Alpine Splendor
https://cloud.3dissue.net/19819/19860/20111/135161/index.html?40303
Alpine Splendor
July 2-15, 2026

Featuring Tom McCabe, Associate Director, Center for Teaching Excellence; Assistant Teaching Professor

As your small group, limited to 24 travelers, discovers mountain villages and European cities, rides the famed Glacier Express, cruises on glassine lakes, and ascends snowcapped summits, borders disappear and the region’s history – and beauty – enchant one and all. This captivating 14-day Swiss and Austrian exploration begins with lovely Lucerne, its namesake lake, and a ride up Mt. Pilatus on the world’s steepest cogwheel train. After scenic overload here, board the legendary Glacier Express, following the fabled Rhône to Zermatt, gateway to the Swiss Alps. Ride the Gornergratbahn, the first fully electrified cog railway, to the Gornergrat’s summit for spectacular views of the majestic Matterhorn. Crossing into northern Italy, visit Stresa along Lake Maggiore’s shores. With three nights in lakeside Lugano, explore Switzerland’s Ticino region, including medieval Bellinzona and its iconic Castelgrande castle, a UNESCO site. At a grotto restaurant, enjoy lunch alfresco then visit picturesque Ascona. Take a leisurely cruise around Lake Lugano. Leaving the lake district, we stop in Bellinzona where we visit Castlegrande, then continue on to Liechtenstein. Here, we have free time to explore, then travel on to Austria. With a two-night stay in Seefeld, tour postcard-worthy Innsbruck and ascend the Nordkette mountains by cable car. Reaching Austria’s riverside jewel of Salzburg for a three-night stay, attend an intimate classical performance in the famed Mirabell Palace and visit Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of Europe’s finest castles. In nearby Berchtesgaden, tour the Nazis’ Eagle’s Nest retreat. Savor Austria’s beloved capital of Vienna at your own pace with an optional 4-day/3-night post-tour extension

Please contact Odysseys Unlimited at 888-370-6765 to reserve today!

Europe
July
Land Program
Airfare Included
Rice Exclusive
Landing Page
Trip Summary

Featuring Tom McCabe, Associate Director, Center for Teaching Excellence; Assistant Teaching Professor

As your small group, limited to 24 travelers, discovers mountain villages and European cities, rides the famed Glacier Express, cruises on glassine lakes, and ascends snowcapped summits, borders disappear and the region’s history – and beauty – enchant one and all.

Eclipse
Flavors of Castile - The Total Solar Eclipse Experience
August 8-16, 2026

Sold out! Waitlist only. 

In collaboration with The Wiess School of Natural Sciences.

Watch the mesmerizing phases of the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse from an unobstructed vantage point in the breathtaking Spanish countryside. This experience will be brought to life through educational experiences shared in the company of fellow guests and experts. While the Total Solar Eclipse is sure to be the highlight for many, while on tour you will have immersive opportunities to marvel at Spain's lesser-known but equally historically significant landmarks including castles and palaces, a stunning Roman aqueduct and magnificent cathedrals — each showcasing the country's rich engineering and artistic heritage. You'll enjoy a relaxed journey through the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Aranjuez, Alcala de Henares and Cuenca. Additionally, you will witness the renowned windmills immortalizes by Cervantes' novel Don Quixote. Throughout your time on tour, you will savor regional specialties offering an authentic taste of Spain's diverse culinary traditions. Your home away from home for the duration for the program will be a remarkable property situated in the former monastery of Nuestra Senora del Paraiso. The serene setting will provide an ideal space for relaxation featuring a pool that occupies the former monastery stables and a stunning glass-enclosed cloister

Please contact Orbridge at 866-639-0079 or guestservices@orbridge.com to reserve today!

Europe
August
Land Program
Trip Summary

Sold out! Waitlist only. 

In collaboration with The Wiess School of Natural Sciences.

Watch the mesmerizing phases of the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse from an unobstructed vantage point in the breathtaking Spanish countryside. This experience will be brought to life through educational experiences shared in the company of fellow guests and experts.

San Juan Islands
Pacific Northwest Discovery — The San Juan Islands' Whales, Wildlife and Coastal Culture
August 3-8, 2026

Nature’s enduring beauty is on display throughout the islands of the San Juan Island Archipelago, a historic Pacific Northwest paradise renowned for its majestic state parks, breathtaking coastal landscapes, and an engaging population of orcas and seals. Our exclusive, six-day, small group journey offers immersive, private boat excursions to some of San Juan’s most remote islands with accommodations at intimate boutique properties. You’ll also indulge in the freshest Pacific Northwest seafood and taste other locally sourced specialties at elaborate, authentic meals prepared by the region’s finest chefs. The archipelago’s past comes to life as you visit the site that launched the famous 1859 “Pig War” and explore the waterfront town of La Conner. In the company of expert guides, you will also watch for whales at Lime Kiln State Park, enjoy panoramic views from Mount Constitution, and admire the cliffs of Deception Pass on this experience to remember, offered at the best time of year.

Please contact Orbridge at 866-639-0079 or guestservices@orbridge.com to reserve today!

North America
August
Land Program
Trip Summary

Nature’s enduring beauty is on display throughout the islands of the San Juan Island Archipelago, a historic Pacific Northwest paradise renowned for its majestic state parks, breathtaking coastal landscapes, and an engaging population of orcas and seals.

Scotland
Stunning Scotland
July 18- 27, 2026

Featuring Julia Morgan, Professor and Chair, Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences

 

Join us as we explore the inspiring history, exuberant culture and fascinating sites of Scotland. From windswept highlands to serene islands, home to revered castles and iconic towns, Scotland is a vibrant country overflowing with rich traditions, natural beauty and welcoming hospitality.

  • Experience the serene beauty and folklore of Scotland during a spirited cruise around Loch Lomond.
  • Discover The Trossachs National Park, called “The Highlands in Miniature,” an enchanting landscape of forests, lochs and hills that has inspired poets for generations. – Embrace the charm of the Inner Hebrides exploring the Isle of Mull—with its vibrant villages, diverse wildlife and stunning coastal scenery.
  • Enjoy Aros Park's peaceful trails, cascading waterfalls and panoramic views over the Sound of Mull—the ideal backdrop for nature and photography enthusiasts.
  • Visit Iona, the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland, and tour the historic and spiritual landmark of Iona Abbey.
  • Step into royal heritage at majestic Balmoral Castle nestled within the Cairngorms.
  • Capture the essence of the Highlands at Devil's Elbow Viewpoint, admiring dramatic views of peaks and valleys from this iconic mountain pass.
  • Behold the regal splendor and history on display inside the Palace of Holyroodhouse—the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.

Please contact Orbridge at 866-639-0079 or guestservices@orbridge.com to reserve today!

Land Program
Europe
July
Trip Summary

Featuring Julia Morgan, Professor and Chair, Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences

Join us as we explore the inspiring history, exuberant culture and fascinating sites of Scotland. From windswept highlands to serene islands, home to revered castles and iconic towns, Scotland is a vibrant country overflowing with rich traditions, natural beauty and welcoming hospitality.

Wild Alaska Escape
https://alumni.rice.edu/sites/g/files/bxs3301/files/2026-03/Alaska_082826%20%281%29.pdf
Alaska Escape: Haines, the Inian Islands and Tracy Arm Fjord
August 28-September 2, 2026

Featuring Scott Solomon, Teaching Professor of BioSciences

Join our expert team aboard the 62-guest National Geographic Sea Bird for an active exploration to see Alaska’s iconic wildlife and epic landscapes. By special permission from the U.S. Forest Service, you’ll have an opportunity to hike through towering trees of a protected temperate rainforest, kayak into breathtaking glacially carved fjords, and paddle board along the rugged coastlines of Chichagof Island—which harbors one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in the world.

Meet eagles at the Raptor Rehabilitation Center, and cruise by Zodiac to experience marine wildlife up close—witness the playful nature of sea lions and the majesty of whales in the Inian Islands. Mountain bike and hike world-class trails in Haines, Alaska’s adventure capital, or choose to raft the Chilkat River from an ancient Alaska village, where history and culture abound.

Please contact Lindblad Expeditions at 888-773-9007 or groups@expeditions.com to reserve today!

North America
August
Cruise Program
September
Trip Summary

Featuring Scott Solomon, Teaching Professor of BioSciences

Join our expert team aboard the 62-guest National Geographic Sea Bird for an active exploration to see Alaska’s iconic wildlife and epic landscapes.

Italy Coast
https://cloud.3dissue.net/19819/19860/20111/135161/index.html?40303
Northern Italy
September 9-23, 2026

This leisurely exploration of Italy’s varied northern regions, from the romantic Lake District and dramatic Cinque Terre to beloved Tuscany, the majestic Dolomites, and canal-laced Venice, offers a refreshing perspective on a well-known land.  In the company of a congenial small group, limited to 24 travelers, celebrate the Italian penchant for hospitality, good food, and good living, staying in outstanding accommodations.  The 15-day journey begins in the Lake District with a relaxing three-night stay in Stresa on lovely Lake Maggiore.  Cruise to Isola Bella, the beautiful island in Lake Maggiore, touring its palace and flower-decked gardens, and visit charming lakeside Orta San Giulio.  Stopping in Barolo, sample Barolo, the “king of wines,” at a premier winery.  A three-night sojourn in the Italian Riviera resort town of Santa Margherita follows, with a boat trip to the renowned resort town of Portofino and an excursion to the spectacular Cinque Terre cliff-clinging villages.  Journeying south to beloved Tuscany for a three-night stay in wondrous Radda-in-Chianti, visit atmospheric Lucca.  Explore Florence, Tuscany’s crown jewel, with its stupendous Duomo and famed Galleria dell'Accademia housing Michelangelo’s sublime David; then discover exquisite Siena, boasting one of Europe’s greatest public squares.  Tour storied Verona, the setting of several Shakespearean plays, and spend two nights in Bolzano, gateway to the magnificent Dolomites in the Italian Alps.  Two nights in treasured Venice, with touring of iconic St. Mark’s Square and independent exploration, conclude the journey.  Savor a longer stay in this most beautiful of cities with an optional 3-day/2-night post-tour extension.

Please contact Odysseys Unlimited at 888-370-6765 to reserve today!

Land Program
Rice Exclusive
September
Europe
Airfare Included
Trip Summary

This leisurely exploration of Italy’s varied northern regions, from the romantic Lake District and dramatic Cinque Terre to beloved Tuscany, the majestic Dolomites, and canal-laced Venice, offers a refreshing perspective on a well-known land.

Easy Company Tour
Easy Company: England to the Eagle's Nest
September 13-26, 2027

Follow in the footsteps of the Band of Brothers across seven countries. Based on the best selling book by Museum founder Stephen Ambrose and the HBO miniseries Band of Brothers Easy Company: England to the Eagle's Nest follows in the footsteps of Company E of the 101st Airborne Division’s 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, known now as "Easy Company." The National WWII Museum’s most popular tour brings you to famous WWII sites across seven countries: England, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, and Austria. Featuring an original Band of Brothers cast member, this tour regularly sells out more than a year in advance—don't miss this rare opportunity to journey to the beaches, bridges, cities, and villages where the legendary Easy Company fought crucial battles and changed the course of history.

Please contact WWII Museum at 1-877-813-3329 travel@nationalww2museum.org to reserve today!

Europe
September
Land Program
Trip Summary

Follow in the footsteps of the Band of Brothers across seven countries.

Machu Picchu
Mysteries of Peru and Machu Picchu
February 24-March 4, 2027

From the Sacred Valley of the Inca and the magical heights of Machu Picchu to the natural wonders of the Ballestas Islands, join us as we uncover this culturally rich region of the Peruvian Andes. This extraordinary journey reveals Peru's enduring charm, centuries-old traditions and enigmatic mysteries.

Please contact Orbridge at 866-639-0079 or guestservices@orbridge.com to reserve today!

South America
March
Land Program
February
Trip Summary

From the Sacred Valley of the Inca and the magical heights of Machu Picchu to the natural wonders of the Ballestas Islands, join us as we uncover this culturally rich region of the Peruvian Andes.

Yellowstone herd
https://alumni.rice.edu/sites/g/files/bxs3301/files/2026-03/Rice%20University_National%20Parks%20of%20the%20Southwest_091227_flyer.pdf
National Parks & Lodges of the Old West
August 13-21, 2027

Step into the heart of America’s Old West on an extraordinary journey led by a premier guide from Orbridge’s Expedition Leader team—many of whom have served as U.S. National Park Rangers—along with experienced local guides whose expertise brings the landscapes, wildlife and history of this region to life like no other. This immersive tour blends breathtaking scenery with rich narratives, offering a deep connection to the land, its people and its past.

Please contact Orbridge at 866-639-0079 or guestservices@orbridge.com to reserve today!

North America
Land Program
August
Trip Summary

Step into the heart of America’s Old West on an extraordinary journey led by a premier guide from Orbridge’s Expedition Leader team along with experienced local guides whose expertise brings the landscapes, wildlife and history of this region to life like no other.

Southern Italy & Sicily  with Apulia & the Amalfi Coast
https://alumni.rice.edu/sites/g/files/bxs3301/files/2026-03/Rice%20University_Southern%20Italy%20%26%20Sicily_042927_flyer.pdf
Southern Italy & Sicily
April 29-May 13, 2027

Delight in a special exploration of Italy’s southern climes, from striking Sicily and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast to Apulia, the alluring “boot heel” where a vivid history, unique architecture, and distinctive traditions join the sun and sea in creating a prized (and crowd-free) region. Enjoy Italian hospitality, outstanding cuisine, and unique hotels with your small group – limited to 24 travelers – on this 15-day journey. First, experience Sicily’s intriguing cultural heritage during a four-night stay in charming Taormina, with its spectacular ancient Greek theater and grand Piazza Vittorio Emanuele. An excursion to Agrigento’s remarkable “Valley of the Temples” is highlighted by the stunning, well-preserved Temple of Concordia. After visiting Europe’s largest active volcano, Mt. Etna, enjoy a small group highlight: lunch and Sicilian wines at a family-run farm. Departing Sicily for the mainland, spend two nights in one of Matera’s ancient Sassi cave dwellings renovated as a hotel. Explore Matera’s Sassi and Alberobello’s white-washed trulli houses, both UNESCO sites. Then discover Lecce, the “Florence of the South,” with its unique ornate architecture. A three-night stay here includes excursions to beautiful Otranto, overlooking the Adriatic, and a local winery. With the final four nights in lively seaside Sorrento, highlights include touring evocative Pompeii and a Neapolitan cuisine cooking lesson. Boarding a hydrofoil, cruise to the storied Isle of Capri for exploration. Embark on a glorious drive along the winding, cliff-top Amalfi Coast road before bidding “arrivederci” to Italy at a farewell dinner. Explore eternal Rome independently on an optional 4-day/3-night post-tour extension

Please contact Odysseys Unlimited at 888-370-6765 to reserve today!

Land Program
Europe
May
April
Airfare Included
Trip Summary

Delight in a special exploration of Italy’s southern climes, from striking Sicily and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast to Apulia, the alluring “boot heel” where a vivid history, unique architecture, and distinctive traditions join the sun and sea in creating a prized (and crowd-free) region.

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