2023
TRAVEL GUIDE
DEAR TRAVELING WILDCATS
Start packing your bags! The Traveling Wildcats 2023 calendar is full of amazing adventures both far and near and each trip has been selected with you in mind. Whether you want to cruise the Canary Islands, visit Canada’s Christmas markets, get a taste of Italian wine country, see the massive Grand Canyon or golf in the south of France, we have a trip for you. Every Traveling Wildcats trip begins with a common bond - the University of Kentucky. Travelers will have the opportunity to connect with each other, learn from travel experts and tour guides, and experience the sights, sounds, tastes and cultures each destination has to offer. When you decide to travel with Traveling Wildcats, you are supporting the UK Alumni Association’s mission. And your participation contributes to student success and alumni programs, and furthers the excellent reputation of our beloved institution. Visit www.ukalumni.net/travel for more details on all of our 2023 trips. If you have questions, don’t hestitate to contact me at christina.yue@uky.edu or by phone at 859-323-7950. Go Big Blue!
Christina Yue ‘11 Associate Director for Administration and Strategic Initiatives UK Alumni Association
WHERE IN THE WORLD IS #FLATWILDCAT?
LEARN MORE: WWW.UKALUMNI.NET/FLATWILDCAT
2023 TOURS AT A GLANCE
Passage through the Panama Canal and Costa Rica
January 20-28
The Wolves and Wildlife of Yellowstone
February 11-17
Tanzania Safari during the Great Migration
February 11-22
Intriguing India
March 10-24
Hawaii Three-Island Adventure
March 14-23
Tahitian Legends
March 27-April 6
Exploring Australia and New Zealand
April 1-22
Blossoming Japan
April 11-22
Cruising the Canary Islands and Morocco
April 12-20
Croatia and Cruising the Dalmatian Coast
April 21-May 2
Village Life Dordogne
April 27-May 5
Portrait of Italy
May 23-June 7
Ancient Cities and Seaside Retreats
June 6-15
National Parks and Lodges of the Old West
June 8-16
British Isle Brillance
June 10-21
SEC Cruise: Stunning Scenery of Alaska
June 16-23
Legendary Baltic Shores
June 21-July 1
Circumnavigating Iceland
June 24-July 2
Amazing Azores
July 1-7
Norwegian Fjords and Midnight Sun
July 2-12
Jewels of the Rhine with Lucerne
July 6-16
The Great Journey through Europe
July 12-23
Cape Cod
July 29-August 3
Greek Island Hopper
August 12-20
Kenya Safari: The Big 5
August 23-September 2
Cruising the Great Lakes
September 18-25
Passion and Pursuits River Cruise
September 20-28
Great Trains and Grand Canyons
September 24-30
Grand Danube Passage
September 25-October 9
Romance of the Douro River
September 26-October 7
North American Waterways
September 29-October 11
Flavors of Northern Italy
October 7-15
Radiant Spain and Italy
October 9-20
Egypt and the Eternal Nile
October 20-November 3
Greek Isles and Turkish Riveria
October 23-November 3
Cruising the Fiji Islands
November 7-18
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
November 22-25
Holiday Market Cruise
November 27-December 5
Montreal and Quebec City Christmas Market
December 7-16
ADVENTURE LEGEND CRUISE
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PASSAGE THROUGH THE PANAMA CANAL AND COSTA RICA JANUARY 20-28, 2023 FROM $4,995 PER PERSON Begin your nine-day expedition with a night in San José, Costa Rica, then cruise for seven nights from the Costa Rican rainforest through the mighty locks of the Panama Canal - an experience unmatched for sheer drama and engineering prowess. Explore the wonders of Costa Rica’s Curú National Wildlife Refuge and Manuel Antonio National Park and visit seldom-visited Cébaco Island. Tour Panama City and experience a daylight passage through the awe-inspiring Panama Canal. Extend your stay with the San José pre-program and/or Panama City post-program options.
www.ukalumni.net/ panamacostarica23
THE WOLVES AND WILDLIFE OF YELLOWSTONE FEBURARY 11-17, 2023 FROM $4,995 PER PERSON Join us on an extraordinary winter adventure: a seven-day wildlife expedition to Yellowstone - North America’s best wolf-watching habitat. Dressed magnificently with frost and snow, and with visitors few and far between, experience an ecosystem when its beauty is more untouched by the outside world than any other time of the year. Hushed and magical landscapes are the setting for steaming geysers, trees covered in ice crystals and the movements of bison, elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep and other wildlife - followed closely by the park’s wolves. Safari aboard custom vehicles with expert naturalists as we explore and learn about the animals, environment, hydrothermal activity and history of the park. Enjoy a private sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge and meet an awardwinning wildlife photographer for a presentation during a visit to his gallery. Each evening, overnight in atmospheric hotels and a park lodge.
www.ukalumni.net/ yellowstone23
TANZANIA SAFARI DURING THE GREAT MIGRATION FEBURARY 11-22, 2023 FROM $7,995 PER PERSON Travel into the majestic grasslands of Africa’s premier safari destination to observe one of Earth’s greatest spectacles - the annual Great Migration of vast herds of wildebeest followed by zebra, gazelle and Cape buffalo. This incredible journey features immersive game drives in three of Tanzania’s most prestigious game parks and the UNESCO-inscribed Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Watch Tanzania’s plains and patterns unfold when you fly aboard a privately chartered aircraft from Arusha to Serengeti National Park with an optional hot air balloon excursion.
www.ukalumni.net/ tanzania23
INTRIGUING INDIA MARCH 10-24, 2023 FROM $6,495 PER PERSON Join us for an immersion into the rich and exotic depths of India’s history, traditions and nature where thousands of years of civilization, contemporary locals and skilled artisans and an abundance of intriguing wildlife fuse together. This journey of the Golden Triangle and beyond will transport you through the rise and fall of empires and dynasties while surveying architectural grandeur that reflects the history, culture and religions of an amazing past. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Humayun’s Tomb, the Taj Mahal, Amer Fort, Agra Fort and Hawa Mahal. Experience Indian life with an rickshaw ride through Delhi, village visits and opportunities to meet with artisans to discover their living traditions. The itinerary features a visit to one of the most spectacular water bird sanctuaries in the world Keoladeo National Park, plus visit Ranthambhore National Park for a chance to spot tigers, diverse other wildlife and endless breathtaking scenery.
www.ukalumni.net/ india23
HAWAII THREEISLAND ADVENTURE MARCH 14-23, 2023 FROM $5,195 PER PERSON Aloha! From the moment you arrive in this incredible destination you will be greeted with sheer beauty and a cultural experience like no other. You will quickly realize why Hawaii is known as the “Paradise of the Pacific.” With many exotic beaches, flowers, mountainous landscapes, breathtaking views and magnificent waterfalls, you will be amazed everywhere you travel within this incredible Island State.
www.ukalumni.net/ hawaii23
TAHITIAN LEGENDS MARCH 27-APRIL 6, 2023 FROM $4,699 PER PERSON A tropical paradise awaits you in French Polynesia! From languorous lagoons to wispy waterfalls, this 10-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Regatta will take you on an island-hopping adventure through the South Pacific. French Polynesia strings together a trove of tropical sights and sounds. Snorkel in Papeete (Tahiti) and climb aboard a catamaran in Moorea or take an off-road safari to look for plump pineapples ripening in the fields. Spot sharks in crystal clear water in Fakarava. Watch dolphins dip and dive in Rangiroa and bob in the blue waters of Bora Bora. From beaches to boats to bottlenose dolphins - this cruise is a welcome respite from the winter blues.
www.ukalumni.net/ tahitianlegends
EXPLORING AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND APRIL 1-22, 2023 FROM $8,995 PER PERSON
www.ukalumni.net/ australianz23
The Lands Down Under and small group touring make for a perfect combination on this wide-ranging 22-day journey. Beginning in Cairns, ride the historic railway to Kuranda, then descend via a Skyrail gondola. Swim and snorkel during a day-long Great Barrier Reef excursion. In Alice Springs, embark on an Aboriginal “dreamtime” tour, meeting Walpiri tribespeople, and enjoy a traditional bushman’s dinner. Watch the sunset at fabled Ayers Rock. Highlights during a three-night Sydney stay include a Sydney Harbour catamaran cruise, Featherdale Wildlife Park and the iconic Opera House. After touring Christchurch, the “Garden City,” see sheepdogs at a farm. Explore spectacular Mt. Cook National Park and take a cruise through Milford Sound’s breathtaking fjords. Discover scenic Queenstown. In geothermal Rotorua, experience Maori culture at a traditional hangi dinner. The journey ends with sightseeing in vibrant Auckland. Enjoy additional time in the “City of Sails” with an optional three-day/two-night post-tour extension.
BLOSSOMING JAPAN APRIL 11-22, 2023 FROM $5,199 PER PERSON Delve into a rich tapestry of Asian culture and landscapes on this 10-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Nautica. From tea ceremonies and temples to sumo spectating and fresh-caught sashimi, Japan is overflowing with adventure. Begin your journey in metropolitan Tokyo (Yokohama) and set sail for Nagoya. Visit one of Nagoya’s many fascinating museums before making your way to Osaka to indulge in mouthwatering street food. In Hiroshima, stroll through the beautifully landscaped Hiroshima Gardens or visit the rebuilt Hiroshima Castle. In Busan, explore the renowned large Buddha statues at the Main Buddha Hall. Discover remnants of old Nagasaki beside the modern city. Experience the natural wonders of Shimabara Peninsula with its volcanoes and hot springs. Make a stop in Kochi and sit in awe of the stunning mountains, rivers and beaches surrounding you. Before you return to Tokyo’s neon wonderland, learn of undersea delights at Japan’s first sushi museum.
www.ukalumni.net/ blossomingjapan
CRUISING THE CANARY ISLANDS AND MOROCCO APRIL 12-20, 2023 FROM $5,195 PER PERSON Explore the stunning natural beauty of the Canary Islands and treasures of the rose-pink cities of Morocco on this one-of-a-kind journey, featuring scenic coastlines and idyllic ports rarely visited by larger vessels. Visit La Palma’s Mirador de la Concepción for spectacular views of Caldera de Taburiente. Discover iconic Casablanca and enjoy full-day excursions to the island of Tenerife and Teide National Park, the ancient city of Fez and 1,000-year-old city of Marrakesh. Enhance your journey with the Las Palmas pre-program option and/or the Casablanca post‑program option.
www.ukalumni.net/ morocco23
CROATIA AND CRUISING THE DALMATIAN COAST APRIL 21-MAY 2, 2023 FROM $4,795 PER PERSON This sensational 10-night journey reveals Croatia’s incredible bounty, including a seven-night Adriatic cruise. Spend three nights in vibrant Zagreb, home to Mirogoj Cemetery and the beautiful St. Mark’s church. Travel to Plitvice National Park, an astonishing natural marvel; then board your first-class ship to indulge in the treasured Dalmatian coast and its jewel-colored waters. Each day reveals a new port of call, a sunny island or an exquisite secluded bay. Highlights include the enchanting islands of Rab, Hvar and Korčula as well as Split, Zadar and Trogir, storied villages with centuries of history and heritage. Plus, choose between touring St. James Cathedral or Krka National Park in Šibenik. Your adventure concludes in Dubrovnik, one of the world’s best-preserved medieval towns with legendary ramparts and a proud old town. Along the way, expert lectures shed light on the region’s history and traditional dishes indulge your palate.
www.ukalumni.net/ croatia23
VILLAGE LIFE DORDOGNE APRIL 27-MAY 5, 2023 FROM $3,995 PER PERSON Immerse yourself in the authentic provincial character of Dordogne in Sarlat-la-Canéda, one of France’s most beautiful and well-preserved medieval villages. Discover charming villages, medieval castles and prehistoric treasures through specially arranged excursions, including Sarlat’s famous open-air market; the pilgrimage site of Rocamadour; the English-style Gardens of Eyrignac; the fascinating prehistoric cave paintings of Cap-Blanc; the perfectly reproduced cave art at Lascaux and Rouffignac; and a specially arranged gabare cruise on the Dordogne River. Enhance your experience with the Bordeaux and Saint-Émilion pre-program and/or the Albi and Toulouse post-program options.
www.ukalumni.net/ dordogne23
PORTRAIT OF ITALY MAY 23-JUNE 7, 2023 FROM $4,795 PER PERSON From the breathtaking Amalfi Coast to eternal Rome, through the gentle Umbrian and Tuscan countryside to treasured Venice, this wide-ranging 16-day small group tour showcases ancient sites, contemporary life, priceless art and unique accommodations. Begin on the storied Amalfi Coast, experiencing this stunning region by sea and by land and visiting Pompeii’s exquisite ruins. Continuing on to the Eternal City for a three-night stay, tour the Colosseum, the Forum, monumental St. Peter’s Square, and the sublime Sistine Chapel, and explore independently. Spend three nights in Italy’s “green heart” of Umbria, enjoying a cooking demonstration in Orvieto and a visit to beloved Assisi. Journeying to alluring Tuscany, tour splendid Siena. Discover Florence, living monument to the Renaissance, and encounter classic Tuscany in the hill town of San Gimignano. Sample a local winery’s offerings before concluding your tour in wondrous Venice. Savor more time in Venice with an optional three-day/two-night post-tour extension.
www.ukalumni.net/ italy23
ANCIENT CITIES AND SEASIDE RETREATS JUNE 6-15, 2023 FROM $3,599 PER PERSON Traverse the magnificent Mediterranean on this eight-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Sirena. Set sail for Malta, where Valletta boasts one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world, set among palms and palaces. Explore the well-preserved ancient city of Ephesus as you walk where chariots roamed. Visit a winery in the beautiful, whitewashed hilltop towns in Santorini. See the sun-bleached ramparts of the St. George Castle ruins in Argostoli. Take in the medieval walls of Korčula. Spend your final day exploring the vibrant city of Venice. Experience one of the most famous landmarks in the history of Italian theatre, Teatro La Fenice or see breathtaking views of the city as you cross the Accademia Bridge on foot.
www.ukalumni.net/ ancientcities
NATIONAL PARKS AND LODGES OF THE OLD WEST JUNE 8-16, 2023 FROM $4,995 PER PERSON Join fellow alumni and friends on a journey that celebrates the American West’s magnificent National Parks, tracing legends and storied monuments along the way. From Mount Rushmore to Old Faithful and from Spearfish Canyon to the Snake River, you will see the best of the Old West and traverse its beautiful vistas in style and comfort. Wonderfully historic hotels and lodges are a highlight of this program, including landmark lodging within the parks themselves. Indulge in the geological phenomena of hot springs in South Dakota and journey through Badlands National Park, known as nature’s surreal masterpiece, where impressive herds of bison roam and dazzling, dramatic pinnacles rise over the largest undisturbed mixed-grass prairie in the United States.
www.ukalumni.net/ nationalparks23
BRITISH ISLES BRILLANCE JUNE 10-21, 2023 FROM $4,799 PER PERSON
www.ukalumni.net/ britishislesbrilliance
Come with us on an unforgettable 10-night cruise from London (Southampton) to Belfast, aboard an extraordinary ship, Oceania Cruises’ Riviera. Begin your journey in London and continue to the lively city of Newcastle to see spectacular bridges that have transformed the face of the city. Explore the rich history of Edinburgh. Visit St. Giles’ cathedral where John Knox once preached. Retrace the steps of ill-fated Scottish heroes at Culloden Battlefield near Invergordon and break out the binoculars to spy brooding Highland castles and the elusive “Nessie” at Loch Ness. Get your fill of fresh island air in the Shetland and Orkney Islands. Trace your Scottish ancestry in the genealogy section of the Ullapool Museum. Make a stop in Kirkwall, where UNESCOlisted Heart of Neolithic Orkney features the 5,000-year-old Standing Stones of Stenness. Before journey’s end in Belfast, enjoy the refreshing Welsh countryside with its charming towns and farms in Holyhead.
SEC CRUISE: STUNNING SCENERY OF ALASKA JUNE 16-23, 2023 FROM $2,849 PER PERSON SEC Alumni: join us for seven-nights on an action-packed Alaskan adventure aboard Oceania Cruises’ Regatta. As an SEC cruiser, you’ll enjoy events arranged specially for you. Begin the journey in Seattle and revel in the scenery of bears, sea otters, moose and eagles against a summertime backdrop of steep forested mountain slopes and pristine waters while cruising the Inside Passage and Hubbard Glacier. With fellow SEC alumni, you’ll have access to old-growth rain forest hikes in Ketchikan and salmon sportfishing in Sitka. Beginning and ending in Seattle, this cruise also makes big-city stops in Juneau and Victoria, B.C., where you can seek out craft breweries, gardens and local seafood specialties. Whether you’re always on the go, or you prefer to kick back while the magnificent Alaskan scenery glides by, you won’t want to miss this chance to make new memories.
www.ukalumni.net/ alaskasec
LEGENDARY BALTIC SHORES JUNE 21-JULY 1, 2023 FROM $3,899 PER PERSON Join us on a spectacular 10-night cruise through Denmark, Germany, and Sweden aboard Oceania Cruises’ Marina. From London to Oslo, this voyage is filled with iconic landscapes that inspired Viking legends and fairy tales alike. Dip a toe in where the swirling North and Baltic Seas converge at Skagen. Browse maritime artifacts in Kiel and stroll the cobbled streets of medieval towns, Ronne and Visby. See landmarks such as the baroque Royal Palace in Stockholm’s atmospheric Old Town. Inspect a Soviet submarine in Karlskrona and before disembarking in Oslo, soak up the charming canals of Copenhagen.
www.ukalumni.net/ baltics
CIRCUMNAVIGATING
ICELAND
JUNE 24-JULY 2, 2023 FROM $6,995 PER PERSON Discover the enchanting “Land of Fire and Ice,” where glaciers cap active and dormant volcanoes and Viking ruins coexist with geothermal baths, mud pots and geysers. Enjoy a city tour of Reykjavík, featuring visits to the lauded National Museum and Hallgrímskirkja Church. Cruise into Siglufjörður and Seyðisfjörður - dramaticallysited ports inaccessible to larger vessels. Cross the Arctic Circle as you cruise the coast of UNESCO-designated Surtsey, one of Earth’s youngest islands, and visit Grímsey Island. Complete your expedition with the Reykjavík and the Golden Circle pre-program option.
www.ukalumni.net/ iceland23
AMAZING AZORES JULY 1-7, 2023 FROM $2,225 PER PERSON São Miguel Island, a beautiful green jewel in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and the largest of the Azores nine-island archipelago, is located west of mainland Portugal. With stunning lush landscapes, colorful plants, dormant volcanoes, hot springs and surrounded by pristine waters, São Miguel is the perfect destination for nature lovers and those looking for an off-the-beaten-path European getaway. Explore the island and marvel at its natural beauty, hike down a dormant volcano and relax on the sandy lake beaches. Visit the only tea plantation in Europe and taste delicious locally grown pineapple. Discover the historical city of Ponta Delgada, with its cobbled streets and black and white mosaic pavements. Get ready for an amazing adventure with family and friends.
www.ukalumni.net/ azores23
NORWEGIAN FJORDS AND MIDNIGHT SUN JULY 2-12, 2023 FROM $4,995 PER PERSON Get set for an amazing adventure in Norway, one of the world’s most beautiful countries. On this nine-night, small group journey, delight in first-class stays in cosmopolitan Oslo, enchanting Bergen and far northern Tromsø above the Arctic Circle. Like a little bit of heaven on earth, Norway’s sublime landscapes of lush fjords and snowcapped mountains will take your breath away. Thrill to spectacular scenery on the famed Flåm and Bergen Railways, and cruise through the pristine, glacier carved Aurlandsfjord. You’ll also experience the phenomenon of the midnight sun, northern Norway’s endlessly golden summer sky. Delve into fascinating facets of Norwegian history and culture, including skiing, seafaring, the impressive art of Edvard Munch and the Hanseatic heritage of Bergen’s colorful wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Plus, discover what life above the Arctic Circle is like as you visit a dogsledding kennel, learn about the traditions of the indigenous Sami people and tour a botanical garden. Includes expert guides, enlightening lectures and a generous meal plan.
www.ukalumni.net/ norway23
JEWELS OF THE RHINE WITH LUCERNE JULY 6-16, 2023 FROM $5,190 PER PERSON
www.ukalumni.net/ rhinelucerne
Live your best life on this seven-night river cruise through Switzerland, Germany, France and the Netherlands aboard Emerald Cruises’ Emerald Sky. Begin your adventure with an included two-night pre-cruise program in Lucerne and take a cable car and ice flyer to the magnificent Mount Titlis. Embark in Basel and set out for Breisach, a lovely German town resting amongst rolling vineyards. Visit Strasbourg’s wine cellars and half-timbered homes in “La Petite France,” and hike beneath the Black Forest evergreen canopy of Grimm’s Fairy Tales. Lace up your hiking boots for a tour of Heidelberg Castle’s Renaissance ruins and enjoy the refreshing white wines of the Moselle Valley’s terraced vineyards. Snap photos of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cologne’s Gothic twin-spired cathedral, and take in the city’s medieval history. Spend a full day in Amsterdam and cruise the canals fronted by stately Dutch Golden Age mansions.
THE GREAT JOURNEY THROUGH EUROPE JULY 12-23, 2023 FROM $3,995 PER PERSON Journey through Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands, cruising the Moselle and Rhine rivers. Spend two nights each in Zermatt and Lucerne. Ride aboard three legendary railways - the GORNEGRAT BAHN for views of the Matterhorn, the GLACIER EXPRESS from Andermatt to Zermatt and the PILATUS RAILWAY, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway - and enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Lucerne. This is an extraordinary itinerary at an exceptional value. Enhance your “Grand Tour” with the Amsterdam post-program option.
www.ukalumni.net/ europe23
CAPE COD JULY 29-AUGUST 3, 2023 FROM $3,195 PER PERSON “The Cape” - Cape Cod, located in eastern Massachusetts is among New England’s favorite summer vacation destinations and it thrives on tourism, beautiful ocean beaches and small unique businesses. Travelers come to lose themselves amongst endless miles of windswept seashore, dune-studded landscapes, inshore forests and historic sights. Enjoy your first night in exciting Boston and then head out for five nights at one hotel on ”The Cape” to experience its beauty and history. Visit amazing Boston, the JFK Museum, mansion filled Newport, Rhode Island, Provincetown and ferry to the two most scenic and famous islands off “The Cape” - Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
www.ukalumni.net/ capecod23
GREEK ISLAND HOPPER AUGUST 12-20, 2023 FROM $2,275 PER PERSON This tour is designed for alumni, family and friends aged 40 and younger. Catch the sun and set your course for an extraordinary journey. The Greek Islands of Mykonos and Santorini, known for their amazing beaches and dramatic landscapes overlooking azure waters, are also filled with archaeological treasures, history and culture - not to forget, delicious foods. Discover the myths and legends of ancient Athens, visit the magnificent Acropolis, wander the paths of Plato, Socrates and Sophocles and test your bargaining skills at the markets of Monastiraki.
www.ukalumni.net/ greece23
KENYA SAFARI: THE BIG 5 AUGUST 23-SEPTEMBER 2, 2023 FROM $5,995 PER PERSON It’s likely you’ve come across the iconic image of a lone acacia stoically poised in a distant savannah sunset. Here is your opportunity to visit that breathtaking terrain. This 11-day journey of a lifetime provides exclusive access to reserves and national parks The Big 5 - endangered black rhino, leopard, elephant, buffalo and lion - call home. Accompanied by local guides and a naturalist Orbridge Expedition Leader, set out on game drives in comfortable 4x4 vehicles to spot for wildlife including cheetahs, impalas, zebras, primates, a myriad of bird species, plus The Big 5. Each evening, relax and rejuvenate amidst luxurious accommodations - each offering exceptional hospitality and superior amenities. With an optional post-tour to experience Amboseli, see why Amboseli National Park is known as the best place in the world to see free-ranging elephants in ultra-close proximity. The park also offers magnificent views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
www.ukalumni.net/ kenya23
CRUISING THE GREAT LAKES SEPTEMBER 18-25, 2023 FROM $4,995 PER PERSON Admire magnificent coastal scenery and discover nearly two centuries of North American innovation and maritime history on this one-of-a-kind cruise itinerary from Toronto to Milwaukee featuring all five Great Lakes. Experience the thunderous force of Niagara Falls, historical charm of Mackinac Island, the unspoiled beauty of the UNESCO‑inscribed Niagara Escarpment, the Henry Ford Museum of Innovation in Detroit and Transit the Welland Canal and Soo Locks, among the greatest engineering feats of the 19th century. Extend your journey with our exclusive Toronto pre-program and/or Milwaukee post-program options.
www.ukalumni.net/ greatlakes23
PASSIONS AND PURSUITS RIVER CRUISE SEPTEMBER 20-28, 2023 FROM $4,795 PER PERSON
www.ukalumni.net/ passion23
Embark on a cruise along the meandering rivers Rhône and Saône with prime opportunities to experience golf in southern France. Golf courses provide a superb golfing experience combining beautiful natural settings with technical challenges. With your small group, enjoy seven nights deluxe accommodations onboard the Amadeus Provence. Enjoy four exciting rounds of golf at select courses while non-golfing companions enjoy land excursions. Drink in the breathtaking Burgundy wine district at the Golf du Château d’Avoise club. For the non-golfer, enjoy excursions including a morning guided tour of Lyon, France’s culinary capital and third largest city. Revel in this UNESCO World Heritage city that’s home to Beaujolais wine. Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh in Arles, a town steeped in history that dates back to a Greek settlement.
GREAT TRAINS AND GRAND CANYONS SEPTEMBER 24-30, 2023 FROM $3,195 PER PERSON “The Grand Canyon is the one great sight which every American should see,” said President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903 when he first laid eyes on one of nature’s most awe-inspiring sights. Every traveler should explore our own beautiful American West and that is exactly what you will do on this exciting travel program to Arizona. This travel experience features a combination of American West highlights, scenery of Grand Canyon National Park and the red rocks of Sedona, the Native American history at the Montezuma Castle National Monument and the Old West nostalgia of two train rides. Enjoy five nights at a picturesque property in Sedona, Arizona. Just north of Phoenix, Sedona is known for its jeep rides, artist galleries and breathtaking red rock scenery.
www.ukalumni.net/ trainscanyons23
GRAND DANUBE PASSAGE SEPTEMBER 25-OCTOBER 9, 2023 FROM $5,395 PER PERSON
www.ukalumni.net/ danube23
Experience the cultures and time-honored heritage of eight distinct countries and sail the Danube River! Plus, bookend your cruise with stays in Prague, Czech Republic and Sofia, Bulgaria. This handcrafted itinerary presents fascinating landmarks, iconic cities and authentic experiences to provide you with a personal look at each destination. Witness cathedrals, mosques and fortresses that spring from the pages of storybooks and stroll through medieval towns brimming with hallowed history. Visit Vienna, Bratislava and Belgrade and feast your eyes on an illuminated Budapest on an evening cruise. During your eight-night river adventure, discover beauty around every bend, from the picturesque Wachau Valley to Melk Abbey and the Iron Gate Gorge to idyllic villages perched above. Taste delicacies in Croatia’s Slavonia region and celebrate rich culture while enjoying a folk show and Viennese waltz performance. Along the way, included excursions immerse you in each destination’s cuisine, architecture, local life and much more.
ROMANCE OF THE DOURO RIVER SEPTEMBER 26-OCTOBER 7, 2023 FROM $4,995 PER PERSON Discover the treasures of Portugal on this handcrafted 10-night program, featuring three nights in Lisbon and a seven-night cruise through the Douro River Valley. Begin in Portugal’s humming capital, enjoying its diverse neighborhoods, nautical monuments, and the Jerónimos Monastery. Travel north to romantic Óbidos and Coimbra, home to Portugal’s revered university. Spend time exploring Porto, an enigmatic harbor town known for its storied Ribeira district and bohemian culture. Then cruise aboard a firstclass ship through the fabled Douro River Valley, the world’s oldest demarcated winemaking region. Carve a path through sculpted hills and bucolic lands steeped in winemaking traditions. Daily excursions feature visits to wine estates and charming townships, including Vila Real, Lamego and Salamanca, Spain. Along the way, impress your tastebuds with regional dishes, local pastries and authentic port wines. Plus, enjoy an authentic Portuguese folk show and traditional “Tuna” performance.
www.ukalumni.net/ douro23
NORTH AMERICAN WATERWAYS SEPTEMBER 29-OCTOBER 11, 2023 FROM $5,799 PER PERSON Find world-class adventure in North America’s backyard on this grand getaway for 11-nights aboard American Queen Voyages’ Ocean Voyager. Enjoy a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay in Chicago, “The Windy City.” The following day, set sail on scenic Lake Michigan. Get lost in time on Mackinac Island, a car-free community. Visit one of the oldest cities in America, Sault Ste. Marie, and marvel at the mighty Soo Locks. Explore cultural touchstone museums and revitalized waterfronts of Cleveland and Detroit. Make a splash at the thundering Niagara Falls. In Toronto, snap up souvenirs at one-ofa-kind shops in the Distillery District and catch bird’s-eye views of one of the world’s greatest cities from the sky-scraping CN Tower.
www.ukalumni.net/ northamericanwaterways
FLAVORS OF NORTHERN ITALY OCTOBER 7-15, 2023 FROM $4,695 PER PERSON Join our small group for a nine-day journey to the culinary and cultural heart of Northern Italy - a region brimming with exquisite local wines, specialty ingredients, soul-satisfying signature dishes and the wonderful Italians who conjure them with time-honored techniques. Settle into a beautiful wine estate outside Verona. Within reach is a connoisseur’s pick of centuries-old wineries, artisan producers and extraordinary, historic sites. With each day highlighted by exclusive experiences, access authentic Italy, learn from local Italians and, most of all, revel in la dolce vita - the joyful celebration of food, friends and life.
www.ukalumni.net/ northernitaly23
RADIANT SPAIN AND ITALY OCTOBER 9-20, 2023 FROM $3,449 PER PERSON From Barcelona to Rome live your best life on this 10-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Riviera. Begin in beautiful Barcelona and set sail along the sunny Mediterranean. Sample paella in Valencia and visit the astonishing City of Arts and Sciences. See lovely Baroque buildings cluster around the historic central district of Alicante. Experience the youthful spirit of Ibiza and shop artisan souvenirs at a handicraft market. Pop into Palma de Mallorca’s plentiful art galleries. Sip world-class rosé in Provence. Feel the sand between your toes on a gorgeous Saint-Tropez beach. Make a stop at the swanky Monte Carlo Casino or take a drive through the dreamy Tuscan countryside. Before your final stop in Rome, discover the iconic masterpieces in Pisa.
www.ukalumni.net/ radiantspainitaly
EGYPT AND THE ETERNAL NILE OCTOBER 20-NOVEMBER 3, 2023 FROM $4,395 PER PERSON Accompanied by an expert Egyptian guide, this singular 15-day small group journey through antiquity reveals a storied land’s treasures. In Cairo, visit Memphis’s open-air museum, splendid Sakkara and the astounding Pyramids of Giza with their Great Sphinx. After touring Aswan’s massive dam, embark on a fascinating four-night Lake Nasser cruise through ancient Nubia, exploring the outstanding temples at Philae, New Kalabsha, Wadi el-Seboua, Amada, and Abu Simbel - the setting for a dramatic sound-and-light show. Return to Aswan for a classic three-night Nile voyage, enjoying a sail aboard a traditional felucca and visiting Kom Ombo’s unusual temple and Edfu’s remarkably preserved Temple of Horus. Reaching Luxor, the world’s “greatest open-air museum,” explore its awe-inspiring temple complexes. With three final nights in Cairo, tour the exotic Khan el-Khalili bazaar, historic Old Cairo and the acclaimed Egyptian Museum. Discover fabled “rose-red” Petra, ancient Jerash and Amman with an optional five-day/four-night post-tour Jordan extension.
www.ukalumni.net/ egypt23
GREEK ISLES AND TURKISH RIVERIA OCTOBER 23-NOVEMBER 3, 2023 FROM $3,449 PER PERSON Bask in the beauty of authentic villages, pristine beaches, and ancient architecture on this 10-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Sirena. Set sail on majestic waters and make way for Mytilene. Explore the well-preserved ancient city of Ephesus as you walk where chariots once roamed. Marvel at the famed Library of Celsus and the Grand Theater. Spend a day in Rhodes admiring the pristine beaches or venture through the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Master. See thousands of archaeological pieces in the Alanya Museum and witness gorgeous groves of olives, oranges and lemons growing beneath the majestic mountains in Limassol. Relax by the cobalt blue waters of Agios Nikolaos (Crete) or take in the Minoan and Byzantine villages surrounded by irrigating windmills. Before disembarking in Athens, tour a 16th century monastery in Mykonos.
www.ukalumni.net/ greekislesturkishriviera
CRUISING THE FIJI ISLANDS NOVEMBER 7-18, 2023 FROM $7,599 PER PERSON So much to see and so much to do on this cruise, the memories will last a lifetime. You’ll see Mother Nature at her best, be welcomed into the friendliest culture in the world, discover an underwater world and swim in Fiji’s famous crystal-clear waters. The M.V. Fiji Princess will be your home away from home for the duration of your cruise, except you’ll wake up in a different stunning location each morning. Who better to show you their home than the Fijians themselves? We pride ourselves on having an all-Fijian crew and with a high crew memberto-guest ratio, so you know you will be well looked after. Only a total of 34 cabins on the M.V. Fiji Princess. The crew will quickly know you by name and every way you turn there will be a big “BULA” welcome.
www.ukalumni.net/ fiji23
MACY’S
THANKSGIVING
DAY PARADE NOVEMBER 22-25, 2023 FROM $3,599 PER PERSON
Since 1924, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade has been the official kick off to the holiday season. Every year the Emmy Award-winning tradition is seen by more than 3.5 million people in New York and 50 million people at home, all tuned in to see the famous big balloons, a collection of amazing performances, one-ofa-kind floats and more. Join us to see one of the most popular events in New York City first hand. VIP parade viewing with brunch and cocktails included.
www.ukalumni.net/ macys23
HOLIDAY MARKET CRUISE NOVEMBER 27-DECEMBER 5, 2023 FROM $2,695 PER PERSON Feel the magic of the holidays in Germany and France on a seven-night Rhine River cruise. Celebrate centuries-old traditions in festive markets aglow with twinkling lights and good cheer and overflowing with handmade decorations and other treasures. Savor the sounds of carolers and bells and the scent of nutmeg, cinnamon and fresh pine in the air. Visit Heidelberg’s castle and enjoy an exclusive musical performance in the romantic old town. You’ll also stroll through Freiburg, a vibrant university city and admire the details of Cologne’s spectacular cathedral. In the ports of Breisach, Strasbourg, Rüdesheim and Düsseldorf, choose excursions that fit your interests, such as wine tastings, culinary tours or cultural experiences. Aboard your exclusively chartered, first-class ship, revel in the beauty of the Rhine Gorge and sip warm, spicy Glühwein. This heartwarming journey includes an ample meal plan, plus wine and beer with lunch and dinner.
www.ukalumni.net/ holiday23
MONTREAL AND QUEBEC CITY CHRISTMAS MARKET DECEMBER 7-16, 2023 FROM $2,895 PER PERSON Join us as we experience the holiday season fondly remembered, from years gone by. Explore outdoor markets with hand-made wooden toys, ornaments, and local crafts. Enjoy the sound of carolers, music and horse-drawn wagons on cobblestone. Embrace delightfully decorated town squares with magical streets and the scents of Gingerbread filling the air with spice.
www.ukalumni.net/ montreal23
OUR TRAVEL PARTNERS Each of our tours is offered in partnership with one of our trusted tour providers, who specialize in alumni group travel experiences. Each partner offers a wide variety of travel options, ranging from large international cruises to small vessel excursions and land programs. You are certain to find a trip that is right for you through one of these industry leaders!
AESU
3922 Hickory Avenue Baltimore, MD 21211 800-638-7640 or 410-366-5494 www.aesu.com
AHI
International Tower 8550 W. Bryn Mawr Avenue, Suite 600 Chicago, IL 60631 1-800-323-7373 www.uk.ahitravel.com
GO NEXT, INC
800 West 78th Street, Suite 345 Minneapolis, MN 55439 800-842-9023 www.gonext.com
GOHAGAN & COMPANY 209 South LaSalle St., Suite 500 Chicago, Illinois 60604 1-800-922-3088 www.gohagantravel.com
ODYSSEYS UNLIMITED 275 Washington Street, Suite 300 Newton, MA 02458 1-888-370-6765 www.odysseys-unlimited.com
ORBRIDGE
PO Box 10339 Bainbridge Island, WA 98110 866-639-0079 www.orbridge.com
PREMIER WORLD DISCOVERY 2615 – 190th Street, Suite 200 Redondo Beach, CA 90278 877-953-8687
SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT TRAVEL 4910 W 16th Street, Suite 105 Indianapolis, IN 46224 833-577-2700 www.uktravelingwildcats.com
DON’T SEE THE PERFECT TRIP FOR YOU? As a Traveling Wildcat, you are eligible to book any trip offered by any of our travel partners. So, you are welcome to peruse their websites or call to request travel information about any trip, just be sure to tell them you are a Traveling Wildcat.
ALUMNI TRAVEL PROTECTION PLAN PROTECT YOUR TICKETS, YOUR LUGGAGE, YOUR HEALTH Injury, illness, trip delays and lost baggage are a few issues that could cost you more than just your vacation. The Alumni Travel Protection Plan is custom designed exclusively for Traveling Wildcats and provides the peace of mind you deserve while traveling. For complete details visit www.ukalumni. net/travelinsurance or call 1-833-424-4932. ATTENTION TRAVELING WILDCATS All trip information, dates and prices are tentative and subject to change.
400 Rose Street King Alumni House Lexington, KY 40506