Experience the beauty, allure, and hospitality of provincial France at an easy pace and in a unique style in a small group limited to 24 travelers. Anchored by stays in vibrant Toulouse and enchanting Paris, this 15-day journey features diverse Languedoc, the remote Dordogne, the lovely Loire Valley, and historic Normandy. With the first two nights in Toulouse, set out to discover the rich history of Carcassonne – the quintessential medieval town boasting Europe’s longest city walls, and Albi with its Toulouse-Lautrec Museum. During a three-night stay in Sarlat, one of Europe’s best preserved medieval gems, see Lascaux IV’s reproductions of pre-historic cave paintings, take a leisurely Dordogne River cruise, and explore the charming cliffside village of Rocamadour. Saumur offers a picturesque base for the following three-night discovery of the Loire Valley, including a winery visit and a tour of Chenonceau, an impressive Renaissance château. Traveling north to Normandy for a three-night stay, visit the renowned Mont-St-Michel Gothic abbey. In Bayeux, see the 1,000-year-old Bayeux Tapestry, then visit Caen’s Memorial Museum devoted to “history for peace.” A poignant day’s touring follows at Normandy’s evocative D-Day Landing Beaches and the American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach. Walk through Monet’s famed gardens in Giverny and see the familiar lily pond and Japanese footbridge of his paintings. The final destination is enchanting Paris for a balance of free time, seeing city highlights, and visiting the Rodin Museum. Savor more time in the “City of Light” with an optional 3-day/2-night post-tour extension.

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

Join beloved Traveling Owls study leader John Boles as he returns to Italy for an autumn adventure tracing the real-life travels and Italian influences on our third president, Thomas Jefferson. The tour begins in the Veneto, discovering the Palladian architecture that had profound impact on Jefferson. We’ll see lovely private villa estates, and even be the guests of the owner at the majestic Villa La Rotonda, inspiration for Jefferson’s Monticello. The delightful old cities of Verona and Vicenza will unfold before us during specially designed tours. For the second half of our tour, the stately city of Milan provides a wealth of Jeffersonian connections, from art to architecture to music to food. Private palaces will be opened just for us, a memorable hands-on cooking class will be offered, and a magical day will be spent floating along the waters of Lake Como by private boat. The tour will feature two meals in delightful private historic homes, as well as two special lectures by Dr. Boles. This custom created journey provides countless delightful experiences, but also fresh perspectives on both Northern Italy and President Jefferson.

Please contact ISDI at 202-244-1448 or info@isditravel.com to reserve today!

Let your senses come alive as you uncover the secrets and treasures of the fabulous Down Under on this 14-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Regatta. Embark in Auckland and watch for dolphins, whales, and blue penguins as they dance through the sparkling waves as you venture towards Rotorua.

Discover the dynamic city of Tauranga, where urban sophistication seamlessly blends with the untamed beauty of the outdoors. Indulge your senses in Gisborne, a coastal gem known for its rich flavors and culinary delights. Sample the exquisite wines from Napier’s renowned vineyards, and discover one of the world’s best seafront views in Picton. Stroll through Cathedral Square in Christchurch, and in Dunedin, lose yourself in a fascinating blend of Scottish and Maori traditions. Relax on the ship as you take in the sensational sights and sounds along the Fjords of Milford Sound and the Tasman Sea. Encounter a Tasmanian devil, one of Australia’s most unique and beloved creatures, up close in Burnie. Before bidding farewell in Sydney, spend a few days in Melbourne, where you can glimpse the mischievous kookaburra or witness the adorable wallabies as they huddle and hop.

Please contact Go Next at 800-842-9023 to reserve today!

Waitlist Only

The Traveling Owls and the Shepherd School of Music are delighted to invite Rice alumni and friends on an enchanting journey through the City of Lights' rich musical heritage. Travel with Matthew Loden, Dean of the Shepherd School of Music, and stay in the Hotel Regina Louvre, a classic five-star hotel in the heart of Paris. Our custom crafted itinerary provides an exciting mix of visits to iconic concert halls, walking tours of celebrated Parisian neighborhoods, exploration of cutting-edge art and architecture, and attendance at special performances. Walk in the footsteps of the musical greats who lived, studied, and performed in Paris, while being treated to luxurious accommodations and sumptuous French cuisine. Itinerary highlights include a special visit to the Orchestre National de France, where Cristian Măcelaru, Music Director and Shepherd alumnus, will arrange a private tour and rehearsal viewing. Tour the iconic Opera Garnier and other cultural sites such as the Philharmonie de Paris and the grand organ at Saint Sulpice Church. Spend a day at the incomparable Palace of Versailles. Visit the Rice Global Paris Center, Rice's first international campus, providing a unique and inspiring space for undergraduate and graduate immersions in France and beyond. See Paris' newest art museums in stunning restored spaces at the Bourse de Commerce and Fondation Louis Vuitton.

Please contact ISDI at 202-244-1448 or info@isditravel.com to reserve today!

Set out on a distinctive small group journey, limited to 24 travelers, through the Iberian Peninsula to the intimate lodgings of Spain's paradores and Portugal's pousadas: medieval monasteries, historic fortresses, and stately palaces, each reflecting the spirit of its region. Feel the spell of Iberia's rich Roman and Moorish past and the pull of its vibrant contemporary life. The 15-day odyssey begins in Lisbon with the Portuguese capital's highlights, including the majestic Jerónimos Monastery and iconic Belém Tower. Visit the lovely National Palace of Queluz. Travel on through the picturesque Alentejo region to Evora, a treasure trove of Roman and Moorish heritage and UNESCO site, for a two-night stay in one of Portugal's finest pousadas. Sample a local winery's offerings. Crossing into Spain next, see Mérida's outstanding Roman ruins en route to Carmona for a three-night sojourn. Discover the beauty and romance of Seville that inspired Carmen and Don Giovanni, and visit its renowned Catédral. In Cordoba, cultural gem and UNESCO site, tour its Old Quarter and magnificent Mezquita mosque. After two nights in charming Ronda, set dramatically atop El Tajo Gorge, journey on to Granada, the former Moorish stronghold in the snowcapped Sierra Nevada. Tour its extraordinary fortress, the Alhambra, and the acclaimed Generalife gardens. A highlight awaits next with a visit to beautiful hilltop Toledo. With three final nights in Spain's monumental capital, Madrid, touring includes the Royal Palace, the world-renowned Prado, and vast Plaza Mayor. Enjoy Barcelona, Spain's spirited cultural capital, with an optional 4-day/3-night post-tour extension.

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

We are thrilled to present you with a special opportunity to witness one of the largest confluences of polar bears in the world. Much like the bears themselves, visitors make their way to Churchill each fall when temperatures drop, brimming with anticipation. The reward: experiences of a lifetime. As polar bears await the formation of arctic sea ice over the Hudson Bay, to begin their hunt for ringed seals, they descend upon this tiny seaport town, forming one of the largest congregations of polar bears in the world. During this annual spectacle, it is possible to observe, photograph, and learn about these "Kings of the North." The quality guidance of a naturalist Orbridge Expedition Leader and exclusive educational experiences, including presentations by experts at Churchill's Northern Studies Centre and your local guide, distinguish this program.

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

Feat. Jacqueline Couti, Laurence H. Favrot Professor; Department Chair; Program Advisor, European Studies

Awaken your senses as you explore the French countryside, sailing the picturesque Rhône and Saône Rivers. From the comfort of your 140-guest luxury vessel, Amadeus Provence, discover a bounty of flavors, stand in awe before towering castles, feel the texture of vines that produce the wines of Burgundy and the Provence, and taste your way through France's gastronomic capital, Lyon. History, art, architecture, and natural beauty stimulate the mind and satisfy the soul on this journey.

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

Waitlist Only

Explore the diverse sights of four African countries during this private train expedition. This specially curated journey takes you through the inspiring landscapes of South Africa, Swaziland, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe, all without the hassle of inland flights or having to re-pack suitcases each day. Highlights include the legendary Kruger National Park and Victoria Falls on the mighty Zambezi River as well as a host of destinations off the standard tourist trail, including Maputo, the Matobo National Park and the Great Zimbabwe ruined city. You'll cover longer stretches of the route at night while you sleep peacefully in your private compartment, leaving more time for memorable excursions during the day.

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

From the iconic lighthouses perched along sparkling bays to Portland's cobblestone streets boasting award-winning restaurants, Maine offers unique landscapes and experiences for everyone. Begin your journey with an overnight in Boston followed by a comprehensive city tour highlighted by an included tour of historic Fenway Park before checking in to your award-winning hotel for a five-night stay. Experience a Casco Bay Cruise to see lighthouses, forts, lobster boats and seals. Visit the Portland Head Lighthouse & Museum, one of Americas oldest and most photographed lighthouses. See the Wedding Cake House, an over-exuberant version of gingerbread Victorian architecture and board a working Lobster Boat where a local lobsterman takes you out into the harbor for an authentic, hands-on experience in the lobstering trade. Your day is topped off enjoying an authentic Lobster Clambake. Travel to scenic Boothbay Harbor and visit the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, the largest gardens in New England. Browse picturesque village of Boothbay Harbor featuring charming streets, quaint shops, restaurants, art stores and breweries. Enjoy a reception and farewell dinner with your fellow alumni travelers. Consider joining us on this unforgettable experience. Reserve your space today!

Please contact Premier World Discovery at 877-953-8687 to reserve today!

Feat. Dr. Scott Solomon, Associate Teaching Professor of BioSciences.

Inspiring. Exhilarating. Remote and spectacular. Antarctica! Join us for an amazing adventure and up-close encounters. Discover the Antarctic Peninsula, where endless white mountains roll to the horizon and massive glaciers churn icebergs into the sea. Enjoy the penguins with their endlessly amusing antics, gabbling in their rookeries, bobbing by on a blue berg, or catapulting onto the shore. Witness an abundance of marine mammals, with expert narration by a dedicated undersea specialist. See icebergs of epic proportion. Explore by kayak, take Zodiac cruises and walks ashore, and even opt to brave a polar plunge, or you may decide to relax onboard instead, and have a massage! Our passionate expedition team will illuminate each facet of Antarctica through their enthusiasm and knowledge, and learn from the onboard photography experts to capture this amazing experience with stunning photography. Travel with us aboard the 148-guest National Geographic Explorer, a state-of-the-art luxury expedition ship with an ice-strengthened hull and advanced navigation equipment you will be assured by the 50+ years of polar experience at your service. This is sure to be a once-in-a-life adventure with Rice Alumni Traveling Owls, and one not to be missed!

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