The Miami University Alumni Travel Program
2020 DESTINATION CATALOG
e Welcom
35 PREMIER DESTINATIONS
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TRAVEL WITH FELLOW MIAMIANS
LIFELONG LEARNING EXPERIENCE
UNIQUE TRIP ITINERARIES
MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
Miami Explorers trip, 2016
THE MIAMI ADVANTAGE For nearly 50 years, Miami Explorers has created unforgettable educational group travel experiences for alumni and friends. By partnering with top-rated travel companies, Miami Explorers offers unique travel itineraries featuring breathtaking destinations, expert local guides and high-quality accommodations.
With 35 trip itineraries, including some exclusive to Miami Explorers, there is no shortage of once-in-a-lifetime experiences. • Active education. You’ll never stop learning, from exploring the legendary ruins of Pompeii to traversing the pristine vastness of Antarctica. Adventure awaits on each of these distinctive and With outings around the globe – from exploring enchanting dynamic journeys. locales to discovering rich history and traditions – these trips • The Miami family. Engage and interact with highlight the Miami advantage when it comes to group travel. your fellow Miami alumni on these stunning What is the Miami advantage? explorations. Continue your Miami Experience with a community that shares a boundless • Premier destinations. Have you ever wanted to enthusiasm for lifelong learning. cross the Arctic Circle, cruise the Rhine River or encounter wildlife and wonder in South Africa?
Space is limited on most departures, so plan ahead for your preferred trips. Travel, learn and connect with Miami Explorers.
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DESTINATIONS
EUROPEAN Adventures
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Ancient Empires: Voyage to the Amalfi Coast and Sicily, Pg.12
Celtic Charms, Pg. 14
Alpine Splendor, Pg. 10
Ancient Greece, Pg. 11
Baltic and Scandinavian Emperors, Pg. 13
Celtic Lands, Pg. 15
MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
EUROPEAN Adventures
Flavors of Northern Italy, Pg. 17 Nordic Magnificence, Pg. 21
Cosmopolitan Havens, Pg. 15
Legacies and Legends, Pg. 19
Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast, Pg. 16
Circumnavigation of Iceland, Pg. 18
Majestic Slovenia, Pg. 20
Northern Serenade, Pg. 21
MIAMI UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
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DESTINATIONS
EUROPEAN Adventures
Your 6
Cruise the Rhine River, Pg. 24
Romance of the Douro River, Pg. 25
Oberammergau Passion Play and Cruising the Danube River, Pg. 22
Cultural Poland, Pg. 23
Rivieras and Islands of France, Italy and Spain, Pg. 24
Tulips, Windmills and Belgian Delights, Pg. 28
MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
NORTH AMERICAN Adventures MIAMI EXCLUSIVE!
Great Pacific Northwest, Pg. 31
On the Road to Freedom: Understanding the Civil Rights Movement,
MIAMI EXCLUSIVE!
Un Ri
Pg. 33
Canadian Rockies Parks and Resorts, Pg. 29
National Parks and Lodges of the Old West, Pg. 33
Glaciers and Wildlife of Alaska, Pg. 30
Montreal Jazz Fest, Pg. 32
North American Waterways: Lakes, Islands and French Canada, Pg. 34
Southern Grandeur: Holiday Markets, Pg. 35
MIAMI UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
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AFRICAN Adventures
ANTARCTIC SOUTH AMERICAN Adventures Adventures
DESTINATIONS
MIAMI EXCLUSIVE!
Your 8
Machu Picchu to the Galapagos, Pg. 38
Astounding Antarctica, Pg. 39
ASIAN Adventures MIAMI EXCLUSIVE!
Thailand: Treasures from the Land of Siam, Pg. 40
Egypt and The Eternal Nile, Pg. 36
Journey to Southern Africa, Pg. 37
AUSTRALIAN Adventures
Sunny Islands and Andes, featuring Panama Canal transit, Pg. 39
Tasman Sea Traveler, Pg. 41
MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
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We’ve done several other tours, we’ve gone with other companies and other trips, and Miami is far superior – their plans, their arrangements and taking care of you.” Pat Welti ’60 84
MIAMI UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
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Alpine Splendor - Europe
INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR
July 30-Aug. 12, 2020 | From $5,992 including air | Odysseys Unlimited As your small group of no more than 24 travelers discovers mountain villages and European cities, rides the famed Glacier Express, cruises on glassine lakes, and ascends snowcapped summits, borders disappear and the region’s history – and beauty – enchant one and all. This captivating 14-day Swiss and Austrian exploration begins in alluring Lucerne with Europe’s oldest covered bridge and a ride on the world’s steepest cogwheel train. After scenic overload here, board the legendary Glacier Express, following the fabled Rhône to Zermatt, gateway to the Swiss Alps. Ride the Gornergrat Bahn, Europe’s highest open-air railway, to the Gornergrat’s summit where a dramatic panorama unfolds: 29 Alpine peaks, including the majestic Matterhorn. Explore Stresa, Italy, along lovely Lake Maggiore’s shores. A tour of Ticino takes in medieval Bellinzona and its iconic 10
Castelgrande, a UNESCO site, along with lunch alfresco at a grotto restaurant and a visit to the Ascona artists’ colony. Continuing on to Lugano, take a leisurely cruise around Lake Lugano. Set out next for Austria by way of Liechtenstein, stopping in Maienfeld, setting for the novel “Heidi,” and enjoying a tasting at Schloss Salenegg, Europe’s oldest winery. A tour of postcard-worthy Innsbruck is followed by discovery of Tyrol, a crossroads of western Europe. Reaching Austria’s riverside jewel Salzburg, get acquainted with Mozart’s city, attending an intimate chamber concert and visiting Hohensalzburg, one of Europe’s finest castles. Tour nearby Berchtesgaden and the Nazis’ Eagle’s Nest retreat. Explore Bavaria’s cosmopolitan capital of Munich at your own pace with an optional four-day/three-night post-tour extension.
MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
Ancient Greece - Europe INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR
May 11-24, 2020 From $5,992 including air Odysseys Unlimited Unearth the ancient world’s grandeur on this singular 14-day journey combining premier archaeological sites with the beauty and lore of the Aegean and her isles. As the ancient world comes alive
in Athens and the Peloponnese, Crete and Santorini, your small group, limited to 24 travelers, celebrates the glory that was Greece – and still is today. In Athens, walk around the Plaka district and visit the capital’s key sights, including the Acropolis with its magnificent Parthenon, and the renowned National Archaeological Museum; then independently explore this monumental city. An excursion to Delphi, among the most celebrated ancient sites with its spectacular ruins, follows. Journey to the Peloponnesian coast for a three-night stay at a resort, stop at ancient Corinth’s ruins and visit an olive oil factory to learn about this Greek staple. At the vast archaeological site of ancient Epidaurus, marvel at the exceptional theater; then tour Mycenae’s imposing ruins, a UNESCO site. Visit beautiful Venetian/Byzantine Nafplio. Boarding a private boat, cruise to the idyllic, car-free island of Hydra. Spend the next three nights in the fascinating Cretan capital, Heraklion, touring the acclaimed Archaeological Museum and the legendary Minoan Palace of Knossos and exploring independently. After a private cruise to Spinalonga, ferry to picturesque Santorini, with its iconic whitewashed homes overlooking the Aegean. A two-night stay here includes a winery tour and tasting, a walk through postcard-worthy Oia, and a tour of the Bronze Age Akrotiri archaeological site. Returning to Athens, celebrate the Grecian sojourn with a farewell dinner.
MIAMI UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
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June 7-15, 2020 From $4,495 + air Gohagan & Company Discover the intriguing mélange of cultures that flourished in the wake of ancient empires on this exclusively chartered cruise to the resplendent shores of Italy, Sicily and Malta. Cruise for seven nights from Rome, Italy, to Valletta, Malta, aboard the newest five-star expedition ship, Le Bougainville, launching in 2019 with only 92 suites and staterooms, each with a private balcony, and featuring the extraordinary Blue Eye, the world’s first multisensory, underwater observation lounge. Our outstanding, custom-designed itinerary
Ancient Empires: Voyage to the Amalfi Coast and Sicily - Europe INTERNATIONAL CRUISE SMALL SHIP
features the very best of this historic region at the most ideal time of year and affords the unique opportunity to travel with a small, intimate group that visits seven UNESCO World Heritage sites. Marvel at Italy’s stunning
Amalfi Coast and the colorful seaside town of Sorrento. Gain insight into Roman life of A.D. 79 in the superbly excavated town of Pompeii. Discover Sicily’s storied town of Taormina, the legendary city of Syracuse and Agrigento’s majestic Valley of the Temples. Experience the rich history of Malta, the island nation where Saint Paul was shipwrecked. Rome precruise and Malta post-cruise options are available.
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MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
Baltic and Scandinavian Emperors - Europe
INTERNATIONAL CRUISE LARGE SHIP Miami Explorers trip, 2016
Aug. 28–Sept. 8, 2020 | From $4,099 including air | Go Next/Oceania Cruises Experience Baltic and Scandinavian culture, history and scenery aboard Oceania Cruises’ Marina. Your adventure begins in Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark. Sail on the Marina to Warnemünde and laze on the beach or take a scenic drive to Berlin to see the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall. In Rønne, wander the cobblestone streets or venture outside the city limits to take in the natural beauty of the ivory-white beaches and rocky cliffs. Uncover the history of Gdynia at the Emigration Museum and the Polish Naval Museum or visit nearby Gdańsk and its National Maritime Museum or one of its many historical churches.
Discover Klaipeda, where a single surviving tower of a onceglorious red brick castle remains. Tallinn, the next stop, has a UNESCO-listed Old Town and is one of Europe’s most compelling walled cities. Spend three days in the imperial grandeur of St. Petersburg, Russia’s window to the West, where pastel-colored palaces and onion domes complement the city’s vast network of canals and arched bridges. Visit the Russian Museum or browse Picasso paintings at the Hermitage. Your journey will end in Stockholm, but before that, stop in Helsinki and see the Suomenlinna, a ruined fortification that spans six islands.
MIAMI UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
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Celtic Charms - Europe INTERNATIONAL CRUISE MIDSIZE SHIP
July 2-13, 2020 From $4,799 including air Go Next/Oceania Cruises Begin your voyage in London, a city immersed in history, culture and art. Sail on Nautica to Newcastle,
a cultural oasis set astride the River Tyne with premier art galleries, museums and inventive restaurants. Next, arrive in Edinburgh, the hilly capital
of Scotland. Marvel at the 12th-century Edinburgh Castle that looms over the city atop Castle Rock and is home to Scotland’s crown jewels and the Stone of Destiny. Travel to Invergordon and explore the Scottish Highlands, where dramatic scenery has deep history and clan castles are profiled against the rolling hills and mossy glens. In Lerwick on the Shetland Islands, you can stroll through picturesque moors and flower-filled meadows. Travel to the Orkney Islands and, in Kirkwall, take in the sight of the St. Magnus Cathedral and the nearby 17th-century Earl’s Palace. Visit Stornoway, an epicenter of Gaelic culture and history, and view its colorful harbor, scenic coastal paths and rugged landscape. Then discover Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city and a dynamic metropolis on the banks of the River Clyde. Before ending your trip in Dublin, enjoy the unique flora and fauna of Fishguard in Wales.
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MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
Celtic Lands - Europe
May 30-June 8, 2020 From $6,895 + air Gohagan & Company
INTERNATIONAL CRUISE SMALL SHIP
Cruise for eight nights aboard the exclusively chartered, five-star small ship Le Boréal from Glasgow, Scotland, to Wales, Ireland and France, with guided excursions in each port. By special arrangement, visit the hallowed beaches of Normandy with Dwight David Eisenhower II, grandson of General and President Dwight D. Eisenhower, and meet Allen Packwood, director of the Churchill Archives Centre at the University of Cambridge. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Caernarfon Castle near Holyhead, Wales; experience the beauty of the Inner Hebridean Isles; and view Celtic treasures at Trinity College in Dublin. Edinburgh and Glasgow pre-cruise and Paris post-cruise options.
Cosmopolitan Havens - Europe INTERNATIONAL CRUISE LARGE SHIP
Nov. 3-11, 2020 From $2,299 including air Go Next/Oceania Cruises Sail to some of the most cultured cities on the western Mediterranean aboard Oceania Cruises’ Marina. Your journey begins in Rome, once the center of the world’s greatest empire and now the capital of modern Italy. Next, cruise to Florence and take in some of the masterpieces of the Renaissance, like Brunelleschi’s Duomo, the Baptistery and Michelangelo’s David. Nearby, discover Pisa’s iconic Leaning Tower or the rural Tuscan countryside. In Ajaccio, visit the childhood home of Napoleon Bonaparte before sailing to Palma to stroll the four-mile-long beach. Valencia, the next port, is Spain’s third largest city and the birthplace of paella.
MIAMI UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
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Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast - Europe
INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR
June 1-12, 2020 | From $4,195 + air | AHI Discover Croatia, from the winding streets of Zagreb, to the sparkling Dalmatian Coast, and magnificent Dubrovnik, the epic walled city featured in countless films. Croatia’s complex history comes to life as you explore landmark sites including Zagreb’s 13th-century St. Mark’s Church decked in medieval coat of arms. Rejuvenate your soul in a wonderland of misty waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes National Park, and linger in Diocletian’s Palace before finding your way to Split’s lively town center, located inside palace walls. Meet
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master craftsmen on the island of Brac and explore charming Trogir with its fifth-century palace, landmark church and the archeological ruins of Salona nearby. Lose yourself along the ancient passageways of Dubrovnik, tour its Franciscan Monastery and visit Europe’s oldest pharmacy. Expert lectures shed light on Croatia’s nautical history, Yugoslav Wars, modern life and more. This 10-night journey also includes first-class accommodations and an extensive meal plan, featuring wine with dinner.
MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
Flavors of Northern Italy - Europe INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR
Sept. 12-20, 2020 From $3,995 + air Orbridge 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, soulsatisfying signature dishes and the wonderful Italians who conjure them with time-honored techniques. Within arm’s reach of the culture-rich Veneto and Emilia Romagna regions lies Borgo San Donino – your home base for this experience – a charming farmhouse on the Selva Capuzza wine estate, also the 1859 battle site of Italy’s fight toward its independence and owned by Luca Formentini and his family for four generations. The farmhouse apartments, winery and attached restaurant are the result of many years of dedicated work and provide award-winning wines, delightful accommodations and generous hospitality for all who visit.
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!
MIAMI UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
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June 28-July 6, 2020 From $6,795 including air Gohagan & Company
Circumnavigation of Iceland - Europe INTERNATIONAL CRUISE
Discover the ethereal “Land of Fire and Ice” – one of the world’s most enchanting and distinctive destinations – on this specially designed seven-night circumnavigation cruise of this stunning Nordic island nation. Cruise aboard the newest five‑star expedition ship, Le Bellot, launching in 2020, featuring only 92 suites and staterooms and the world’s first multisensory, underwater observation lounge. Look for orca, humpback whales and rare migratory birds; see landscapes of ancient Viking ruins and crystalline glaciers atop simmering volcanoes; and touch ice fragments calved from one of Europe’s largest glaciers. Cross the Arctic Circle on Grímsey Island and cruise along the coast of Surtsey, one of Earth’s youngest islands and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the majestic and rocky vista of a former lava lake and marvel at dramatic Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods.” Includes round-trip air from Boston, Montreal, New York-JFK, Newark, Toronto and Washington-Dulles; low air add‑ons are available from select cities. Reykjavík and the Golden Circle pre-circumnavigation option is offered. Included airfare and low air add-ons have limited availability and are not guaranteed.
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SMALL SHIP
Miami Explorers trip, 2016 MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
INTERNATIONAL CRUISE
Legacies and Legends - Europe
LARGE SHIP
May 8-20, 2020 | From $3,899 including air | Go Next/Oceania Cruises Tour the shores of the Eastern Mediterranean on this incredible journey aboard Oceania Cruises’ Riviera. Your journey begins in Rome, the world’s greatest empire and now the capital of modern Italy. Sail to Sorrento and explore the legendary ruins of Pompeii or hop over to the nearby island of Capri, which offers stunning panoramas and ancient villas. Next, travel to Syracuse and see the Temenite hillside or the Ear of Dionysius. In Corfu, relax along the coastline with its topaz waters and cypress-studded hillsides. Then, stroll through the narrow streets of the secluded coastal city of Kotor.
Discover the glory of Venetian architecture, timeless piazzas and charming shops in Venice, and then experience the ancient walled city of Dubrovnik on the Dalmatian Coast and its pedestrian-only Old Town. In Santorini, take in the panorama of indigo-domed churches and black-sand beaches beside breathtaking rock formations climbing from the volcanic floor. Your voyage will conclude in Athens, but before that, travel to Kuşadasi to explore the Temple of Artemis, one of the remaining Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
MIAMI UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
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Majestic Slovenia - Europe INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR NO SINGLE SUPPLIMENT
May 7-15, 2020 From $3,295 + air AHI Tucked between Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia, Slovenia offers travelers a wonderful surprise. Mediterranean breezes, vast forests and Alpine peaks serve as a backdrop for the country’s enchanting cultural landscape. Join us for seven nights in cosmopolitan Ljubljana. Shop the city’s lively market, crisscross its storied bridges and cruise the Ljubljanica River. Step into an Alpine storybook at Lake Bled where swans glide in the shadow of a cliff-top castle. Visit the Church of the Assumption of Mary, sample honey at a bee farm and descend into fascinating Postojna Cave. Hear stories about past
owners of the massive Renaissance Predjama Castle built into the mouth of a cave. Stroll the seaside in pretty Piran and Portoroz, see elegant white Lipizzaners in training on a farm and drive through the Logar Valley. Throughout the journey, enjoy fresh Slovenian fare and local wines. This small-group journey includes first-class accommodations, an extensive meal plan and wine with dinner.
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MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
Aug. 23-Sept. 2, 2020 From $4,495 + air AHI
Nordic Magnificence - Europe INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR
Delight in the pleasures of Denmark and Norway on this eight-night journey. In Copenhagen, visit the old town and Rosenborg Castle, and enjoy the city’s famous architecture during an afternoon canal cruise. An overnight cruise along the coast serves as a prelude to Oslo, which offers an up-close look at ancient Viking ships. Thrill to spectacular Nordic scenery as you ride Europe’s highest-altitude train line en route to welcoming Bergen. Discover Bergen’s landmarks including Bryggen, the town’s iconic 12th-century wharf. Visit the country home of composer Edvard Grieg and soak up jaw-dropping scenes of waterfalls and alpine vistas on a train ride from the top of a mountain to the majestic Aurlandsfjord.
Northern Serenade - Europe INTERNATIONAL CRUISE MID-SIZE SHIP
Aug. 29-Sept. 11, 2020 From $5,799 including air Go Next/Oceania Cruises Discover the Nordic traditions of Reykjavík, see the waterfalls and fjords of Tórshavn, and wander through the countryside of Lerwick, filled with rugged moors, lush valleys and petite Shetland ponies. Visit a Viking settlement in Haugesund, lounge on the beach in Kristiansund and tour an aquarium in Lysekil. Dine in style in Copenhagen and take in the Gothic architecture of Lübeck. Cruise the Kiel Canal to Zeebrugge and take a boat ride along the city’s canals or spend the day exploring Brussels and its famed Grand Palace.
MIAMI UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
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2020 Oberammergau Passion Play and Cruising the Danube River - Europe
INTERNATIONAL CRUISE SMALL SHIP
June 9-19, 2020 | From $4,295 + air | Gohagan & Company Experience one of the world’s greatest dramatic spectacles amid the storybook landscapes of the Bavarian Alps – the extravagant Passion Play, staged once a decade by residents of the quaint village of Oberammergau. With a cast of thousands and a legacy that encompasses nearly four centuries, Oberammergau’s rare tradition is made even more exceptional with this program’s specially reserved seating and thoughtfully arranged cultural enrichments. This custom itinerary, effortlessly blending remarkable history with stunning scenery, features an exclusively chartered, five-night deluxe cruise along the fabled Danube River, two nights in
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the idyllic Bavarian Alps and two nights in Munich. Visit four countries – Hungary, Slovakia, Austria and Germany – and enjoy excursions to medieval Salzburg, a UNESCO World Heritage site and scenic backdrop for “The Sound of Music,” and Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration for Walt Disney’s iconic Sleeping Beauty castle. Experience five UNESCO World Heritage sites. Tour Budapest’s most historic landmarks, the world-class city of Vienna, 11th-century Melk Abbey and medieval Bratislava. Budapest pre-program and Munich post-program options offered.
MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
Cultural Poland - Europe INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR
May 23-31, 2020 From $3,495 + air Gohagan & Company Join us for an intimate exploration of Poland’s multifaceted history and culture through this uniquely designed, seven-night itinerary. Visit four
UNESCO World Heritage sites – the historic centers of Warsaw and Kraków, the solemn Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum and the Wieliczka Salt Mine, “the Underground Salt Cathedral of Poland.” Discover Warsaw’s dynamic past in its restored palaces and the Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw Uprising. Journey into Poland’s spiritual heartland, Częstochowa, to see the revered Black Madonna icon in the Pauline Monastery of Jasna Góra. Tour Kraków’s Jewish heart of Kazimierz and Gothic Mariacki Church and see the ancient Royal Castle on Wawel Hill. Specially arranged cultural enrichments include the Town and Country Life® Forum with local residents, a recital of music by celebrated Polish composer Chopin and meals featuring authentic cuisine. Enjoy ideally located, deluxe accommodations in Warsaw and Kraków. Explore further Polish heritage with the three-night Gdańsk pre-program option, featuring this epicenter of Solidarity and Toruń, gingerbread capital of Europe, and the two-night postprogram option in the lively cultural center of Wrocław.
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July 5-13, 2020 From $3,195 + air AHI Introduce the entire family to the legendary Rhine River, the lore of the Black Forest, Amsterdam’s storied canals, the Gothic landmarks of Cologne and more. Visit four countries on this seven-night adventure and make memories as you tailor the journey to your own interests. Choose among included cultural and active excursions, such as bicycling, art tours and culinary experiences in Amsterdam, Breisach, Oberwesel, Speyer and Strasbourg. Many activities are designed to appeal to younger travelers, ages 7 and up. Adults can enjoy wine tasting excursions and the German tradition of Frühschoppen, the mid-morning snack of pretzels, sausages and beer, while children learn about local legends and enjoy fun activities.
Rivieras and Islands of France, Italy and Spain - Europe INTERNATIONAL CRUISE SMALL SHIP
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Cruise the Rhine River - Europe INTERNATIONAL RIVER CRUISE SMALL SHIP NO SINGLE SUPPLIMENT MULTI-GENERATIONAL
Oct. 10-18, 2020 From $4,995 + air Gohagan & Company Cruise for seven nights from Barcelona to Rome aboard the exclusively chartered, five-star Le Jacques Cartier. This unique, comprehensive itinerary immerses you in the dynamic history, and inimitable art and culture of the sundrenched French and Italian Rivieras and islands. Visit up to five UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Carcassonne’s medieval fortifications and the picture-perfect cliffside villages of Italy’s Cinque Terre. Explore Corsica’s fortified town of Bonifacio. Visit either Florence or Pisa. Along the enchanting Côte d’Azur, enjoy specially arranged excursions in Monaco, Marseille and Nice. Barcelona pre-cruise and Rome post-cruise options available.
MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR INTERNATIONAL RIVER CRUISE
Romance of the Douro River - Europe
SMALL SHIP NO SINGLE SUPPLIMENT
Oct. 13-24, 2020 | From $3,995 + air | AHI The romantic Douro River meanders its way from Spain through Northern Portugal, delivering a breathtaking landscape of sculpted hills, terraced vineyards and scenic splendor. Explore the historic river and its environs during a seven-night cruise on an exclusively chartered first-class ship. Before embarking, enjoy Lisbon and its highlights, including the Alfama neighborhood, a hillside maze of cobbled lanes and ancient landmarks. See the University of Coimbra, founded in 1290 and embark the ship in lively Porto,
a colorful, historic town spread across the banks of the river. In Vila Real, taste local pastries and tour an 18th-century palace. Sip the region’s famous port wine at a traditional quinta on a drive along the Douro Wine Road. Enjoy pretty Lamego with its quintessential blue and white tiled staircase and elegant, sun-kissed Salamanca in Spain! This journey features a choice of included excursions and an extensive meal plan, plus a selection of complimentary beverages.
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Yo
e r u t n e ur adv
AWAITS ...
“We have traveled with Miami numerous times on Oceania Cruises in Europe and Alaska. Although each trip is unique, we have found the same quality and luxury on every one.”
Jan Wagoner ’74 84
Tulips, Windmills and Belgian Delights - Europe
INTERNATIONAL RIVER CRUISE SMALL SHIP
April 14-22, 2020 | From $3,999 + air | Go Next/Scenic Cruises Enjoy spring in Belgium and the Netherlands aboard the Scenic Opal. Embark in Amsterdam and sail to Rotterdam. Tour this bustling metropolis of bold, innovative architecture or take in the famed windmills of Kinderdijk. Visit Veere to take a guided tour or instead visit the Delta Works of Holland, one of the Wonders of the Modern World. Next, visit Antwerp, a city filled with Renaissance architecture and once home to Flemish Baroque artist Peter Paul Rubens. Sail to Arnhem to indulge your love of history at the Open
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Air Museum or the Airborne Museum, or cycle through Hoge Veluwe National Park. Continue to Hoorn to see wellpreserved buildings of the Dutch Golden Age, or visit the towns of Edam, renowned for its cheese, and Volendam, a fishing village of swaying boats and colorful houses. Before your journey ends in Amsterdam, witness the beauty of the Keukenhof Gardens, where over seven million bulbs flower annually.
MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
Canadian Rockies Parks and Resorts - North America
July 24-30, 2020 From $3,995 + air Orbridge
INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR
Venture north for a well-paced journey to Canada’s glorious Rocky Mountains. Relax at legendary resorts
including Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and Fairmont Banff Springs. Each resort offers a range of outdoor activities to consider; canoe, golf or walk nearby trails to take in the fresh air, inspiring landscapes and Rocky Mountain wildlife.
Accompanied by an Orbridge expedition leader, take in the natural splendors of the crystal waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake and the magnificent ranges in Jasper and Banff National Parks. Enjoy a marvelous cruise around the glacial blue waters of Maligne Lake, sightsee aboard a gondola at Lake Louise Ski Resort and visit Kootenay National Park to view the fascinating Paint Pots.
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July 13-23, 2020 From $3,999 including air Go Next/Oceania Cruises Take in the extraordinary flora and fauna of Alaska aboard Oceania Cruises’ Regatta. Begin your journey in Seward, an Alaskan coastal city that is home to Kenai Fjords National Park and is the starting point of the historic Iditarod Trail. Spend two days taking in the coastline of Alaska as you cruise down College Fjord and past Hubbard Glacier. In
Glaciers and Wildlife of Alaska - North America DOMESTIC/INTERNATIONAL CRUISE MIDSIZE SHIP
Icy Strait Point, visit the salmon cannery, watch for whales spouting at Point Adolphus feeding area or visit nearby Hoonah, a Tlingit fishing village. Juneau, the
capital city of Alaska, offers upscale dining and shopping as well as opportunities for wildlife viewing. Discover Skagway’s Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park before traveling to Sitka, where you can see some of Alaska’s oldest indigenous art. Experience the unique culture of Ketchikan, a city backed by steep, forested slopes and fringed by a pristine waterfront, not far from the Tongass National Forest. Your cruise will conclude in Vancouver, a gateway to the wilderness of western Canada, but before that, spend two days cruising the sea to Nanaimo, a thriving city center that offers travelers a diverse mélange of galleries, shops and museums.
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MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
Great Pacific Northwest - North America
DOMESTIC CRUISE RIVER/STEAMBOAT
Aug. 2-10, 2020 | From $4,099 + air | Go Next/Great American Steamboat Company Your adventure through the Pacific Northwest begins with an included overnight stay in Vancouver, Washington, just minutes from Portland and known for its gorgeous parks, eclectic neighborhoods and culinary scene. Board the American Empress and journey to Astoria, a charming city with Victorian homes, maritime relics, delightful cafĂŠs and shops. Head ashore in The Dalles and admire the
lovely scenery and small-town charm, then head ashore in Stevenson, your gateway to the famed Bonneville Dam and the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum. Before concluding your riverboat journey in Clarkston, cruise the river to Richland and explore nearby Sacajawea State Park, the site of Lewis and Clark’s 1805 camp.
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Montreal Jazz Fest - North America INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR MIAMI EXCLUSIVE!
June 24-28, 2020 From $2,695 + air Classic Escapes Join fellow Miamians for this exclusive journey, available only to alumni and friends of the university. Explore the culture of Quebec and the singular
charm of Montreal on the backdrop of its world-renowned annual jazz festival. Step into the world of the Québécois as you venture to the major points of interest around Montreal, stopping to immerse yourself in the culture, from learning their culinary secrets to taking in their art and history. Your experience will be enhanced by nightly live concerts from some of the biggest names in jazz. By day, visit points of interest ranging from the botanical to the archeological, giving you both a perspective on the history of Quebec and an authentic feel for this utterly unique Canadian province. You’ll stay in the Marriott Spring Suite Vieux Montreal, centrally located in the heart of charming and historic Old Montreal. Enjoy the Pointe-à-Callière, Montreal Archaeology and History Complex, as well as the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Biodôme de Montreal and a step-on-guided tour of Montreal “Public Art and Architecture,” which highlights the French, British and North American influences.
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MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
May 28-June 5, 2020 From $3,995 + air Orbridge
National Parks and Lodges of the Old West - North America DOMESTIC LAND TOUR
Inspiration, a connection to the past and nature’s beauty are the gifts of this expedition. Accompanied by an expert Orbridge expedition leader, trace the historic paths and natural splendors of the Old West. See and learn about the storied sights and monuments of Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, Spearfish Canyon, Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park. Witness bison herds, savor a chuck wagon cookout, see Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial, visit a wooly mammoth dig site and observe otherworldly geothermal sites at the volcanically active Yellowstone Caldera. Wonderfully atmospheric hotels and lodges are a highlight of this program.
North American Waterways: Lakes, Isands and French Canada -
North America DOMESTIC LAND TOUR RIVER CRUISE
Sept. 2-14, 2020 From $5,799 including air Go Next/Victory Cruise Lines Travel aboard a horse-drawn carriage on Mackinac Island and visit Sault Ste. Marie, the oldest city in the Midwest. Tour Manitoulin Island, the world’s largest freshwater island, and visit the Henry Ford Museum in Detroit. Explore the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, see the power of Niagara Falls and enjoy fine dining in Toronto. Cruise through the Thousand Islands, which mark the border between the United States and Canada.
MIAMI UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION 33
On the Road to Freedom: Understanding the Civil Rights Movement - North America
MIAMI EXCLUSIVE! DOMESTIC LAND TOUR
March 22-29, 2020 | From $3,899 + air | Distant Horizons Join the Miami University Alumni Association on a legacy bus tour that focuses on experiencing and developing a deeper understanding of one of the most significant social movements in American history: the civil rights movement. The tour and program trace the modern history and struggles of the movement that was comprised of individual acts of courage and sacrifice, grassroots organization and mobilization, boycotts, demonstrations, marches and mass actions.
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Cities visited on the tour will include Jackson, Baptist Town, Money and Sumner, Mississippi; Little Rock, Arkansas; Memphis, Tennessee; and Birmingham, Selma and Montgomery, Alabama. Participants will visit historic cornerstones and travel across the surrounding communities that nurtured and grounded the civil rights workers. They will also have the opportunity to experience some of the cultural elements, like food and music, that defined the period and sustained and nourished the souls of the community and those dedicated workers in the movement.
MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
Southern Grandeur: Holiday Markets - North America DOMESTIC CRUISE RIVER/STEAMBOAT
Dec. 6-14, 2020 From $1,899 + air Go Next/American Steamboat Company Experience the history and hospitality of the south on the American Queen as you journey from New Orleans to Memphis. Begin with an included overnight hotel stay and an exclusive tour of New Orleans. Experience the knotted oaks and Spanish moss of City Park or delight in some traditional southern cuisine in the city’s legendary French Quarter. Then visit the Nottoway Plantation, the largest antebellum mansion remaining in the south. Next, travel to St. Francisville, a quaint, influential town celebrated for its more than 140 buildings and plantation homes on the National Register of Historic Places. In Natchez, a quintessential southern town full of historic architecture, see one of the oldest post-European settlements in the Lower Mississippi River Valley. Then, discover Vicksburg – the Red-Carpet City of the South – which radiates southern hospitality and was the site of a dramatic siege during the Civil War. Before ending your trip by cruising the river to Memphis, stop in Greenville, a port town in the Mississippi Delta region with a rich artistic history.
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March 2-16, 2020 From $4,697 including air Odysseys Unlimited
Egypt and The Eternal Nile- Africa INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR
Accompanied by an expert Egyptian guide, this singular journey through antiquity reveals a storied land’s many treasures. Your small group of no more than 24 travelers
RIVER CRUISE
begins its 15-day immersion in Egypt’s unsurpassed historic atmosphere in Cairo and its environs.
Tour the acclaimed Egyptian Museum and the open-air museum at Memphis, Egypt’s first capital. Continue on to splendid Sakkara, royalty’s burial site for 3,000 years, and the astounding Pyramids of Giza guarded by their enigmatic Great Sphinx. Traveling to Abu Simbel, embark on a fascinating three-night Lake Nasser cruise through ancient Nubia. Visit the massive Abu Simbel temple complex overseen by the colossal statues of Ramses II and watch a dramatic sound-and-light show. After stops to admire the outstanding temples at Amada, Wadi el-Seboua and New Kalabsha, tour the massive Aswan High Dam – an engineering marvel – and explore the Temples of Philae. Then depart from Aswan on a classic four-night Nile voyage, enjoying a leisurely sail on a traditional felucca along the way, and visiting Kom Ombo’s unusual temple and Edfu’s Temple of Horus, Egypt’s best-preserved temple. Cruise on to Luxor, the world’s “greatest open-air museum,” to explore its wonders: the awe-inspiring Luxor and Karnak temple complexes; the haunting Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens, the impressive Temple of Hatshepsut, and the massive Colossi of Memnon. Returning to Cairo for two nights, tour the exotic Khan el-Khalili bazaar and historic Old Cairo. Discover fabled Petra, ancient Jerash and Amman with an optional five-day/four-night post-tour Jordan extension.
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MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
Journey to Southern Africa - Africa
INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR
Jan. 28-Feb. 12, 2020 | From $7,495 + air | AHI Encounter wildlife and wonder on this 12-night adventure through South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana. With expert trackers leading your small group, scout lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos and more on lavish safari excursions. Learn about the majestic African animals and efforts to conserve them and their pristine habitat. Explore Cape Town, where Table Mountain towers over colorful streets, splendid gardens and glistening beaches. Spot penguins on a scenic drive along the Cape Peninsula to the Cape of Good Hope. Travel to
Johannesburg and Soweto to see the home of Nelson Mandela and visit community leaders at a local youth program. Explore Hwange National Park on a game drive, feel the power of crashing Victoria Falls and spot elephants along the Chobe River on a safari cruise. This once-in-a-lifetime trip includes a journey on the elegant Rovos Rail, two flights within South Africa and an extensive meal plan featuring wine with dinner.
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Machu Picchu to the Galapagos - South America INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR MIAMI EXCLUSIVE!
April 28-May 13, 2020 From $8,193 including air Odysseys Unlimited This one-of-a-kind experience is available only to alumni and friends of Miami University. Machu Picchu’s enigmatic ruins and the fascinating Galapagos Islands rank among South America’s greatest treasures and a small group tour – limited to 20 guests – is the ideal way to experience both. Your 16-day journey begins with the highlights, both historic and contemporary, of the Peruvian capital, Lima. See Cuzco’s important Incan site, Koricancha, before continuing on to the magnificent Sacred Valley for a twonight stay, visiting Ollantaytambo’s massive Incan ruins and indigenous villages, where ancient traditions live on. After a scenic train ride, explore Machu Picchu’s astounding ruins on two tours, overnighting at a hotel near the site’s entrance. Exploration of Cuzco – UNESCO site and the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city – follows, with a two-night stay that includes touring Sacsayhuamán’s impressive ruins and a trip highlight: lunch in a local family’s home. Get acquainted with Quito, another UNESCO site boasting a staggering Andean backdrop and abundant history, during a two-night stay before flying to the Galapagos for a four-night adventure. Stay at a beautiful hotel on Santa Cruz Island, take day cruises on a privately chartered yacht to North Seymour and South Plaza islands. Accompanied by an expert Galapagos
naturalist guide, learn about Darwin’s unique “living laboratory” up close while observing iconic giant Galapagos tortoises, iguanas and other unique wildlife and birdlife. Explore Santa Cruz with its lava tunnels, huge craters and secluded beach before returning to Quito for a final day of touring and relaxation. Discover the Amazon’s amazing flora, fauna and villages with an exceptional four-day/four-night pre-tour option.
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MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
Jan. 3-22, 2020 From $4,499 including air Go Next/Oceania Cruises Take in the dramatic natural beauty of South and Central America, see Santiago de Chile, Lima, and Trujillo – cities that exude warmth and energy. Enjoy marine and wildlife sightings along sparkling coastlines, and stroll along white-sand beaches in Roatán, Harvest Caye, Costa Maya and Cozumel. Cruise through the legendary Panama Canal and observe a paradise of mangrove wetlands and towering mountains in Puerto Limon – appreciating the unique cultural tapestry of each stunning destination.
Astounding Antarctica - Antarctica INTERNATIONAL CRUISE SMALL SHIP
Sunny Islands and Andes, featuring Panama Canal transit - South America INTERNATIONAL CRUISE LARGE SHIP
Feb. 4-15, 2020 From $9,945 + air Orbridge Join this truly life-changing adventure to experience the boundless beauty and pristine vastness of Antarctica. This remote continent and its precarious waterways have hosted some of the most courageous explorers in history and have been the scenes of both triumph and tragedy since Captain Cook first sailed the region in 1773. Embark from Ushuaia, Argentina, and cruise through the Drake Passage to the South Shetland Islands amid the Antarctic Peninsula – exploring the dramatic landscapes and remarkable wildlife that call this continent home.
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Thailand: Treasures from the Land of Siam - Asia
MIAMI EXCLUSIVE! INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR
Feb. 10-21, 2020 | From $3,695 + air | Classic Escapes Travel with fellow Miamians on this select trip, exclusive to alumni and friends of the university. Uncover the treasures of Thailand on a journey that spans sparkling cities and mystical ruins, weaving past and present together in an unforgettable adventure. Travel by land and water to some of the most important landmarks of this ancient nation, from royal palaces to sacred temples. Wander the nation’s most
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revered national park, where you may encounter gibbon, sun bear and even the lumbering majesty of the Asian elephant.
Get hands-on experience with some of Thailand’s most treasured skills, whether it be textile weaving, wood carving or cooking. This is an experience that will shape your understanding of what it is to be Thai and the beauty of Thailand.
MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
Tasman Sea Traveler - Australia INTERNATIONAL CRUISE MIDSIZE SHIP
Jan. 18-Feb. 3, 2020 From $6,899 including air Go Next/Oceania Cruises Sail to Rotorua and discover its geothermal wonders, then take a stroll through Gisborne and find celebrated boutique wineries, surf beaches and one of the largest Māori meeting houses in New Zealand. In Napier, view eye-catching art deco architecture. Discover the thriving art scene in Wellington, stroll Akaroa’s streets framed by colonial architecture, and look for sunbathing fur seals and yellow-eyed penguins in Dunedin. Next, navigate one of the world’s most exquisite fjords, Milford Sound, with its dramatic cliffs, verdant forests and staggering waterfalls. Explore Burnie’s many wilderness areas before spending two days in Melbourne, a vibrant capital with chic art galleries and botanical gardens. Your cruise will conclude in Sydney, but first, discover Eden, a town nestled between two bays and perched on rolling hills bounded by dramatic cliffs and expansive sandy beaches.
MIAMI UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
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Travel Details Tour prices and itinerary Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and lowest category of accommodation. 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. Brochures for each trip will be available approximately six months prior to departure. Trip details, including 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 minimal assistance, participants requiring extraordinary assistance must be accompanied by someone who can and will provide all required assistance. Please check with individual tour operators for their policies regarding physical requirements.
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 42
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.
AHI International
Cancellations and refunds
Gohagan & Company
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. Unless noted as an exclusive trip for Miami alumni, our travel operators also offer advertised trips to alumni of other universities and affinity groups. Below is a list of tour operators for the 2019 itinerary. Visit the individual websites, the Miami Explorers website or contact the Miami Explorers program for more information.
AHITravel.com Classic Escapes ClassicEscapes.com Distant Horizons Distant-Horizons.com GohaganTravel.com Go Next GoNext.com Odysseys Unlimited Odysseys-Unlimited.com Orbridge Orbridge.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 website MiamiAlum. org/Travel. You may also make travel insurance arrangements with another insurance company of your choice. Miami University is not responsible for any refunds to passengers under any circumstances.
MIAMI EXPLORERS MiamiAlum.org/Travel
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I have been on eight Miami Explorer trips, and I can’t pick a favorite one. Each trip has been unique for its own reason – breathtaking scenery, wildlife, art, history, architecture or combinations thereof. If you want to be a world explorer, I encourage you to try at least one tour.”
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Bob Kirner ’80 84
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Nonprofit Org US POSTAGE
Murstein Alumni Center 725 E. Chestnut St. Oxford, OH 45056-2480
Reconnect with Miami friends and make new connections – by land and by sea – with Miami Explorers in 2020!
Travel. Learn. Connect.
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