2021 Travel Catalog
Animated publication
TRAVEL ADVENTURES
W I SCON S I N A LUMN I A S SOC I AT I ON ®
202 1 TOUR C ATA LOG
LOOKING FORWARD
If you’re like me, 2020 highlighted even more clearly how precious it is to be able to go out and explore the world. Travel offers the kinds of connections and experiences that few other endeavors can come close to providing. The travel landscape has changed as a result of the pandemic, and I realize the decision on when to travel again is a personal one. Let me reassure you that when the time is right for you, WAA Travel will be here to grant your travel wishes. We’ve been working closely with our tour partners on enhanced safety measures and health protocols for all future tours. Visit uwalumni.com/travel to learn more. The health and safety of all Badger travelers has always been a priority. And, now more than ever, that commitment has never been stronger. That’s one reason I’m confident brighter days are on the horizon. And it’s why I’m excited to present this catalog of 2021 tours to you. Even though we’re hopeful journeys to far-flung lands will resume this year, we are
being cautious, and we realize that some tours scheduled early in the year may get canceled. Because of that, we are presenting only tour dates and destinations for the first half of 2021 and more robust descriptions for the second half. Please continue to consider all trips, though, especially if there’s a dream tour among them. Thank you for your support of WAA Travel. I look forward to welcoming you on a future tour and celebrating UW pride with you soon.
Amy Klus Director of Travel Wisconsin Alumni Association
BOOK YOUR NEXT TOUR NOW! Call 888-947-2586, or email travel@supportuw.org Visit uwalumni.com/travel for the most current tour information and to request specific trip brochures. Please note that everybody is welcome to travel with WAA, but at least one person in your party must be a WAA member. For more information, visit uwalumni.com/membership
All tours, dates, and prices are subject to change.
COSTA RICA
2021 SCHEDULE
JUNE GOLD RUSH ANDGLACIERS OF ALASKA — VANCOUVER TO SEWARD June 7–14 | Go Next From$2,149 IMPERIAL JOURNEY — FEATURING POLAND, GERMANY, AND THE CZECH REPUBLIC June 13–25 | AHI From$4,945
APRIL DUTCHWATERWAYS — ANTWERP TOAMSTERDAM April 5–13 | AHI From$3,245
SPRINGTIME COASTS OF THE SOUTH — FREEPORT TO CHARLESTON April 14–25 | Go Next From$3,199 MAY TAPESTRY OF CULTURE — FROMMIAMI TO SAN FRANCISCO May 10–28 | Go Next From$4,049
APULIA — UNDISCOVERED ITALY June 16–24 | AHI From$3,345 VOYAGE UNDER THEMIDNIGHT SUN— ARCTIC EXPEDITION June 16–26 | Gohagan & Company From$6,995
Your Journey Starts Here Use these convenient icons to get a quick focus of each trip.
Ocean Cruise
Land
UNDISCOVERED FRANCE — FEATURING ALBI, TOULOUSE, AND CARCASSONNE May 25–June 2 | AHI From$3,245
River Cruise
GRANDEUR OF ICELAND June 21–29 | AHI From$4,245 KENYA SAFARI — THE BIG 5 June 21–July 1 | Orbridge From$5,995
No Single Supplement Fee
Rail
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS May 29–June 5 | Orbridge From$4,995
Culinary Tour
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PERU
see the historic ending point of the Oregon Trail in The Dalles, and visit local wineries in Richland. Spend a day discovering Clarkston, the gateway to Hells Canyon. From$4,099 TRANS-SIBERIAN RAILWAY August 3–16 | Orbridge Embark upon an unparalleled journey through history on this legendary network of rails. Enjoy modern amenities, comfortable lodging, and exciting excursions as you leisurely traverse two countries by private train during this epic adventure. While on board the Tsar’s Gold train, partake in a vodka tasting accompanied by traditional Russian snacks and red caviar while traversing the diverse eastern Siberian countryside. From $9,995 Explore the inspiring history, exuberant culture, and fascinating sites of Scotland — from the bustling cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh, to the windswept islands of Skye and Arran — and the Highlands themselves. Wander cobblestoned streets on panoramic city tours, explore fascinating castles, visit delightful shops, and perhaps even try on a traditional tartan or two. From$5,495 Explore the grand capitals of the czars — Moscow and Saint Petersburg — on this adventure in Russia. Cross Red Square to Saint Basil’s iconic domes and admire Fabergé eggs and other treasures inside the Kremlin walls. See the stately opulence of Peterhof and Catherine Palace and cruise the canals of Saint Petersburg, the “Venice of the North.” From$4,245 NORTHERNGATEWAYS — STOCKHOLMTO COPENHAGAN August 18–29 | Go Next Experience Baltic and Scandinavian culture and natural beauty aboard Oceania Cruises’ Marina on this unforgettable cruise. See the Suomenlinna in Helsinki and spend two days in the imperial city of Saint Petersburg. Amble narrow lanes of cottages in Visby and visit the dunes of the Curonian Spit. Shop the colorful Long Market in Gdansk. Seek STUNNING SCOTLAND August 7–16 | Orbridge IMPERIAL SPLENDORS OF RUSSIA August 17–26 | AHI
JULY VIKING LEGENDS July 14–27 | Go Next
inner reaches of Alaska’s Inside Passage aboard the 76-guest Chicagof Dream . Enjoy the agility and flexibility of small-ship travel, up-close encounters with wildlife, stunning scenery, cultural experiences, and the guidance of two expert naturalists. From$4,395 CIRCUMNAVIGATIONOF ICELAND July 29–August 6 | Gohagan & Company Discover the ethereal beauty of Iceland aboard the newest five-star expedition ship, Le Champlain . See ancient Viking ruins and crystalline glaciers atop simmering volcanoes. Cross the Arctic Circle on Grímsey Island and cruise along Surtsey, a UNESCOWorld Heritage site. Included round-trip air and low air add-ons from select cities. Reykjavík and the Golden Circle pre-circumnavigation option. From$6,795
Voyage through Iceland, Scandinavia, and Northern Europe on this fantastic cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Sirena . Embark in Reykjavík and set sail for two days in Iceland. Before journey’s end in Copenhagen, sail to Gothenburg, Sweden, rich with Dutch-influenced canals and gabled houses, and then step into a storybook setting of over one thousand historic buildings in UNESCO- listed Lübeck, Germany. From$5,249 POLAR BEARS AND BELUGAWHALES July 19–25 | Orbridge Discover the beauty and wildness of Churchill, Manitoba. Known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World, this small town on the banks of the Hudson Bay is famous for these majestic animals, who spend summer and fall on the local shores. In summer they share the area with more than 60,000 beluga whales and a wide variety of other wildlife. From$4,995
AUGUST GREAT PACIFIC NORTHWEST — VANCOUVER TO CLARKSTON August 1–9 | Go Next
Wind through the canyons and forested vistas of Cascadia on this journey aboard the American Empress , and enjoy an included one-night pre-cruise hotel stay. Sample farm-to-table dishes in Vancouver. Explore the Bonneville Dam in Stevenson,
DISCOVER SOUTHEAST ALASKA July 23–30 | Orbridge
Set out on a summertime expedition through some of nature’s more secluded landscapes as you discover the remote
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ENCHANTING BAVARIA September 9–17 | AHI
ACROSS SPAIN AND PORTUGAL September 17–October 3 | Odysseys Unlimited Fortified cities and tiny fishing villages, rugged Atlantic coastline and commanding Pyrenees peaks, iconic shrines to both religion and fine art, and intimate lodgings in historic paradores and pousadas — it all awaits on this singular small group journey from Lisbon across the north of Spain, ending in vibrant Barcelona. From$5,674 Travel to Grand Canyon National Park for awe-inspiring views. Admire the beauty of Antelope Canyon’s sandstone walls, share a peaceful evening with Navajo storytelling, and ponder cultures past and present during a river raft ride through Glen Canyon. Continue to Utah where you’ll spend time at five national parks viewing otherworldly landscapes that must be seen to be believed. From$3,995 LONDON— FEATURING THE AFRICAN AMERICAN EXPERIENCE September 23–October 1 | AHI Join us on this enriching program to trace the history of London’s Black communities. Stay in London for seven nights and discover how Black communities helped shape London’s culture during specially designed tours and talks. Witness iconic sites through the lens of Black communities, enjoy a jazz show, visit Brixton Market, browse Trafalgar Square, and much more! From $3,945 SOUTHWEST NATIONAL PARKS September 22–30 | Orbridge
out Bornholm’s craggy cliffs and visit the historic Berlin Wall. From$3,849
Bask in Bavaria’s natural splendor, from highland peaks and shimmering lakes to peaceful valleys and a deep river gorge, on this seven-night adventure. Cruise Lake Constance, admire the storybook Neuschwanstein Castle, visit a baroque abbey, and delve into traditions at craft workshops and local farms. Enjoy a music-filled Bavarian party in an alpine hut and fondue with amazing views on a Swiss mountaintop! From$4,045 Experience Peru’s past and present on this thrilling, 10-night active adventure through Lima, Cusco, and the Amazon rain forest. Explore the country’s Inca heritage on excursions to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, plus take a three- night luxury cruise in the Amazon basin through Earth’s most diverse natural habitat. From$5,795 WONDERS OF PERU September 9–20 | AHI Experience Normandy’s history and heritage on this 7-night journey. From your first-class hotel in harbor-town Honfleur, you’ll set out to the D-Day beaches, see mystical Mont-Saint-Michel rising above tidal waters, delight in Monet’s garden in Giverny, and sip Calvados, the region’s celebrated apple brandy, on a farm. From$3,645 FRANCE —NORMANDY September 11–19 | AHI
CANADIAN ROCKIES August 23–29 | Orbridge
Venture north for a well-paced journey to Canada’s glorious Rocky Mountains. Relax at legendary resorts and enjoy a range of outdoor activities like canoeing, golfing, and hiking nearby trails to take in the fresh air, inspiring landscapes, and Rocky Mountain wildlife. Accompanied by an Orbridge expedition leader, discover the natural splendors of crystal waters and the magnificent ranges in Jasper and Banff National Parks. From$4,495 SEPTEMBER PANORAMIC GREAT LAKES — PORT COLBORNE TO CHICAGO September 5–13 | Go Next Discover the majesty of the Great Lakes on this journey aboard Victory Cruise Lines’ M/V Victory I and enjoy an included one-night, pre-cruise hotel stay. Stroll through the art galleries of Cleveland’s chic neighborhoods and spot street art in Detroit. Ride in a horse-drawn carriage on Mackinac Island, visit the hiking trails in Green Bay, and tour an old-fashioned submarine in Muskegon. From$4,099
All tours, dates, and prices are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information on the tours and schedules offered in this catalog, please visit uwalumni.com/travel
BAVARIA
JAPAN
ITALY
JOURNEY TO SOUTHERN AFRICA — LUXURY SAFARIS, ROVOS RAIL, AND CAPE TOWN September 28–October 13 | AHI Thrill to the wildlife and wonder of South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana on this journey. Witness abundant animal life and tour historic Cape Town. Follow in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela on Robben Island and see his home in Soweto. Travel in Victorian elegance on Rovos Rail through Hwange Game Reserve to majestic Victoria Falls! Relish the riches of this wonderous continent! From$8,045 See Europe from a new vantage point on this unforgettable Grand Danube Passage. Experience eight countries, including stays in Sofia, Bulgaria; and Prague, Czech Republic. Gain new insights into each destination’s history, regional cuisine, soul-stirring landmarks, and architecture, and toast traditions with local wine! From$5,245 OCTOBER PRISMATIC FALL COLORS OF CANADA ANDNEWENGLAND October 1–11 | Go Next Sail through the autumn coastal landscapes of Canada and New England on this spectacular journey aboard Oceania Cruises’ Insignia . Stroll Central Park in New York and take in the scenic views in Boston. Stop at the Reversing Falls in Saint John, walk down the historic waterfront in Halifax, and enjoy the extraordinary wildlife in Saguenay. That’s just a taste of what you can expect. From$4,299 GRANDDANUBE PASSAGE September 30–October 14 | AHI
All tours, dates, and prices are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information on the tours and schedules offered in this catalog, please visit uwalumni.com/travel
unique to this region. From$3,995
across Canada — a small-group journey (26 guests maximum) — from Toronto through the Canadian Rockies to the Pacific Northwest. Enjoy upgraded Prestige Class premium accommodations onboard VIA Rail’s The Canadian , providing the perfect combination of modern and elegant cabins, private concierge service, delightful meals prepared by onboard chefs, all-inclusive bar service, and observation cars that allow for unobstructed viewing of Canada’s great wilderness. From$5,995 CLASSICAL CITIES OF SPAIN— FEATURING SEGOVIA, TOLEDO, AND SALAMANCA October 5–13 | AHI Explore one of Spain’s most romantic regions, brimming with entrancing cities and towns steeped in medieval history, on this seven-night, deluxe stay based in Segovia. Visit Salamanca, Madrid, Ávila, Toledo, and a royal palace in San Ildefonso. From splendid cathedrals and turreted fortresses to a storybook castle and a monumental Roman aqueduct, relish unforgettable discoveries! From $3,545
FALL VOYAGE ONMARK TWAIN’S MISSISSIPPI — SAINT LOUIS TO REDWING October 3–10 | Go Next
Discover how the Mississippi River shaped America’s heartland on this luxury paddlewheel riverboat journey through the upper Mississippi’s autumn landscape. See Mark Twain’s boyhood home in Hannibal. Stroll Dubuque’s revitalized Riverwalk and take in views from the world’s shortest, steepest scenic railway. Experience La Crosse’s brewing heritage and autumn-colored bluffs, and seek out the famous Red Wing pottery. From$2,599 From the breathtaking Amalfi Coast to eternal Rome, through the gentle Umbrian countryside to Tuscany’s crown jewel of Florence and wondrous Venice, this wide-ranging, small-group tour showcases ancient sites, contemporary life, priceless art, and beautiful natural scenery. Enjoy more time in Venice on an optional three-day/two-night post-tour extension. From$5,374 TORONTO TOVANCOUVER BY RAIL October 5–11 | Orbridge Join this once-in-a-lifetime train trip PORTRAIT OF ITALY October 4–19 | Odysseys Unlimited
THE CHARMOF THE AMALFI COAST October 6–14 | AHI
FLAVORS OF NORTHERN ITALY October 2–10 | Orbridge
Let Italy’s Amalfi Coast dazzle you with its stunning seaside tapestry. Enjoy seven nights in Vietri sul Mare and explore cliff-side villages, olive and lemon groves, and ancient sites! Step back in time at Pompeii, sail to the Isle of Capri, witness Amalfi town life, and
Settle in and spend time learning and enjoying northern Italian culinary traditions con gusto . A key ingredient of this signature journey is the luxury of unpacking once and dedicating your days to the rich cultural opportunities
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RAMBLAS AND THE RIVIERAS October 25–November 2 | Go Next Sail along the sunny rivieras of Spain, France, Monaco, and Italy on this unforgettable journey from Barcelona to Rome. Begin your voyage in Barcelona, an influential center for art and architecture. Before bidding farewell in Rome, viewmasterpieces of the Renaissance in Florence, discover the nearby monument-rich city of Pisa, or take in the vineyards and olive groves of the Tuscan countryside. From$2,299 ANTIQUITIES OF THE RED SEA AND AEGEAN SEA October 29– November 11 | Gohagan & Company Join this sojourn exploring the ancient treasures and engineering marvels of Egypt, Jordan, and Greece. Spend three nights in Amman, one night outside Petra, and eights nights cruising from Aqaba, Jordan, to Athens, Greece, through the Suez Canal aboard the five- star La Laperouse . Visit Luxor, the Great Pyramids, and Santorini. From$7,995 Join us in Montenegro, an enchanting Balkan nation packed with old-world architecture, jaw-dropping beauty and cultural treasures. Stay for six nights in Tivat, and discover Montenegro’s inviting villages along the Bay of Kotor. Encounter ancient relics, including storied Orthodox monasteries. Travel to stunning Lake Skadar and learn about Montenegro’s NOVEMBER COSTA RICA’S NATURAL HERITAGE November 1–11 | Odysseys Unlimited In this Central American democracy kissed by nature, our small group discovers a nation’s wealth in four distinct regions, from cloud forest to rain forest; Central Valley to Pacific Coast. As Costa Rica presents its staggering display of biodiversity — pristine landscapes, unique microclimates, exotic flora and fauna — MONTENEGROAND THE BAY OF KOTOR October 31–November 8 | AHI viniculture. Plus, enjoy a night in Dubrovnik, Croatia! From$3,545
we enjoy a relaxed yet comprehensive exploration that celebrates Costa Rica’s wide-ranging natural resources. From$3,881 MOROCCANDISCOVERY — FROMTHE IMPERIAL CITIES TO THE SAHARA November 12–25 | Odysseys Unlimited This land of dramatic contrasts invites us to encounter its ancient ruins and sacred mosques, endless desert and storied mountains, imposing kasbahs and spirited souks. As we travel from the imperial cities of Rabat, Fez, and Marrakech to the High Atlas and vast Sahara, we open our eyes, and hearts, to a truly foreign land, an age-old culture, and genuinely hospitable people. From$5,179
savor local dishes including authentic pizza made the Napolitano way! From$3,745
BUDAPEST — ART, CULTURE, AND PEOPLE October 16–24 | AHI Discover Budapest’s alluring blend of romance and history! This seven-night stay will immerse you in Budapest’s dynamic energy and distinct personality. Marvel at striking panoramas, cruise by illuminated treasures, and encounter the Jewish district. Explore beyond Budapest to Visegrád, Eger, and Szentendre. And, indulge in a thrilling horse show and delicious Hungarian cuisine. Unforgettable impressions are guaranteed on this active, small-group program. From$3,545 Mediterranean on this cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Riviera . Explore the ancient ruins of Philippi and see the Library of Celsus in Ephesus. Discover the legendary artifacts of Athens. Browse the charming shops in Katakolon, see the UNESCO-listed walls of Kotor, and stroll the gardens of Dubrovnik. Sip local wine in Ravenna and enjoy Venetian cuisine. From$2,999 Join this unparalleled nine-day Aegean Odyssey from Athens, Greece, aboard the five-star Le Bougainville . Visit Delos, Mykonos, Pátmos, Rhodes, and Santorini and explore the legendary ruins of Ephesus, Mycenae, and Epidaurus. Engage with local residents during the Island Life® Forum. Athens and Cape Sounion pre-program and Delphi and Thebes post-program options. From$4,995 Accompanied by an expert Egyptian guide, this singular, small-group journey reveals antiquity’s treasures in Cairo, then on a Lake Nasser cruise and a classic Nile voyage from Aswan to Luxor, before returning to Cairo. Discover fabled Petra, ancient Jerash, and Amman on an optional five-day/four-night post-tour Jordan extension. From$5,179 ISLAND LIFE ANCIENT GREECE — AN AEGEANODYSSEY October 22–30 | Gohagan & Company EGYPT AND THE ETERNAL NILE October 22– November 5 | Odysseys Unlimited BYZANTINE SOJOURN — ISTANBUL TOVENICE October 17–28 | Go Next Experience historic treasures of the
ICELAND
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CONNECT ON LEARN ON DISCOVER ON ACHIEVE ON CELEBRATE ON CHEER ON TRAVEL ON SUPPORT ON Badger ON The Wisconsin Alumni Association® welcomes all alumni to Badger On. This is your place to continue your UW journey. It’s where Badger spirit lives, and you can redefine your Wisconsin Experience through digital events, stories, communities, and more.
uwalumni.com/go/BadgerOnWI
WHOMAY TRAVEL WITHWAA? Everyone is welcome to travel with us, but at least one person in your traveling party must be a WAA member. Not a member? Join today at uwalumni.com/membership HOW CAN I GET MORE TOUR INFORMATION? Visit uwalumni.com/go/tripinfo to request brochures about the tours described in this catalog. WHAT IF A TOUR I’M INTERESTED IN ISN’T OFFERED? If you have a dream trip that’s not listed inside this catalog, or the listed dates
WHAT IS WAA TRAVEL’S TOUR CANCELLATION POLICY? Cancellation policies vary by the tour partners WAA Travel works with and may have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For complete cancellation details on a particular tour, please review our tour partner’s policies, and work directly with them on your questions regarding cancellations and other concerns. WAA is not responsible for trips canceled by our partners or because of illnesses or quarantines you might experience. CAN I PURCHASE TRIP CANCELLATION INSURANCE? An application for trip cancellation insurance will be sent fromWAA to all confirmed travelers. This insurance is designed to protect you from trip cancellation penalties and provide baggage and accident/sickness coverage. To reach Travel Insurance Services directly, call 800-937-1387.
IMPORTANT TRAVEL QUESTIONS SHOULD I GET TRAVEL INSURANCE? Always take out travel insurance. Especially when travelling abroad, and during these unpredictable times, a comprehensive policy can save you a fortune if things go wrong — from covering the cost of accidents to providing 24-hour emergency assistance. WAA’s preferred partner since 1991 is USI Travel Insurance Services (see ad on page 9). Founded in 1973, USI Travel Insurance Services has provided travel insurance to thousands of alumni travelers just like you.
don’t work with your schedule, let us know. We can fix that! Call WAA Travel at 888-947-2586 or email travel@supportuw.org to work out the arrangements.
JOIN A SPECIAL BADGER COMMUNITY Become a WAA member. uwalumni.com/membership Take off on a world of adventure — WAA travel is a member benefit.
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It’s Off to the Races with WAA! April 28–May 2, 2021
THE KENTUCKY DERBY
Learn more and save your spot — uwalumni.com/go/derby
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2021 TRIPS
IMPORTANT TRAVEL UPDATES
MONTENEGRO AND THE BAY OF KOTOR
Explore Montenegro, an enchanting Balkan nation packed with old-world architecture, jaw-dropping beauty and cultural treasures. Stay six nights in Tivat, and discover Montenegro’s inviting villages along the Bay of Kotor. Encounter ancient relics, including storied Orthodox monasteries. Travel to stunning Lake Skadar and learn about Montenegro’s
viniculture. Plus, enjoy a night in Dubrovnik, Croatia! From$3,545
OCTOBER 31–NOVEMBER 8, 2021 AHI TRAVEL uwalumni.com/travel
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