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Alumni Travel Programs
WIU Alumni & Friends are invited to join your Alumni Association and other Western alumni in traveling and learning opportunities worldwide on an Alumni Travel Abroad Program.
We've missed traveling with you! The WIU Alumni Association is pleased to announce our newly-restructured Travel Abroad Program. We are excited to offer more trips, more travel dates and a wide range of prices. We hope you will join us on the journey(s)!
Alumni Holidays
AHI International Corporation, better known as Alumni Holidays®, an alumni partner for the past 40 years, has been a leader in the creation and operation of exclusive and unique travel programs for sophisticated travelers. Together, we work to ensure that each travel experience reflects the high standards set on behalf of our alumni and friends. All sponsored programs are researched by travel experts, utilizing many years of experience in designing creative itineraries that provide a strong connection to the places and people of the cultures you will visit.
In addition to our Alumni Travel Abroad Programs, the Alumni Association offers Alumni Escapes which feature a collection of travel favorites visited in a whole new way. At exceptional values, these well planned programs offer first class accomodations and a pleasurable mix of excursions and events along with plenty of time for personal pursuits.
In addition to the featured Western Illinois University travel programs sponsored for alumni and friends, the Alumni Association also provides you the opportunity to travel independently on all AHI programs and dates.
Gohagan & Company
Gohagan & Company develops and operates deluxe group travel programs for America's most prestigious museums, colleges, universities and cultural institutions. The Company's unique itineraries and educational components are paired with the style and comforts of the world's finest cruise ships, trains and hotels and enhanced by world-class guides and academic experts. Designed with the knowledge and insight provided by more than 20 years of experience Gohagan & Company travels from the pristine wilderness of Antarctica to the unfolding mystery of China, from the Celtic Lands of Britain to the bustle of Istanbul's bazaars, from the medieval villages of France to East Africa's game parks, from the spectacular Dalmatian Coast to Russia and the great countries of the Baltic. En route, Gohagan & Company passengers don't just see the world, they experience it.
Go Next
For nearly 40 years, Go Next has made the world more accessible to the sophisticated traveler. Offering unique and fascinating itineraries on land, at sea and by river, Go Next programs are designed to provide the maximum experience at an affordable price. With the ideal balance of exploration, education and relaxation, our trips provide the savings and conveniences of a group program, while presenting opportunities for independent exploration. Go Next is committed to providing quality travel programs and excellent customer service for professional associations and college alumni groups. Accompanied by an experienced and dedicated staff, Go Next travelers have journeyed the globe.
We Recommend Travel Insurance
NOTE: The itinerary(ies) outlined below is preliminary and is subject to change due to operational conditions.
Upcoming Trips
Click here to see all the Alumni Travel Abroad Trips chronologically.
Alumni Holidays trips
(For more information or to make a reservation for any of the below Alumni Holidays trips, call 800-323-7373.)
Waterways and Canals of Holland & Belgium
Sorrento
Jewels of Antiquity Crusie~Cannes to Venice
Switzerland
Ireland
Gohagan trips
(For more information or to make a reservation for any of the below Gohagan trips, call 800-922-3088.)
Transatlantic Voyage
(SOLD OUT)
Trade Routes of Coastal Iberia
The Great Journey through Europe
Island Life in Ancient Greece and Turkey
Go Next trips
(For more information or to make a reservation for any of the below GoNext trips, call 800-842-9023.)
Civil War & Southern Culture~American Queen: Memphis to New Orleans
European Mosaic~Oceania Cruises
Alaskan Adventures~Oceania Cruises
Mediterranean Inspiration~Oceania Cruises
SAVE THE DATES for these 2014 trips....more will be announced soon!
Tahitian Jewels – January 15–25, 2014
Caribbean Discovery – February 12–22, 2014
Cradle of History May 4-15, 2014
Italian Inspiration May 14-22, 2014
Baltic Treasures August 21-September 1, 2014
Pearls of the Mediterranean November 7-15, 2014
Alumni Holidays Trips
Waterways and Canals of Holland & Belgium ~ MS Amadeus Silver
April 12-20
, 2013
(from $2495 + air + VAT)
Journey along the waterways of Holland and Belgium aboard the exclusively chartered state-of-the-art MS Amadeus Silver, with luxurious accommodations and a river view from every cabin. Begin your adventure with an evening cruise through Amsterdam's picturesque canals. Then stroll through a 700-tree labyrinth and the world's most expansive floral display in Keukenhof Gardens. Explore historic Kampen and enjoy a specially arranged presentation on the Dutch and Belgian Masters. Visit masterpieces of art and engineering at Mauritshuis in The Hague, home to some of Rembrandt's and Vermeer's finest works, and at the Delta Project, a massive dam and engineering feat. See Vermeer's inspirations on a walking tour of Delft. Travel the renowned Zeeland coast, and admire the medieval architecture of Belgium, the unrivaled charm of Antwerp, and the ivy-clad canals of Bruges. This colorful program includes excursions, educational programs and an extensive meal plan featuring wine with dinner.
Sorrento
May 1-9, 2013
($2795 + air + VAT)
Discover the natural wonders and wealth of antiquities throughout the stunning region of Campania, home to writers, artists and emperors for over 2,000 years. Stroll through sweet lemon groves and experience the beauty of Sorrento, an idyllic seaside town and your home for the duration of your stay. Drive along the Amalfi Coast, one of the most amazing Mediterranean shores, and delight in the colorful architecture of the vertical town of Positano and the charming resort town of Amalfi. Sample local delicacies, talk with area residents about life in Italy and travel back in time with a visit to Naples' historic center and renowned Museo Archeologico Nazionale. Explore the well-preserved historic ruins in Paestum, Herculaneum and Pompeii. Then spend a day on the majestic and storied Isle of Capri. This Alumni Campus Abroad® program includes deluxe accommodations, an extensive meal plan with wine at dinner, and leisure time to enjoy local culture and cuisine.
Jewels of Antiquity Cruise~Cannes to Venice ~ MV Aegean Odyssey
May 28-June 12, 2013
(from $4795 + reduced air + VAT)
Cruise the Ligurian, Tyrrhenian, Mediterranean and Adriatic seas during this 14-night voyage from Cannes to Venice aboard the MV Aegean Odyssey, a boutique ship that offers an informal cruising experience and access to remote inlets, quiet harbors and magnificent islands. Set sail along the beautiful French Riviera to explore Cannes, the sparkling jewel of the Côte d'Azur, and vibrant Provence. Cruise Italy's shores and experience the art of Florence and palpable history of Rome. Drive along the scenic Bay of Naples to the ruins of Pompeii or Herculaneum and roam the timeless majesty of Taormina. Sail sparkling waters to the ancient Greek colony of Butrint; the narrow stepped streets of Corfu; Dubrovnik, the Pearl of the Adriatic; Split's lavish Palace of Diocletian; and the walled town of Zadar. End your journey with an overnight in Venice. This unique adventure includes excursions, lecture series by noted scholars, an extensive meal plan, and gratuities for onboard staff, guides and drivers.
Discover Switzerland
June 19-July 4, 2013
($3995 + air + VAT)
See the majesty of Switzerland's landscape unfold before your eyes on this exclusive small group journey through its idyllic alpine meadows, crystal lakes and broad vistas. From the beautiful mountain village of Meiringen in the Hasli Valley, your home for 14 nights, discover this cultural and geographic heart of Europe by train, bus, boat and on guided walks with your Swiss Rail Pass. Enjoy panoramic views set against the incredible Alps and cruise magnificent lakes as you explore captivating Swiss villages such as Lucerne, Magisalp, Kandersteg, Grindelwald and Berne. Travel to Zermatt and witness the imposing Matterhorn. Trek through Rosenlaui Gorge and view the stunning Reichenbach Falls. Board the Simplon Alpine railway to the Italian towns of Domodossola and lakeside Locarno. And visit historic Montreux and the Castle of Chillon made famous by the poetry of Lord Byron. This remarkable experience includes an extensive meal plan, wine with dinner and time for independent exploration.
Ireland
September 2-10, 2013
($2995 + air + VAT)
Experience the rugged beauty of Western Ireland, a land rich with Celtic myth and legend. Discover its vibrant culture during your seven-night stay in Galway at the deluxe Ardilaun Hotel, and see the Quiet Man's Bridge, made famous in a classic John Wayne movie. Enjoy daily excursions to idyllic spots to learn about Ireland's colorful history, music and sports from knowledgeable experts throughout this exclusive small group journey. Visit the homestead of Dan O'Hara in Connemara, then learn about the ancient art of bodhrán drum making in Roundstone and visit the workshop of a famous craftsmen. Enjoy the energy and generational traditions of Irish singing, Seanchaí storytelling and "Sean-nós" dancing. Delight in the spectacular vistas along the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren, attend a Hurling demonstration, and cruise to the Aran Islands to see prehistoric monuments. This Alumni Campus Abroad® program includes all excursions, educational programs and an extensive meal plan featuring wine with dinner.
Book now and save up to $250 per person WITH THE EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT on any of the above trips.
Gohagan Trips
Transatlantic Voyage (SOLD OUT)
Nova Scotia ~ Newfoundland ~ Ireland
~ Cornwall ~ London
May 4-16, 2013
(air/cruise from $4399)
This classic, 13-day transatlantic voyage is aboard the Six-Star, all-suite m.v. Silver Whisper, providing an unmatched Small Ship experience. This splendid opportunity offers free air* from 43 gateway cities, a $1000-per-couple shipboard credit and many complimentary features aboard ship: all onboard gratuities and port taxes, personal butler service, beverages in your suite and throughout the cruise and even complimentary fitness classes. Cruise from New York to London on a classic journey across the Atlantic Ocean, with port calls in two great cities of Maritime Canada—Halifax, Nova Scotia, and St. John's, Newfoundland; along the ruggedly beautiful coast of Ireland, with an opportunity to tour Limerick, located on the picturesque River Shannon; and in the quaint Cornish port of Fowey. Onboard guest speakers to provide educational discussions on local history, nature and culture. Unpack only once! An excellent value for this one-of-a-kind opportunity. A New York Pre-Cruise Option and a London Post-Cruise Option are also offered.
*Free Air and Low Air Add-Ons have limited availability and are not guaranteed.
(For more information or to reserve your spot today, call 800-922-3088.)
Trade Routes of Coastal Iberia
Barcelona ~ Balearic Islands ~ Andalusia ~ Portimão ~ Lisbon
May 22 to 30, 2013
(air/cruise from $4399)
This spectacular nine-day itinerary showcases the resplendent Iberian Peninsula aboard the Six-Star, all-suite m.v. Silver Cloud, providing an unmatched Small Ship experience. This splendid opportunity offers free air* from 43 gateway cities, a $500-per-couple shipboard credit and many complimentary features aboard ship: all onboard gratuities and port taxes, personal butler service, beverages in your suite and throughout the cruise and even complimentary fitness classes. Discover the coastal jewels of, and between, Barcelona, Spain, and Lisbon, Portugal, and visit the lesser-traveled-to ports of Valencia, Cartagena, Málaga, and Cádiz, Spain; the enchanting Balearic Island of Mallorca; and Portugal's Algarve region. Enjoy stunning scenery and visit three UNESCO World Heritage sites while cruising the ancient trade routes from the Mediterranean Sea, through the Strait of Gibraltar to the Atlantic Ocean. A two-night Barcelona Pre-Cruise Option and two-night Lisbon Post-Cruise Option are offered.
*Free Air and Low Air Add-Ons have limited availability and are not guaranteed.
(For more information or to reserve your spot today, call 800-922-3088.)
The Great Journey through Europe
cruising aboard the Deluxe M.S. Amadeus Diamond
The Netherlands ~ Germany ~ France ~ Switzerland
June 24-July 3, 2013 (please note the NEW dates)
(from $3995* + air + VAT)
This extraordinary 11-day "Grand Tour" of Europe features five nights aboard the Deluxe M.S. Amadeus Diamond. Travel through the Western heart of the continent through The Netherlands, Germany, France and Switzerland, cruising the most scenic sections of the fabled Rhine River. Specially arranged guided excursions feature four great UNESCO World Heritage sites—visit Cologne's magnificent Gothic cathedral, tour the lovely Alsatian city of Strasbourg, cruise through the heart of the Rhine River Valley and walk through Berne's Old Town; Germany's medieval Rüdesheim; and 13th-century Heidelberg Castle. Spend two nights each in Zermatt and Lucerne, Switzerland, ride aboard three legendary railways—the Gornergrat Bahn, for breathtaking views of the Matterhorn; the Glacier Express from Zermatt to Lucerne; and the Pilatus Railway, the world's steepest cogwheel railway—and enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Lucerne. This incredible combination of river, rail, lake and mountains is the trip of a lifetime at an exceptional value! Complement your journey with the two-night Amsterdam Pre-Program Option.
*Price is preliminary and could be altered.
(For more information or to reserve your spot today, call 800-922-3088.)
Island Life in Ancient Greece and Turkey
Aboard the exclusively chartered, Deluxe M.S. L'Austral
September 24-October 2, 2013
(from $3595 + air + VAT)
Join us for this exclusive nine-day odyssey to the windswept paradise of Greece's ancient islands and Turkey's fabled coast. Cruise from Athens to Istanbul aboard the exclusively chartered, intimate M.S. L'Austral, featuring private balconies in 95% of the deluxe, outside suites and staterooms. Meet local residents during the specially arranged Village Forum™ for a personal perspective on the true character of the Aegean Sea's maritime culture. Discover the very cradle of Western civilization during carefully designed, expert-led excursions, highlighted by the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the classical ruins of Delos, the Old Town of Rhodes, the Monastery of St. John on Pátmos and legendary Troy. Visit Mykonos, known for its iconic windmills and sugar-white cube houses. Enjoy panoramic views of Santorini's caldera from a cable car. Stroll the marble-paved boulevards of Ephesus, the most spectacularly preserved Greco-Roman city in the world. Sample authentic Greek and Turkish cuisine during exclusive C'est Bon! Culinary Traditions™ optional excursions. Extend your voyage with the Athens Pre-Cruise Option and the Istanbul or Cappadocia Post-Cruise Option.
(For more information or to reserve your spot today, call 800-922-3088.)
Go Next Trips
Civil War & Southern Culture~American Queen: Memphis to New Orleans
April 26 – May 5, 2013
(from $2,095)
Experience the culture and historical architecture of the South as you discover the legends, the glory and the magnitude of the American Civil War along the shores of the Mississippi River. The luxury steamboat American Queen takes you to ports in Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana, where you'll find a wealth of living history, from grand antebellum mansions to notable sites and memorials from the momentous War Between the States, and more. Begin with a day in Memphis, home to many American icons including renowned Beale Street and Elvis' famed Graceland. Travel south to Helena, Arkansas, home to lovely mansions from before and after the legendary Battle of Helena, and the nations' longest running blues radio program – King Biscuit Time. Cruise to Vicksburg, Mississippi, where you'll find the Vicksburg National Military Park, which commemorates the 47-day siege of the city in 1863, and see marvelous pre-Civil War mansions in Natchez. Visit the quaint town of St. Francisville, Louisiana, offering a number of splendidly restored plantation homes, and then Baton Rouge, Louisiana's capital, rich with historic treasures both in and outside of the city, including the renowned "Plantation Country." Walk beneath a canopy of 300-year-old oak trees on your way to explore Oak Alley Plantation before ending your steamboat adventure in New Orleans. This unique river cruise explores both the culture of the South and a pivotal time in America's history.
(For more information or to reserve your spot today, call 800-842-9023.)
European Mosaic~Oceania Cruises: Rome to Lisbon
June 5 – 13, 2013
(from $2199 + VAT)
Sample some of Europe's rich past and exciting present as you cruise to distinctive ports in Italy, Monaco, France and Spain aboard the elegant Oceania Cruises Nautica. Leave Rome behind and cruise north on the coastal route to the port of Livorno and the glorious cities of Pisa, with its famous Leaning Tower, and Florence, where Renaissance masterpieces await. Sail to Monte Carlo, famous for its casino and its stunning French Riviera locale on the winding Grand Corniche. Continue to colorful Marseille, a Provençal gateway for visits to the towns of Aix, renowned for its lovely fountains, and Avignon, a medieval refuge for 14th-century popes. Visit Barcelona, a city known worldwide for its enduring cultural influence and the distinctive architecture of Antoni Gaudí. This European mosaic becomes even more colorful in Cartagena, Spain, with spectacular ancient Roman and Byzantine ruins, Baroque ramparts, Art Nouveau façades and contemporary maritime attractions.
(For more information or to reserve your spot today, call 800-842-9023.)
Alaskan Adventures~Oceania Cruises: Seattle to Vancouver
August 5 - 12, 2013
(from $1,999 + VAT)
Travel to a place of stunning landscapes and unspoiled wilderness, a place where nature reigns supreme – amazing Alaska. Discover America's Last Frontier from the elegant decks of Oceania Cruises' Regatta, an intimate vessel with outstanding amenities, cuisine and service. Depart from Seattle and travel north along Canada's coast to Wrangell, one of Alaska's oldest towns and the only one in the state to be governed by four nations: Tlingit, Russia, Britain and the U.S. Continue cruising through Tracy Arm, a breathtaking fjord whose pristine waters reflect its icy-blue tidewater glaciers and soaring granite cliffs. Follow the Alaskan coast to Sitka, the former Russian capital of North America and an astoundingly picturesque city known for its many historic attractions, and visit the small wilderness outpost of Ketchikan, known as the "Salmon Capital of the World." Sail on through the scenic Inside Passage heading south to the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver where your voyage concludes. This Alaskan cruise is truly an unforgettable adventure.
(For more information or to reserve your spot today, call 800-842-9023.)
Mediterranean Inspiration~Oceania Cruises: Rome to Venice
October 18 – 29, 2013
(from $3,299 + VAT)
Discover true inspiration from the elegant decks of Marina, one of Oceania Cruises' newer mid-sized vessels, as you sail the Mediterranean to ports in Italy, Greece, Montenegro and Croatia. Depart from Rome and delve into Italy's picturesque west coast, a combination of world-class beauty and world-renowned works of art. In Florence, Brunelleschi's extraordinary Duomo stands magnificently over the city just as Michelangelo's David stands over the world of sculpture, as it has since the early 1500s. Explore the magical cobblestone streets of Sorrento, or travel to Capri, an island so beautiful it served as a vacation getaway for ancient Romans. Discover the harbors and hillside towns of Amalfi and Positano, each a vertical showcase of colorful, centuries-old architecture. Next is Sicily's ancient town of Taormina, a blend of ancient Greek and Roman ruins and vibrant modern shops popular with authors and artists. Sail to the gorgeous Greek island of Corfu, stroll the painstakingly preserved streets of medieval Kotor, and enter the ancient walls, turrets and towers that encircle Dubrovnik, Croatia's red-tiled gem. Cap off your inspirational journey with a full day in Venice, the magical city of canals and bridges.
(For more information or to reserve your spot today, call 800-842-9023.)
2014 Trips
Tahitian Jewels
January 15-25, 2014
from $3,299 per person, double occupancy (including airfare)
Savor the tropical splendor of emerald-green palms, white sand beaches and brilliant turquoise waters as you sail aboard the luxurious Oceania Cruises Marina to the most stunning destinations in the South Pacific, the gorgeous Polynesian islands. Experience a cruise with the finest service, accommodations and cuisine at sea, where every port of call is an island paradise. Admire multihued lagoons around Moorea and discover the region's cultural heritage on beautiful Raiatea. Be engulfed by magnificent tropical beauty on romantic Bora Bora and wander the black sand beaches of Nuku Hiva. Sail to Hiva Oa, artist Paul Gauguin's idyllic island home, and enchant your senses with colorful sea life at Rangiroa, before returning to Papeete on the lovely island of Tahiti. Set adrift, catch the breeze and discover Polynesia's most beautiful gems on this exceptional voyage.
(For more information or to reserve your spot today, call 800-842-9023.)
Caribbean Discovery
February 12-22, 2014
from $2,699 per person, double occupancy (Including airfare)
Follow the sounds of waterfalls, steel drums and exotic birds as you cruise the Caribbean aboard an exquisite vessel with the finest service, accommodations and cuisine at sea, the elegant Oceania Cruises Riviera. Your adventure sets sail from Miami to the beautiful tropical islands of Tortola, Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia and St. Barts. Experience spectacular vistas framed by swaying palm trees, hike through lush rainforests and beneath waterfalls, and snorkel vivid coral reefs teeming with colorful wildlife. Explore vibrant towns dotted with gingerbread architecture, meander exquisite gardens and stroll pristine beaches edged by crystalline blue waters as you discover the Caribbean, a world filled with cultural and natural marvels.
