2019 Miami Explorers Travel Brochure

201 9

MIAMI

EXPL

RERS

The Miami University Alumni Travel Program

PACK BAGS. BOARD PLANE. BEGIN ADVENTURE. See the world with Miami Explorers, the official travel program of the Miami University Alumni Association. Plenty of adventure awaits in 2019, by land and by sea!

CHOOSE YOUR DESTINATION. JET TO ITALY, AUSTRALIA OR IRELAND. CRUISE THE DANUBE, SOUTH PACIFIC OR PANAMA CANAL. TREK TO MACHU PICCHU, MT. DENALI OR THE FJORDS OF NORWAY. With more than 30 trips in our 2019 travel schedule, you can see the world.

Adventure awaits you, courtesy of Miami Explorers!

BUONGIORNO, BUENOS DÍAS, GUTEN TAG AND HELLO! These greetings give you a glimpse of the exciting journeys outlined in the following pages. In the 2019 travel schedule, you will certainly find your next (or first) alumni adventure!

For more than 45 years, the Miami University Alumni Association’s travel program, Miami Explorers, has offered alumni educational, group travel experiences with expert, local guides and first-class accommodations. This year, choose from destinations around the globe — from Europe and Latin America to the U.S. and Canada — by land and by sea.

We have partnered with top-rated travel companies who take care of all of the details for you and your fellow alumni. You’ll have the chance to share not only learning and travel experiences but also our Miami ties. All you have to do is pack your bags, board the plane and begin your adventure.

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

4

MIAMI UNIVERSITY

TIMELESS CUBA JAN. 12-20, 2019 From $2,349 including air Go Next/Oceania Cruises Cruise the warm waters of the Caribbean during a fantastic trip to Cuba. Arrive in Miami, and, after checking into your hotel, spend the evening at leisure. Join us for a group lecture focusing on Cuban and Latin American affairs, and take a panoramic tour of Miami and see Little Havana, Coral Gables and Coconut Grove. Embark on the ship Sirena, set sail to Cuba and discover the true depth and beauty of the once-forbidden destination.

Spend two days exploring Havana, a captivating city with an old-fashioned aesthetic. Then, journey to Cienfuegos. Known as the Pearl of the South, the city’s French spirit, tranquil seaside setting and neoclassical architecture are sure to enchant. Finally, before returning to Miami, stop in Santiago de Cuba. Wedged between looming mountains and the Caribbean Sea, the city offers a plethora of rich heritage and cultural diversions amidst a dramatic backdrop.

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE

MIAMI EXPLORERS

MIDSIZE SHIP

5

SPARKLING SOUTH PACIFIC JAN. 21-31, 2019 From $4,299 including air Go Next/Oceania Cruises Settle into laid-back island life as you encounter the South Pacific’s pristine beaches and glistening lagoons aboard the luxurious Marina.

Spend a day exploring Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia in the tropical paradise of Tahiti. The island’s volcanic peaks overlook lush rainforest, black-sand beaches and cascading waterfalls. Embark on the ship Marina and sail to verdant Moorea. Take in the colors of this paradise — the greens of the volcanically-formed cliffs, the blues of the still-watered lagoons and the white pops of the small tiare flower. Fakarava, the following port, is home to many rare plant and animal species. Search for unique tropical birds before continuing to Rangiroa where marine life is abundant. Spend two days in Bora Bora, known as the most romantic island in the world, and two days in Raiatea, an island dotted with vanilla plantations that spread the rich, sweet scent. Before ending the cruise back in Papeete, stop in relaxed Huahine. Minimally impacted by modern times, this is the perfect place to relax and take in the sunshine, pristine natural areas and easy-going attitudes of the locals.

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE

6

MIDSIZE SHIP

MIAMI UNIVERSITY

PASSAGE THROUGH THE PANAMA CANAL AND COSTA RICA FEB. 8-16, 2019 From $4,795 + air Thomas P. Gohagan & Company Join this incomparable nine-day sailing journey from the Costa Rican rainforest through the mighty locks of the Panama Canal. Spend one night in a deluxe hotel in San José, Costa Rica, then embark on a five-star cruise for seven nights aboard the exclusively chartered small sailing ship Wind Star. Explore the terrestrial wonders of Costa Rica’s wildlife refuges and pristine waters. Call at rarely visited Isla Cébaco. Tour Panama City and experience a daylight passage through the awe-inspiring Panama Canal. Includes shipboard gratuities and complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages on board. Costa Rica’s Cloud Forests and Volcanoes pre-program option and Dynamic Panama post-program option are available.

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE

SMALL SHIP

DAZZLING DOWN UNDER FEB. 13-MARCH 1, 2019 From $6,899 including air Go Next/Oceania Cruises Take in the best of New Zealand and Australia, destinations of thrilling contrasts and incredible scenery: sun-kissed golden beaches, lush green valleys, laid-back coastal towns, majestic fjords and energetic urban landscapes. Sail to the Bay of Islands to learn about its fascinating history, to Rotorua to discover its geothermal wonders and to Napier to 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. Then, navigate one of the world’s most exquisite fjords Milford Sound with its dramatic cliffs, verdant forests and staggering waterfalls. Uncover natural splendors in Burnie’s many wilderness areas before spending two days in Melbourne, a vibrant capital sprinkled with chic art galleries and gardens. Before ending your cruise in Sydney, visit Geelong, a coastal city with an intriguing history.

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE

MIAMI EXPLORERS

MIDSIZE SHIP

7

ISRAEL – LAND OF CULTURAL TREASURES MARCH 9-18, 2019 From $3,995 + air AHI Take a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Israel, and explore Israel’s diverse culture. See the Bauhaus buildings of Tel Aviv’s White City, historic Jaffa, Roman Caesarea, Akko’s Crusader fort and the Masada fortress. Cruise the Sea of Galilee, and float in the Dead Sea. In Jerusalem, walk the Via Dolorosa and see the Temple Mount and Western Wall. Experience the poignant Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial.

Speak with the people of Israel: a Druze family, winemakers and a Holocaust survivor.

This small-group program features an extensive meal plan with wine at dinner and eight nights’ first-class accommodations in Tel Aviv, Tiberias and Jerusalem.

INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR

SOUTHERN GRANDEUR APRIL 7-15, 2019 From $2,799 + air Go Next/American Queen Steamboat Company Relax into the history and hospitality of the South on this week-long riverboat experience.

Before embarking on the stately American Queen, spend the night in Memphis, a town with rich blues heritage and compelling Civil War sites. Then, travel to Vicksburg — known as the “Red Carpet City of the South.” This town offers up an array of boutiques and museums in its charming downtown district. Sail to Natchez, the oldest city on the Mississippi, graced with stunning gardens and palatial mansions, and then to Baton Rouge. This capital city’s unique political history is reflected in a collection of memorable landmarks, from the elegantly furnished Old Governor’s Mansion to the imposing neo-Gothic Old State Capitol. Continue to St. Francisville, a beautiful town with unique shops and historic homes to discover. Before disembarking in New Orleans, journey to Nottoway and explore the impressive halls of the largest plantation house in the South.

DOMESTIC CRUISE

8

RIVER/STEAMBOAT

MIAMI UNIVERSITY

DUTCH WATERWAYS APRIL 8-16, 2019 From $2,595 + air AHI Glide through the waterways of the Netherlands and Belgium during a seven-night cruise aboard an exclusively chartered, firstclass river ship. This program includes outings in Amsterdam, where a special canal cruiser shows you the city’s highlights: the fairy-tale village of Giethoorn and Antwerp, which has an impressive medieval cityscape. Design the rest of your trip from a selection of included excursions, which range from cycling to chocolate tasting to, of course, tiptoeing through tulips. Enjoy an extensive meal plan featuring wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. There is no supplement for solo travelers.

INTERNATIONAL RIVER CRUISE

MIAMI EXPLORERS

SMALL SHIP

9

CELTIC LANDS APRIL 27-MAY 6, 2019 From $6,495 + air Thomas P. Gohagan & Company Cruise for eight nights aboard the exclusively chartered, five-star small ship Le Champlain from London, England, to Wales, Ireland, France and Scotland, with guided excursions in each port. By special arrangement, walk 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 in Dublin.

London pre-program and Glasgow and Edinburgh post-program options are available.

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE

10

SMALL SHIP

MIAMI UNIVERSITY

MACHU PICCHU TO THE GALAPAGOS APRIL 30-MAY 15, 2019 From $7,993 including air Odysseys Unlimited Your singular 16-day South American adventure — with a small group limited to only 20 guests — begins with touring Lima. Spend two nights in the magnificent Sacred Valley visiting important Inca sites and indigenous villages. Travel by train to Machu Picchu, the stunning “Lost City of the Incas,” overnighting at an on-site hotel and exploring the ruins on two tours. Discover the archaeological hub of Cuzco, and enjoy lunch in a gracious family’s home. Tour Quito, a UNESCO site, then fly to the fascinating Galapagos Islands where you spend four nights on Santa Cruz Island in a beautiful hotel, taking day cruises on a privately chartered yacht to nearby islands. Learn about Darwin’s “living laboratory” firsthand as you observe giant Galapagos tortoises and other unique Galapagos wildlife during your excursions. Your journey concludes back in Quito. Discover the Amazon’s amazing flora, fauna and villages on a four-day/four-night pre-tour option.

INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR

ITALY’S MAGNIFICENT LAKE DISTRICT MAY 14-22, 2019 From $2,995 + air AHI Experience northern Italy’s unforgettable lake district, where sparkling lakes mirror the green hills and craggy slopes of the Alpine foothills. Spend seven nights in Stresa by Lake Maggiore and your days will be filled with exploring breathtaking islands, lakeside towns and Milan. Learn the secrets of northern Italian cuisine during a cooking lesson. In Milan, see Leonardo’s “The Last Supper,” and choose between a tour exploring the fashion industry and an excursion to the Duomo and La Scala’s museum. This small-group program features an extensive meal plan, including wine with dinner, and exclusive lectures to enhance your journey.

INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR

MIAMI EXPLORERS

11

THE GREAT JOURNEY THROUGH EUROPE JUNE 6-16, 2019 From $4,695 + air Thomas P. Gohagan & Company This extraordinary 11-day “Grand Tour” of Europe features an incredible combination of river, rail, lake and mountain travel including five nights aboard the deluxe Amadeus Silver II. Journey through the Netherlands, Germany, France and Switzerland, cruising the most scenic sections of the Rhine River. Spend two nights each in Zermatt and Lucerne; ride aboard three legendary railways — the Gornergrat Bahn for breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, the Glacier Express from Zermatt to Andermatt and the Pilatus Railway, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway — and enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Lucerne. This is the trip of a lifetime at an exceptional value! Amsterdam pre-program option available.

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE

SMALL SHIP

INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR

12

MIAMI UNIVERSITY

RICHES OF THE EMERALD ISLE JUNE 12-23, 2019 From $4,195 + air AHI From storytelling to dancing and a whiskey tasting to a farm-to-fork meal, experience Ireland on a 10-night adventure with stays in Ennis, Killarney, Mallow and Dublin. Explore the Dingle Peninsula, where Irish is the first language, and visit Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Trinity College. Delve into Ireland’s natural history during a walk along the Burren’s rugged limestone terrain and the Cliffs of Moher. Cruise to Inishmore to learn more about island life from a local guide, and explore Killarney National Park by horse-drawn carriage. This program features first-class accommodations and a generous meal program, including wine at dinner.

INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR

RADIANT RIVIERAS JUNE 15-23, 2019 From $2,799 including air Go Next/Oceania Cruises Take in spectacular views along the Mediterranean’s renowned coastline as you sail from cosmopolitan Barcelona to legendary Rome aboard the elegant Riviera. Travel to the island of Mallorca to Palma, a town with impressive architecture and historic monuments that surround a magnificent Gothic sandstone cathedral. Then, continue to Marseille, France’s oldest city that offers an array of galleries and museums and is the gateway to the picturesque landscapes and medieval towns of Provence. Next, head to Monte Carlo, an extravagant city surrounded by the renowned destinations of Nice, Èze and Cannes — all connected by the Grande Corniche. Antibes, this stunning coastal city, has inspired artists, including Picasso, with its sunny and serene disposition, while Ajaccio, the next port, is the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte and has relics commemorating him throughout the town. Finally, visit Livorno, a starting point for adventures in the monument-rich cities of Florence and Pisa and the idyllic Tuscan countryside.

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE

MIAMI EXPLORERS

LARGE SHIP

13

CANADIAN ROCKIES EXPLORER JUNE 15-25, 2019 From $4,591 including air Odysseys Unlimited One of North America’s great unspoiled wildernesses, the Canadian Rockies offer bountiful rewards for outdoor lovers on this 11-day adventure, shared by no more than 24 travelers. Your nature-focused itinerary brings you face-to-face with stunning sights, beginning in majestic Glacier National Park, where you board a Red Jammer sightseeing bus. Continue on to Whitefish, Montana, to hike scenic Whitefish Trail. Then savor the striking scenery en route to world-famous Banff National Park. Highlights in the park include visits to Lake Louise and a traverse of Athabasca Glacier in an Ice Explorer vehicle. Jasper National Park follows to admire dramatic Maligne Canyon and cruise cerulean Maligne Lake. An expedition to Glacier Skywalk affords you spectacular views. On your final full day, ride on the Banff Gondola to Sulphur Mountain’s 8,000-foot peak.

INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR

POLAND – KRAKÓW JUNE 28-JULY 6, 2019 From $2,895 + air AHI Beautiful Kraków is a delight to explore.

Stroll through Rynek Gówny, Europe’s largest market plaza, and the 16th-century Cloth Hall, where traders once hawked spices, textiles and goods from around the world. See St. Mary’s Basilica and its exquisite wooden altar. Visit Kraków’s historic Jewish Quarter and Oskar Schindler’s factory. If you choose, learn more about Poland’s tragic wartime history at Auschwitz; as an alternative, visit a nearby replica postwar communist community. Descend into the amazing Wieliczka Salt Mine, and spend a day exploring Warsaw. Enjoy seven nights’ first-class accommodations and an extensive meal plan, featuring wine with dinner.

INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR

14

MIAMI UNIVERSITY

DISCOVER SOUTHEAST ALASKA JULY 5-12, 2019 From $3,495 + air Orbridge Head out on a summertime expedition from Juneau to Sitka through some of nature’s more secluded landscapes as we discover the remote inner reaches of Alaska’s Inside Passage aboard the 66-guest Admiralty Dream. Enjoy the agility and flexibility of small-ship travel, up-close encounters with wildlife, stunning scenery, cultural experiences and the guidance of two expert naturalists including an Orbridge Expedition Leader. Capture the sight of whales breaching next to your boat, bears fishing along the shoreline and eagles looking down from their nests — all part of nature’s amazing show. This program also offers an optional pre-extension to Denali National Park. Explore this vast and beautiful wilderness — home to Mt. Denali, the highest mountain in North America. Ride the Alaska Railroad, stay in a hilltop lodge with panoramic views located inside the park and learn how this magnificent area became one of our nation’s most breathtaking conservation areas.

DOMESTIC CRUISE

MIAMI EXPLORERS

SMALL SHIP

15

RHINE HIGHLIGHTS JULY 9-17, 2019 From $4,699 + air Go Next/Scenic Cruises From Amsterdam to Basel and everywhere in between, romance is alive and well on the Rhine River and its idyllic tributary, the Moselle. The Rhine has become as much an icon of Northern Europe as the pristine castles, fairy-tale villages and lush forests that dot its banks. As you cruise its shores and explore its treasures, you’re sure to fall in love with a landscape you didn’t believe could truly exist. Embark on an all-inclusive, credit-card free luxury river cruise aboard the state-of-the-art Scenic Opal.

With a meticulously planned itinerary, unique and unforgettable shore excursions, and all onboard drinks and dining included, there is no better way to experience the Rhine and immerse yourself in the history and culture that line the banks.

INTERNATIONAL RIVER CRUISE

16

SMALL SHIP

MIAMI UNIVERSITY

NORTHERN FRONTIERS JULY 22-AUG. 4, 2019 From $5,099 including air Go Next/Oceania Cruises The majesty of Northern Europe awaits you as you embark on the ship Marina in Oslo.

Travel to Skagen, where the Baltic Sea and the North Sea meet and see the north’s crisp blue sky, golden sand beaches and picturesque white windmills. Visit Haugesund, once the royal seat of the Vikings, now a coastal city set against the backdrop of mountains and the sea. Continue to Flåm, located in the innermost point of Sognefjord, the world’s second longest and deepest fjord. Hellesylt offers a peaceful respite. Geiranger, a valley known for sights like the Seven Sisters waterfall, bursts with natural beauty. Ålesund boasts ornate art nouveau architecture. Stop in the charming cod-fishing town of Kristiansund, the gateway to the region’s island villages. Tour Bodø, a fishing village, known for its art community and midnight sun. Discover Harstand, a gem in the heart of Norway.

Before disembarking in London, sail to Bergen, a town surrounded by sapphire waters, verdant hillsides and snow-capped mountains.

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE

LARGE SHIP

THE MAJESTIC GREAT LAKES JULY 24-AUG. 2, 2019 From $5,499 including air Go Next/Victory Cruise Lines Explore the verdant wilderness, rocky shores and pristine islands of North America, as you sail the Great Lakes aboard the M/V Victory I. Embark in Toronto and sail to the Welland Canal, then take an off ship excursion and experience the immensity and grandeur of Niagara Falls from the thrilling perspective of a Hornblower vessel. Cruise to Cleveland and celebrate music history at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Relive the glory days of the American automobile at the Henry Ford Museum in Detroit, and sail the shimmering waters of Georgian Bay as you explore the native traditions of Manitoulin Island, one of the largest freshwater islands in the world. Traverse the legendary Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, the Midwest’s oldest city, and step back into the 19th century on the idyllic Victorian atmosphere of Mackinac Island. Journey across scenic Lake Michigan and disembark in the cultural hub of Chicago — the Windy City.

DOMESTIC CRUISE

MIAMI EXPLORERS

INTERNATIONAL RIVER CRUISE

SMALL SHIP

17

POLAR BEARS AND BELUGA WHALES AUG. 13-19, 2019 From $3,995 + air Orbridge Head north and discover the beauty and wildness of Churchill, Manitoba. This small town on the banks of the Hudson Bay is known for hosting polar bears in the fall. During summer, visitors have the opportunity to spot for polar bears along the local shores — swimming and walking around the rocks and wildflowers — before they return to the pack ice when it forms in early winter.

Summertime is also when the bears share the area with more than 60,000 beluga whales — who come to feed, mate and give birth in the shallow waters — as well as a wide variety of other wildlife.

Come and see this annual exhibition that can only be found here in the Canadian north, and meet the local people who call it home.

Pioneering spirits and welcoming smiles are waiting for you.

INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR

18

MIAMI UNIVERSITY

INSPIRING ITALY SEPT. 1-12, 2019 From $4,099 including air Go Next/Oceania Cruises Take in Italy’s coastline during this incredible 11-day, 10-night cruise. Begin in Venice, a city of weaving canals and opulent palazzi.

Embark on the ship Sirena and sail to Umbria, a region with rolling hills and wildflowerdotted meadows. Bari, the following stop, is home to St. Nicholas Basilica, where St. Nicholas is said to be interred. Next, sail to Crotone for fine museums, galleries and monuments and to Taormina for panoramas of the Ionian Sea and Mt. Etna. Visit Amalfi, a town filled with ancient wonders like a 12th-century Capuchin monastery and an 11th-century cathedral and cloister. Nearby, Positano charms with colorful fishing boats and Moorish-style houses. Next, sail to Civitavecchia, the port for Rome. Discover the capital’s legendary sites before visiting Portoferraio on the island of Elba, where Napoleon was exiled. Then head to Portofino, a fishing village turned seaside resort. In town, you’ll find pastel-colored houses on the harbor, boutique shopping and sidewalk cafes.

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE

MIDSIZE SHIP

ISLAND LIFE IN ANCIENT GREECE SEPT. 5-13, 2019 From $4,795 + air Thomas P. Gohagan & Company Join us for this unparalleled nine-day Aegean odyssey cruising round trip Athens, Greece, aboard the exclusively chartered, newest fivestar small ship Le Bougainville. Call on the islands of Delos, Mykonos, Pátmos, Rhodes and Santorini, and the Peloponnese Peninsula. Visit extraordinary Meteora, where 14th- and 15th-century monasteries stand high atop natural sandstone pinnacles, and walk through legendary sites of antiquity — including the ancient citadel of Mycenae and historic Epidaurus. Meet local residents during the specially arranged Island Life® Forum for a personal perspective on the true character of the Aegean Sea’s maritime culture. Athens pre-cruise option and Ancient Olympia post-cruise option available.

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE

MIAMI EXPLORERS

SMALL SHIP

19

FLAVORS OF CHIANTI SEPT. 12-20, 2019 From $4,695 + air Orbridge Meander through Tuscany’s cultural capitals and cypress-studded hill towns during this smallgroup journey. Explore the Italian countryside that inspires artists, chefs and vintners alike.

Enjoy seven nights’ deluxe accommodations in the hilltop Castello La Leccia in Castellina. Visit the childhood home of Lisa Gherardini – immortalized as the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci – at villa Vignamaggio. Work side-by-side with Italian chefs during a cooking class and wine tasting in Greve. Enjoy Siena – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – with its well-preserved cityscape, celebrated Duomo and bustling Piazza del Campo. Admire the Etruscan ruins and Roman center at Volterra before visiting charming San Gimignano, the Town of Fine Towers completely encircled by medieval walls. At Podere Il Casale, an organic farm, learn about the owners’ passion for the slow food movement and see a cheese-making demonstration. Then learn the history of Bagno Vignoni, a small village surrounded by thermal waters. Enjoy an optional Florence post-tour.

INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR

GREAT PACIFIC NORTHWEST SEPT. 15-23, 2019 From $3,999 + air Go Next/American Queen Steamboat Company Your adventure through the Pacific Northwest begins with an 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, where splendid Victorian homes and maritime relics mingle with delightful cafés and shops. Head ashore in Stevenson, your gateway to the famed Bonneville Dam and Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum. Then glide down the river and admire the lovely scenery and small-town charm of The Dalles.

Before concluding your riverboat journey in Clarkston, travel to Richland, and explore nearby Sacajawea State Park, the site of Lewis and Clark’s 1805 camp.

DOMESTIC CRUISE

20

RIVER/STEAMBOAT

MIAMI UNIVERSITY

ODYSSEY OF ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS SEPT. 15-23, 2019 From $4,395 + air Thomas P. Gohagan & Company Cruise from Venice along the stunning Dalmatian coast and through the Corinth Canal to Athens on this seven-night itinerary aboard the exclusively chartered, five-star, small ship Le Lyrial. Visit five countries and six UNESCO World Heritage sites exploring the influence of the Roman, Greek, Byzantine, Venetian and Slavic civilizations. Tour Split’s Diocletian’s Palace, Dubrovnik’s 15th-century walled city, Kotor’s medieval fortifications, the remarkable archaeological site of Butrint, Corfu’s Old Town and ancient Delphi. Enjoy a Coastal Life® Forum with local residents and a folk music performance. Venice precruise and Athens post-cruise options available.

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE

MIAMI EXPLORERS

SMALL SHIP

21

COLORS, COASTS AND COVES OF CANADA AND NEW ENGLAND SEPT. 27-OCT. 8, 2019 From $4,099 including air from select cities Go Next/Oceania Cruises Take in vibrant fall colors along the coast of New England and Canada. Depart from New York and sail to Newport to experience the city’s remarkable shoreline and opulent Gilded Age mansions.

Then, spend two days in Boston and learn about its remarkable history. The next stop is Bar Harbor to view its sweeping natural vistas, while Saint John, the following port, is home to geological marvels like the Reversing Falls, a daily tidal phenomenon that reverses the flow of the Saint John River. Big-city Halifax has a remarkable small-town feel, and Sydney is home to landmarks dating back to the 1700s. Before ending your cruise in Montréal, visit the setting of the historic conference that led to the formation of Canada in Charlottetown, located on Prince Edward Island — the setting of “Anne of Green Gables” — and stroll the cobbled streets of Québec City as you admire centuries-old architecture.

DOMESTIC CRUISE

22

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE

LARGE SHIP

MIAMI UNIVERSITY

CANADA VIA RAIL OCT. 4-11, 2019 From $5,995 + air Orbridge Discover the majestic beauty of Canada on a nostalgic rail journey that brings back the golden age of train travel. Join this oncein-a-lifetime train trip across Canada – a journey from Toronto across the expanse of five provinces, through the Canadian Rockies and into the Pacific Northwest.

Enjoy upgraded prestige class premium accommodations onboard Via Rail’s The Canadian, providing the perfect combination of modern and elegant cabins, private concierge service, delightful meals prepared by onboard chefs, allinclusive bar service and observation cars that allow for unobstructed viewing of Canada’s great wilderness. This is what travel was meant to be. And, with time to also explore Niagara Falls, Toronto and Vancouver, it’s a unique opportunity to get to know the beauty and history of our northern neighbor.

INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR

GRAND DANUBE PASSAGE OCT. 7-21, 2019 From $4,795 + air AHI Explore nine countries, Old World capitals and charming villages along the mighty Danube River. Enjoy three nights in Prague, Czech Republic, an eight-night Danube cruise and two nights in Sofia, Bulgaria. Discover Roman ruins, castles and fortresses, and feast your eyes on Budapest illuminated at night, the lush Wachau Valley and the Iron Gate Gorge. In several ports, choose from a selection of included excursions, featuring culinary outings, cycling, art tours and more. Enjoy first-class ship accommodations and deluxe hotels. The extensive meal plan features wine and beer with lunch and dinner. There is no single supplement for solo travelers.

INTERNATIONAL RIVER CRUISE

MIAMI EXPLORERS

SMALL SHIP

INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR

23

PARADORES AND POUSADAS: HISTORIC LODGINGS OF SPAIN AND PORTUGUAL OCT. 14-28, 2019 From $4,678 including air Odysseys Unlimited This 15-day journey takes your small group through the Iberian Peninsula to the intimate lodgings of Spain’s paradores and Portugal’s pousadas. Begin with Lisbon’s highlights, including Belem Tower and the National Palace of Queluz. Travel through the Alentejo region to one of Portugal’s finest pousadas in Evora, a treasure-trove of Roman and Moorish heritage and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Next, encounter Merida, a Spanish town boasting outstanding Roman ruins. In Spain’s Andalusia region, discover Seville’s beauty and romance, and explore the cultural gem of Cordoba. Spend two nights in Ronda. Then travel to Granada, the former Moorish stronghold with its renowned fortress, the Alhambra.

Visit medieval Toledo before savoring a three-night stay in Madrid, where you see the 18th-century Royal Palace, the world-renowned Prado museum and vast Plaza Mayor. Enjoy Barcelona on your own on an optional four-day/three-night post-tour.

INTERNATIONAL LAND TOUR

MAJESTIC VISTAS OCT. 27-NOV. 4, 2019 From $1,999 including air Go Next/Oceania Cruises Explore ancient cities and alluring architecture, as you set sail across the Ionian Sea. Embark the ship Marina in Venice, and sail to Dubrovnik an ancient walled city on the Dalmatian Coast that retains its centurieslong allure. View Venetian architecture in Kotor and opulent baroque landmarks in Valletta. Stroll through Messina, a lovely medieval city, rich with history and famous for a cathedral where Richard the Lionheart worshipped in 1190. Before returning to Rome, rejoice in Naples, home to world-class dining, fascinating museums and treasures such as the Farnese Bull or observe the ruins of ancient Pompeii, a vast archaeological site, standing in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius.

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE

24

LARGE SHIP

MIAMI UNIVERSITY

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

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.

policies and other trip-specific details. While

Travel operators

every effort will be made to carry out the

Miami Explorers works with the top travel

program as planned, the itinerary is subject

operators in the industry to provide an

to modification as necessary by the Miami

exceptional travel experience. Unless noted as

University Alumni Association and its tour

an exclusive trip for Miami alumni, our travel

operators. All dates and prices are subject

operators also offer advertised trips to alumni

to change. Brochures for each trip will be

of other universities and affinity groups.

available approximately six months prior to

Below is a list of tour operators for the 2019

departure. Trip details, including dates and

itinerary. Visit the individual websites, the

prices, are subject to change.

Miami Explorers website or contact the Miami Explorers program for more information.

Physical requirements

AHI International

For maximum enjoyment, participants must

AHITravel.com

be in good physical and mental health and be able to keep up with the pace of the group.

While reasonable accommodations will be

Thomas P. Gohagan & Company GohaganTravel.com

made for those who need minimal assistance,

Go Next

participants requiring extraordinary assistance

GoNext.com

must be accompanied by someone who can

Odysseys Unlimited

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 first-come, 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 and refunds

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

Tour participants are subject to cancellation

arrangements with another insurance

penalties as outlined in the individual

company of your choice. Miami University

trip brochures. Cancellation penalties

is not responsible for any refunds to

are structured to coincide with advance

passengers under any circumstances.

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,

MIAMI EXPLORERS

PRODUCED BY THE DIVISION OF UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT 8K/5/18/HERALD

25

FOR TRIP BROCHURES AND DETAILS MiamiAlum.org/Travel 513-529-1443 Toll-Free • 866-MUALUMS • (866-682-5867) Kathryn.Myles@MiamiOH.edu

Reconnect with Miami friends and make new acquaintances – by land and by sea – with Miami Explorers in 2019!

Murstein Alumni Center 725 E. Chestnut St. Oxford, OH 45056-2480

Miami University

PAID

US POSTAGE

Nonprofit Org