TRAVEL STUDY 2017 Programs
conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms
Travel with us in 2017... Do you love to learn? Do you love to travel? You can experience both with UCalgary Continuing Education! Every year UCalgary Continuing Education, in association with other academic departments, offers 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!
Registration
Please complete the registration form on the back cover and mail it or drop it off with your deposit.
Contact Information
Educational Travel Study Program UCalgary Continuing Education 2500 University Drive NW Calgary, AB T2N 1N4 Phone 403.220.2952 Fax 403.284.9242 conted.ucalgary.ca/travelprograms Lois Kokoski, Program Director Phone 403.220.5052 kokoski@ucalgary.ca
Fees
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. 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.
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.
Liability and Responsibility
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.
Refund Policy
Please call 403.220.2952 or write to Lois Kokoski at the address on this page if you need to cancel your trip. 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 travel insurance.
Mailing List
If you wish to be removed from our mailing list, please email jbandres@ucalgary.ca or kokoski@ucalgary.ca
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Routes of Spain MAY 1 – 17, 2017
Iceland and Scotland MAY 27 – JUNE 9, 2017
Wildlife Treasures of East Africa AUGUST 5 – 19, 2017
Emperors and Artists: Italy through the Ages SEPTEMBER 2 – 16, 2017
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Great Cities of the Adriatic: From Dubrovnik to Venice SEPTEMBER, 7 – 21, 2017
The Great Bear Rainforest: Spirit Bears, Grizzlies and Ancient Forests SEPTEMBER 26 – OCTOBER 1, 2017
Falkland Islands and Southern Andes: Their Wildlife and Scenic Splendour OCTOBER 26 – NOVEMBER 16, 2017
South India with Optional Extension to Sri Lanka JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 4, 2018
left to right: Gaudi’s La Sagrada Família in Barcelona; Segovia Aqueduct; Park Guell in Barcelona
Routes of Spain MAY 1 – 17, 2017
Join us as we travel through some of the most scenic, beautiful, and historically significant routes within Spain. Come prepared to explore! We will be staying at some of the finest paradores nacionales — luxury hotels that were once convents, monasteries and castles. We start in Madrid, where we discover the essence of this magnificent, vibrant world capital, seat of Spain’s 17th century empire. Boulevards, plazas, exciting and unique shopping, world-class museums and sites, as well as exquisite wining and dining make Madrid a magnet for the ambitious, inquisitive, wandering, hungry and thirsty adventurer. From there, we travel to Roman and medieval Segovia and Plasencia. Segovia is famous for its aqueduct and medieval quarter, both Christian and Jewish; Plasencia, for its medieval Jewish Quarter. Then, we´re off to Toledo, the capital of Visigothic, and then, Christian Spain. Our route will take us meandering through the immense old quarter. Afterwards, we’ll venture out on Don Quixote’s routes, as we tilt at windmills, sip wine, and devour Manchego cheese and cured ham at the same inns Miguel de Cervantes used to frequent. We will follow the route of enotourism in Almagro and Valdepeñas. Oropesa and Cuenca are next, as we continue following the routes of Don Quixote. In cliff-hanging Cuenca we will marvel at breathtaking views, and visit the extraordinary contemporary art museum. Then, our routes take us to Zaragoza and Tudela, as we explore the bastions of the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, as well as the route of Spanish Jewry. From Tudela, we go to Barcelona, the shining star in the Spanish universe. We’ll go up and under the city and environs to follow the routes of Roman, medieval, and modernist art and architecture. 4
Orientation The orientation course will consist of three Wednesday evenings, April 5 - 19, 2017, 7 - 9:30 pm, held at the University of Calgary campus. Topics for discussion will include the history and culture of Spain, and 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 breakfast daily and either lunch or dinner daily.
MAY 1 – 2 Depart Calgary for Madrid. Once in Madrid, to keep us awake, we’ll stroll through the old quarter along the cobblestone streets in the Barrio de los Estudiantes or Student Quarter, leading us eventually, to the Plaza Mayor. There is plenty to see and do in this area, with its tapas bars, 100-year-old specialty shops (capes, guitars, candles), and 17th century architecture. We will soon understand why Spain ruled two-thirds of the known world at the time of its empire. (The Spanish explorers even sailed up the coast of British Columbia!). We’ll dine at Zalacaín this evening. MAY 3 After breakfast, we will walk along the Castellana Boulevard and stop at the Prado Museum, a world-class venue. We will see two amazing masterpieces, Velázquez’ Las Meninas and Goya’s 3rd of May, 1808. Our guide will explain the brilliance of each, and Professor Brown will add his knowledge, as well. As we leave the Prado, we’ll stroll through Retiro Park, and take advantage of its little palaces, which have been converted into contemporary art exhibits.
visit once enchanted castles, and explore those same lagoons Don Quixote saw. That evening, return to Toledo. Dinner on your own. MAY 8 Travel to Almagro, Calatrava and Ciudad Real: the heart of La Mancha. We’re still on the Don Quixote route, but we’ll also do wine-tasting today. We visit a celebrated local winery, such as Amancio Mendero Márquez. After lunch in Almagro, home to a rebuilt 17th century corral de comedias (theatre for staging plays), we head for Esquivias, Illescas and Carranque, Miguel de Cervantes’ old haunts. Return to Almagro to overnight at the local Parador Almagro. MAY 9 What a fine day for enotourism! We travel to visit the world-renowned wineries of Valdepeñas. Among Spaniards, wine from this region is the country’s best. We’ll take a ride on the Valdepeñas train. Tonight we will have dinner in Montiel, at Restaurante El Umbráculo. Overnight at Parador Almagro.
MAY 4 Museum hopping we will go! Can’t miss the Reina Sofía, with its Guernica installation and extraordinary permanent sculpture exhibits. Later, we continue our stroll through the old city where we will explore specialty shops. In the afternoon, we learn a bit about the history of the Spanish book at the National Library’s museum. From there, we have coffee or tea at the Fine Arts Centre, where we can admire the art deco surroundings. In the evening, we continue our stroll in the Puerta del Sol district while making our way to a Flamenco performance. MAY 5 After breakfast, we board our coach and travel toward Roman and medieval Segovia. Our route today will follow the path of Sephardic (Spanish-Jewish) Spain. We’ll even venture out to the cemetery. Lunch is ready at Restaurante Fogón, where we’ll dine on late medieval Sephardic delicacies. The menu boasts plenty of vegetarian options. After a short rest, we’ll leave for Plasencia, another medieval centre. In the evening, we rest overnight at the Parador Nacional. MAY 6 Today begins with a walking tour of the medieval and Jewish quarters. Then, we’ll depart for ancient Toledo. Once there, we take a walking tour of the old city, with its Jewish and El Greco museums. We’ll have lunch at the renowned Restaurante Locum. After lunch, we visit the Cathedral, and then it is time to return to our Parador de Toledo. MAY 7 Time for another stroll through the old city. Early lunch at Restaurante Reconquista. Then, we’ll explore the route of the literary character Don Quixote, as we head for El Toboso and Belmonte. Upon arrival, we’ll tilt at windmills,
MAY 10 After breakfast, we’re off to Oropesa, where we’ll have lunch at the local castle. It’s now time to head northeast, to Cuenca. Upon arrival, we have a walking tour of this magnificent city built on cliffs. Overnight at Parador Cuenca. MAY 11 After breakfast, we will visit the local museum of contemporary art. We’ll have some free time to explore the city and check out the locally manufactured goods, such as pottery and leather products. After lunch, we travel to Zaragoza, for a city tour. Overnight sojourn at the Parador Sos del Rey Católico Zaragoza — the land of Ferdinand, the Catholic Monarch. MAY 12 Drive to the medieval town of Tudela, in Navarre, upon arrival, we’ll learn about the city’s Jewish Quarter and local history. Free time to explore before checking into the Parador de Olite Tudela. MAY 13 After an early breakfast, we are off to Barcelona, where we’ll have a late lunch at the Restaurant Els Quatre Gats, the chic bistro where Picasso, at the onset of the 20th century, used to kibbitz about modernist art with contemporaries. In the afternoon, we visit the extensive Gothic Quarter, where we pick up the route of Don Quixote. The knight errant traveled to this port city toward the end of book two (1615). We discover the route of Sephardic Spain in Barcelona. In the evening, as an option, those interested may attend a musical concert at the Palau de la Música, or Palace of Music. It’s an exhilarating experience in an early 20th century modernist art structure with extraordinarily beautiful and luxurious stained-glass windows, alabaster statues, and mohair-backed seats. MAY 14 We begin our day with a visit to the cathedral, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture (late 14th – early 15th century). Especially worthy are the
stained-glass windows, and when mass is not on, it is possible to see an early medieval crypt below the main altar. Later that morning, we’ll explore the Roman ruins of Barcelona, as we go under the city to surface inside a medieval palace above. This is the route of the Museu d’Història de la Ciutat (the Museum of the City). Lunch at the ultra famous Can Culleretes for some traditional Catalan fare. MAY 15 Today we visit the Picasso Museum and the Museum of the Born. Then, we’ll continue our museum route by lunching in the chic restaurant inside the National Art Museum, on Montjuïc Mountain. After walking through the incredible exhibits at this museum, we visit the nearby Miró Museum. MAY 16 In the morning we will visit the Betlem Romanesque Church and Gaudi’s La Sagrada Família. Lunch on your own. In the afternoon we’ll tour one of Gaudí’s other architectural wonders, possibly the workers’ quarters he designed. Farewell dinner. MAY 17 Return to Calgary.
Accompanying Resource Person Kenneth Brown is a Professor of Spanish Literature, Language and Linguistics at UCalgary. He holds BA, MA, and PhD degrees from Pennsylvania State University and began his career in Barcelona in 1975, where he earned a teaching degree in Catalan Philology. He lived in Spain for 13 years, and writes about the literary history of the country. In 2005, the Cervantes Institute in Madrid invited him to lecture on 20th century North-American hispanists of Jewish descent, and in 2008 the Royal Academy of History invited him to speak on Sephardic presence in 17th century New Amsterdam and, then, New York. An author of ten books and 80 articles and monographs, he holds a SSHRC research fellowship and a Lady David Fellowship. This is his second Continuing Education trip.
Costs Airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST TOTAL Single Supplement
$1,700 $9,400 $60 $11,160 $1,900
Cost includes: Tuition and three-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. The final payment is due on December 5, 2017. 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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Iceland and Scotland MAY 27 – JUNE 9, 2017
Iceland and Scotland are two of the world’s smallest and feistiest nations. With a Viking heritage, Iceland has thrived in a harsh, isolated environment, cloaked in darkness much of the winter and threatened by volcanic activity. Lately, it has become one of the globe’s hottest tourist destinations for its incredible scenery and contemporary architecture. Scotland, the country closed off from the rest of the world by Roman emperor Hadrian for being too unruly, continues to be the crusty brother of the British Isles. The land of golf, whisky and kilts, Scotland is a rugged country filled with compelling history and gorgeous scenery. We will tour both countries, using Reykjavik and Edinburgh as our hubs, while exploring local culture and enjoying tasty delicacies. Both countries have reputations for poor food, but lately, young chefs have been creating fine food that has taken the world by surprise.
left to right: Seljalandfoss Waterfall; The Pearl in Reykjavik; Iceland’s Blue Lagoon
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Orientation
Itinerary
The orientation course will consist of two Wednesday evenings, May 10 and 17, 2017, 7 – 9:30 pm, 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.
Included meals are shown following the daily itinerary B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner
MAY 27 – 28 Depart Calgary for Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland. This city of 120,000 is believed to have been settled in 874 AD as Iceland’s first permanent settlement. The tour will include visits to Hallgrimskirkja, Reykjavik’s prominent church that took 40 years to build; The Pearl, a glass-domed exhibition centre; and other local highlights. (L, D)
MAY 29 We spend the full day on a South Island tour of the Eruption Museum, Seljalandfoss Waterfall and the village of Skogar with its museum and waterfall. (B, L) MAY 30 Today, we head into central Iceland on the Golden Circle tour, a 300-kilometre drive through some of Iceland’s most scenic terrain. We visit the waterfall Gullfoss, the National Park Pingvellir and the geothermally active valley of Haukadalaur with its geysers. (B, L) MAY 31 We will dive into Icelandic cuisine today on a walking tour of Reykjavik’s culinary hot spots. This half day tour will fill us with lobster soup, Icelandic hot dogs and local cheeses among other regional delights. The balance of the day, we will be on our own to explore Reykjavik. (B, L,) JUN 1 Today, we depart for a full-day excursion to the Snaefell Glacier, the hamlet of Budir built on lava fields, the fishing village of Arnarstapi and lava caves. (B, D) JUN 2 Our last day in Reykjavik. We start with a dip in Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, an outdoor thermal spa located in a lava field. Returning to Reykjavik after lunch, the afternoon will be on your own to explore the city before our final Icelandic meal. (B, D) JUN 3 We are off to Scotland today, landing in Glasgow and then making our way to Edinburgh. We will do a walking tour of the city, strolling the Old Town, New Town and Princess Street and then enjoy some fine Scottish cuisine. (B, D)
JUN 4 Further excursions in the sites of Edinburgh take us along the Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle and Hollyrood House, the Queen’s official Scotland residence. After lunch, we’ll indulge in a whisky tasting and then have the evening to dine on our own. (B, L) JUN 5 A trip into the Kingdom of Fife takes us to the historic villages of Pittenweem and Anstruther as well as St Andrews, the birthplace of golf and where Chariots of Fire was shot along the beaches. Along the way, we’ll slip into a distillery or two for a taste of Speyside whisky. (B, L) JUN 6 Today, we will journey to — and walk on — Hadrian’s Wall and explore the Roman history of the British Isles and Northumberland National Park. (B, D) JUN 7 We will head to Glasgow for a walking tour of the city followed by a visit to the Kelvingrove Museum and Gallery. We’ll lunch at a Glaswegian-Indian restaurant for the unique taste of curried haddock. (B, L) JUN 8 Today, it’s off to the famous Scottish battle sites in Falkirk, where William Wallace was defeated by King Edward I of England and in Stirling (Bannockburn), where Robert the Bruce defeated Edward II. Then we’ll head back to Edinburgh for a final Scottish dinner. (B, D) JUN 9 Back to Glasgow we go and on the plane to Reykjavik and then Calgary. (B).
Accompanying Resource Person John Gilchrist has taught Food and Culture Programs for Continuing Education at the University of Calgary for over 20 years. He has led numerous travel programs to France, Italy, Thailand, Cambodia, Scandinavia and several cities in the United States. John is a Calgary-based food writer and instructor who has reviewed restaurants for CBC Radio One since 1980. He is the author of 11 bestsellers on dining in the Calgary area. He also writes a weekly restaurant column for the Calgary Herald and contributes to numerous magazines. John combines his fondness for food, wine and history on these UCalgary travel trips.
Costs Airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST TOTAL Single Supplement
$1,800 $7,500 $60 $9,360 $1,200
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 December 10, 2016. 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.
left to right: Glasgow; St. Andrews; Calton Hill in Edinburgh
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Wildlife Treasures of East Africa AUGUST 5 – 19, 2017
When travelers think of the natural wonders of Africa they think of great herds migrating across vast open plains shadowed by hungry predators. This popular image encapsulates the reality of East Africa and the annual wildebeest migration between Tanzania and Kenya. Every year, between July and October, the great herds of wildebeest, zebras and Thomson’s gazelles that spent the wet season on the shortgrass plains of Tanzania, trek northwards to Kenya. That is why BBC, Discovery Channel, National Geographic, and PBS photographers frequently stalk these Kenyan hinterlands at this time of the year. Our trip will afford us a firsthand opportunity to experience this wildlife spectacle that unfolds day after day. Our experience will be unmatched anywhere else on the planet. Imagine if you will, throngs of wildebeests crossing crocodile-infested rivers, elusive leopards skulking between sunlight and shadows, boisterous herds of elephants feeding in acacia thickets, and noisy clusters of wallowing hippos. Add to this, elegant giraffes, secretive rhinos, tawny lions and countless colourful birds, and you have experienced a wildlife extravaganza open to personal discovery and providing a life time of memories.
Orientation The orientation course will consist of two Wednesday evenings, July 19 and 26, 2017, 7 – 9:30 pm, held at the University of Calgary campus. Topics for discussion will include the ecology of the Serengeti Ecosystem where migratory wildebeests, Thomson’s gazelles and plains zebras shuttle back and forth over a vast savannah in response to changes in the lushness of the grass. As well, we will explore the natural history of two other great wildlife areas, Nakuru National Park and Samburu-Buffalo Springs Game Reserves. Subjects of specialized interest to our guiding instructor include the comparative natural history of the large carnivores: lions, leopards, cheetahs and spotted hyenas, and the ecology of rhinos, elephants, vultures, flamingos, gazelles and Nile crocodiles. Photography can enhance your travel experience, and therefore we will discuss digital camera choices and how to make better travel photographs. The itinerary, travel arrangements, and health matters will also be discussed in detail.
Itinerary Three meals daily are included throughout this trip.
AUG 5 – 6 Depart Calgary for the overnight journey to Kenya. Arrive in Nairobi and transfer to the hotel. AUG 7 In the morning, we will take the one-hour flight from Nairobi to the Masai Mara Game Reserve. En route we’ll fly over the legendary Rift Valley – a 6,000-kilometre fracture line in the Earth’s crust that extends from Syria to Mozambique. The Rift 8
Valley has long been a rich source of fossils in the study of human evolution. After arriving, it’s just a five-minute drive to Mara Intrepid Lodge, our home for the next six nights. We will have lunch and then go for an afternoon game drive. AUG 8 – 12 The Masai Mara Reserve is world famous for its vast assemblages of plains animals together with their associated predators. There is simply no better place on the continent to experience Pleistocene Africa with its dense predator populations, vast herds, and overwhelming scenic beauty. The trip is purposefully scheduled to coincide with the great migrations of wildebeests and zebras. The Mara is such a vast area that we’ll have many different areas to explore on our game drives each day. AUG 13 Today we will travel overland to Lake Nakuru National Park, arriving in the afternoon. The park is a picturesque blend of yellow-barked acacia woodlands, rocky cliffs, grasslands and marshlands. Nakuru is primarily a bird sanctuary, sometimes boasting over a million lesser flamingos. No words can convey the spectacle of colour, the motion and sound, when a flock of vibrant pink flamingos suddenly takes flight from the mirrored surface of the lake. Two nights. AUG 14 Morning and afternoon game drives will introduce us to many of the different areas in Nakuru National Park. In addition to hundreds of colourful species of birds, the park also boasts the highest
Wildlife of East Africa, Photos courtesy of Dr. Wayne Lynch
density of leopards in the country, as well as healthy populations of black and white rhinoceros. Poaching has eliminated rhinos from most areas of Africa, and Nakuru offers exceptional viewing opportunities of these highly endangered animals. Other wildlife commonly seen includes: lions, black-and-white colobus monkeys, Rothschild’s giraffes, warthogs, Defassa waterbucks, and handsome reedbucks. AUG 15 Today we’ll drive north to Samburu-Buffalo Springs Game Reserves, the most accessible of the rich game areas in northern Kenya, our accommodation for the next three nights. The two reserves straddle opposite banks of the Uaso Nyiro River. The rugged splendour of these reserves is less frequently visited than either Nakuru or the Masai Mara but the diversity of habitats and unique wildlife make Samburu-Buffalo Springs a worthy and rewarding destination. AUG 16 – 17 Once again, morning and afternoon game drives will allow us to see many of the colourful birds and unusual wildlife so characteristic of Samburu and Buffalo Springs Reserves. Even if you’re not an avid birdwatcher, the sapphire splendour of the vulturine guinea-fowls, the improbable beaks of the hornbills, the rainbow plumage of the bee-eaters and the strutting Somali ostriches are sure to intrigue you. The unique
mammals are the real attraction of the reserves, including endangered Grevy’s zebras, statuesque reticulated giraffes, handsome beisa oryx, gerenuks, Kirk’s dik-diks, elephants and many more. AUG 18 This morning, we will fly back to Nairobi and we will have day rooms so we can relax before our late evening departure for Calgary. AUG 19 Arrive in 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 60 countries. He is also the author and photographer of over 50 natural history books for children, young adults and adults. Wayne 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 two dozen trips to East Africa so far. This will be Wayne’s second trip to East Africa for Continuing Education. In the last 6 years he has led trips to Tanzania, Namibia, Brazil, the Artic, Norway, Boreal Canada and Ecuador’s Galapagos for Continuing Education.
Costs International Airfare Domestic airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST TOTAL Single Supplement
$2,700 $700 $12,000 $75 $15,475 $2,630
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 March 5, 2017. 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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Emperors and Artists: Italy through the Ages SEPTEMBER 2 – 16, 2017
For centuries, Italy has drawn travellers in search of culture and romance. Few countries can compete with its Classical origins, its art, architecture, literary traditions, scenery, or food and wine. Our 14-day Italian journey focuses on the country’s most important and iconic cities — Rome, Florence and Venice. It is designed to familiarize you with Italy’s key historical, cultural and artistic aspects with a special focus on its earliest beginnings in ancient Rome through to the flowering of the Italian Renaissance. We will follow the paths of legendary generals, artists, scientists, emperors and philosophers from the classical remnants of Rome to the preserved treasures of Florence and Venice. In ‘Eternal’ Rome we will walk the cobblestone streets of the Caesars calling to mind tales of the Pantheon, Forum and Colosseum as well as bear witness to the majesty of Vatican City with its awe-inspiring Renaissance masterpieces. We will marvel at the archaeological wonders of Pompeii, where an entire city is frozen in time. In Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, we will immerse ourselves in thriving artistic tradition. Absorbing ourselves in the works of Botticelli, Michelangelo and Raphael, among others, we will wander the streets of Dante and Machiavelli and gaze out over Florence from the top of Brunelleschi’s famous dome. We will explore Siena, Italy’s best-preserved medieval city. In Venice, we will gaze at the magnificent Byzantine cathedral of St. Mark’s Basilica, listen for sad echoes of the past over the Bridge of Sighs, and relax on a Venetian cruise to the picturesque fishing village of Murano, known for its bright pastel-coloured houses and world famous glassmaking. Come join us as we eat in wonderful restaurants opening onto magnificent piazzas and taste delicious regional foods and wines while looking up at architectural masterpieces from the glorious Italian periods long past.
Orientation The orientation course will consist of two Wednesday evenings, August 23 and 30, 2017, 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 the history and culture of Italy, with emphasis on classical Rome and the Renaissance, and background information for 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
SEP 2 – 3 Depart Calgary for Rome. In the evening, we stroll around this fascinating city and enjoy our first meal together. (D) SEP 4 We start our day with a visit to the Capitoline Hill and its famous square, the Piazza del Campiglio, designed by Michelangelo. We explore the Capitoline Museums and their amazing storehouse of Roman antiquities. In the afternoon, we pass 10
by Trajan’s Forum and Piazza Venezia, Rome’s central hub, on our way to see the Pantheon, the most preserved and influential building of ancient Rome. In the evening, we visit Piazza Navona to admire its many monuments, including Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers. (B, D) SEP 5 After breakfast, we make our way to the Colosseum, site of the ferocious gladiatorial combats. Next, we will wander through the ruins of the Roman Forum, viewing such important monuments as the Arch of Constantine, the Arch of Titus, and the Temple of Venus and Roma. After lunch, we walk up Palatine Hill, the birthplace of Rome, to visit the Palatine ruins where many of the emperors had their imperial residences. (B, D) SEP 6 We start our day with a visit to the Ara Pacis, the magnificent peace monument of the emperor Augustus, and visit his grand mausoleum. From there, we head to the Piazza del Popolo — the dazzling Baroque entryway to Rome — and then on to the magnificent Trevi Fountain where we can stop
to toss coins over our shoulders and make wishes for a return to Rome. In the afternoon, we visit the Baths of Diocletian, the largest public bathing complex in the ancient empire and the National Roman Museum. We spend our evening exploring the pleasant district of Piazza di Spagna, checking out the famous Spanish Steps and wandering through the gardens of the Villa Borghese. (B, L) SEP 7 After an early breakfast, we travel by coach to visit the ancient Roman city of Pompeii at the foot of Mount Vesuvius, the volcano whose eruption in AD 79 engulfed and subsequently encased the city in ash and froze it in time. On a guided tour of Pompeii’s ruins, we will bear witness to how ancient Romans lived. (B, L) SEP 8 After breakfast, we are on to Vatican City, to discover the many ancient and Renaissance masterpieces in the Vatican Museum, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. We will spend some time marveling at the architectural achievement of St. Peter’s Square before entering St. Peter’s
Heritage Site. We visit the Ponte Vecchio, the medieval bridge where many of Florence’s famed leather and gold artisans keep shop. (B, D) SEP 10 In the morning, we go to the legendary Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, better known as the Duomo for its remarkable octagonal dome. Opposite the Duomo, we will admire the bronzed doors of Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise at the Baptistery and check out Giotto’s bell tower, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. In the afternoon, we visit the Accademia Museum and see Michelangelo’s David. We continue with a stroll through Piazza Signoria, the ancient centre of city life during the days of the Medici, to admire its classical statues. We will also go the Convent of San Marco, an incredible Dominican monastery frescoed throughout by the brilliant Renaissance monk and painter Fra’ Angelico. (B, L)
left to right: Acropolis in Rome; Basilica Santa Maria della Salute in Venice; Cathedral of Florence
Basilica. The basilica is the largest church in the world and is filled with numerous masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s famous Pietà and Bernini’s awe-inspiring Baldacchino. After lunch, we will walk along the banks of the Tiber to the medieval papal fortress of Castel Sant’Angelo, formerly a mausoleum for many of the emperors. We will move along the Via Guilia for a guided tour of its historical buildings and a taste of the Roman Renaissance and then make our way to the picturesque area of Trastevere. Our last evening in Rome will be free to enjoy at your leisure. (B, L) SEP 9 Through the Tuscan countryside we travel by bus to Florence. On the way, we will stop at the medieval hilltop town of Montepulciano, whose skyline is dominated by many tall towers, beautiful palaces and a remarkable cathedral. Upon arrival in Florence, we will relax and settle into our hotel. After dinner in the central piazza, we start our exploration of Florence with a tour of its historic centre, a UNESCO World
SEP 11 On our second day in Florence, we will visit the famous Gothic church of Santa Croce, which houses tombs and memorials to many famous Italians including Dante, Galileo, Machiavelli and Michelangelo. We stroll along the Arno River to the Uffizi Gallery and head to the Pitti Palace, designed by Brunelleschi for the Pitti family to outrival the powerful Medicis. Ironically, it became the main residence of the Medici and today the richly decorated rooms exhibit countless treasures from the Medici collections. In the early evening, we will make our way up to Piazzale Michelangelo for a sunset view over the rooftops of Florence. (B, L) SEP 12 Off to Siena for a day trip. The historic archrival of Florence still retains the air of the Tuscan Middle Ages. The 334-foot Mangia Tower of the Town Hall soars over the Piazza del Campo, Siena’s central square considered one of the most beautiful in all of Europe. Surrounding this square are numerous lovely palaces dating from the 12th to 16th centuries. Our tour will take us inside the cathedral, to explore the Duomo of Siena, the Palazzo Pubblico and the Piazza del Campo. We will take lunch in the magnificent shell-shaped Campo and have the afternoon at leisure before returning to Florence for dinner. (B, L) SEP 13 Today, we travel by train to Venice. Abounding in history, Venice boasts some of the world’s finest art and architecture. In the afternoon, we take a walking tour of the famous San Marco area. We watch gondolas glide down the Grand Canal and check out the markets on the famous Rialto Bridge before making our way to Piazza San Marco, the centre of Venice. After, we will go inside the shimmering, mosaic-filled St. Mark’s Basilica, which was built over several centuries in a fusion of Byzantine, Roman and Venetian architecture and purportedly holds the remains of the apostle St. Mark, Venice’s patron saint (B, D) SEP 14 We start our second day in Venice by going into the stately Palazzo Ducale, or Doge’s
Palace. This Venetian-Gothic palace is considered by many to be the grandest civic structure in Italy. We stroll over the Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners caught their last glimpse of the lagoon and freedom. In the afternoon, we cross over the Grand Canal and explore the sights of the Dorsoduro area of Venice. We start with Accademia Gallery for a tour of great Venetian art, featuring works by Titian, Veronese, Bellini, and Tintoretto. Next, we go into the church of Santa Maria della Salute, a 17th century baroque masterpiece filled with famous works of Venetian masters (B, L) SEP 15 This morning we take a boat excursion to the brilliant island of Murano, where we watch the Venetian craftsmen at work creating local specialties at glassblowing workshops on the island. We will take time to wander its narrow, cobblestone streets enjoying its various shops and peaceful atmosphere. After returning to Venice, the rest of the day is free to discover this city’s other famous sights, to become happily lost in the tangled maze of alleys and shops, or enjoy a serenaded gondola ride down the Grand Canal before our farewell dinner. (B, D) SEP 16 This morning we say “arrivederci” to Italy and fly back to Calgary.
Accompanying Resource Person Scott Norris earned his MA at the University of Calgary and taught for many years in the Department of Greek and Roman Studies and in Continuing Education. For the past eight years, he has worked as a teacher and guide leading educational trips to Europe and all over the world. Scott has travelled extensively and brings a passion and deep understanding of the culture and history of Italy. His extensive knowledge will help facilitate authentic experiences and give insight into Italy’s many wonders and how this great country has developed throughout the ages.
Costs Airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST TOTAL Single Supplement
$1,400 $7,100 $60 $8,560 $1,600
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. The final payment is due on April 2, 2017. 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, airfare, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on final payment and passed on to the participants. All fees are based on double occupancy.
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Great Cities of the Adriatic: From Dubrovnik to Venice SEPTEMBER 7 – 21, 2017
From ancient Greek and Roman settlements to Medieval city-states and Renaissance palaces, this is one of the world’s most culturally intriguing regions. This educational travel program takes us from Dubrovnik to some of the most beautiful locations along the Adriatic coast — Split, Plitvice, Pula, Rovinj and its islands, Venice and Ravenna. Explore these charming towns and cities, tour amazing historical and natural wonders, and stroll the museums, galleries and markets. We will enjoy local food and wine, relax on the beach, and admire the unforgettable views of the Adriatic.
Orientation The orientation course will consist of three Wednesday evenings, August 16 – 30, 2017, 7 – 9:30 pm, held at the University of Calgary campus. Topics for discussion will include the history and culture of the regions and places we will be visiting, accompanied by slide presentations. Recommendations for books and guides will be provided as well. 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
SEP 7 – 8 Depart Calgary for Dubrovnik. We will enjoy our first dinner together and take an evening walk through the city. (D) SEP 9 – 10 We spend the first day on a guided tour, exploring the medieval city of Dubrovnik and its neighbourhood, walking around the spectacular city walls and along the full circle of its defensive parapets. Also, we ride a cable car up the mountainside for a stunning view of the coast. The following day, we visit two large medieval complexes — the city’s Dominican Monastery and Franciscan Monastery — plus a visit to Dubrovnik Cathedral. (B, L or D) SEP 11 We depart Dubrovnik for Split, where we visit the Old Town and the ancient Roman palace of Emperor Diocletian, which includes the remains of the Roman Peristyle, Cathedral of St. Dominus, and Jupiter’s Temple. All of these sites are located
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within the walls of this immense palace. The evening is free to enjoy Split’s museums and galleries, or relax along the waterfront promenade. (B, D) SEP 12 We travel to Plitvice Lakes National Park where we will tour one of the oldest national parks in Southern Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site. We will then travel to Pula where we stay for the next two nights. (B, D) SEP 13 Today, we see Pula, which is the main Istrian town, rich with remnants of ancient Roman times. We will visit the Pula Arena, the 6th largest Roman Colosseum in the world, its underground museum, and the Temple of Augustus, which was built in 2nd century BCE and later dedicated to Emperor Augustus and the goddess Roma. (B, L) SEP 14 – 16 In the afternoon, we depart for Rovinj, a coastal Istria’s star attraction and one of the most beautiful towns in Croatia. We will relax in this medieval city, walk the old streets, and visit the Church of St. Euphemia, which dominates the town from its hilltop location in the middle of the peninsula. Rovinj has a very rugged archipelago consisting of 14 islands and six cliffs. There we will enjoy stunning islands, beaches and natural spots. (B, L or D) SEP 17 – 19 We depart Rovinj for Venice by Adriatic Jet. We will enjoy our dinner at a seafood restaurant before boarding private gondolas for a short trip along the Grand Canal. We will have two full days of exploring Venice and its lagoon.
Our local guide will shepherd us through the spectacular mosaics of the Basilica of St Mark (11th century) and the rooms of the Doges’ Palace and its attached prison. We will have an afternoon free for shopping or sipping a cappuccino near the Rialto Bridge. The next day, we take a water taxi to visit the glass-blowing shop and a lace factory on Burano, as well as a 6th century basilica on the almost-deserted island of Torcello. There will also be time for afternoon exploring on your own. (B) SEP 20 In the morning, we travel south along the coast to Ravenna where we will visit the well preserved churches and famous mausoleums with their brilliant Byzantine mosaics from the 6th century — S. Apollinare in Classe, Mausoleo di Teodorico, Mausoleo di Galla Placidia, Domus Tapetti di Pietra, Basilica di San Vitale and Mausoleo Arcivescovile. In the evening, we return to Venice for the farewell dinner. (B, D) SEP 21 From Venice, we depart for Calgary.
Accompanying Resource Person Marina Fischer, MA, studied history of art, classics and ancient history at the University of Calgary. Marina grew up in Europe, spent many years in Croatia and studied in Italy. She shares her personal experiences, passion and knowledge of the Adriatic Coast though her courses and tours. Marina works as Curatorial Assistant for Numismatics at the Nickle Galleries, at the University of Calgary Library and teaches courses for Continuing Education.
Costs Airfare Domestic Land, tuition and other costs GST TOTAL Single Supplement
$1,700 $200 $6,900 $60 $8,860 $1,800
Cost includes: Tuition and three-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. The final payment is due on April 10, 2017. 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, airfare, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on final payment and passed on to the participants. All fees are based on double occupancy.
left to right: Dubrovnik Seaport in Croatia; Cathedral of St. Dominus in Split, Croatia; Roman Amphitheater in Pula, Croatia; Cupola San Vitale in Ravenna Italy; Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia
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Wildlife of the Great Bear Rainforest, Photos courtesy of Dr. Wayne Lynch
The Great Bear Rainforest: Spirit Bears, Grizzlies and Ancient Forests SEPTEMBER 26 – OCTOBER 1, 2017
The temperate rainforests are one of the richest habitats on Earth; supporting more biomass 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 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 1,000-year-old western red cedars.
Orientation The orientation course will consist of one Wednesday evening, September 20, 2017, 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. Subjects of additional interest to the instructor include the natural history of coastal wolves, bald eagles, Steller’s sea lions, and the biological complexity of the intertidal zone. The itinerary, travel arrangements and health matters will be discussed in detail.
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Itinerary Included meals are shown following the daily itinerary B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner
SEP 26 Depart Calgary for the short flight to Vancouver followed by our connecting flight to the community of Bella Bella in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest. Upon arrival, transfer to the dock and take a 90-minute water taxi ride to Spirit Bear Lodge in Klemtu, the small native community on Swindle Island. (D) SEP 27 After breakfast 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 ‘snorkel-and-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. (B, L, D) SEP 28 We will spend today watching hungry coastal grizzlies pack on the pounds in preparation for winter hibernation. We also continue our exploration of the diversity and beauty of the Great Bear Rainforest — a remote, largely uninhabited, region of coastal British Columbia that stretches between Vancouver Island and Southeast Alaska. Spanning 32,000 sq. km, the
area is five times larger than Banff National Park and is the largest remaining tract of unspoiled temperate rainforests in the world. (B, L, D) SEP 29 – 30 The next two days will be spent cruising the numerous deep coastal fjords and remote forested shoreline of Princess Royal Island and other nearby coastal islands which have the greatest number of spirit bears in the province. The spirit bear is an American black bear that has creamywhite 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. (B, L, D) OCT 1 After breakfast, choose between a rainforest walk and a morning kayak paddling along the ocean shores south of Klemtu. Later in the morning we will take a water taxi for the 90-minute return trip to Bella Bella where we catch our afternoon flight to Vancouver and then on to Calgary. (B)
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 dozen countries. He is also a popular guest speaker, and audiences worldwide appreciate 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 also 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. This is Wayne’s 3rd Continuing Education trip to Great Bear Rainforest.
Costs Airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST TOTAL Single Supplement
$400 $6,600 $50 $7,050 $3,200
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 5, 2017. 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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Wildlife of the Falkland Islands, Photos courtesy of Dr. Wayne Lynch
Falkland Islands and Southern Andes: Their Wildlife and Scenic Splendour OCTOBER 26 – NOVEMBER 16, 2017
Bathed by cold fertile waters, the Falklands are a mecca for nature lovers. The Falkland Islands are a cluster of wave-sculpted isles 350 kilometers east of Tierra del Fuego at the southern tip of South America. A recent tourism brochure justifiably boasts that the Falkland Islands is a destination “where nature is still in charge.” One of the most remarkable features of the islands is the inspiring array of wildlife — gargantuan elephant seals, quarrelsome sea lions, unruly penguin colonies, sleek Commerson’s dolphins, and pods of predatory killer whales, to name just a few. The greatest delight in visiting the Falklands is that the wildlife is extremely tame and easy to observe. Where else can you walk to within a few meters of raucous penguins, elegant albatrosses and super-sized seal pups without them moving away. In fact, some of the animals, including the penguins, will even investigate you as a harmless curiosity. We have included four days in Chile’s Parque National Torres del Paine in the southern Andes with its breathtaking mountain scenery, herds of wild guanacos, and predatory pumas and you have a nature traveller’s ultimate destination.
Orientation The orientation course will be held on Wednesday, October 11 and 18, 7 – 9:30 pm, at the University of Calgary campus. Topics for discussion will include: the geography and natural history of the Falkland Islands, and the ecology and biology of the whales, seals, sea lions and seabirds of the Southern Ocean, especially that of the avian stars of the region, the five species of penguins that breed in the islands. The itinerary, travel arrangements, health matters and insurance coverage will be discussed in detail. 16
Itinerary Three meals daily are included throughout the trip. Not included are the meals during the overnights in Santiago.
OCT 26 – 27 Depart from Calgary for the overnight flight to Santiago, Chile, and then settle into our conveniently located airport hotel. OCT 28 After breakfast we make the short walk to the airport to board our morning flight to Stanley, the main town in the Falkland Islands where we are met and transferred to our hotel. For the balance of the day we explore this quaint “British” colony of 3,000 citizens. The houses are vibrantly painted and full of character with their colourful tin roofs and gardens bursting with flowers. There’ll be time to stroll the waterfront with its interesting birdlife, visit its quaint shops filled with woolens, crafts and paintings, and sip a cappuccino while clouds drift over the harbour. OCT 29 – 30 Fly in a small eight-passenger aircraft to Pebble Island in the northwest corner of the archipelago where we spend two days exploring the island’s scenic beaches and headlands. The island features a wide range of waterfowl and wading birds including handsome kelp geese and white-tufted grebes. The highlights include several large colonies of Gentoo, Magellanic and southern rockhopper penguins. OCT 31 – NOV 2 Fly farther west for our threeday stay on Carcass Island. Here the shoreline is right at our doorstep and we’ll share our days with a wide array of interesting birdlife as well as Commerson’s dolphins and southern sea lions.
The chief attraction of the island is the large black-browed albatross colony where we can sit at close range and watch the birds soar overhead, court, and mate. Of course, if you bore easily, there are countless penguins to enjoy as well. NOV 3 – 5 Fly across the archipelago to the extreme southeastern corner of the archipelago to Sea Lion Island, the wildlife jewel of the Falklands. The hotel accommodates just 20 guests so we are often alone in our nature outings. Here we watch gargantuan elephant seals bellow and fight, gentoo penguins surf along the shoreline, and killer whales hunt the edges of offshore kelp beds. The island is a perfect location for private nature strolling at sunrise and sunset where every outing brings a new wildlife surprise. NOV 6 – 7 Fly north to Bleaker Island for two more relaxing days absorbing the natural wonders of the Falklands. Much of the island is a nature reserve and its wave-sculpted beaches are home to penguins, shorebirds, waterfowl, sea lions and elephant seals. As well, the island is home to 79 species of flowering plants including lady’s slippers and yellow orchids. NOV 8 – 10 Return to Stanley. After lunch we take a half-day guided tour of the town including Christ Church Anglican Church, Whalebone Arch, Government House, and the Stanley Museum. On our second day in Stanley we take a full day excursion to Volunteer Point — a four-wheel-drive expedition across the rolling moors to the world’s largest accessible colony of king penguins, arguably the most beautiful of all the penguins. On our last day in the Falklands we have a day at leisure when
we may visit the Magellanic penguin colony at Gypsy Cover or take a boat trip to Kidney Island searching for Peale’s and Commerson’s dolphins. NOV 11 – 14 Fly to Punta Arenas, Chile, at the southern tip of South America, then board our private coach for the drive to Parque National Torres del Paine, our base for the next four days. Parque National Torres del Paine, in the words of author William Leitch, “is not a mere park, but a park of parks, a destination of travellers to whom a park is more than a place in which to be entertained, but rather an experience to be integrated into one’s life. Torres del Paine is the sort of park that changes its visitors by setting standards of sheer sensory impact against which all other parks are thereafter measured.” Our many days in the park allow us to savour the majesty of the southern Andes Mountains and to enjoy close-up views of roaring waterfalls, and herds of unwary guanacos. Other wildlife specialties of the park include: Patagonian red and gray foxes, Andean condors, black-necked swans, torrent ducks, and buff-necked ibises. In recent years, visitors are getting daytime glimpses of the puma. The treeless steppe of the park is the favoured hunting grounds of this large tawny cat, and Torres del Paine is now the best place in the world to see this normally elusive predator. NOV 15 – 16 Return to Santiago for our connecting flights back to Calgary.
Accompanying Resource Person Dr. Wayne Lynch is an internationally-recognized naturalist, science writer and professional wildlife photographer. He is the author and photographer of over 60 natural history books for children, young adults and adults. He is also 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. Wayne has led over a dozen trips to the Falkland Islands and has written four books on Penguins. Wayne has planned and accompanied trips for Continuing Education to Antarctica, Borneo, Brazil, Namibia, Arctic Norway, Kenya, Tanzania, Boreal Canada and Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands.
Costs Airfare International and domestic flights Land, tuition and other costs GST TOTAL Single Supplement (Chile only)
$3,700 $13,000 $75 $16,775 $ 700
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 February 15, 2017. Please 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 decrease or increase, and any changes will be reflected on the final payment and passed on to the participant. All fees are based on double occupancy. Single supplement is not available on Falklands portion of the trip.
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JAN 19 After breakfast, we drive to Pondicherry, the former French Colonial city located on the Coromandal Coast to visit the ashram at Auroville. It was built by followers of Sri Aurobindo, a philosopher-prophet born in 1870 and famous for his Integral Yoga and philosophical literary works. In this International Town we also find the Matrimandir (Temple of The Great Mother), the famous monument built by the Auroville Society representing a lotus flower. We will visit the 400-year old Manakula Vinayagar Temple, which has several frescos telling the life story of a half human and half animal lord; the French Quarter, the French Memorial, the Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges, the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, and Botanical Garden.
Kochi (formerly Cochin), India; Photo courtesy of Valery Efimenko
South India with Optional Extension to Sri Lanka JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 4, 2018
This study tour covers the major states of South India including Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka; as well as a new destination, Sri Lanka – one of the most colourful islands on the planet. On our tour, we will explore a great variety of historical places and architectural sites including Hindu seashore temples, famous Buddhist shrines, historic Christian and Jewish places of worship, colonial forts, rock fortresses, and yoga ashrams. World-class museums will reveal their treasures to us, and spectacular dance performances like the legendary Kathakali dance in Kerala and the graceful Kandyan dance in Sri Lanka will be a vibrant display of religious importance and elaborate symbolism. The boat ride in the backwaters of Kerala and our visits to national parks in both countries promise to be soul-inspiring experiences. Also, there will be opportunities to browse the spice-filled markets and relax on the palm-fringed seashores.
Orientation The orientation course will consist of two Wednesday evenings, December 6 and 13 from 7 – 9:30 pm and Saturday, January 6 from 9:30 am – 3:30 pm, at the University of Calgary campus. The classes will provide an introduction to the history and cultural development of Indian society. The itinerary, travel arrangements, health matters and insurance coverage will be discussed in detail.
Itinerary Three meals daily throughout this trip.
JAN 15-16 Depart Calgary for the overnight journey to India. Arrive in Chennai, the capital city of Tamilnadu. Welcome ceremony in a local hotel. 18
JAN 17 After breakfast, our tour of Chennai begins with a visit to the Fort Museum followed by the beautiful Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwar Temple, St. Thomas Basilica and the National Art Gallery and Museum, which contains a superb collection of Chola bronze sculptures. JAN 18 Depart Chennai and travel to Mahabalipuram, which is famous for its stone carvings and shore temples — a relic of Pallava art. Visit Arjuna’s Penance, Krishna Mandapam, Varaha Mandapam, Pancha Rathas (five chariot-shaped monolithic shrines), Mahishasuramardini Temple and shore temples. We also visit the famous School of Art and Sculptures. Overnight in Mahabalipuram.
JAN 20 After breakfast, we drive to Thanjavur (formerly Tanjore). In the afternoon, we explore the Brihadisvara Temple, one of the Great Living Chola Temples. The temple, set in spacious grounds, has several pillared halls and shrines. Inscriptions record the names of dancers, musicians and poets reminding us of the significance of this area to the development of the arts in the 11th century. We will visit the palace and the museum, which has an eclectic collection of regal memorabilia, most of it from the early 19th century. JAN 21 Today, we drive to Madurai, the second largest city in Tamil Nadu. The city revolves around the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a structure in the Dravidian style of architecture. The complex houses 14 gopurams (gateway towers) ranging from 45-50 metres in height — the tallest being the southern tower, 51.9 metres high — and two golden sculptured shrines over sanctum of the main deities. The temple is a significant symbol for the Tamil people, and has been mentioned since antiquity in Tamil literature. The present structure was built from 1623 to 1655. There are an estimated 33,000 sculptures in the temple and among the highlights are the Hall of a Thousand Pillars, the Tirumala Nayaka Temple and the Temple Art Museum. In the evening, we enjoy the night closing ceremony of the Temple. JAN 22 After breakfast, we travel to Thekkady, a district in Kerala, famous for the Periyar National Park. After lunch we visit a spice plantation, where cardamon, pepper, ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and tea are grown. We also see Ayurvedic medicinal plants and have an opportunity to buy some garden fresh spices. JAN 23 We start our day with a early jungle walk at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread across 777 square kilometres, it was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. In the afternoon, we enjoy a boat ride on Lake Periyar to watch animals in their natural habitat by the water’s edge. We may see boars, Sambars, wild dogs, Langur monkeys and wild elephants. The sanctuary is also a haven for water birds. We will see plenty of darters, grey herons, egrets and kingfishers. The evening is free to explore the local bazaar.
JAN 24 We continue our journey to Kochi (formerly Cochin). Known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, it is one of the principal seaports of the country. In the evening, we enjoy a Kathakali Dance Performance. This dramatized presentation, typically based on the Hindu epic poems Ramayana, and Mahabharata, is a unique combination of music, dance, acting, elaborate makeup and colourful costumes.
the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean meet. This important pilgrim centre of India is famous for the Amman Temples — symbolic of unity and sanctity — dedicated to Kanya Kumari, the Virgin Goddess. To its southeast, lies the famous Vivekananda Rock Memorial, a blend of all the architectural styles of India. After lunch we return back to Kovalam.
JAN 25 We spend the day exploring Kochi, Kerala’s commercial capital with one of the finest natural harbours in the world. We will visit St. Francis Church, the oldest European Church in India, where Vasco De Gama’s remains were buried before being taken back to Portugal. Next we visit the Roman Catholic Santa Cruz Cathedral built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, which is famous for beautiful paintings on its ceiling. We continue to the Jewish Quarter with its Old Synagogue and the Dutch Palace, built by the Portuguese. Later we take a boat cruise to visit Bolghatty Palace and observe the fascinating Chinese fishing nets in action.
Extension
JAN 26 After breakfast, we will drive to Alleppey (Alappuzha), a city with picturesque canals, beaches, and lagoons. We board a houseboat to begin our cruise along the backwaters to the town of Kumarakom. On our journey, we will observe the traditional way of life and activities of the local people. JAN 27 Morning drive to Trivandrum, the capital of the state of Kerala located on the west coast of India near the extreme south of the mainland. Traders have been coming to this area as far back as 190 AD for spices, sandalwood, and ivory. After lunch, we begin touring Trivandrum and visit the Napier Museum, Kuthiramalika Palace, Shree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, and Sri Chitra Art Gallery with its vast collection of paintings from India, as well as Japan, China and Indonesia. We overnight in Kovalam, a beach town by the Arabian Sea 16 km from Trivandrum. JAN 28 We take an excursion to the southernmost tip of India, Kanyakumari, where the waters of
JAN 29 Optional Extension to Sri Lanka begins, or return to Calgary. Those continuing to Sri Lanka will have a one-hour flight to Colombo. On arrival, we will drive to Negombo, which is a famous port city located only 30 kilometers away. The remainder of the day is free for your own discovery. We will visit the fish market on the beach and have a peaceful stroll around this beautiful town. JAN 30 Today we spend the full day visiting Colombo, the capital of the country. It is a beautiful city with modern high-rises and old colonial buildings making it a picturesque location. We will visit the National Museum, Zoological Garden, Viharamaha Devi Park and finally make a stop at the famous Pettah market. JAN 31 After breakfast, we will drive to Dambulla, the largest and best preserved cave temple complex of Sri Lanka. In the surrounding area are more than 80 caves used by the monks for meditation. The major temple, which is 2,000 years old, is decorated by delicate wall paintings and carved stone statues. The Iron Wood Forest (Namal Uyana), an ancient garden built in the 10th century, and the Rose Quartz Mountain range, 500 million years old, cannot be missed while in Dambulla. FEB 1 Our first visit is the Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, close to Dambulla. The fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most treasured historical monuments in Sri Lanka. Features of the fortress are the frescoes, and its mirror. After lunch, we visit Polonnaruwa,
the second largest city in the province, famous for its clean and beautiful environment, amazing ancient constructions and most importantly, Lake Parakrama Samudra, which was built in 1200 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. FEB 2 After breakfast we drive to Kandy, the cultural centre of the island and a UNESCO heritage city. En route we will stop at a spice garden in Matale. The sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha is enshrined at the Dalada Maligawa, the temple of the tooth. The Royal Botanical Gardens is a must see with more than 4,000 species of plants. Also, we will visit the arts and crafts centre in Kandy and the main Buddhist monasteries, Malwatta and Asgiriya Monasteries. In the evening we will see a cultural show. FEB 3 Today, we return to Negombo. En route we will visit a tea plantation and the tea factory in Giragama and the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, which is a nursery and captive breeding ground for wild Asian elephant. After lunch, return to Negombo for our farewell dinner FEB 4 Return flight from Colombo to Calgary.
Accompanying Resource Person Valery Efimenko was born in Russia but lived in Ukraine the first 18 years of his life. He graduated from the Oriental Department of St. Petersburg State University where he studied Indian languages, history and culture. Valery has taught religion, philosophy and Russian history for Continuing Education at the University of Calgary since 2004, and this is his 5th travel study trip.
Costs Airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST TOTAL Single Supplement
Extension to Sri Lanka Airfare Land, tuition and other costs GST TOTAL Single Supplement
Kathakali dance in Kerala; Photo courtesy of Valery Efimenko
$2,400 $6,100 $60 $8,560 $1,900
$335 $3,800 $25 $4,160 $1,400
Cost includes: Tuition and three-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. The final payment is due on June 10, 2017. 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, airfare, or land costs. There are possibilities of decreases or increases, and any changes will be reflected on final payment and passed on to the participants. All fees are based on double occupancy.
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Choose your adventure: o Routes of Spain, Kenneth Brown May 1 – 17, 2017 TRA 190-001 o Iceland and Scotland, John Gilchrist May 27 – June 9, 2017 TRA 188-001 o Wildlife Treasures of East Africa, Dr. Wayne Lynch August 5 – 19, 2017 TRA 146-002 o Emperors and Artists: Italy through the Ages, Scott Norris September 2 – 16, 2017 TRA 189-001 o Great Cities of the Adriatic: From Dubrovnik to Venice, Marina Fischer September 7 – 21, 2017 TRA 187-001
Registration Form By Mail
UCalgary Continuing Education 2500 University Drive NW Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4
In Person
UCalgary Continuing Education Energy Resources Research Building (ERRB) N140, 3512 - 33 St NW Calgary, AB
By Fax
403.284.9242
NAME (As per passport)___________________________________________________ DATE OF BIRTH (MM/DD/YYYY) __________________________________________ TELEPHONE NUMBERS:
HOME___________________________________
WORK PHONE__________________ CELL PHONE____________________________ ADDRESS ____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
FAX__________________________ EMAIL________________________________
o The Great Bear Rainforest: Spirit Bears, Grizzlies and Ancient Forests, Dr. Wayne Lynch September 26 – October 1, 2017 TRA 175-004
Will you be travelling with another person? o No
o Yes Their Name:___________________________________________
o Falkland Islands and Southern Andes: Their Wildlife and Scenic Splendour, Dr. Wayne Lynch October 26 – November 16, 2017 TRA 191-001
Would you like to have a roommate? o Yes o No
o South India Only, Valery Efimenko January 15 – 29, 2018 TRA 186-001
Payment Information
o South India with Extension to Sri Lanka, Valery Efimenko January 15 – February 4, 2018 TRA 186-002
Please note that if you wish to share, every effort will be made to find you a suitable roommate. If this is not possible, a single supplement will be applied.
If you are registering for a trip, your deposit of $500 must accompany registration. Remit by cheque, money order or credit card in Canadian funds payable to the University of Calgary. o CHEQUE ENCLOSED o CREDIT CARD PAYMENT We accept Visa, Mastercard and American Express. However, for your security, please do not document your credit card information on this form. Instead, please call 403.220.2952 weekdays, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm, to provide the name and number on the card. Please note: Your registration cannot be finalized until you have provided your credit card information. This information is collected under the authority of the Post-Secondary Learning Act. Your personal information is collected to register you in a Continuing Education course and forms part of the permanent student record. If you have questions about the collection or use of this information, or, if you want your name removed from our mailing list, call 403-220-2952.
University of Calgary Continuing Education 2500 University Drive NW Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 1N4
2538016