Northern Lights & Wildlife of Manitoba
https://alumni.rice.edu/sites/g/files/bxs3301/files/2025-04/Rice%20U%20-%20Northern%20Lights%202025.pdf
Northern Lights & Wildlife of Northern Manitoba
September 1-6, 2025

Feat. Arthur Gottschalk, Professor of Composition and Theory, The Shepherd School of Music

Journey to the great Canadian North for a once-in-a-lifetime eco-adventure highlighted by four nights at an outstanding wilderness lodge run by a family of outfitters with a proven record of providing guests with the area's finest outdoor activities. In the evenings, bundle up and venture out under the stars to observe the northern lights.

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

Land Program
September
North America
Trip Summary

Feat. Arthur Gottschalk, Professor of Composition and Theory, The Shepherd School of Music

Journey to the great Canadian North for a once-in-a-lifetime eco-adventure highlighted by four nights at an outstanding wilderness lodge run by a family of outfitters with a proven record of providing guests with the area's finest outdoor activities. In the evenings, bundle up and venture out under the stars to observe the northern lights.

Canadian Rockies
Canadian Rockies Explorer with Glacier National Park
July 30-August 9, 2025

One of North America’s great unspoiled wildernesses, the Canadian Rockies offer bountiful rewards for outdoor lovers. Amid stunning alpine scenery, this 11-day adventure shared by no more than 24 fellow travelers offers a feast for the eyes – and the spirit. Embark on a nature-focused itinerary that brings you face to face with some truly stunning sights, staying in unique mountain lodges. Setting out from Calgary, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant located on the shores of serene Waterton Lake, where the prairie meets the mountains. Majestic Glacier National Park’s splendors are then revealed during a two-night stay that includes a travel highlight: riding in a legendary Red Jammer sightseeing bus along the fabled Going-to-the-Sun Road. Spend the next two nights in the authentic mountain town of Whitefish, Montana, riding a chairlift to Whitefish Mountain’s summit, taking a guided tour of Conrad Mansion, and experiencing town life. After encountering some of the tour’s most striking scenery en route to British Columbia’s world-famous Banff National Park, highlights here include visits to photogenic Lake Louise and the Columbia Icefields, a UNESCO site; and traversing Athabasca Glacier in a special vehicle. Jasper National Park (another UNESCO site) follows, with the chance to admire the geological marvel of Maligne Canyon and cruise cerulean Maligne Lake. An exhilarating cliff-edge Glacier Skywalk expedition affords spectacular views. The final full day in the Canadian Rockies features a ride on the Banff Gondola to Sulphur Mountain’s 8,000-foot peak, and two more natural wonders: the Hoodoos and Bow Falls.

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

North America
Land Program
August
July
Airfare Included
Trip Summary

One of North America’s great unspoiled wildernesses, the Canadian Rockies offer bountiful rewards for outdoor lovers. Amid stunning alpine scenery, this 11-day adventure shared by no more than 24 fellow travelers offers a feast for the eyes – and the spirit.

Treasures of Egypt
Treasures of Egypt
October 4-19, 2025

From the riches of Cairo and the Pyramids to the fertile Nile valley, and from the rescued temples of Abu Simbel to ancient Alexandria on the Mediterranean, Egypt overflows with treasures that our small group encounters on this unique and well-paced journey through antiquity. The 16-day journey, limited to 24 guests, begins in Cairo which includes a visit to the renowned Egyptian Museum and Old Cairo. Home to more than 120,000 relics and antiquities from Egyptian history. Step into the Giza Plateau to see the three famed pyramids. With the next stop being Abu Simbel, take in the awe-inspiring four statues of Ramses, each standing at 65 feet high. We embark on our Nile Cruise where we explore the ruins of the acclaimed Temples of Philae. Take a relaxing sail on small feluccas, which are replicas of ancient Nile sailboats. Cruising to Edfu, we tour the Temple of Horus, which is considered the best preserved of all Egypt’s ancient temples. Entering Luxor, we disembark our ship and tour the East Bank, which includes a tour of the haunting Valley of the Kings. After touring Luxor, we visit Alexandria, where we see the Catacombs of Kon El Shoqafa. See one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Lighthouse of Alexandria. In Ancient Alexandria sits the Great Library of Alexandira, considered one of the greatest accomplishments of antiquity. One of the many highlights being a tour of the National Museum of Alexandria before the tour concludes in Cairo.

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

Land Program
October
Africa
Trip Summary

From the riches of Cairo and the Pyramids to the fertile Nile valley, and from the rescued temples of Abu Simbel to ancient Alexandria on the Mediterranean, Egypt overflows with treasures that our small group encounters on this unique and well-paced journey through antiquity.

Wild Baja Escape
Baja California: Among the Great Whales
February 28-March 7, 2026

Baja California is one of those places on the planet that supplies the human spirit with the tonic of wildness it needs, and few experiences are as rewarding. Each year California gray whales pause during their migrations to birth and nurse their calves in the birthing lagoons on the Pacific side of Baja California. Here you will spend time among the mothers and their calves, observing them at water level from Zodiacs, for a rare privilege with these gentle giants.

On the other side of the Baja California peninsula, in the Sea of Cortez, you’ll discover the uninhabited desert islands that dot the clear blue sea. Search for a variety of whale species, scores of leaping dolphins, and diving seabirds. Hike a forest of giant cacti, kayak or paddle board in protected coves, snorkel with sea lions, and join a naturalist aboard Zodiacs to observe the diverse birdlife along the shores. When you see Baja California’s islands with their desert landscape, rugged cliffs, and white sand beaches, you’ll understand immediately why they have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Travel with us aboard the 100-guest expedition ship National Geographic Venture and you will see, learn, and do more with our expert team of naturalists, including an undersea specialist, who knows this area well.

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

Cruise Program
North America
February
March
Trip Summary

Baja California is one of those places on the planet that supplies the human spirit with the tonic of wildness it needs, and few experiences are as rewarding. Each year California gray whales pause during their migrations to birth and nurse their calves in the birthing lagoons on the Pacific side of Baja California.

Stonehenge
Around the World by Private Jet
August 25-September 14, 2025

Step aboard a private Boeing 767 jet plane for a once-in-a-lifetime travel adventure to discover some of the world’s greatest icons, destinations, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Stonehenge, the Great Pyramids, Petra, the Taj Mahal, the Jantar Mantar Observatory, Angkor Wat, and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, to name a few. This uniquely curated program features insight from knowledgeable instructors and planned extraordinary excursions, providing special understanding into some of humankind’s greatest achievements. While on tour, enjoy expert- led lectures from your Expedition Leader, as well as a comprehensive lineup of 21 expert-led excursions throughout the journey.

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

Airfare Included
Asia
Fall
Land Program
Africa
August
September
Trip Summary

Step aboard a private Boeing 767 jet plane for a once-in-a-lifetime travel adventure to discover some of the world’s greatest icons, destinations, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Stonehenge, the Great Pyramids, Petra, the Taj Mahal, the Jantar Mantar Observatory, Angkor Wat, and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, to name a few.

India
Mystical India
November 8-24, 2026

Mystical and spiritual, chaotic and confounding, India overflows with riches. Staying at excellent hotels, your small group, limited to 24 travelers, travels the classic Golden Triangle: bustling Delhi; Agra, home of the sublime Taj Mahal; and Jaipur, great city of the Rajput. Begin the 17-day exploration with a three-night stay in the Indian capital, touring the important sights of both Old and New Delhi and enjoying a rickshaw ride through colorful Chandni Chowk market. Get acquainted next with the “pink city” of Jaipur, where highlights of a three-night visit include the stunning Hawa Mahal palace, Amber Fort, and a home-hosted dinner with a Rajasthan family. A singular experience follows with the opportunity to search for the elusive Bengal tiger on game drives during a two-night stay near Ranthambore National Park, once a royal hunting ground, with its picturesque ruins. Departing for Gadoli, embark on a village walk to meet Meena tribespeople. En route to the ancient Mughal stronghold of Agra, visit the impressive 3,500-step Chand Baori step well. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal, and take an Indian cuisine cooking lesson. The journey ends with three nights in Hinduism’s holiest city, Varanasi. Cruising on the Ganges, experience life along the sacred river and witness a traditional aarti ceremony. Visit nearby Sarnath, one of Buddhism’s holiest sites; and Sarnath Museum, housing a superb collection of Buddhist artifacts. Absorb the beauty of the Himalayan kingdom of Nepal on an optional 6-day/4-night post-tour extension that includes extensive sightseeing.

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

Land Program
Airfare Included
Asia
Rice Exclusive
November
Trip Summary

Mystical and spiritual, chaotic and confounding, India overflows with riches. Staying at excellent hotels, your small group, limited to 24 travelers, travels the classic Golden Triangle: bustling Delhi; Agra, home of the sublime Taj Mahal; and Jaipur, great city of the Rajput.

Paris: Featuring the African American Experience
Paris featuring the African American Experience
September 5-13, 2026

Featuring Jacqueline Couti, Laurence H. Favrot Professor of French Studies

Walk in the footsteps of Josephine Baker, Langston Hughes and other African American luminaries on an active and immersive seven-night sojourn to Paris! During enriching excursions and talks, trace the journey of Black Americans who found acceptance and opportunities in the City of Light following World War I. Gain insight into why they moved to Paris and how they forever influenced French culture. On guided walks in Montmartre, the Latin Quarter and St-Germain-des-Prés, hear stories about the club owners and musicians that shaped Paris’ jazz fervor, and relish an evening of jazz at a local club. Stroll the Left Bank, where Black writers, intellectuals and artists of African descent flourished. View “Paris Noir,” and discuss the documentary with the filmmakers. Tour the premier cultural institution, Musée du Quai Branly. Plus, taste French specialties in the Champs-de-Mars and marvel at iconic Paris landmarks on a Seine cruise. Suited for active travelers, this small-group program features experienced guides, a first-class hotel and an extensive meal plan, including wine with dinner.

Please contact AHI Travel at 800-323-7373 to reserve today!

Land Program
Europe
September
Trip Summary

Featuring Jacqueline Couti, Laurence H. Favrot Professor of French Studies

Follow in the footsteps of Josephine Baker, Langston Hughes, Eugene Bullard and other African American luminaries on this enriching seven-night stay in Paris. In the years following World War I, many Black Americans found acceptance and opportunities in the City of Light that were denied to them in the United States.

Moroccan Discovery
Moroccan Discovery
February 22-March 7, 2026

On this 14-day small group journey, this land of dramatic contrasts invites visitors to encounter its ancient ruins and sacred mosques, endless desert and storied mountains, imposing kasbahs, and spirited souks. Begin the journey in the Moroccan capital, seaside Rabat, where highlights include the Roman site of Chellah, the contemporary art museum, and lunch in a private home. Visits to two of the itinerary’s five featured UNESCO sites follow – the imperial city of Meknes and the impressive Roman ruins at Volubilis. During a three-night stay in Fez, Morocco’s oldest imperial city, exploration reveals the fascinating medina’s many treasures, along with dinner in a family-run riad. After crossing the Middle Atlas mountains, reach Erfoud and enjoy a tour highlight: a sunset camel ride along the breathtaking sand dunes on the Sahara’s edge. Experience more spectacular scenery en route to Ouarzazate in the snow-topped High Atlas, including dramatic Todra Gorge; and journey along the ancient “Route of a Thousand Kasbahs.” En route to Marrakech, visit Ait ben-Haddou village, a UNESCO site made famous for film shoots. Touring in fabled Marrakech includes the beautiful Koutoubia Mosque, the cobalt blue-accented Majorelle Gardens, the Yves St. Laurent Museum, and a walking tour of the medina ending at Djemaa el Fna Square, Marrakech’s heart. Spend a final day in storied Casablanca, Morocco’s largest and most sophisticated city, and visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque. Discover Tangier and the blue city of Chefchaouen on this optional 4-day/4-night post-tour extension.

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

Land Program
February
Africa
Rice Exclusive
Airfare Included
March
Trip Summary

On this 14-day small group journey, this land of dramatic contrasts invites visitors to encounter its ancient ruins and sacred mosques, endless desert and storied mountains, imposing kasbahs and spirited souks.

Romance of the Douro River
Romance of the Douro River
September 23-October 4, 2025

Discover the treasures of Portugal on this handcrafted 10-night program, featuring three nights in Lisbon and a seven-night cruise through the Douro River Valley. Begin in Portugal’s humming capital, enjoying its neighborhoods, monuments and splendid Jerónimos Monastery. Travel to romantic Óbidos and Coimbra, home to Portugal’s revered university. Spend time exploring Porto, an enigmatic harbor town known for its storied Ribeira district and bohemian culture. Then cruise aboard a first-class ship through the fabled Douro River Valley, the world’s oldest demarcated winemaking region. Carve a path through sculpted hills and bucolic lands steeped in winemaking traditions. Daily excursions feature wine estates and charming townships, including Vila Real, Lamego and Salamanca, Spain. Along the way, indulge in regional dishes, local pastries and authentic port wines. Plus, enjoy an authentic Portuguese folk show and traditional “Tuna” performance! This journey features a choice of included excursions to personalize your journey and an extensive meal plan. No single supplement for solo travelers!

Please contact AHI Travel at 800-323-7373 to reserve today!

Land Program
Spring
Europe
No Single Supplement
September
Trip Summary

Discover the treasures of Portugal on this handcrafted 10-night program, featuring three nights in Lisbon and a seven-night cruise through the Douro River Valley.

Wild Iceland Escape
https://alumni.rice.edu/sites/g/files/bxs3301/files/2024-07/Iceland%20Rice_062425.pdf
Fire and Ice: An 8-Day Sail Around Iceland
June 24-July 1, 2025

Feat. Julia Morgan, Professor and Chair, Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences

Discover the legacy of Viking explorers and intrepid fishermen in the land of fire and ice aboard the 148- guest National Geographic Explorer. Venture over the remote fjords, volcanic isles and snow-capped plateaus. Hike cooled lava fields with expert naturalists, kayak along dramatic shorelines, and Zodiac cruise into remarkable inlets during this unrivaled expedition. Plus, witness the rich biodiversity that Iceland has to offer, including puffins, gannets, and humpback whales.

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

Cruise Program
Summer
Europe
June
Trip Summary

Feat. Julia Morgan, Professor and Chair, Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences

Discover the legacy of Viking explorers and intrepid fishermen in the land of fire and ice aboard the 148- guest National Geographic Explorer. Venture over the remote fjords, volcanic isles and snow-capped plateaus.

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