University of Calgary Travel Study 2015

CONTINUING EDUCATION

Travel Study 2015 Programs

conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms 403.220.2952

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Travel with us in 2015...

Do you love to learn? Do you love to travel?

You can experience both with U of C Continuing Education!

Every year, University of Calgary Continuing Education, in association with other U of C academic departments, offers you a series of amazing travel programs. The educational component that is part of every program is what sets these trips apart from any other holiday you will ever take.

Travel worry-free, knowing a Continuing Education travel program coordinator has handled all of the logistics. You will be guided throughout the program by an expert resource person — someone who has a passion for your destination.

All of the travel programs begin with orientation classes in Calgary.

Everyone is welcome in the University of Calgary Educational Travel Study Program, where every trip is the trip of a lifetime!

Lois Kokoski, Program Director, Travel Study Lois has traveled to over 90 countries and has been involved with the U of C Educational Travel Study Program for 24 years. In this time she has coordinated hundreds of trips and has taken many groups abroad.

Fees

Liability and Responsibility

Cost includes: tuition, orientation course, airfare, accommodation, transfers, all surface travel, and meals as listed in the itinerary. A deposit is required with the registration form. There is a withdrawal fee prior to the final payment date. Fees are based on the information available at the time of print and are subject to change to reflect any changes in currency rates, airfares, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment and passed on to the participant. All fees are based on double occupancy. Fees in all programs exclude airport taxes, passport and visa fees, luggage, cancellation, medical and other personal insurance, gratuities for local guides, wine, liquors, and other items not specifically mentioned as included and other personal services.

University of Calgary and its travel agents will exercise all reasonable care in making arrangements for conducting the tour. They are, however, acting only in the capacity of an agent and do not assume liability for any damage to persons or property resulting from or arising out of any act or inadvertence of any hotel, carrier, restaurant, or other company or persons rendering any of the services included in the tour or for any damage caused by other factors beyond their control. The passage contract in use by the airlines concerned when issued shall constitute the sole contract between the airlines and passengers. All prices are based on current international exchange rates and airfare prices at the time of planning the tours, and are subject to change. In the event that it becomes necessary or advisable to alter the itinerary or arrangements for any reason whatsoever, such alterations may be made. Additional expenses, if any, shall be borne by the participants; conversely refunds will be made to participants if any savings are affected thereby. The right is reserved to decline, accept, or retain any participant or tour member at any time.

Single Supplement The single supplement fee is listed in each program description. Every effort is made to find a suitable roommate for those who wish to share, however, if this is not possible, a single supplement charge will be applied.

Insurance We highly recommend cancellation and medical insurance. Information will be sent out at the time of final payment.

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Refund Policy Please call 403-220-5052 or write to Lois Kokoski at the address on this page. Up to the final payment date, a cancellation fee of $200 will apply.

After the final payment date, the amount of refund will depend on the amount recoverable from the tour operators. We highly recommend insurance.

conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms | 403.220.2952

4 Yellowknife: Aurora Borealis at Its Best

MARCH 14 – 19, 2015

6 Normandy and Loire

APRIL 13 – 26, 2015

8 New Orleans Jazz Festival

APRIL 27 – MAY 4, 2015

10 Roman and Medieval Provence: An Historical Journey

MAY 14 – 29, 2015

12 Art and Culture: Venice

JUNE 6 – 17, 2015

14 Wild Brazil: Pantanal Wetlands & Iguazú Falls

JUNE 15 – 27, 2015

16 Ancient Peru Tour

18 Namibia: Deserts and Wildlife

Registration

Please complete the registration form on the back cover and mail it with your deposit.

Contact Information Lois Kokoski, Program Director Educational Travel Study Program Phone 403.220.5052 Fax 403.284.9242 kokoski@ucalgary.ca conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms

JULY 1 – 17, 2015

Educational Travel Study Program U of C Continuing Education Education Tower 1120 2500 University Drive NW Calgary, AB T2N 1N4

Mailing List If you wish to be removed from our mailing list, please email mkuczaj@ucalgary.ca or kokoski@ucalgary.ca

AUGUST 13 – 31, 2015

20 Vienna, Wachau, Český Krumlov and Salzburg: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Heart of Europe

SEPTEMBER 8 – 25, 2015

22 The Great Bear Rainforest: Spirit Bears, Grizzlies and Ancient Forests

OCTOBER 2 – 8, 2015

24 India

JANUARY 13 – 26, 2016

26 Galapagos: The Enchanted Islands and Amazon Basin Extension

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FEBRUARY 17 – MARCH 2, 2016

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Yellowknife: Aurora Borealis at Its Best March 14 – 19, 2015 with Dr. Wayne Lynch Ancient Inuit believed that the aurora borealis was the torches of spirits guiding souls to a land of happiness and plenty. First Nations peoples along the Pacific Coast thought that auroras were the cooking fires of Eskimos boiling whale blubber. My grandfather believed they were the reflection of the sun off the polar icecap.

Auroras have inspired countless colourful stories and legends; their shifting curtains of green, red and purple light, pulsating across a blackened star-filled sky, are fuel for the imagination and never fail to amaze and captivate.

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When viewed from space, an aurora forms a bright crown of light encircling the northern polar region. Yellowknife, the capital city of the Northwest Territories, lies under the magical Auroral Oval where northern lights occur on 100 percent of nights when it’s dark enough to see the displays. Auroras are most intense around the autumn and spring equinoxes so our tour in March is at an optimal time. As well, the month of March has the greatest percentage of clear skies, the least amount of winter snowfall, and the warmest winter temperatures — a time when it’s truly energizing to be outside in nature.

conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms | 403.220.2952

Orientation The orientation course will be held on Wednesday, March 4, 7 – 9:30 pm, at the University of Calgary campus. The chief topic of discussion will be the fascinating science of the aurora borealis. Understanding the science behind the northern lights doesn’t rob the displays of any of their beauty and makes the spectacle even more exciting to witness. As well, we explore some interesting topics in winter ecology. Discussion topics will include the natural history of: ptarmigan and northern grouse, ravens and gray jays, red foxes, and wood bison in winter, all of which we hope to see on the tour.

Many will want to photograph the spectacular displays of the aurora and a handout outlining the specialized techniques and equipment will be distributed. For those who just want to watch the aurora in awe, the instructor will give everyone a CD with a selection of photographs from the tour to use for their own personal use. The itinerary and travel arrangements will also be discussed.

Every participant receives a copy of Auroras: Fire in the Sky, by Dan Bortolotti and Yuichi Takasaka, Firefly Books, Toronto, 2011, as part of the course materials.

drive some of the many roads surrounding Yellowknife to search for red foxes, willow ptarmigan, gray jays and ravens and discover how northern wildlife thrives despite the snow and winter temperatures.

MAR 19 Return to Calgary.

Accompanying Resource Person Dr. Wayne Lynch is an internationally-recognized naturalist, science writer and professional wildlife photographer. His photo credits include hundreds of magazine covers, thousands of calendar shots, and tens of thousands of images published in over four dozen countries. He is also a popular guest speaker, and audiences worldwide applaud his practical and entertaining approach to natural history. As well, he is the author and photographer of over 50 natural history books for children, young adults and adults. Two of his books relevant to this tour include: The Great Northern Kingdom — Life in the Boreal Forest and Planet Arctic — Life at the Top of the World. He is an elected fellow of the Explorers Club and the Arctic Institute of North America, and his biography has been included in the Canadian Who’s Who, published by the University of Toronto, since 1996. He has made dozens of trips to the boreal forest and the arctic.

Cost Airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST

$900 $3,000 $35

TOTAL

$3,935

Single supplement

$700

Cost includes: Tuition and orientation course, airfare, accommodation, transfers, all surface travel, and meals as listed in the itinerary. A deposit of $500 is required with the registration form. There is a $200 withdrawal fee prior to the final payment date. Final payment is due on October 15, 2014. Please see the Refund Policy section for withdrawal/refund procedures and liabilities. Fees are based on the information available at the time of print and are subject to change to reflect any changes in currency rates, airfares, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment and passed on to the participant. All fees are based on double occupancy.

Itinerary Two lunches and two dinners are included on this trip.

MAR 14 Depart Calgary for the direct 3-hour flight to Yellowknife. The city of Yellowknife is located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, the tenth largest lake in the world. This community of roughly 20,000 inhabitants bills itself as the Aurora Capital of Canada and is one of the three best locations on the planet to view the northern lights. Fairbanks, Alaska and Tromso, Norway are the other aurora hotspots but both are more expensive to reach and neither has as many daytime wildlife viewing possibilities.

MAR 15 – 18 For the next four days our small group of six participants will explore Yellowknife and its surrounding wild lands in our own private 7-passenger van. Most nights, from roughly 9:30 pm to 3 am, we travel far from the distracting lights of the city where we can view the northern lights at their best. On three of these nights we base ourselves at a remote cabin where we can stay warm, enjoy soup, bannock and sweets while the aurora dances overhead.

Mornings will be free for some extra sleep or strolling around town, but our afternoons will be busy with winter activities. We introduce you to snowshoeing and the thrill of tromping through powder snow in a boreal wilderness, and dogsledding over frozen northern lakes. If weather permits we also make a daylong expedition to see wintering wood bison in the Mackenzie Bison Sanctuary. Typically, these shaggy, frost-coated beasts rest and graze beside the highway; generally ignoring travelers who can observe and photograph them from relatively close distances. If time and energy permits we

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Normandy and Loire April 13 – 26, 2015 with John Gilchrist Nearing the 70th Anniversary of the end of the Second World War, we will be touring areas of France that are of special interest to Canadians. On our visit to Normandy, we’ll step onto the beaches at Dieppe and Courseulles-sur-Mer (known as Juno Beach) and hear the stories of Canadian soldiers. We will also visit Canadian military cemeteries in honour of the fallen.

Then we’ll visit the Loire Valley with its famous chateaux and vineyards from Tours to Orleans. Finally we stop in Paris for a short tour of the great City of Light.

Join us for two weeks in France in the spring of 2015.

We will tour Normandy’s many other highlights including: Mont St-Michel, the Bayeux tapestries, Monet’s gardens and the cobblestone streets of Rouen.

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conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms | 403.220.2952

Orientation The orientation course will consist of two Wednesday evenings on April 1 and 8, 2015, 7 – 9:30 pm, held at the University of Calgary campus.

These classes will provide participants with the overview of the program.

Discussion topics include history, food and culture of the region, as well as background information on the sites we will be visiting. The itinerary, travel arrangements, and health matters will be discussed in detail.

Itinerary Included meals are shown following the daily itinerary.

B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner APR 13 – 14 An overnight flight takes us to Paris where we will be picked up by a private coach. We drive to Rouen, the historic capital city of Normandy on the banks of the Seine River. After checking into our hotel and taking an orientation walk of the old city, a meal of traditional Norman food will complete our day. Three nights in Rouen.

(D) APR 15 A walking tour of Rouen will take us to its 16th century cathedral, the object of many of Claude Monet’s paintings, the site where Joan of Arc was burned in 1431, and the Musee des Beaux-Arts. In the evening we will dine on caneton rouennais, the classic pressed duck dish of Rouen. (B, D) APR 16 We’ll journey to the coast of the English Channel today to the town of Dieppe, where Canadians landed the ill-fated Dieppe Raid in 1942. Today largely a summer vacation town, Dieppe holds history that dates back centuries. Then it’s back to Rouen for dinner on our own. (B, L) APR 17 Today we travel to Giverny to visit Monet’s gardens. After lunch we continue to Caen, the hometown of William the Conqueror. We will dine on more Norman treats and sip a little calvados, the apple-based liqueur of Normandy. Three nights in Caen.

(B, D) APR 18 Near the 70th Anniversary of the end of the Second World War, we’ll visit the Normandy beaches today. The focus will be on Juno Beach where Canadian forces landed, and Canadian military cemeteries. We will visit some of the other Allied Forces beaches, too. Returning to Caen for dinner on our own. (B, L) APR 19 The Bayeux tapestries are first on the list today as we venture further into Normandy. Then on to Mont St. Michel, the historic island village and UNESCO site. We will head back to Caen for one last meal of Norman cuisine. (B, D) APR 20 This morning we drive to Orleans in the heart of the Loire Valley. After lunch, we’ll take a walking tour of the city and the many bridges that cross the Loire River, the cathedral Ste-Croix and the Place du Martroi. Dinner will be at a local Loiret restaurant and will include great wines of Loire. Four nights in Orleans. (B, D) APR 21 Today is spent visiting the chateaux and estates of the Loire Valley. Lunch will be at one of the chateaux; dinner will be on our own in Orleans. (B, L)

Accompanying Resource Person John Gilchrist has taught Food and Culture Programs for Continuing Education at the University of Calgary for over twenty years. He has also led travel programs to France, Italy, Scandinavia, Thailand, and Cambodia and throughout the United States. John is a Calgary based food writer and instructor who has reviewed restaurants on CBC radio One since 1980, he writes a weekly restaurant column for The Calgary Herald, contributes to numerous magazines and has written eleven best-sellers on dining in the Calgary area. He combines his fondness for food, wine and history in these U of C travel programs.

Cost

APR 22 On our tour today we will visit Tours, the capital of Touraine, known for its wines. A walking tour of Tours and then indulge in a little wine tasting. On our return to Orleans, we will have dinner at a Loire-style restaurant. (B, D)

Airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST

$1,700 $6,000 $60

APR 23 We are off to historic Chartres, on the border of Normandy and Loire, for a visit to the ancient village. Then back to Orleans for our last dinner of Loiret food. (B, D)

TOTAL

$7,760

APR 24 Off to Paris today for our last stop. First an orientation walk around the City of Light, visiting the banks of the Seine, the Tuileries garden, the Champs Elysees, the Champs de Mar and other famous Paris sights. Dinner will be at a Parisian bistro. Two nights in Paris. (B, D)

Cost includes: Tuition and orientation course, airfare, accommodation, transfers, all surface travel, and meals as listed in the itinerary. A deposit of $500 is required with the registration form. There is a $200 withdrawal fee prior to the final payment date. Final payment is due on October 15, 2014. Please see the Refund Policy section for withdrawal/refund procedures and liabilities. Fees are based on the information available at the time of print and are subject to change to reflect any changes in currency rates, airfares, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment and passed on to the participant. All fees are based on double occupancy.

APR 25 A visit to the Musee d’Orsay brings us full circle back to the work of Monet.

Famous for its Impressionists works, the Orsay is a Paris essential. After lunch at the Orsay, the afternoon is on our own to stroll the streets of Paris. Our last dinner will be Parisian style. (B, L, D) APR 26 Return to Calgary.

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Single supplement

$1,300

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New Orleans Jazz Festival April 27 – May 4, 2015 with John Reid New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, as well as seminal rhythm and blues musics, and the tradition continues in this highly musical city. Additionally, distinctive architecture, a laid-back attitude, fine cuisine, great music, and a unique history are all preserved and pushed forward in a revitalized New Orleans in the post-Katrina era. As to the music, cross blendings of jazz, blues, and marching bands are everywhere in the French Quarter, why even the landing is a musical one, as the terminal is called the Louis Armstrong

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International Airport! We will visit the many attractions of New Orleans and area — including a swamp tour, spend time at the world-renowned New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, and of course visit the many fine restaurants and entertainment hot spots in the Crescent City.

conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms | 403.220.2952

Orientation

Accompanying Resource Person

The orientation course will consist of two Tuesday evenings, April 14 and 21, 2015, 7 – 9:30 p.m., held at the University of Calgary campus. These classes will provide participants with the overview of the program including the history of jazz and blues music and the Heritage Festival.

John Reid is a jazz and blues musician (saxophone, flute, clarinet, vocals) who has made four previous trips to New Orleans, one leading a U of C group, one performing at the Crescent City jazz Festival with the Springbank Big Band and performing as a winner of the International Jazz Flute Big Band competition of the National Flute Association. He has shared the stage with Tom Jones and Dizzy Gillespie (among others).

Itinerary Included meals are shown following the daily itinerary.

B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner APR 27 Depart Calgary for New Orleans. Evening welcome dinner at Arnaud’s restaurant in the heart of the French Quarter. (D) APR 28 We start the day with a walking tour of the French Quarter. Explore the storied streets of Vieux Carre where legend and documented history converge. We will discover everything from the colonial history to Creole culture and view some architectural masterpieces, stopping along the way at the French Market, Jackson Square and Saint Louis Cathedral, and cemeteries. Afternoon free time. We will spend the evening at Irvin Mayfield Jazz Club. (B) APR 29 Today we travel to the Garden District, an area with the best preserved collection of historic southern mansions exemplifying different styles, including Greek Revival, Colonial and Victorian. We will pass by Audubon park, a 400-acre park located in uptown New Orleans between St. Charles Avenue and the Mississippi River, built on the site of the 1884 World’s Fair. We will also see the City Park — covering over 1,300 acres, it is one of the largest urban parks in the country. Free afternoon and an evening of music at Snug Harbour. (B) APR 30 After breakfast we will enjoy a swamp boat tour and have lunch on the shore of Lake Pontchartrain. After lunch, we travel to San Francisco Plantation and a tour of Longue Vue House and Gardens. The San Francisco Plantation House, one of the most opulent plantation houses in North America, is located on the east bank of the Mississippi River. It contains some of the finest antique collections in the country. It is a classical Revival style house consisting of three stories and a basement, an unusual feature of New Orleans. The house contains its original furnishings of English and American antiques. (B, L)

John is Prairie Regional director of the Canadian Music Centre and has released three CD’s. He is a member of Bluesland and the Cold Sweat Horns, who recently launched the CD “Down in New Orleans.”

Cost Airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST

TOTAL Single supplement

$800 $3,800 $50

$4,650 $1,100

Cost includes: Tuition and orientation course, airfare, accommodation, transfers, all surface travel, and meals as listed in the itinerary. A deposit of $500 is required with the registration form. There is a $200 withdrawal fee prior to the final payment date. Final payment is due on October 24, 2014. Please see the Refund Policy section for withdrawal/refund procedures and liabilities. Fees are based on the information available at the time of print and are subject to change to reflect any changes in currency rates, airfares, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment and passed on to the participant. All fees are based on double occupancy.

MAY 1 – 2 Full days at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. (B) MAY 3 Another full day at the Jazz and Heritage Festival at the Fair Grounds. Farewell dinner at Palm Court Jazz Café. (B, D) MAY 4 Morning at leisure and late afternoon return flight to Calgary. (B)

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Roman and Medieval Provence: An Historical Journey May 14 – 29, 2015 with Dr. John Humphrey Over two millennia ago, the ancient Romans acquired a new territory along the Mediterranean coast of Gaul. Formally called Gallia Narbonensis after its capital at modern Narbonne, its proximity to Italy led the Romans to call it simply Provincia (The Province); it remains Provence, and the Roman and Medieval spirit is still heavily felt in towns from Arles to Avignon.

Our 16-day journey through the area will take us to these places and many more. From our base at traditional hotels in three attractive towns (Arles, Vaison-la-Romaine, and Gordes) we will explore the well-preserved Roman fora, temples, baths, and theatres of Arles, Nimes, and Orange; the spectacular aqueduct bridge at Pont du Gard that once brought water to Nimes; the finely excavated Roman cities of Glanum and Vaison; the bories (domed stone buildings from 2000 BCE) of Gordes; the 12th century Popes’ Palace in Avignon; the pretty Abbey at Sénanque,

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set in a field of lavender; the fortified medieval port-city of AiguesMortes (“Dead Waters”); and the old riverside town of Fontaine-deVaucluse, once home to the medieval poet Petrarch and site of a still-functioning Renaissance paper mill.

But we won’t ignore the more recent delights of Provence. We will take a walking tour of van Gogh’s Arles, explore the outdoor market in Avignon, and wander the towns of the Luberon, former home of Peter Mays. We’ll spend a whole day in the Camargue, a huge, low-lying delta of marshes and sand dunes that teems with protected wildlife: beavers, native horses and bulls, and hundreds of species of birds including 10,000 pairs of flamingoes.

Our culinary experience will be equally mixed: Provençal dinners on terraces overlooking the vineyards, an ancient Roman lunch at Glanum, tasting of wines at Mas des Tourelles.

conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms | 403.220.2952

Orientation The orientation course will consist of four Wednesday evenings, from April 15 to May 6, 2015, 7 – 9:30 pm, held at the University of Calgary campus.

Topic for discussions will include history and culture, civilization of the region, and background information on the sites we will be visiting. The itinerary, travel arrangements, health matters, and insurance coverage will be discussed in detail.

Itinerary Included meals are shown following the daily itinerary.

B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner MAY 14 – 15 Depart Calgary for Paris. After landing in Paris, we will take a private coach to Arles. (D) We will spend the next eight nights in Arles.

MAY 16 – 17 We will visit the Roman forum, Amphitheatre, Theatre, Baths of Constantine, and fortification walls. Alyscamps cemetery, museums, and a walking tour of van Gogh’s Arles are all on our itinerary. Dinner at La Gueule du Loup near the arena. (B, L or D) MAY 18 We take a day trip to Pont du Gard, an aqueduct bridge in the south of France constructed by the Roman Empire and UNESCO World Heritage Site. We also visit a museum and Mas des Tourelles winery. (B, L) MAY 19 In the morning we will travel from Arles to Nimes and spend the morning visiting Roman Nimes. Lunch at Enclos de la Fontaine, the best local restaurant. The afternoon is free to explore Nimes. (B, L, D) MAY 20 Today, we visit Aigues-Mortes, a striking, walled Medieval town. Lunch at Les Enganettes. The afternoon will be spent exploring the Camargue and its series of long, level roads criss-crossing the marshes and farmlands. In the evening, we will have some free time to explore Arles on our own. (B, L) MAY 21 Today, we travel to Avignon to visit the 14th century Popes’ Palace. The afternoon is free to explore Avignon and its market further on our own. (B, D) MAY 22 We depart in the morning for a visit of the Roman grain mill at Barbegal and the medieval city and museum of Les Baux. After visiting the sites, we will have free time in St. Remy, and return to Arles for a free evening. (B, L) MAY 23 We travel to Orange to discover its Arch of Triumph and Roman Theatre, the most well-preserved theatre in the Roman Empire. Lunch will be at Le Yaca next to the theatre. An afternoon drive to Vaison-la-Romaine, a former Roman city nestled in the majestic Provencal hills. We spend the next two nights in Vaison. (B, L) MAY 24 Today, we tour the Roman city of Vaison. Lunch and afternoon are free. (B, D)

Dr. Humphrey has been leading Continuing Education travel study tours to the Mediterranean since 1978, taking participants through ancient sites in Italy, Croatia, Greece, Turkey, Cyprus, Libya, Egypt, Syria, Malta, Spain, Morocco and Tunisia. This is his third program to France.

MAY 25 We will drive up Mont Ventoux, a 1910-m high conical peak with magnificent views from the top. Continue on to Gordes, where we will spend the next four nights.

(B, L, D)

Cost

MAY 26 A full day touring Gordes, with a visit to a beautiful old village with nearby bories (ancient cone-shaped stone house and storerooms) built in tight against the base of the cliffs and some perched on the rocks above, including the 14th century castle. The evening will be spent at our leisure. (B, L)

Airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST

$1,700 $6,500 $60

TOTAL

$8,260

MAY 27 We take a drive to the medieval village Fontaine de Vaucluse and tour the spectacular source of the Sorgue River, the paper mill, and Petrarch’s house. In the afternoon we visit the Abbey of Sénanque. (B, L, D) MAY 28 Today we tour the Luberon region. Lunch and afternoon are free to explore the delightful town of Rousillon. A farewell dinner in Gordes. (B, D) MAY 29 Return to Calgary. (B)

Accompanying Resource Person

Single supplement

$1,400

Cost includes: Tuition and four-week orientation course, airfare, accommodation, transfers, all surface travel, and meals as listed in the itinerary. A deposit of $500 is required with the registration form. There is a $200 withdrawal fee prior to the final payment date. Final payment is due December 15, 2014. Please see the Refund Policy section for withdrawal/refund procedures and liabilities. Fees are based on the information available at the time of print and are subject to change to reflect any changes in currency rates, airfares, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment and passed on to the participant. All fees are based on double occupancy.

Dr. John Humphrey is a professor of history and archaeology in the Department of Greek and Roman Studies at the University of Calgary. He has excavated at sites in both Greece and Turkey, and now specializes in the history of ancient technology, on which he has published two books.

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Art and Culture: Venice June 6 – 17, 2015 with David Coman When crossing the narrow causeway to Venice from the Italian mainland, you quickly become aware that Venice is different from any other city. Built in the late Roman period on a foundation of millions of wooden beams driven deep into the marshy soil, Venice rose to become the greatest commercial and military power in the western world. For hundreds of years, its military might and cultural brilliance was unparalleled.

While countless artists, writers and composers have romanticized Venice as a city doomed to slow decay, the glory days of “La Serenissima” are remarkably well preserved today. Beyond the high-traffic venues like the Doge’s Palace and Cathedral of San Marco, there are many of Venice’s greatest artistic treasures housed

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in modest churches and galleries, concealed in the maze of narrow, medieval streets that still pervade the city. Since the late 1990’s, enormous resources have been poured into restoring the city’s infrastructure and preserving the artistic treasures. The continued success of the Art and Architecture Biennale exhibitions has helped Venice retain its standing as a leading centre of culture.

We will explore the artistic heritage of Venice and the surrounding region, from Giotto’s early Renaissance Scrovegni Chapel frescoes, through the High Renaissance altarpieces of Titian, Veronese and Tintoretto. Our trip will conclude with a full day visit to the Art Biennale, widely regarded as the most important contemporary art exhibition in the world.

conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms | 403.220.2952

Orientation The orientation course will consist of two Tuesday evenings May 19 and 26, 7 – 9:30 pm, held at the University of Calgary campus. Topics for discussions will include the art, history and culture of Venice, and background information of the sites we will be visiting. The itinerary, travel arrangements and health matters will be discussed in detail.

Itinerary Includes breakfast daily and 2 dinners.

JUN 6 Depart Calgary for Venice.

JUN 7 Arrive in Venice. Welcome dinner.

JUN 8 Today begins with a walking tour of the cathedral of San Marco, focusing on the multi-layered history of the site. For centuries Venetian merchants were required to return from trading expeditions with exotic new adornments for the Cathedral. This accounts for its visually stunning facade. Inside, the walls are covered with incredibly well-preserved gold mosaic. In the afternoon, we take the “Secret Itineraries” tour of the Doge’s Palace and hear the often sordid details of the many infamous personalities that shaped Venetian history.

JUN 9 We start in the San Polo neighborhood, where we will explore the Church of the Frari, the headquarters of the Franciscan brotherhood in Venice, and home to the famous Pesaro Madonna by Titian, this among other great paintings and monuments.

We then move on to the nearby Scuola di San Rocco with its extraordinary cycle of wall and ceiling paintings by Tintoretto. The “scuole” were secular organizations that focused on charitable works, and were also very important patrons of art in the 16th and 17th centuries.

JUN 10 The Victorian art critic John Ruskin was one of the most passionate and insightful interpreters of Venetian art and architecture. His massive book “The Stones of Venice” remains essential reading for students of Venice to this day. To Ruskin, the “Gothic” style in Venice symbolized a lost age of craftsmanship that was abruptly ended with the rise of Renaissance classicism. Happily, most of the intricate details that Ruskin rejoiced in are still intact today exactly as he observed them a century and a half ago. Our walking tour today is a chance to see Venice through Ruskin’s eyes, from the Piazza San Marco to the “jewel box” church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli.

JUN 11 A short 30-minute train ride from Venice takes us to the ancient city of Padua.

Long a fierce rival of the Venetian Republic, it is home to one of the most magnificent works of all art history, the frescoes by Giotto in the Scrovegni chapel, this chapel is rightly considered a cornerstone of Italian Renaissance art. Padua is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, and the oldest known example of a medicinal botanical garden still in use to this day. We return to Venice in the early evening.

JUN 12 Today is a day-at-leisure to explore Venice as you wish.

JUN 13 The islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello will be our destination today. Each of these islands is a short vaporetto ride from Venice, and each offers unique glimpses into the Venetian past. On Murano, we will visit a traditional glass-making workshop where centuries-old techniques are still used to produce some of the finest glassware in the world. The picturesque island of Burano is the traditional home of lace-making, while the isolated island of Torcello boasts two of the oldest churches in the Venetian region, one of which contains brilliant Byzantine mosaic and sculpture.

JUN 14 Today is spent at the Galleria del’Accademia, one of Venice’s largest and most comprehensive museums of art. We owe the very existence of this museum to Napoleon, who decided to re-purpose dozens of Venetian monasteries and convents to secular use during France’s brief occupation of Venice in the early 19th century. Today, the Accademia houses some of the greatest masterpieces of Venetian Renaissance and Baroque art, an experience that is heightened by the Gothic-period architecture of the building itself. In the evening, we attend an operatic performance in the intimate setting of the historic palazzo on the Grand Canal, a chance to experience opera at very close range and a truly unique and memorable experience.

JUN 15 For more than a century, the Venice Art Biennale has been regarded as the most important exhibition of contemporary art in the world. The Biennale effectively takes over Venice, with off-shoot exhibitions and art installations dotted throughout the city, as the yachts of the super-rich moored near the entrance will attest. In 2015,

good thinking.

the Nigerian-born Okwui Enwezor has been chosen as chief curator, and will undoubtedly bring his own distinctive approach to this exhibition, which takes place in the east end of the city in the former ship building factory of the Arsenale and adjacent gardens.

JUN 16 Perhaps the most influential architect of the Renaissance period was Andrea Palladio, whose greatest church designs can be seen directly across the lagoon from the Doge’s Palace. We take an in-depth look at the Palladian ideal of architecture through walking tours of the churches of San Giorgio Maggiore and Il Redentore.

Our conversation today is a fine follow-up to our discussion of Ruskin on day four. In Ruskin’s view, Palladio single-handedly caused the ruin of Venetian art and architecture. The bell-tower of San Giorgio, accessible by elevator, offers a magnificent view of Venice and a great conclusion to our tour. Farewell dinner.

JUN 17 Return to Calgary.

Accompanying Resource Person David Coman completed his undergraduate studies in European History and Art History at McGill University before earning a Master of Arts in the Faculty of Fine Arts at the University of Toronto. His area of specialization is French and English art of the early 19th century, with particular focus on the relationship between painting and literature.

David taught full time in the Department of Art at the University of Lethbridge from 1998 – 2000. He continues to teach Art History and Museum Studies at U of L’s Calgary Campus each semester. David has lived, worked and conducted research in England and France, and has led credit travel study trips for the U of L’s Faculty of Fine Arts since 1999. He has led tours to Paris and Venice for the Southern Alberta Art Gallery in 2011 and 2013 respectively.

Although his primary occupation is in Calgary’s energy sector, David maintains a passionate interest and involvement in the arts, working in Alberta and internationally. Through his 14 years as a study leader, David has earned a reputation for being a truly inspirational instructor.

Cost Airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST

$1,675 $4,400 $60

TOTAL

$6,135

Single supplement

$1,400

Cost includes: Tuition and orientation course, airfare, accommodation, transfers, all surface travel, and meals as listed in the itinerary. A deposit of $500 is required with the registration form. There is a $200 withdrawal fee prior to the final payment date. Final payment is due on January 15, 2015. Please see the Refund Policy section for withdrawal/refund procedures and liabilities. Fees are based on the information available at the time of print and are subject to change to reflect any changes in currency rates, airfares, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment and passed on to the participant. All fees are based on double occupancy.

13

Wild Brazil: Pantanal Wetlands & Iguazú Falls June 15 – 27, 2015 with Dr. Wayne Lynch Our journey will traverse the northern end of the legendary TransPantanal Highway; really just a gravel road flanked by wetlands teaming with birds and other wildlife. We will stay in riverside lodges and explore the adjacent wetlands by boat, searching for the wild and wonderful wildlife of the region. After immersing ourselves in the unforgettable water world of the Pantanal we will end our journey at Iguazú Falls, arguably the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. On seeing the falls for the first time, Eleanor Roosevelt opined “Poor Niagara”. The Pantanal is the largest, most diverse freshwater wetland in the world; home to several hundred colourful species of birds such as the magnificent hyacinth macaw, as well as many of the large charismatic mammals of South America, such as: howler monkeys, giant anteaters, giant river

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otters, coatimundi, collared tamanduas, Brazilian tapirs, marsh deer, crab-eating foxes and ocelots. The Pantanal also has the highest density of jaguars in the world. In recent years, daylight sightings of this mystical, powerful cat have become more frequent than ever. Seeing a wild jaguar, of course, is never a guarantee, but just knowing that such a glorious predator may be glimpsed as we round a curve in the river adds an unforgettable energy to the search. You will be amazed at the color of the toucans and parrots the elegance of the herons, egrets and storks, the liquid flight of the snail kites, the energy of the giant river otters tirelessly fishing for piranhas, the primeval magnificence of the basking caimans, the playful antics of the capybara, and the crimson beauty of the sinking sun as it cast rainbow hues across the rivers.

conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms | 403.220.2952

Orientation The orientation course will consist of two evenings June 3 and 10, 2015 7 – 9:30 pm, held at the University of Calgary campus. Topics for discussion will include the geography and natural history of the Pantanal ecosystem, the general biology and behavior of the bird life, mammals, reptiles and fish, and the impacts of ranching and ecotourism. Discussion topics will include the natural history of: parrots, wading birds, capybara, anteaters, jaguars, caiman, anacondas and piranha. The itinerary, travel arrangements, and health matters will be discussed in detail.

Itinerary Three meals daily are included throughout this trip.

JUNE 15 – 16 Depart Calgary for the overnight journey to Brazil. Arrive in Săo Paulo.

JUNE 17 Flight to Cuiaba, the capital city of the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso. Upon arrival in Cuiaba, we will travel south by coach to connect with the famous Trans-Pantanal Highway. Travelers frequently can’t believe the array of birds perched beside the road and flying overhead. The most visible mammal in the Pantanal is the capybara, the largest rodent in the world. Averaging 60 centimeters tall at the shoulders and weighing 45 kilograms, the capybara looks like a giant guinea pig. The grass munching rodent lives in herds, sometimes numbering over 100 strong. We spend the afternoon slowly travelling south searching for capybaras, as well as monkeys and the many colorful birds of the region.

JUNE 18 After breakfast we take a two hour wildlife cruise along the Cuiaba river searching for egrets, herons and storks, as well as caiman and capybaras. Later we hike through the forest near the lodge searching for monkeys and marmosets and other the wildlife characteristic of the rich riverine forests of the region. After lunch we drive the last stretch of the Trans Pantanal Highway to reach our hotel in Porto Jofre. At sunset we can view the lake covered with giant water lilies.

JUNE 19 Today we take two private boat tours along the Piquiri River searching for wildlife, with a good chance to see a jaguar. Typically, visitors see more than one of the charismatic spotted cats along the river banks. We leave the hotel before sunrise to enjoy the early morning light. Watching for jaguars we also search for giant river otters while taking in the ever present riverside bird life, especially the tiger herons, black skimmers, terns and multi-coloured kingfishers. A Pantanal experience not to be missed is a close up view of a piranha. Roughly 20 species of these legendary fish inhabit the waters of the wetlands, most have razor sharp teeth, many are vegetarian and only a couple of species attack animals in the water. Piranha are relatively each to catch and delicious to eat.

JUNE 20 After breakfast we’ll return to the Trans-Pantanal highway and slowly continue south, searching for wildlife en route. We will be at the Piuval Lodge located on an active cattle ranch. The ranch runs about 1500 head of cattle and the local cowboys herd the stock on specially bred horses, called Pantaneiro that can tolerate the wet conditions. Throughout our travels in the Pantanal we usually have several opportunities to see how the local ranchers raise cattle in a wetland. The survival of the wild lands of the Pantanal results, in a large part, from the stewardship of the cattle ranchers who protect the area from poaching, farming and settlement.

JUNE 21 We spend the early morning leisurely walking along a quiet back road near the lodge searching for parrot, toucans, pygmy owls and a multitude of other species.

Later we take a wildlife cruise along the Pixaim River watching for giant river otters and riverine birds. In the late afternoon we return to Cuiaba. The journey will be another opportunity to spot crab eating foxes, snail kites, hawks, ibises and egrets. The late hours of daylight are also a good time to see multitudes of caiman basking along the roadsides.

JUNE 22 This morning we will visit the zoo on the grounds of the state University.

The visit gives us a chance to get a close-up look at some of the more elusive wildlife species native to the Pantanal: maned wolf, tayra, agouti, brocket deer and numerous others. Many of the enclosures are spacious and natural-looking so nice photographs are possible. Right after that we drive north for 1½ hours to Chapada dos Guimarăes National Park with its scenic red sandstone cliffs. Most of the water flowing into the Pantanal comes from rivers and streams originating in Brazil’s elevated central plateau of which the Chapada dos Guimarăes is a portion.

good thinking.

JUNE 23 We will spend the day exploring the forested plateau and rock formations of Chapada dos Guimarăes National Park. Short nature trails lead beside brooks, ponds and waterfalls, including the picturesque 90-meter-high Bridal Falls and we will always be on the lookout for the area’s rich bird life which includes: honeycreepers, toucans, parrots, swifts and jays. The highest point in the park is Săo Jeronimo, at 850 meters.

The hill is a magnet for New Age hippies in search of novel locations where they can search for spiritual connections.

JUNE 24 Today we will return to Cuiaba for a flight to Iguazú Falls.

JUNE 25 We spend the entire day visiting the Brazilian side of Iguazú Falls. The name Iguazú is derived from a Guarani Indian word meaning “great water”. The legendary cataract is a breathtaking four kilometers long, wider than Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and higher than Niagara. Along its length, Iguazú divides into a multitude of cascades separated by rocky islands covered with dense forest. The luxuriance of the vegetation adds to the beauty of the roaring waters.

JUNE 26 – 27 This is our last day to view the beauty of Iguazú before spending the bulk of the morning at a nearby aviary, Parques das Aves. The spacious bird park is located on five hectares of native subtropical forest. Eight-meter-high enclosures offer nature lovers and photographers an opportunity to view colourful toucans, curassows, parrots, ibis and dozens of other indigenous bird species in their natural habitat without the restriction of netting and cages. In the early afternoon we will fly back to Săo Paulo to connect with our flights home.

Accompanying Resource Person Dr. Wayne Lynch is an internationally-recognized naturalist, science writer and professional wildlife photographer. His photo credits include hundreds of magazine covers, thousands of calendar shots, and tens of thousands of images published in over 60 countries. He is also the author and photographer of nearly 50 natural history books for children, young adults and adults. His most recent book for adults is the highly-acclaimed Owls of the United States and Canada — A Guide to Their Biology and Behavior. He has made dozens of trips to the wild lands of South America, and the Pantanal is one of his favourite destinations.

Cost International airfare Domestic airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST

$1,900 $1,200 $5,600 $75

TOTAL

$8,775

Single supplement

$975

Cost includes: Tuition and two-week orientation course, airfare, accommodation, transfers, all surface travel, and meals as listed in the itinerary. A deposit of $500 is required with the registration form. There is a $200 withdrawal fee prior to the final payment date. Final payment is due on January 10, 2015. Please see the Refund Policy section for withdrawal/refund procedures and liabilities. Fees are based on the information available at the time of print and are subject to change to reflect any changes in currency rates, airfares, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment and passed on to the participant. All fees are based on double occupancy.

15

Ancient Peru Tour July 1 – 17, 2015 with Dr. Patrick Carmichael Peru! From the desert shores of the Pacific to the snow-capped peaks of the Andes, we walk this land of stunning views and ancient mysteries. On the desert coast we fly over the Nazca Lines (giant ground drawings of birds and animals best seen from the sky) and marvel at the preservation of 2,000 year-old textiles and brilliant polychrome pottery. Travelling high in the Andes, we will acclimatize while enjoying the colonial treasures of Arequipa (2,325 meters ASL), then continue on to the imperial Inca capital of Cuzco

16

(3,326 meters ASL) where stone temples, palaces, and royal estates await. Machu Picchu, Jewel of the Andes, is the finale for this trip of a lifetime.

Be prepared to experience superb Andean cuisine and, when packing, leave room for alpaca sweaters and souvenirs as we will be visiting a number of Native markets.

conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms | 403.220.2952

Orientation The orientation course will consist of four Thursday evenings, June 4 – 25, 2015 from 7 – 9:30 pm, and will be held at the University of Calgary. These classes will provide participants with an overview of the program with lectures on the history and culture of Peru. The itinerary and travel arrangements, health matters and insurance will be discussed in detail.

Itinerary Breakfast daily and lunch or dinner.

JUL 1 Depart Calgary for Lima, Peru.

JUL 2 Explore historic Lima, “City of the Kings”, with colonial palaces, cathedrals, and convents. Visit the Larco Museum for a good introduction to all of Peru’s ancient cultures.

JUL 3 Today we drive from Lima southward to Paracas along the Pacific Coast. On the way we visit the great ruins of Pachacamac, a major temple complex and oracle centre under the Incas and their predecessors. We continue through desert and verdant valleys to our seafront hotel on the Bay of Paracas. Three nights in Paracas.

JUL 4 We enjoy a day around Paracas, starting with an early morning boat ride out to the Ballestas Islands, Peru’s largest coastal wildlife sanctuary, to view vast colonies of seabirds and seals. Later we visit the Paracas Interpretation Centre to learn about the local archaeology, and the world famous Paracas Necropolis Site where 2,000 year old mummies wrapped in brilliant textiles were discovered.

JUL 12 We take a day trip south from Cuzco to Pikillacta, a city built and abandoned centuries before the Incas. This maze of streets and courtyards was a provincial administrative centre for the Wari Empire, providing a model for Inca statecraft. We also visit the Inca royal estate of Tipón with its massive terrace complex and stone channels.

The day includes a stop at the 17th century church in the picturesque Andean town of Andahuaylillas.

JUL 13 Today we travel along the sacred Urubamba Valley to the Inca royal estate of Pisac, where we explore a spectacular cascade of agricultural terraces, Inca residences, and a temple complex with stunning views. Continuing on we arrive at Ollantaytambo, a well preserved (and still inhabited) Inca town beside a citadel-temple complex with some of the finest Inca stonework ever erected.

JUL 14 Early this morning we depart Cuzco for Machu Picchu — Jewel of the Andes!

Travelling by train through the Urubamba Valley, we arrive at the town of Aguas Calientes, just below the great ruins, where buses take us up to the site. The highlight of our journey — and one of the most magical places in the world — we explore all sectors of Machu Picchu, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

JUL 15 This morning we return to Machu Picchu for a more leisurely look around, before we board the train for the return trip to Cuzco. This is a relaxing day of scenic travel, with time to reflect on the grandeur of the Andes and its fascinating cultures past and present. Back in Cuzco there is one more chance for browsing the markets.

Overnight Cuzco.

JUL 16 – 17 Return to Calgary.

JUL 5 This morning we drive up the Pisco Valley to the great ruins of Tambo Colorado – the best preserved Inca site on the Peruvian coast. Here we explore this classic example of Imperial Inca architecture, and visit the site museum. Return to Paracas.

Remainder of day at leisure.

JUL 6 We travel from Paracas to our next major destination, Nazca. Driving south we observe the ecology of the great coastal desert, and arrive at the colonial city of Ica. After a walking tour of the main plaza area, we visit the Ica Museum — where all of the ancient cultures of the south coast are displayed. Then we continue south to Nazca and settle in our new hotel. Three nights in Nazca.

JUL 7 Morning flight over the Nazca Lines! Your small plane takes you high above the desert plains to view the giant ground drawings of birds, animals, and straight lines that run for kilometers! In the afternoon we visit archaeological sites around Nasca, including the ancient aqueducts and an Inca administrative centre.

JUL 8 Today we drive out to the great ceremonial site of Cahuachi, where archaeologists have revealed that dozens of huge, artificial mounds cover impressive temples and vast cemeteries at this ancient Nasca pilgrimage centre. In the afternoon we visit the museum housing the Cahuachi finds, and a modern ceramic workshop where a master potter reproduces the beautiful, Nasca polychrome ceramics.

JUL 9 From Nazca we travel south through spectacular coastal views to the Valley of Camana, then turn eastward into the Andes Mountains. Scenery and vegetation changes as we go up in altitude, eventually arriving at the beautiful colonial city of Arequipa (2325 meters above sea level). Arequipa was founded in 1540, and is called La Ciudad Blanca (the White City) because the historic centre is built of white volcanic stone. Two nights in Arequipa.

JUL 10 Full day tour of Arequipa, visiting churches built in the local 17th century baroque style, and the Convent of Santa Catalina, a cloistered convent built in pure 16th century Spanish style and only recently opened to the public. Later we visit the Andean Sanctuaries Museum, where Inca offerings left on mountaintops are on display — including the “ice-maiden Juanita”, an Inca girl frozen in time.

JUL 11 This morning we fly from Arequipa to Cuzco, capital of the Inca Empire! After settling into our hotel we take a walking tour of the old city, with its blend of Inca and Spanish buildings, and visit the Inca’s most sacred temple the Qorikancha (Golden Enclosure), now covered by the colonial church of Santo Domingo. Later we pause at an artisans market. We walk slowly today, because Cuzco is at an altitude of 3326 meters above sea level. Three nights in Cuzco.

good thinking.

Accompanying Resource Person Archaeologist Patrick Carmichael accompanies the tour bringing 35 years of experience studying the ancient Andes. Dr. Carmichael is an authority on Nasca and Inca cultures, and a veteran of numerous expeditions to remote areas of the Peruvian Andes. He also writes historical novels on the Incas (www.inca-adventure.com). Patrick has accompanied three previous trips to Peru with Continuing Education.

Cost Airfare Domestic airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST

$1,600 $950 $5,900 $60

TOTAL

$8,510

Single supplement

$1,350

Cost includes: Tuition and orientation course, airfare, accommodation, transfers, all surface travel, and meals as listed in the itinerary. A deposit of $500 is required with the registration form. There is a $200 withdrawal fee prior to the final payment date. Final payment is due on February 1, 2015. Please see the Refund Policy section for withdrawal/refund procedures and liabilities.

Fees are based on the information available at the time of print and are subject to change to reflect any changes in currency rates, airfares, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment and passed on to the participant. All fees are based on double occupancy.

17

Namibia: Deserts and Wildlife August 13 – 31, 2015 with Dr. Wayne Lynch Namibia is possibly one of the best kept secrets on the African continent. The country offers a surprising blend of stunning desert landscapes, remarkable arid-adapted vegetation, noisy fur seal colonies, plus all of the large charismatic mammals for which Africa is justifiably famous: lions, elephants, truculent black rhinos, elegant giraffes, spiral-horned kudus and impalas, and fleet-footed zebras. Namibia is one of the most sparsely populated countries in Africa, and therefore in better environmental condition than most other nations on the continent. The two greatest attractions in the country are Etosha National Park and the Namib Desert, our visit revolves around these two key areas. The Namib Desert, with its spectacular red dunes, stretches for nearly 2000 kilometres as a narrow strip along the entire western coast of the country. Here there are wind-sculpted fields of dunes, some over 200 metres

high, ancient welwitschia plants that have lived for millennia, aridadapted insects, lizards, sand grouse, and ostriches, and saberhorned gemsbok whose lithesome beauty embodies the magnetic lure of the desert.

Orientation

AUG 16 This morning, after breakfast, we travel west into the heart of the Namib Desert. En route we descend nearly 400 meters from the cool heights of the central plateau to the picturesque coastal sea of sand, making several stops along the way to investigate the interesting vegetation and landscapes.

The orientation course will consist of two Wednesday evenings, July 27 and August 6, 7 – 9:30 pm, held at the University of Calgary campus. Topics for discussion will include the ecology of the Namib Desert, the oldest desert on Earth, and the fascinating adaptations of the plants and animals to its aridity and heat. As well, we explore the natural history of Etosha National Park and the general biology and behaviour of the most common birds and mammals. Discussion topics will include the natural history of elephants, lions, hyenas, gazelles, and ostriches.

Itinerary Three meals daily are included throughout this trip.

AUG 13 – 15 Depart Calgary for Namibia, arriving in Windhoek.

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Etosha National Park, one of the largest parks in Africa, owes its unique landscape to the Etosha Pan, a vast shallow depression covering roughly a quarter of the park. A series of waterholes along the southern edge of the pan guarantees rewarding and often spectacular game viewing. We spend six days in Etosha moving between a dozen different waterholes, watching the continuous parade of wildlife drawn to the life-giving waters. We conclude the tour with a memorable stay at Victoria Falls along the legendary Zambezi River.

AUG 17 Today we drive into Namib-Naukluft Park to explore the varied desert landscapes and dune fields that have made the Namib, the most photographed desert in Africa. The area has lost none of the allure it once held for its early Bushman inhabitants. We set our sights on the sensuous curves of the dunes, and the varied life forms large and small. The smaller and more inconspicuous the object under scrutiny, the more intriguing and perfect will be the treasure you discover.

AUG 18 This morning we fly by specially chartered small aircraft over the sea of sand to the coastal city of Swakopmund. On the 1½ hour scenic flight we get a chance to appreciate the geometric beauty of the dunes in their timeless march towards the cold waters of the Skeleton Coast. From the air we also see the remains of abandoned diamond mines, the iron skeletons of ship wrecks, and several crowded colonies of Cape

conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms | 403.220.2952

fur seals. Our midday arrival in Swakopmund allows us to settle early into our hotel.

The afternoon is at leisure to wander the local museum, palm-lined streets, and upscale shops of this delightful coastal city that feels more Teutonic than African.

AUG 28 Our drive today takes us back to Windhoek for an overnight. As on all travel days during the trip, we stop now and then to enjoy the surrounding landscapes or whenever wildlife presents us with an interesting viewing opportunity.

AUG 19 Our day is filled with several activities, depending upon the weather. Coastal fog that provides vital moisture to the arid dunes may sometimes cloak the city for several hours in the morning and this determines, in part, how to best spend the time.

The nearby dunes south of the city can be an exciting introduction to the importance of fog to the intriguing creatures of the Namib. Farther south is the community of Walvis Bay, southern Africa’s single most important coastal wetland for migratory birds. The lagoon southwest of town attracts up to 150,000 avian visitors every year, including half the flamingo population in southern Africa. Also in the area is a commercial salt works where the salt from seawater is concentrated in vast shallow pans. The complex produces nearly ninety per cent of South Africa’s salt.

AUG 29 After breakfast we take a flight to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. Victoria Falls, referred to as the “Smoke that Thunders” by the native people of the region, is one of the great waterfalls in the world. The falls spans a width of 1.7 kilometres and plummets 107 metres into the misty depths of the Zambezi Gorge.

AUG 30 Today we explore some of the many nature trails that meander through the rainforests surrounding Victoria Falls. Along the river we search for hippos and crocodiles, and in the trees the rich birdlife of the area.

AUG 31 Return to Calgary.

AUG 20 Today we slowly wend our way north from Swakopmund to Cape Cross. Our route hugs the coastline and we arrive at Cape Cross Lodge in time for an early afternoon lunch. The dining room of the lodge overlooks the cold south Atlantic and it’s not uncommon to see a black-backed jackal wandering the beach, searching for edibles washed ashore. After lunch we visit the nearby seal reserve, home to the largest breeding colony of Cape fur seals in the world. A visit to such a colony is a memorable mix of barking bulls, whimpering females, and bleating black pups, all combining to create an unforgettable spectacle of animal behaviour.

AUG 21 Our travels today take us inland from the dunes to Damaraland, an area of Namibia noted for its wildlife: mountain zebra, desert elephants and rhinos, gemsbok, springbok, giraffes and ostriches. The wildlife is thinly distributed over this vast arid area, so sightings, being a challenge, are especially rewarding. En route we stop for a closer look at the legendary welwitschia, one of the great botanical oddities of Africa.

The ground-hugging endemic welwitschias grow at an exceptionally slow rate and scientists believe that the largest ones whose tangled mass of leaves can measure two metres across, may have been growing for up to 2000 years. We end the day at Mowani Mountain Camp, a luxury tented accommodation surrounded by breathtaking desert scenery and savouring the rainbow hues of the sunset from a lofty boulder perch overlooking the surrounding desert plains.

AUG 22 After yesterday’s travels we are rewarded with an easy day to soak up the natural environs of our lavish desert resort. Hyraxes huddle in the rocks and diminutive pygmy owls hunt lizards from the scanty trees. A 30 minute drive from Mowani is Twyfelfontein, the largest known collection of rock engravings in Africa. In 2007, UNESCO approved the petroglyphs as Namibia’s first World Heritage Site. Several loop trails wind through the site allowing visitors to enjoy many of the 2500 engravings that depict rhinos, elephants, lions, giraffes, animal tracks and geometric designs, most of which date back at least 6000 years to the ancient San hunters of the early Stone Age. AUG 23 – 24 Today we journey to Etosha National Park, arriving in mid-afternoon in time for a short game drive to introduce us to this wildlife-rich sanctuary. We spend two nights in the western end of the park where we have easy access to nearby waterholes visited by a steady procession of thirsty wildlife.

AUG 25 Our travels today take us farther east along the southern edge of the central pan of Etosha, giving us a chance to sample a new selection of waterholes. The waterholes of Etosha offer a different wildlife viewing experience than is typical in the plains of Kenya and Tanzania. In East Africa, visitors drive around more or less continuously, hoping to intercept wildlife as they move about. In Etosha, the wildlife comes to the visitors who position themselves near waterholes. With patience, you may see a varied parade of parched animals coming and going — herds of playful elephants, clusters of nervous kudu, impala and springbok, a sounder of jumpy warthogs, or a lanky giraffe struggling to bend its lengthy legs.

AUG 26 Morning and afternoon game drives focus on the eastern end of the park where another cluster of waterholes awaits us. Although grazing animals are the most common visitors to the waterholes during the day, predators are also seen, especially lions in the early hours after sunrise and in the waning light before sunset. Leopards, jackals, and hyenas visit less frequently in the daytime, but add excitement whenever they do.

AUG 27 Our final day to soak up the wildlife wonders of Etosha as we continue to explore the eastern end of the park, centered on Fisher’s Pan, an area well known for its abundant and diverse wildlife. Kudu, eland and gemsbok are relatively common, and daylight sightings of black rhinos are increasingly more frequent.

good thinking.

Accompanying Resource Person Dr. Wayne Lynch is an internationally-recognized naturalist, science writer and professional wildlife photographer. His photo credits include hundreds of magazine covers, thousands of calendar shots, and tens of thousands of images published in over four dozen countries. He is also a popular guest speaker, and audiences worldwide applaud his practical and entertaining approach to natural history. As well, he is the author and photographer of nearly 50 natural history books for children, young adults and adults. He is an elected fellow of the Explorers Club and the Arctic Institute of North America, and his biography has been included in the Canadian Who’s Who, published by the University of Toronto, since 1996. He has made over thirty trips to Africa, and recently began exploring Namibia which he finds refreshingly uncrowded and rich in natural history.

Cost Airfare $3,000 Domestic $700 Land, tuition and other costs $7,200 GST $75

TOTAL Single supplement

$10,975 $1,100

Cost includes: Tuition and two-week orientation course, airfare, accommodation, transfers, all surface travel, and meals as listed in the itinerary A deposit of $500 is required with the registration form. There is a $200 withdrawal fee prior to the final payment date. Final payment is due on April 10, 2015.

Please see Refund Policy section for withdrawal/refund procedures and liabilities. Fees are based on the information available at the time of print and are subject to change to reflect any changes in currency rates, airfares, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment and passed on to the participant. All fees are based on double occupancy.

19

Vienna, Wachau, Český Krumlov and Salzburg

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Heart of Europe September 8 – 25, 2015 with Maria Forsthuber Our visit to the historic centre of Vienna will allow us to experience three key periods of European cultural and political development — the Middle Ages, the Baroque period, and the Gründerzeit. The city’s urban centre and architectural details are exceptionally well preserved allowing us a visit to a bygone era.

The Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn of the Baroque Princely residential ensemble are especially well preserved, and present a fusion of many of the various art forms of the period.

The Wachau is a stretch of the Danube Valley between Melk and Krems and again, preserved intact, provides in visible form many traces of its evolution since prehistoric times in terms of architecture, (monasteries, castles, ruins), urban design and agricultural use, principally for the cultivation of vines.

Orientation The orientation course will consist of two Thursday evenings on August 20 and 27 2015, 7 – 9:30 pm, held at the University of Calgary campus. These classes will provide participants with the overview of the program. Discussion topics will include history, art, food and culture of the region, as well as background information of the sites we will be visiting. The itinerary, travel arrangements, and health matters will be discussed in detail.

Itinerary Included meals are shown following the daily itinerary.

B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner SEPT 8 Depart Calgary for an overnight flight to Vienna.

SEPT 9 Arrive in Vienna, Austria’s elegant imperial capital, famous for its 17th century houses and quaint baroque squares throughout the city. Each district boasts of houses where famed locals lived such as Beethoven, Mozart, Mahler or one of the Strauss’s. Our walking tour will visit the Stephansdom, followed by a stroll to the bustling Naschmarkt where we are passing by the world famous Vienna Opera and the historic Hotel Sacher.

A welcome dinner follows.

SEPT 10 After breakfast we will visit the Schloss Belvedere where Gustav Klimt’s legendary painting “The Kiss”, as well as major works by Schiele and Kokoschka can be seen. The magnificent Baroque palace complex with its extensive gardens invites for a relaxing stroll. Lunch will be at one of the local restaurants. Afternoon time is open for your personal explorations. (B, L)

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Situated on the banks of the Vltava River, the town of Český Krumlov was built around a 13th-century castle. It retains Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque elements. It is an outstanding example of a small central European medieval town whose architectural heritage has remained intact thanks to its peaceful evolution over more than five centuries.

Salzburg is an important example of a European ecclesiastical city-state with a remarkable number of high-quality buildings, both secular and ecclesiastical. The buildings range from the late middle ages to the 20th century. The city is noted for its association with the arts, in particular with music in the person of its famous son, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

SEPT 11 Today we enjoy a visit of the Museumquartier (MQ), home to a wide range of installations. Also located at the MQ is the Leopold Museum which contains the world’s largest Egon Schiele collection. The Leopold Museum also houses a collection of modern Austrian art, featuring artists such as Gustav Klimt, Oskar Kokoschka and Richard Gerstl. The MQ is currently hosting installations from the Museum of Modern Art Foundation Vienna (MUMOK) and contemporary exhibition spaces like the Kunsthalle Wien.

We then take a stroll through the famous ‘Maria Hilferstrasse’ which is considered to be a shopping highlight in Vienna. (B) Optional: Enjoy an Opera in the world famous Wiener Staatsoper, a venue whose history dates back to the mid-19th century.

SEPT 12 We begin our day by taking in the “Third Man Tour”. The tour is based on the movie shot in Vienna 1948, where visitors can retrace the footsteps of Harry Lime. The tour takes you down the original staircase from the movie into one of the older parts of Vienna’s sewer system. The cholera canals were built in the 1830s and have remained almost untouched to this day. Modern projection and light technology allows the visitors to immerse themselves in the world of sewer workers, movie agents, smugglers and spies. The conclusion of the tour offers a unique “subterranean view” of the Wien River. The river disappears in a massive arched vault below the Naschmarkt, impressively illuminated by spotlights. The Third Man Museum offers more insights into the world of this cinema classic. Aside from the numerous props from the film and photos and objects from the post-WWII era, Anton Karas’ zither from the world-famous theme music is also on display here.

Other popular destinations for outings include the Zentralfriedhof (Central Cemetery) in Simmering — which can be seen at the beginning and end of the film — and the traditional Prater amusement park where we will enjoy a ride on the Giant Ferris Wheel.

conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms | 403.220.2952

This amusement park location is used in one of the film’s main scenes and offers amazing views of the city. Lunch will be served at an authentic restaurant at the Prater.

The remainder of the afternoon is open for you to explore additional museums in the Museum quarter or take in other local sites in the city centre. (B, L) SEPT 13 After breakfast, we are off to visit the Museum für angewandte Kunst (museum for applied arts — MAK). The MAK Collection includes craft utensils arranged chronologically from the middle ages to the present time. Collection highlights include stocks from the Wiener Werkstätte (artists and artisans of the 1900 era), chair designs from the Thonet and Kohn company, furniture of the Tannhaeuser company and Gustav Klimt’s work drawings of a frieze for the Palais Stoclet in Brussels. Many works of the 1900’s are in the archives of the University of Applied Arts which is a university for arts and media studies, architecture and other applied arts such as graphic design, industrial design or fashion design. Otto Wagner and his fellow campaigners taught at this University which was known for accepting only the most talented students. (B, D) SEPT 14 Today we visit the Postsparkasse (The Austrian Postal Savings Bank building), a famous modernist building in Vienna. It was designed and built by the architect Otto Wagner. The building is regarded as an important early work of modern architecture; it was constructed between 1904 and 1906 using reinforced concrete. In the afternoon we visit the Sigmund Freud Museum, located in Freud’s former practice and apartment.

The museum covers Freud’s life story and the history of psychoanalysis. (B, D)

We will stop at one of the famous “Würstlstandl” and enjoy a local favourite snack, Wiener sausage. (B, D) SEPT 22 Today we’ll take in a Sound of Music tour. You will see all the highlights of the film including the DO-RE-MI bridge, the Abbey on the Mönchsberg where Maria was a postulant before she became governess of the Von Trapp family, Leopoldskron Palace and the church of Mondsee where the wedding of Captain Von Trapp and Maria took place. After we will enjoy a stroll through the very famous “Getreidegasse” (B, D) SEPT 23 In the morning, we visit the Schloss Hellbrunn (Hellbrunn Castle), better described as a manor and pleasure ground than a proper palace. Just west of the main palace are located the so called ‘Wasserspiele’ or trick fountains. The fountains consist of wells, fountains, ponds, five artificial grottos, sculptures and statues — a Baroque Disneyland that were created for the sole purpose of entertaining the immensely rich Prince Archbishop of Salzburg and his guests. (B, L) SEPT 24 Today we are enroute back to Vienna. We will stop at the Melk Abbey, a Benedictine abbey that is amongst the world‘s most famous monastic sites. We arrive back in Vienna early in the afternoon. Farewell dinner.

SEPT 25 Return to Calgary.

SEPT 15 After breakfast we will enjoy an excursion to a Unesco World Heritage Site, the Schönbrunn Palace. This palace is the fabulous baroque summer residence of the Habsburg Emperors and where Marie-Antoinette lived as a young girl. The rococo interior is recreated as it was at its high point. It was also here that six year old Mozart played for the empress inside the Palace. After visiting the palace, professional pastry chefs will hand-bake original Viennese apple strudel at the demonstration bakery in Schönbrunn Palace’s Café Residenz. You will not only learn how this divine Viennese dessert is made, but also get the original Viennese Apple Strudel recipe and sample the apple strudel with coffee from the imperial bakery. After the coffee, we take time to stroll through the beautiful gardens filled with flowers and statues. Later in the afternoon, we visit the vineyards and cellars of winemakers in the Wachau and enjoy a wine tasting. (B, D) SEPT 16 In the morning we visit the Albertina Museum, an art museum in the Palais Archduke Albert in the city centre of Vienna. This museum houses one of the largest and most important graphic collections in the world. Here we will view the works of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Peter Paul Rubens, Oskar Kokoschka, Rembrandt, Albrecht Dürer, Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. Dinner in a local restaurant.

(B, D) SEPT 17 We leave Vienna today and travel to Linz. Linz is the main city in Upper Austria built on the two banks of the Danube. Upon arrival, we will tour the city centre and see the historical buildings at the Hauptplatz, Alter Dom St Ignatus, the Landhaus and the castle which was the residence of Emperor Frederick III. The castle now houses the Oberösterreichische Museum (Provincial museum) covering the history of art, popular arts and crafts of the area. We overnight in Linz. (B, D) SEPT 18 Today we will visit the Brucknerhaus, the concert hall, named after the composer Anton Bruckner, and continue to the Pöstlingberg Kirche, pilgrimage church on the Pöstling mountain hill and enjoy a Danube cruise (B) SEPT 19 After breakfast we travel to Český Krumlov, a small city in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. This city is best known for the fine architecture and art of the historic old town and Český Krumlov Castle. Old Český Krumlov is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Krumlov has a museum dedicated to the painter Egon Schiele who lived in the town. We will visit the baroque theatre, and view a bridge enclosed on several levels spanning a ravine, and linking castle and gardens. After lunch we return to Linz (B, L) SEPT 20 Depart for Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace. We will take a walking tour of the main sights which includes the Dom, the Residence Palace, the Tanzmeisterhaus and Mozart’s birthplace. Time in the afternoon to explore on your own. (B, D) SEPT 21 After breakfast we visit the Hohensalzburg Fortress. You can walk up to the fortress or take the cable car. On our way down, we will stop at a lovely beer garden with a prime view of the city. We continue our walk through St. Peter’s Cemetery, resting place of many famous Salzburg citizens, and an intriguing visit of the Catacombs.

good thinking.

Accompanying Resource Person Maria Forsthuber is a German and French language instructor for Continuing Education. Maria studied French and Italian culture, and literature at the University of Salzburg. She lived for several years in France, Italy and Austria. Having been a local resident, Maria has knowledge of details known only to the residents and was able to plan the trip off the beaten path. With many years of travel experience, Maria is looking forward to introducing you to some of her favourite places.

Cost Airfare Tour, meals and accomodation GST

$1,800 $5,600 $50

TOTAL

$8,850

Single supplement

$1,495

Costs include: Tuition and orientation course, airfare, accommodation, transfers, all surface travel, and meals as listed in the itinerary. A deposit of $500 is required with the registration form. There is a $200 withdrawal fee prior to the final payment date. Final payment is due on April 3, 2015. Please see the Refund Policy section for withdrawal/refund procedures and liabilities. Fees are based on the information available at the time of print and are subject to change to reflect any changes in currency rates, airfares, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment and passed on to the participant. All fees are based on double occupancy.

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The Great Bear Rainforest

Spirit Bears, Grizzlies and Ancient Forests October 2 – 8, 2015 with Dr. Wayne Lynch The temperate rainforests are one of the richest habitats on Earth; supporting more life than their tropical counterparts. The largest expanse of these ancient forests stretches along the verdant coastline of British Columbia. Migrating salmon and hungry coastal bears go together like popcorn at the movies and the Great Bear Rainforest is one of the world’s best places to witness this primordial drama. British Columbia, with roughly 150,000 black bears and 15,000 grizzly bears shuffling through its forested wild lands, is home to the largest combined population of these two

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bears in the world. Here, in the cool, shadowed woodlands of the coast you can also find a rare white subspecies of the American black bear. Scientists call this enigmatic ursine carnivore the Kermode bear, but First Nations people know it as the “spirit bear.”

Our quest on this trip will be to experience the rich biological diversity of an overlooked corner of Canada, while at the same time experiencing exciting bear-viewing, bald eagles and gulls squabbling for leftovers, and the fragrance and spectacle of 90 metre tall Sitka spruces and 1000 year-old western red cedars.

conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms | 403.220.2952

Orientation The orientation course will consist of two Wednesday evenings, September 2 and 9, from 7 – 9:30 pm, held at the University of Calgary campus. Topics for discussion will include the ecology of the temperate rainforest, one of the most fertile landscapes on the planet. As well, we will explore the general biology, behaviour and ecology of American black bears, spirit bears, and grizzlies. Discussion topics will include the natural history of estuary birds, coastal wolves, bald eagles, Steller’s sea lions, and the biological complexity of the intertidal zone.

Itinerary Three meals daily are included throughout this trip.

OCT 2 Depart Calgary for the short flight to Vancouver followed by our connecting flight to the native community of Bella Bella in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest.

(The flight from Vancouver to Bella Bella is included in the tour fee.) Bella Bella is home to a First Nations community with a modest population of just 1,400 residents. In the afternoon and early evening we explore the coastal environs around town searching for local seabirds, eagles, elusive rainforest wolves, black bears, harbour seals, sea lions and killer whales.

OCT 3 This morning we take a 90-minute water taxi ride to Spirit Bear Lodge in Klemtu, the small native community on Swindle Island. In the afternoon we board our private 12-passenger boat to search for grizzly bears fishing for salmon, an amusing and entertaining spectacle to witness. A grizzly may use as many as two dozen different fishing techniques, but a few of these are more successful than others. In shallow water, the “run-and-scatter” method is especially popular. Then there is the “snorkeland-lunge” technique. A snorkelling bear only submerges its face, so as it swings its head back and forth through the water searching for salmon, its ears resemble twin periscopes riding along the surface. If that is not endearing enough, a bear often blows bubbles while its face is submerged. The most common way for a bear to fish is to simply stand in the current and wait for a hapless salmon to swim within reach.

OCT 4 – 7 We will spend the next four days cruising to the numerous deep coastal fjords and remote forested coastline of Princess Royal Island which has the greatest number of spirit bears in the province. The spirit bear is an American black bear that has creamy white fur due to a recessive gene. On Princess Royal one in ten black bears is born white. The beautiful photogenic spirit bear is not an albino, as it typically has a brown nose and eyes.

We begin every day with an early breakfast after which we board our private boat to search hidden fjords and estuaries in the Spirit Bear Conservancy for its namesake bruins. In addition to spirit bears, grizzlies, and black bears the area has an abundance of other wildlife including wolves, whales and dolphins. The conservancy lands are also home to ancient Tsimshian village sites and architecture. Local guides will weave a compelling narrative that highlights the unique cultural and ecological knowledge that has been passed down from generation to generation for thousands of years.

Some days we make short hikes through the captivating cathedral forests to specially constructed viewing platforms over active salmon streams where we can easily and safely watch bears as they fish.

After dinner, we may enjoy optional evening programs, including a cultural tour of Klemtu.

OCT 8 After breakfast choose between a rainforest walk or morning kayak paddling along the ocean shores south of Klemtu. At 11 am we board our water taxi for the 90 minute return trip to Bella Bella where we catch our afternoon flight to Vancouver and then on to Calgary.

Accompanying Resource Person

speaker, and audiences worldwide applaud his practical and entertaining approach to natural history. He is the author and photographer of three books on the biology of bears and experts still applaud his 1997 book, Bears: Monarchs of the Northern Wilderness as one of the best bear books ever written. As well, he is the author and photographer of over 50 natural history books for children, young adults and adults. He is an elected fellow of the Explorers Club and the Arctic Institute of North America, and his biography has been included in the Canadian Who’s Who, published by the University of Toronto, since 1996.

Cost Airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST

$450 $6,100 $75

TOTAL

$6,625

Single supplement

$3,000

Cost includes: Tuition and orientation course, airfare, accommodation, transfers, all surface travel, and meals as listed in the itinerary. A deposit of $500 is required with the registration form. There is a $200 withdrawal fee prior to the final payment date. Final payment is due on March 1, 2015. Please see the Refund Policy section for withdrawal/refund procedures and liabilities.

Fees are based on the information available at the time of print and are subject to change to reflect any changes in currency rates, airfares, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment and passed on to the participant. All fees are based on double occupancy.

Dr. Wayne Lynch is an internationally-recognized naturalist, science writer and professional wildlife photographer. His photo credits include hundreds of magazine covers, thousands of calendar shots, and tens of thousands of images published in over four dozen countries). He is also a popular guest

good thinking.

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India January 13 – 26, 2016 with Dr. Valery Efimenko Our trip will take you to India, the most amazing country in Asia.

A place to enchant your feelings, to enrich your knowledge, and to stir your soul.

India is one of the oldest world civilizations with a kaleidoscopic variety of languages, powerful spiritual traditions, fairly unusual customs, colorful arts and incredible architectural masterpieces.

The itinerary covers all historical periods Ancient, Medieval, Colonial and Modern. We will explore such jewels on the map of historical India as New Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Fatehpur Sikri, Orchha, Khajuraho, Sarnath, and Varanasi.

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Most important museums, temples and palaces will open their doors to us. Special attention will be given to the religious traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Islam. Traditional Hindu and Buddhist aesthetics will be explained before and during our journey. We will see colourful folk and classical dance performances. The national cuisine will be tasted and a great variety of stylish handicrafts explored.

conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms | 403.220.2952

Orientation The orientation course will consist of one Monday evening, January 4 and one Wednesday evening, January 6 from 7 – 9:30, and one Saturday, January 9 from 9:30 am – 3:30pm, at the University of Calgary campus. The class will provide an introduction to the history and cultural developments of Indian society. The itinerary, travel arrangements, health matters and insurance coverage will be discussed in detail.

Itinerary Three meals daily are included throughout this trip.

JAN 13 – 14 Depart Calgary for New Delhi.

JAN 15 We begin with a full-day visiting New Delhi visiting the famous India Gate, a drive on the Rajpath (the King’s Way) towards the House of Parliament and President’s Residence, visiting the National Museum, the Humayun’s Tomb, and the Bahai Temple, known as the Lotus Temple.

JAN 16 Today we explore Old Delhi, starting with the Red Fort Complex, named for its massive enclosing walls of red sandstone, which is considered to be the acme of Mughal architectural creativity. Then we take a Rickshaw ride passing through the narrow lanes of old city of Delhi to have a bazaar experience at Chandni Chowk, the street of silver and goldsmiths. Next we visit the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque.

Additonal important places are the cremation sites of great Indian leaders Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Indira Gandhi as well as the Connaught Place, one of the largest commercial and business centres.

JAN 23 Khajuraho is a village in Madhya Pradesh, about 620 kilometres southeast of Delhi. Originally there was the capital of the Chandela Rajputs, a dynasty that ruled this part of India from the 10th to the 12th centuries. There is a large group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples, richly carved with excellent sculptures that are frequently sensual and, at times, sexually explicit. The temples are decorated sculptures that are among the greatest masterpieces of Indian art and have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

JAN 24 Today we fly to Varanasi, the most sacred city of India and the oldest living city in the world. Thousands of pilgrims come to bathe and worship in the river at the first light of dawn. Life in the city of Varanasi revolves around the over 84 Ghats, a special type of river landing stairs, used for ablutions and cremations. Visit Hindu temples and the Aurangzeb’s Mosque. In the evening we go to the banks of the Ganges to witness the devotional ceremony of Aarti performed by devout Hindus.

JAN 25 In the early morning sunrise we cruise on the River Ganges — a serene experience — watching scores of pilgrims and priests fill the riverbanks bathing in the holy waters and performing various rituals. After breakfast we explore Sarnath, one of the major Buddhist centers of India, the site of Lord Buddha’s first sermon after attaining enlightenment.

JAN 26 This morning we fly back to New Delhi and overnight there before returning to Calgary.

JAN 17 After breakfast we visit Qutub Minar complex built in the early 13th century with important sites of Indian and Islamic architecture, like the red sandstone tower of Qutub Minar, the legendary Iron Pillar, which stood for millennia without rusting, and several other monuments including the Mehrauli Archeological Park and the Lodhi Gardens.

JAN 18 We drive 270 kms to Jaipur popularly known as the Pink city, because it was built of pink stucco to imitate sandstone. Visit the majestic City Palace and museum, which houses a rare collection of Indian art. Jaipur is world famous for gem stones cutting and polishing and we will visit a local Gem Factory here.

JAN 19 Morning travel to the Amber Fort located 11 km north of Jaipur, with a stop enroute at the world famous Hawa Mahal, or “Palace of Winds,” built in 1799. The Amber Fort and the Royal Palace with such attractions as the Hall of Mirrors, are distinguished examples of 17th century Rajput architecture. We return to Jaipur and visit Jantar Mantar (“Magical Device”), an astronomical observatory built by a local ruler in the early 18th century. We will visit some of the local workshops showing the art of carpet weaving and block printing. Jaipur is also known for brass inlay, lacquer work and stone setting. Traditional Rajasthani dances will be held at dinner this evening.

JAN 20 After breakfast, we travel to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri. Fatehpur Sikri is a perfectly preserved red sandstone “ghost town,” which was built by Mughal emperor Akbar and was the imperial capital for fifteen years, but deserted due to the lack of water supply. The main structures include the Jama Masjid Mosque, the Tomb of Salim Chisti, and the Panch Mahal (Palace of Five Storeys). Then we drive to Agra for the next two nights.

JAN 21 At sunrise we tour the splendid architectural jewels of the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort built by Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj is built of white marble, beautifully carved and inlaid with semi-precious stones.

Norhwest of the Taj Mahal famed as a masterpiece of design and construction is Agra Fort, known as the Red Fort built by Emperor Akbar in 1565. The great Mughal Babur, Humayun, Akbar, Jahangir, Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb governed the country from here. There are many wonderful places within the fort such as the halls of public and private audiences, geometrically arranged gardens, beautiful pavilions, harems and mosques. Evening is free to explore the rich handicrafts of Agra.

JAN 22 We transfer to the railway station to board a train to Jhansi (221 km) and a drive from Jhansi to the medieval town of Orchha, famous for its palaces and temples built in the 17th and 18th century. A special attraction of the area is the marvelous murals of the Bundela School of painting. After lunch in Orchha we will continue our drive to Khajuraho.

good thinking.

Accompanying Resource Person Dr. Valery Efimenko graduated from the Oriental Department of St. Petersburg State University. For over thirty years, his academic interests were focused on East Indian studies and most of his publications are related to Indian culture, philosophy, and religion. Many years he taught at the Institute of Social Sciences in Moscow and the Moscow University Touro, the first American university in Russia teaching courses in History of Eastern Philosophy, Indian Cultural Traditions, and Comparative Religion. He lived in India and has widely traveled the Indian subcontinent. In 1990 – 1991 he was an exchange professor in Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi. Since 2004 he has been teaching for Continuing Education at the University of Calgary. His most popular courses are Comparative Religion and Introduction to Indian Culture. He has led a number of study tours with Continuing Education including trips to India, Nepal, Tibet, Central Asia, and Russia.

Cost Airfare $2,800 Land, tuition and other costs $6,600 GST $75

TOTAL Single supplement

$9,475 $1,900

Cost includes: Tuition and orientation course, airfare, accommodation, transfers, all surface travel, and meals as listed in the itinerary. A deposit of $500 is required with the registration form. There is a $200 withdrawal fee prior to the final payment date. Final payment is due on June 10, 2015. Please see the Refund Policy section for withdrawal/refund procedures and liabilities.

Fees are based on the information available at the time of print and are subject to change to reflect any changes in currency rates, airfares, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment and passed on to the participant. All fees are based on double occupancy.

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Galapagos: The Enchanted Islands and Amazon Basin Extension February 17 – March 2, 2016 with Dr. Wayne Lynch Wayne Lynch first travelled to the fabled Galapagos Islands, 1000 kilometres off the west coast of Ecuador, over 20 years ago. He saw young sea lions use prickly cactus pads as water toys, tortoises as big as storage trunks, seabirds flaunt their flamboyant crimson throats and blue webbed feet, and tropical penguins share sandy beaches with black spiny lizards. It’s a place where the wildlife is unwary, where animal behaviour unfolds just metres away, and where the sunlight penetrates the crystal clear water and spotlights a multitude of colourful reef fishes.

Charles Darwin made his legendary visit to the islands in 1835.

Today more than 175 years later the islands are recognized globally as a living laboratory of biological evolution and one of the great natural wonders of the world. A visit to these Enchanted Islands is still a magical event; one in which cherished memories are forged and never forgotten. For our voyage around the islands we will sail aboard 16 passenger luxury yacht.

Orientation

FEB 18 Today will be spent exploring the modern and historic delights of Quito the capital city of Ecuador. Colonial Quito is still reminiscent of how it was more than 450 years ago with narrow cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed walls over the steeples of historic churches rise. In 1978, the United Nations declared the old colonial city a World Heritage Site. We will also visit to the Ethnographic Museum.

The orientation course will consist of a two Wednesday evenings, February 3 and 10, 2016, 7 – 9:30 pm, held at the University of Calgary campus.

Topics of discussion will include: island biogeography, volcanism, plate tectonics and continental drift, the biology and ecology of the islands’ unique flora and fauna, the human history of the archipelago, and current threats to the ecosystem. Discussion topics will include: seabird ecology, sea lions, fur seals and Galapagos penguins. The itinerary, travel arrangements, and health matters will also be discussed. Every participant will receive a copy of Galapagos: A Natural History, by Michael Jackson, as part of the course materials.

Itinerary Three meals daily, excluding time in Quito.

FEB 17 Depart from Calgary.

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After our trip to Galapagos, we will return to Quito and the next day to Coca for a three-day extension to the Amazon Basin.

FEB 19 This morning a two-hour flight takes us to Baltra Island in the centre of the Galapagos Archipelago. February is one of the best months to visit the islands. Typically, the skies are clear, the temperatures are warm, the seas are calm, and the seabirds are busy feeding hungry chicks. We sail aboard the M/V Seaman II, a 16-passenger ship with ample creature comforts. Once aboard, we leave the dock immediately for an afternoon visit to North Seymour Island where we get our first glimpses of boobies and frigate birds, two of the avian stars of the archipelago.

FEB 20 Overnight we sail north across the equator to the outlying island of Genovesa.

The low, flat island has one of the largest populations of seabirds in the archipelago. In addition to the large colony of unwary red-footed boobies that nest in the mangroves and palo santo forests, there are over 100,000 fast-flying storm petrels, sometimes called sea swallows because of their rapid buoyant flight. On the sandy beaches we will see great frigate birds, yellow-crowned night-herons and rare endemic lava gulls.

conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms | 403.220.2952

FEB 21 During the night we sail back across the equator for an early morning landing on South Plaza. Here a trail takes us to a cliff overlooking the ocean where we can watch shearwaters weave and float in the wind while red-billed tropicbirds fly in tandem courtship displays. In the afternoon we land on Santa Fe Island to enjoy the large colony of Galapagos sea lions that live on the white sand beaches. Santa Fe is home to an endemic land tortoise that lives in the opuntia cactus forests that cloak the island’s slopes.

FEB 22 Sailing overnight to the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the provincial capital located on Isla San Cristobal on the eastern edge of the archipelago. We visit the National Park Interpretation Centre near town as well as a giant tortoise breeding centre. Midday there is time to stroll the streets of this quaint community with its many colourful and eclectic shops, or sit in a cafe with a cappuccino and watch the lively activity in the streets. In the afternoon we visit Isla Lobos and the large colony of Galapagos sea lions.

FEB 23 This morning we snorkel in the clear, warm waters along the northern shore of Isla San Cristobal. A myriad of reef fishes are usually seen as well as underwater views of playful sea lions, foraging marine iguanas and sea turtles. In the afternoon we visit Cerro Brujo where we stroll on a powder-like sandy beach and watch the industrious ghost crabs sifting through the sand for nutrients while countless crimson sally light-foot crabs forage in the nearby tide pools.

FEB 24 Today we make two landings on Isla Espanola, the southernmost island in the archipelago. It is one of the oldest islands in the group and is blessed with a rich population of wildlife. A trail takes us through a mixed colony of Nazca and bluefooted boobies, up to a cliff where swallow-tailed gulls soar in the updrafts. There is a spectacular blowhole along the shoreline where seawater violently rushes under the lava bedrock then is ejected upward through cracks in a vaporous plume, 25 metres high. On the pebble-beaches there are large numbers of marine iguanas basking on the black lava rocks in a picture-perfect setting.

FEB 25 Today we visit Floreana Island in the south of the archipelago. First Cormorant Point, a site noted for its scenic beauty and its photogenic pink flamingos. A trail leads to a white sand beach known as “Flour Sand Beach” due to the fineness of the sand.

Green sea turtles nest here and stingrays can be seen in the shallows. In the afternoon we make a landing at Post Office Bay, a site noted for its human history. The big wooden mail barrel, erected by whalers in 1793, is decorated with signs from boats and individuals that have visited over the decades.

MAR 2 – 3 We spend most of the day on a coach tour to the Otavalo region, 12 hours north of Quito. The region is a delight to the senses with blue lakes, green hills, colonial haciendas and small colourful Indian communities where we can watch traditional weaving methods. A highlight of the day is a visit to the ancient market of the area; thousands of years old and famous throughout the Andes for its handicrafts, textiles and tapestries. The Indians of the region are also highly specialized in woodcarving and leather goods. The Otavalo market is considered to be one of the most attractive Indian markets in all Latin America. Depart early evening to Calgary.

Accompanying Resource Person

FEB 26 Our last stop on the trip is on Santa Cruz Island and the picturesque anchorage in Academy Bay. After breakfast we visit the world famous Charles Darwin Research Station, a breeding centre for land iguanas and giant tortoises. The Station is an ideal place to see Darwin’s finches. In mid-morning we travel by bus over the humid highlands to the airport in Baltra and return to Quito.

Dr. Wayne Lynch is an internationally-recognized naturalist, science writer and professional wildlife photographer. His photo credits include hundreds of magazine covers, thousands of calendar shots, and tens of thousands of images published in over four dozen countries. He is also a popular guest speaker, and audiences worldwide applaud his practical and entertaining approach to natural history. As well, he is the author and photographer of over 50 natural history books for children, young adults and adults. He is an elected fellow of the Explorers Club and the Arctic Institute of North America, and his biography has been included in the Canadian Who’s Who, published by the University of Toronto, since 1996. He has led 15 tours to the Galapagos Islands, the most recent one in September 2013.

Please note: All itineraries in the Galapagos Islands are subject to change without notice for various factors including: safety, weather, the discretion of the ship’s captain and the authorities of the Galapagos National Park.

Cost

Amazon Basin Extension FEB 27 Today we take a short 25-minute flight over the snow-capped Andes Mountains to the oil boomtown of Coca, beside the Rio Napo. We take a two hour motorized canoe ride down the river to the Lodge. The sediment rich Rio Napo is the largest river in Ecuadorian Amazonia. On the relaxing river trip we see egrets, ospreys as well as scattered native huts.

FEB 28 – 29 We spend two days exploring the rainforests surrounding the lodge enjoying hikes and canoe rides. Over 500 species of tropical birds have been recorded in the area and the forests are a paradise for monkeys. One of the highlights is climbing the canopy tower, about a 20-minute walk from the lodge. This solidly engineered structure is built around the trunk of a giant ceiba tree. The steps lead to a sturdy platform near the top of the tree 130 feet off the ground. From this vantage point forest stretches in all directions and you can see to the horizon. Flocks of birds that you would normally break your neck to see from the forest floor flit around at eye level.

The canopy of the tropical rain forest is one of the last biological frontiers and harbours thousands of unknown animal and plant species.

International airfare Domestic airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST

TOTAL Single supplement (land portion only)

$1,600 $900 $9,200 $60

$11,760 $800

Cost includes: Tuition and orientation course, airfare, accommodation, transfers, all surface travel, and meals as listed in the itinerary. A deposit of $500 is required with the registration form. There is a $200 withdrawal fee prior to the final payment date. Final payment is due on August 10, 2015. Please see the Refund Policy section for withdrawal/refund procedures and liabilities.

Fees are based on the information available at the time of print and are subject to change to reflect any changes in currency rates, airfares, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment and passed on to the participant. All fees are based on double occupancy.

MAR 1 Today we retrace our two hour canoe journey on the Rio Napo returning to Coca and back to Quito.

good thinking.

27

CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE...

Choose your adventure: ■ Yellowknife: Aurora Borealis at Its Best

March 14 – 19, 2015 TRA 152-004

■ Normandy and Loire

April 13 – 26, 2015 TRA 171-001

■ New Orleans Jazz Festival

April 27 – May 4, 2015 TRA 142-002

■ Roman and Medieval Provence: An Historical Journey

May 14 – 29, 2015 TRA 121-002

■

Art and Culture: Venice June 6 – 17, 2015 TRA 172-001

■ Wild Brazil: Pantanal Wetlands & Iguazú Falls

June 15 – 27, 2015 TRA 132-002

■ Ancient Peru Tour

July 1 – 17, 2015 TRA 173-001

■

Namibia: Deserts and Wildlife August 13 – 31, 2015 TRA 135-002

■ Vienna, Wachau, Český Krumlov and Salzburg:

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Heart of Europe September 8 – 25, 2015 TRA 174-001

■ The Great Bear Rainforest:

Spirit Bears, Grizzlies and Ancient Forests October 2 – 8, 2015 TRA 175-001

■ India

January 13 – 26, 2016 TRA 176-001

■ Galapagos: The Enchanted Islands and

Amazon Basin Extension February 17 – March 2, 2016 TRA 159-003

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lease note that if you wish to share, every effort will be made to find you a suitable P Please note that if you wish to share, every effort will be made to find you a suitable roommate. However, if this is not possible, a single supplement will be applied. roommate. However, if this is not possible, a single supplement will be applied.

PAYMENT Payment

If you are registering for a trip, your deposit of $500 must accompany this registration.

If you are registering for a trip, your deposit of $500 must accompany this registration.

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