidance of expert naturalists. Capture the sight of whales breaching next to your boat, bears fishing along the shoreline, and eagles looking down from their nests—all part of nature’s amazing show. Orbridge
JULY Nordic Magnificence
July 11 – 21, 2021 • From $4,595 Treat yourself to a Nordic adventure. Feel the region’s cozy, optimistic charm as you explore enchanting Copenhagen, Oslo and Bergen. Discover palaces, modern architecture and Viking history. Storybook landscapes unfold as you cruise canals and the North Sea, and ride the Bergen Railway to Norway’s pristine Aurlandsfjord on this nine-night, small-group journey. AHI Travel
Discover the Canadian Rockies by Rail July 21 – 27, 2021 • From $5,995
Venture north for a journey to Canada’s glorious Rocky Mountains, the splendors of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, and the magnificent ranges in Banff and Yoho National Parks. From your glass-domed seat aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, see magnificent mountains, dramatic canyons, and monumental landmarks as you traverse the Continental Divide by rail. Relax at legendary resorts offering a range of outdoor activities including canoeing and hiking. Orbridge
Majestic Switzerland
July 27 – August 6, 2021 • From $3,795 Immerse yourself in Switzerland’s beauty from its emerald lakes to snow-dusted peaks & crystalline lakes. This 9-night journey features stays in Interlaken & Vevey. Indulge in traditional cuisine, cruise Lake Geneva, ride a cogwheel train up the Brinzer Rothorn & much more! This active, small-group adventure is a breath of fresh air!. AHI Travel
AUGUST Stunning Scotland: Highlands and Islands
August 14 – 23, 2021 • From $4,995
Across Spain and Portugal
August 31 – September 16, 2021 • From $5,774 This 17-day Iberian sojourn reveals a distinctive region’s many treasures to your small group. Rugged Atlantic coastline and commanding Pyrenees peaks; Lisbon and vibrant Barcelona; splendid landscapes, fine art, and intimate lodgings in historic paradores and pousadas – it all awaits. Discover more of Barcelona with an optional 3-day/2-night post-tour extension. Main program single supplement: $1,595. Odysseys Unlimited
SEPTEMBER Undiscovered Ireland
September 4 – 15, 2021 • From $4,595 Discover Ireland’s breathtaking coastal landscapes, from the western Wild Atlantic Way to northern County Donegal’s pristine scenery, on this 10-night, small-group adventure. Marvel at the Slieve League sea cliffs and Giant’s Causeway, and stroll through Dublin and Derry, Northern Ireland. Explore serene islands, watch sheepdogs herding a flock, taste classic foods on a culinary tour and much more! Enjoy stays at deluxe and first-class hotels, including a castle estate. AHI Travel
Join us as we explore the inspiring history, exuberant culture, and fascinating sites of Scotland—from the cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh, to the islands of Skye and Arran—and the Highlands themselves. Experience the magic that is private access to Culloden Battlefield and Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, cruising the infamous Loch Ness to Inverness, sampling heavenly spirits, plus behind-the-scenes access to Glamis Castle. Orbridge
Northern Gateways
August 18 – 29, 2021 • From $4,299 Sail with us on Oceania Cruises’ Marina and see the Suomenlinna in Helsinki and spend two days in the imperial city of St. Petersburg. Explore fourteenth-century churches in Tallinn, amble narrow lanes of cottages in Visby, and visit the dunes of the Curonian Spit. Shop the colorful Long Market in Gdańsk and seek out Bornholm’s beaches and craggy cliffs. Go Next, Inc. 2 02 1
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Imperial Journey
September 12 – 24, 2021 • From $4,795 Embark on an 11-night exploration of captivating cities in Poland, Germany and the Czech Republic! Marvel at cultural treasures in Kraków, Warsaw, Berlin, Dresden and Prague while staying at deluxe hotels. Look forward to a private Chopin concert in a Warsaw palace, an Elbe River cruise through the picturesque Saxon Alps and a vodka tasting. Expert guides and lecturers offer historical insights. AHI Travel
Village Life Around the Italian Lakes
September 18 – 26, 2021 • From $3,895 Experience the essence of Italian life in the fabled Lake District for one week in the heart of Como, with charming accommodations in the Palace Hotel. Enjoy private lake cruises on Lakes Como, Maggiore and Orta and excursions to Bellagio, Villa del Balbianello, Isola Bella and Milan. Verona/Venice Post-Program Option. Gohagan & Co.
Legendary Turkey
September 28 – October 12, 2021 • From $4,892 From Istanbul, magnificent “Empress of the World,” to ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and the dramatic Turquoise Coast where you board gulet yachts for a distinctive four-night “Blue Voyage,” Turkey offers an unparalleled 15-day small group experience. Discover ancient Konya and the unique Cappadocia region with an optional 5-day/4-night post-tour extension. Main program single supplement: $895. Odysseys Unlimited
OCTOBER Prismatic Fall Colors of Canada & New England
October 1 – 11, 2021 • From $ 4,299 Embark on Oceania Cruises’ Insignia from dynamic New York City, then see Newport’s Vanderbilt houses, Boston’s Revolutionary War landmarks, and Portland’s Victorian neighborhoods. Experience the Reversing Falls in Saint John. Stroll Halifax’s historic waterfront and then discover vestiges of the eighteenth century in Sydney. Visit Saguenay’s majestic fjord and visit Québec City—North America’s only walled city. Disembark in European-influenced Montréal. Go Next, Inc.
Exploring Australia and New Zealand
October 9 – 30, 2021 • From $9,584 The Lands Down Under delight on this 22-day small group journey, from the spectacular Great Barrier Reef and the storied Outback to sophisticated Sydney; from towering Mt. Cook and breathtaking Milford Sound to high-spirited Queenstown and nautical Auckland. Enjoy additional time in Auckland with an optional 3 day/2-night post-tour extension. Main program single supplement: $2,095. Odysseys Unlimited
Byzantine Sojourn
October 17 – 28, 2021 • From $3,299 Board Oceania Cruises’ Riviera and explore the ancient ruins of Philippi and see the Library of Celsus in Ephesus. Discover the legendary artifacts of Athens. Browse the charming shops in Katakolon, see the UNESCO-listed walls of Kotor, and stroll the gardens of Dubrovnik. Sip local wine in Ravenna and enjoy Venetian cuisine. Go Next, Inc.
Egypt & the Eternal Nile
October 25 – November 8, 2021 • From $5,497 Accompanied by an expert Egyptian guide, this singular 15-day small group journey reveals antiquity’s treasures in Cairo, then on a Lake Nasser cruise and a classic Nile voyage from Aswan to Luxor, before returning to Cairo. Discover fabled Petra, ancient Jerash, and Amman on an optional 5-day/4-night post-tour Jordan extension. Main program single supplement: $1,295. Odysseys Unlimited Details and pricing are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, visit UMNAlumni.org/travel
NOVEMBER Great Trains and Grand Canyons
November 7 – 12, 2021 • From $3,195 Experience the majestic beauty of Sedona Arizona and upscale resort, retirement and artist’s community set amid the redhued rocks of Oak Creek Canyon. Create unforgettable memories at one of the worlds most recognizable natural wonders, the Grand Canyon. Learn about the history of this area at Montezuma’s Castle National Monument, the old mining town of Jerome, and a guided trolley tour through Sedona. Experience this unique piece of America by bus, train and trolley! Premier World Discovery
Portugal A Mix of Old and New Near the Sea
San Antonio Holiday
November 30 – December 4, 2021 • From $2,575 Enjoy San Antonio’s rich multi-cultural heritage and history, and get into the holiday spirit as you stroll along the famous Riverwalk as it is illuminated by more than 2000 luminaries, a centuries old tradition. Learn more about the Riverwalk during a relaxing Riverwalk cruise and see the wonderful restaurants, shops, and entertainment which line its banks. Visit the San Jose mission, known as the “Queen of the Missions”, the Alamo and learn how it’s history shaped the city in American history, and travel to beautiful Hill country where you will tour the LBJ Ranch. You’ll experience this and so much more on this holiday trip to the Lone Star State! Premier World Discovery
DECEMBER Holiday Markets
December 4 – 12, 2021 • From $2,395 Embrace the joyous Old-World holiday spirit in Switzerland, Germany, France and the Netherlands on a seven-night, first-class Rhine River cruise! Explore enchanting festive markets decked out for the holidays, stroll through medieval towns and personalize your journey with a choice of excursions, from wine tastings to culinary tours, in many ports. No single supplement! AHI Travel
By Audra Gerlach Ferrall
A
t less than 90 miles wide, nothing in Portugal is very far from the ocean. Perched on the Western edge of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal’s proximity to the sea made it a prime spot to launch maritime expeditions during the 15th and 16th centuries. While the country’s maritime dominance and colonial empire have faded, Portugal remains a very attractive destination, full of natural and architectural beauty, history, culture, and delicious food, all in a friendly and welcoming environment. Lisbon’s hills, historic streetcars, and history of earthquakes might remind you of San Francisco. Take in a Fado show, the traditional melancholic music of Portugal, in the historic Barrio Alto or Alfama neighborhoods. Visit the Belem District to see the UNESCO-designated Tower of Belem, built in the early 1500s to defend the city and returning ships from pirates. A short walk away, pay homage to Portugal’s famous navigators and explorers at the Padrão dos Descobrimentos monument along the Tagus River. Across the street, you’ll find another UNESCO site, the sprawling Jerónimos Monastery with its ornately carved cloister. Originally a site of prayer for departing sailors, the monastery’s 100 years of construction began in 1501 to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s discovery of a sea route to India. A stone’s throw away, don’t miss the best place for Portugal’s traditional custard pastries at Pasteis de Belem, where they still use the monks’ secret recipe. Be sure to taste Caldo Verde, a popular cabbage soup, as well as several different preparations of Portuguese codfish and sardines. No meal is complete here without being preceded by a platter of local olive oil, olives, cheese, cured meats, and bread. Portugal is one of the world’s largest producers of virgin olive oil and it is excellent. You’ll definitely want to bring a bottle home, along with some Portuguese wine or port. Great non-perishable souvenirs include colorful tiles, ceramics, or a myriad of goods crafted from cork--essentially bark harvested from Portugal’s revered cork oak trees. Explore Portugal with us during our UMAA tour, Across Spain and Portugal, August 31-September 16, 2021.
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AESU
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(410) 366-5494 or (800) 638-7640 Since 1977 AESU has operated dynamic, adventurous programs that fulfill the needs of people who travel with a purpose. AESU Alumni World Travel is the original pioneer of young alumni, and graduation tour programs.
(617) 454-9100 or (888) 370-6765 Odysseys Unlimited is a leader in high quality, affordable small group travel. By limiting tours to 12 to 24 guests, the company provides an intimate, authentic travel experience with a high level of personal service.
(800) 323-7373 AHI Travel is the premier operator of deluxe educational travel programs connecting travelers to the people, places and cultures of the world. Their experienced, professional staff has offered the highest level of service since 1962.
(866) 639-0079 Orbridge represents a new type of alumni travel with a focus on select destinations and intimate departures featuring deluxe accommodations and small ships. Program itineraries, excursions, local guides, and lectures are designed to provide guests an in-depth view of a region, ecosystem, or culture.
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(877) 953-8687 Premier World Discovery, founded in 1999 and a member of USTOA, is an innovative tour operator specializing in the group travel market offering over 75 fully guided, worldwide travel programs.
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(888) 615-7656 SET is the industry’s leading full-service travel and tour management company dedicated to offering the best in fan travel experiences. It is the mission of SET to provide tours for sports enthusiasts that are priced competitively and offer superior service with integrity and value.
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