2015 Miami Explorers Travel Brochure

2015

MIAMI

EXPL

RERS

T h e M i a m i U n i ve r s i t y A l u m n i Trave l P r o g ra m

Pa ck ba g s . B oard p l an e.

B e g i n a d ven t ure.

See the world with the Miami Explorers, the official travel program of the Miami University Alumni Association. Plenty of adventure awaits in 2015, by land and by sea!

Where do you want to go?

Are you fascinated by the emperors and empires of East Asia or the famous passage of the Lewis and Clark Expedition?

Have you been craving a trip to an exotic coast, where white sands and clear waters stretch as far as the eye can see?

Or, have you just always wanted to experience life in Paris—whether in France or the “Paris of South America,” Buenos Aires?

These adventures and many more await in 2015, courtesy of Miami Explorers, the official travel program of the Miami University Alumni Association.

With Miami Explorers, each trip promises more than just a typical vacation. Every excursion is a chance to experience new cultures, learn their histories and enjoy the everyday life of these chosen destinations. Best of all, every excursion is a chance to share your own history and experience at Miami with fellow alumni and friends of the University.

Reconnect with old friends and make new acquaintances—by land and by sea—on any of the Miami Explorers’ trips in 2015!

Greetings, Fellow Explorers!

Welcome to the 2015 Miami Explorers travel brochure, where we hope you find your next (or first!) alumni adventure!

Each year, the Miami University Alumni Association handpicks a diverse selection of trips for the upcoming year that appeals to you, the alumni traveler. Through this process, we choose a variety of popular destinations offered through only top-rated travel companies that FOR TRIP expertly handle the details so you can focus on enjoying your exciting BROCHURES destinations.

& DETAILS

The Miami Explorers literally will be all over the map next year, with cruises, land tours and multi-day adventures to places like Patagonia, the Italian Riviera and even the American frontier of Alaska.

With each trip comes the unique opportunity to learn from expert trip guides as well as each other as we share not only learning experiences in different countries but also our Miami ties.

MiamiAlum.org/Travel 513-529-1443 TOLL-FREE 866-682-5867 (866-MUALUMS) Kathryn.Myles@MiamiOH.edu Brochures for each trip will be available approximately six months prior to departure.

Trip details, including dates and prices, are subject to change.

Continuing alumni education through travel is a primary goal of Miami Explorers, but the alumni travel program also encourages our travelers to connect (and reconnect) with fellow Miamians and friends throughout the trips offered.

So, in the following pages, I hope you will find that destination you’ve been meaning to cross off your list. And while we may be far removed from the red bricks of Oxford, what better way to see the world than in the company of your fellow Miamians?

Love and Honor, Kathryn Myles ’89, M.G.S. ’91 Associate Director, Alumni Travel Miami University Alumni Association

Treasures of Patagonia January 11–20, 2015 AHI International From the sophisticated capital of Santiago to the unspoiled landscapes of Patagonia, Chile is a country that never ceases to delight. Explore Santiago’s historic center, then journey to the Lake District in Patagonia and see the Petrohue River waterfalls. Cruise Lake Todos los Santos and admire stunning views of Osorno Volcano. Visit an estancia to learn about the huasos, Chilean cowboys, and watch an exciting rodeo. Then, discover the pristine beauty of Tierra del Fuego as you cruise the same waters as Magellan, Darwin and other intrepid explorers. Marvel at the Marinelli Glacier. Explore a Magellanic subpolar forest and see if you can spot southern elephant seals. Walk on the glacier in Almirantazgo Sound. Visit the Águila Glacier and a Patagonian rain forest. Travel by zodiac to Magdalena Island to see its penguin colony.

Your program includes deluxe hotel accommodations in two locations, accommodations on a state-of-the-art vessel designed to traverse Tierra del Fuego’s waters, all excursions and an extensive meal plan.

LAND TOUR/CRUISE SMALL GROUP TRAVEL

Gauchos, Tangos & Tapas February 22–March 7, 2015 Go Next/Oceania Cruises Travel where pulsating rhythms, sublime scenery, and age-old traditions thrive along South America’s east coast while cruising on Oceania Cruises Regatta, a superb haven of elegance. Spend a day in Buenos Aires, an unforgettable city known as the “Paris of South America,” before departing for cosmopolitan Montevideo and the chic resort town of Punta del Este. Continue to some of Brazil’s most captivating ports of call—charming Rio Grande, quaint Porto Belo, cosmopolitan São Paulo, historic Parati, the unspoiled island of Ilha Grande and the resort town of Buzios—and discover sparkling beaches, exotic wildlife, botanical gardens and colonial Portuguese architecture. Conclude your sea-swept adventure in Rio de Janeiro, whose stunning harbor is marked by the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain. From the glamorous boutiques of Buenos Aires to the exotic nature reserves of Brazil, experience the vibrant rhythms of South America on this alluring 12-night voyage.

CRUISE WITH LAND EXCURSIONS

Emperors & Empires March 9–26, 2015 Go Next/Oceania Cruises Let the fabled lands of East Asia mesmerize you with their inspiring beauty, timeless traditions and mystifying architecture, while cruising in luxury aboard Oceania Cruises Nautica, an intimate vessel offering superb amenities, designer details, and world-class cuisine. Explore Beijing, China’s hypnotic capital, home to acclaimed sites such as Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the legendary Great Wall. Admire colonial architecture in Dalian; savor a cultural feast of museums and art galleries in Seoul, South Korea’s vivacious capital city; and explore the celebrated riverfront boulevard and colorful Yuyuan Garden in Shanghai. Sail to Fuzhou, and admire its ancient pagodas and Buddhist temples, then head to Japan and relax on the serene, powdery white beaches of Ishigaki. Continue to the scenic island of Okinawa, where the imposing 14th-century Shuri Castle awaits, followed by Kyoto, an ancient imperial capital sprinkled with lovely temples and shrines. Immerse yourself in one of the most astounding cities on the planet, Tokyo, a glittering metropolis that beckons with renowned sites like the Imperial Palace and Meiji Shrine. From tranquil, age-old temples to luminous, state-of-the-art skyscrapers, natural wonders to bustling cities, endless treasures await on this 17-night Asian odyssey.

CRUISE WITH LAND EXCURSIONS

Polynesian Paradise March 15–25, 2015 Go Next/Oceania Cruises From luxurious white-sand beaches fringed by gently swaying palms and sweet-scented vanilla groves to velvety emerald mountains towering over translucent lagoons that dazzle in every hue of electric blue, indulge your senses with the wonders of French Polynesia. Cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ intimate, mid-sized Marina, an award-winning masterpiece at sea that shines with outstanding personalized service, elegant designer details and world-class cuisine. Admire kaleidoscopic lagoons surrounding Moorea and discover local legends and ancient marae (temples) amid gorgeous scenery on Raiatea. Be engulfed by endless tropical beauty on sun-kissed Bora Bora and experience a blend of black-sand beaches and sparkling waterfalls on Nuku Hiva.

Explore Rangiroa, the second largest atoll in the world boasting a crystalline underwater playground teeming with multi-hued fish, before returning to Papeete on the lovely island of Tahiti. Set adrift, catch the breeze and watch scenes of incomparable beauty unfold one-by-one on this 10-night Polynesian odyssey.

CRUISE WITH LAND EXCURSIONS

Italian Riviera April 25–May 3, 2015 AHI International An area known for its sparkling turquoise sea, sun-kissed beaches and charming towns, the Italian Riviera has been captivating visitors for centuries. Experience the enchantment of this famous region on a seven-night program that takes you to key landmarks and historic villages. Your home base is Sestri Levante, with its historic town center and brightly colored buildings framing the coastline. Venture to Santa Margherita, a town of colorful flowers, swaying palm trees and hillside villas, then cruise to Portofino, playground of the rich and famous. Visit the walled city of Lucca, and explore Genoa, the maritime republic believed to be the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Visit the picturesque villages of the Cinque Terre, the famous Five Lands. Journey to Carrara and discover the origin of the beautiful white marble that sculptors have turned into works of art for centuries. This Alumni Campus Abroad program includes excursions and informative educational programs, deluxe accommodations and an extensive meal plan.

NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT LAND TOUR ALUMNI CAMPUS ABROAD SMALL GROUP TRAVEL

Celtic Lands May 20–29, 2015 Thomas P. Gohagan & Company Join this once-in-a-lifetime cruise for eight nights aboard the exclusively chartered, Five-Star small ship M.S. Le BorÊal from Honfleur, France, to Ireland, Wales and Scotland. By special arrangement, University of Pennsylvania Professor Dwight David Eisenhower II, grandson of General and President Dwight D. Eisenhower, will join you to provide exclusive lectures and personal insights. Enjoy guided excursions in each port of call, including the hallowed beaches of Normandy 71 years after the Allied Forces made their historic landings and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Caernarfon Castle near Holyhead, Wales. View treasures of rich Celtic heritage in Dublin, including the Book of Kells; walk in the footsteps of medieval and present-day princes in North Wales; visit the charming seaside town of Ayr, birthplace of Robert Burns; and lose yourself in the austere beauty of the Inner Hebridean isles of Iona, Mull and Skye and their historical treasures of Iona Abbey, Duart Castle and Dunvegan Castle.

SPECIAL LECTURER CRUISE WITH LAND EXCURSIONS

Alaska Passages July 14–24, 2015 Go Next/Oceania Cruises Revel in the rugged, unspoiled glory of Alaska, America’s last frontier, as you sail its coastline aboard the elegant and intimate Oceania Cruises Regatta.

Depart from Seattle and sail the Inside Passage along Canada’s coast to Alaska and the small wilderness outpost of Ketchikan, known as the “Salmon Capital of the World.” Stop in Wrangell, a quaint timber and fishing community renowned for its Petroglyph Beach and intriguing gold rush history. Continue to Alaska’s capital, Juneau, where an exhilarating blend of nature and modern culture await. Take in the spectacular sight of Alaska’s longest tidewater glacier, Hubbard Glacier, and visit Skagway, a gateway to the famed Klondike gold fields. Explore Sitka, an astoundingly picturesque city known for its many historic attractions, including the Sitka National Historical Park, which boasts a totem-lined forest trail. Before returning to Seattle, sail to Canada’s largest island and the lovely city of Victoria, a former British colony characterized by its charming houses, lovely gardens and colonial heritage. Savor the majestic beauty of ancient glaciers, soaring mountains and exceptional wildlife on this exciting Alaskan cruise.

DOMESTIC TRAVEL CRUISE WITH LAND EXCURSIONS

Scotland July 29–August 6, 2015 AHI International Walk in the footsteps of William Wallace and leave your footprints along the “bonnie banks of Loch Lomond” as you journey through Scotland’s legendary landscape, forever a scenic stage for epic adventure. Discover the best of Scotland’s Celtic, Norse and Norman cultures and enjoy British afternoon tea, festive Highland dancers, bagpipe playing and a traditional haggis ceremony.

Visit the magnificent Stirling Castle and National Wallace Monument. Roam the medieval and Georgian architecture of Edinburgh, then tour Scone Palace, where kings were crowned. Experience one of the world’s most spectacular and moving shows: the stirring performance of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle at nightfall. Explore St. Andrews, cruise along Loch Katrine on a restored steamer and learn the secrets of Scotland’s whiskey artistry at its oldest distillery. This Alumni Campus Abroad program includes first-class accommodations, an extensive meal plan, all excursions, informative educational programs and ample time for independent exploration.

SMALL GROUP TRAVEL

Passage of Lewis & Clark Expedition August 1–9, 2015 Go Next Follow the passage of Lewis and Clark’s fabled expedition to the Pacific coast as you journey through a geological masterpiece of astounding landscapes.

From verdant forests and magnificent mountains to breathtaking gorges and sparkling waterfalls, experience the natural majesty of the Pacific Northwest while cruising the Columbia and Snake Rivers aboard the American Empress, the largest and most elegant riverboat west of the Mississippi. Begin with a stay in Spokane, Washington’s second largest city, graced with beautiful parks and world-class museums. Embark on your river cruise in Clarkston, Washington, where rich Native American culture springs to life at the nearby Nez Perce National Historical Park. Follow the footsteps of Lewis and Clark and their legendary Shoshone guide to Sacajawea State Park, the site of the explorers’ 1805 campsite. Then delve into unique pioneer history at The Dalles—the end of the Oregon Trail—and take in magnificent scenery in Stevenson, Washington. Revel in the small-town charms of the oldest city west of the Rockies, Astoria, before your voyage concludes in the “City of Roses,” Portland.

DOMESTIC TRAVEL RIVERBOAT CRUISE

Lands & Islands of Mystery September 16–October 2, 2015 Thomas P. Gohagan & Company This unforgettable, 15-night transpacific travel program features one night in Anchorage, Alaska and 14 nights aboard the Six-Star, all-Suite M.V. Silver Shadow, providing an unmatched small ship experience. This splendid opportunity offers many complimentary features aboard ship: all shipboard gratuities and port taxes, personal butler service, beverages in your suite and throughout the cruise and even complimentary fitness classes. Cruise from Seward, Alaska, to Tokyo, Japan, on an exotic journey across the Bering Sea and the northern Pacific Ocean’s final frontier, with port calls in Alaska’s Homer and Kodiak, the Aleutian Islands, Russia’s Far East and Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido. Onboard guest speakers will provide educational discussions on local history, nature and culture. A full array of optional excursions allows you to explore at your own pace.

CRUISE WITH LAND EXCURSIONS

Spain’s Costa Verde September 17–28, 2015 AHI International Spain’s Costa Verde, the Green Coast, enchants all who visit. Fall under its spell on a 10-night adventure that showcases its culture, history and stunning coastal and mountain landscapes. Begin your adventure in Madrid with a city tour then travel to Toledo, Spain’s former capital, to marvel at its stunning ecclesiastical architecture. Explore Segovia, the heart of Castile, and León, whose highlights include the San Isidoro Basilica and the Royal Pantheon.

Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims who have traveled along the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route. Take a scenic drive through Los Picos de Europa, a mountain range that is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Visit the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, tour San Sebastián and cross the border into France to visit the Basque towns along the coast. This exclusive small-group program includes deluxe accommodations, all excursions, a program of informative lectures and an extensive meal plan.

LAND TOUR

Greek Isles Odyssey September 26–October 5, 2015 Go Next/Oceania Cruises Discover the incredible ancient wonders of the Greek Isles while cruising from Istanbul to Athens aboard the graceful Riviera, Oceania Cruises’ newest ship.

Depart Istanbul and sail to the third-largest port in Greece, Volos, edging the sapphire-blue waters of the Pagasitikos Gulf and featuring lovely neoclassical architecture. Next explore Turkey’s vibrant port city of Kusadasi, or witness the amazing ruins of Ephesus, a former Greek and Roman city that is now one of the best-preserved archaeological sites on the Mediterranean. Then visit the serene island of Patmos, where magnificent frescoes adorn the Monastery of St John, followed by Rhodes, renowned for its ancient Acropolis and former site of the legendary Colossus. Take in more lovely scenery on Crete, famed for its idyllic landscapes dotted with villages and windmills, and get a glimpse of the bygone Minoan civilization at the reconstructed Bronze-Age Palace of Knossos. Behold a stunning natural spectacle of volcano-carved landscapes and blue-domed, whitewashed villages on Santorini, and stroll a labyrinth of streets edged by classic Cycladic architecture in Mykonos, before your Aegean odyssey concludes in Athens.

CRUISE WITH LAND EXCURSIONS

River Life Cruising the Elbe River October 1–9, 2015 Thomas P. Gohagan & Company Cruise for seven nights and experience the true character of Saxony, a rich crossroads of culture, aboard the exclusively chartered, superior first-class M.S. Swiss Ruby. Explore the incomparable treasures and timeless traditions of the Elbe River Valley, from the historic Old Town of Prague and the Baroque palaces of Dresden, the “Florence of the North,” to the medieval towns and stunning mountainous countryside of the Czech Republic’s Bohemia and Germany’s “Saxon Switzerland.” Expert-led excursions feature the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Prague, Wittenberg, Potsdam and Berlin and include a special backstage tour of Dresden’s exquisite Semper Opera House and a private tasting of world-renowned Czech and German beers. Further explore the region’s history and culture on the Pre-Cruise Option in Prague, “City of a Thousand Spires,” and the Post-Cruise Option in Berlin, one of the most captivating cities in Europe.

RIVERBOAT CRUISE

Southern Italy & Sicily October 13–27, 2015 Odysseys Unlimited Delight in an exploration of Italy’s less-traveled southern regions, from striking Sicily and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast to Apulia, the “boot heel”.

Begin your 15-day tour in Taormina, Sicily and enjoy spectacular views of the Ionian Sea. Venture to Europe’s largest active volcano, Mt. Etna. Transfer to the mainland and the Basilicata region where you’ll tour the cave dwellings of Matera. Journey south to Apulia and visit Alberobello’s medieval whitewashed conical houses. Discover Lecce “Florence of the South” with its picturesque seaside ports. Conclude your journey in Sorrento. Tour the site of Pompeii. Take a day trip to the Isle of Capri and embark on a breathtaking drive along the Amalfi Coast.

LAND TOUR

Holiday Markets December 1–12, 2015 AHI International Recapture the magic of the Advent season as you step into scenes that glitter with fairy-tale charm. Begin your adventure in Paris, the City of Light, and see the Grand Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower and other important landmarks during a cruise of the Seine River. Journey to Luxembourg, whose Palace d’Armes transforms into a traditional Christmas market. Visit Trier, the oldest city in Germany, and see the House of the Three Magi. Set sail for the town of Cochem, long celebrated for its legacy of folk tales, delicious wines and vast history, and go inside Reichsburg Castle. Continue to Cologne to tour Kölner Dom. Stop in Koblenz and Rüdesheim before returning to France to experience the historic center of Strasbourg. Your program includes all excursions; the chance to shop at holiday markets in France, Luxembourg and Germany; three nights in a deluxe hotel in Paris; accommodations on a firstclass river cruise; an extensive meal plan.

NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT LAND TOUR/CRUISE

Travel Details Tour Prices & Itinerary Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and lowest cruise cabin category. See individual trip brochures for pricing, inclusions, air options, departure cities, single supplement rates, cruise cabin upgrade options, cancellation policies and other trip-specific details.

While every effort will be made to carry out the program as planned, the itinerary is subject to modification as necessary by the Miami University Alumni Association and its tour operators. All dates and prices are subject to change.

Physical Requirements For maximum enjoyment, participants must be in good physical and mental health, and be able to keep up with the pace of the group. While reasonable accommodations will be made for those who need some assistance, participants requiring extraordinary assistance must be accompanied by someone who can and will provide all required assistance.

Single Travelers On all programs, a limited number of single spaces are available on a firstcome, first-served basis, for an additional fee. Occasionally a single supplement fee is not charged. Individual trip brochures provide the details on costs. We welcome with enthusiasm those who wish to travel alone and make every effort possible to incorporate each participant into the group.

Cancellations & Refunds Tour participants are subject to cancellation penalties as outlined in the individual trip brochures. Cancellation penalties are structured to coincide with advance payments that the travel operators must make to their suppliers and the penalties are strictly enforced due to these contractual

commitments. Because our travel operators have different cancellation policies, please make sure that you understand all cancellation penalties prior to making your trip deposit. The Miami University Alumni Association can in no way guarantee that a set number of participants will be traveling on each program.

Travel Operators Miami Explorers works with the top travel operators in the industry to provide an exceptional travel experience. Below is a list of tour operators for the 2015 itinerary.

Visit the individual websites, the Miami Explorers website or contact the Miami Explorers program for more information.

AHI International AHITravel.com Thomas P. Gohagan & Company GohaganTravel.com Go Next GoNext.com Odysseys Unlimited Odysseys-Unlimited.com

Travel Insurance We strongly recommend purchasing trip cancellation insurance to minimize financial risks due to last minute trip cancellation and other travel related risks.

The Miami University Alumni Association will provide you with travel insurance options upon trip registration. To obtain information about travel insurance in advance of registration, please contact the Alumni Association or go to our web site MiamiAlum.org/travel. You may also make travel insurance arrangements with another insurance company of your choice.

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