Traveling with the Tide

2023 Traveling with the Tide

From the lush landscapes of Southern France to the majestic parks of California, Traveling with the Tide is your ticket to destinations across the world. The National Alumni Association partners with professional tour operators to offer you the best experience in travel. Find the trips you have been dreaming about—domestic or international—both land and cruise packages are available. Email Courtney Taylor or call (205) 348-1544 for more information about our travel opportunities.

Trips

May 2024

Kentucky Derby

Dates: May 1 - May 05, 2024
Price: Single - $3,819 + ticket, Double - $2,999 + ticket, Triple - $2,799 + ticket, Quad - $2,699 + ticket
Operator: Sports & Entertainment Travel

Delight in the horse capital of the world with an exclusive Kentucky Derby experience in
Lexington. Enjoy downtown accommodations at the Lexington Marriott City Center, exploring
what makes the Run for the Roses a truly special event, including the American Saddlebred
Museum, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, working horse farm tours, Keeneland racetrack, and
more! Sit front and center for all the excitement on Derby Day, take in the sights, grandeur
(and hats!!) at Churchill Downs. This specialty tour offers an unforgettable way to experience
“The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.”

Pearls of Dalmatia

Dates: May 4 - May 18, 2024
Price: $5,384.00
Operator: Odysseys Unlimited

Absorb Croatia’s remarkable history, culture, and unspoiled Dalmatian coastline on this captivating 15-day small group journey. Touring reveals Croatia’s capital, gracious Zagreb. Spending two nights in Slovenia’s friendly capital, Ljubljana, experience lovely Lake Bled by boat. Explore Postojna Cave’s depths, then tour charming Opatija and the alluring Istrian Peninsula. In Plitvice Lakes National Park, see the famed turquoise-colored lakes. Visit picturesque Split and Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO site. Enjoy a two-night stay on Hvar, “queen” of the Dalmatian islands. Treasured Dubrovnik is the final destination for three nights. Discover the Balkan gem of Montenegro with an optional 4-day/3-night post-tour extension.

Ottomans & Oracles

Explore the history, charm, and majestic waters of the Aegean Sea on this 10-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Vista. Spend a day in Istanbul and meander the grand spice markets. Soak up the sun on one of Izmir’s many magnificent beaches. Walk along the footsteps of history where you will find the ruins of Greek and Roman excavations. Dive into traditional Turkish culture in Antalya, and in Crete relax by cobalt blue waters. Take in the fascinating Minoan and Byzantine villages surrounded by charming irrigating windmills, and in Valletta admire the stunning scenery and wander through a colorful fishing village. Stop at the intact Greco-Roman theater in Taormina and before disembarking in Rome, visit the stunning villages in Capri and indulge in authentic Italian pizza from the town of Sorrento.

European Coastal Civilizations

Dates: May 12 - May 21, 2024
Price: $6,295 + airfare
Operator: Gohagan

A 10-day, 8-night voyage from Lisbon to London, with a cruise up the River Thames to London’s Tower Bridge—featuring guest speaker Dwight David Eisenhower II

Explore the storied legacies and dynamic cultures of coastal Portugal, Spain, France, and England and commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day on this 8-night cruise itinerary. Discover Portugal’s renowned wine country, walk in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims in Santiago de Compostela, visit Bilbao’s iconic Guggenheim Museum, and see UNESCO-inscribed Mont-Saint-Michel’s impressive abbey. Meet guest speaker Dwight David Eisenhower II, grandson of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, as he joins us on a special anniversary tour of the hallowed Normandy beaches. Extend your journey with the Lisbon Pre-Program and London Post-Program options.

Swiss Alps & The Italian Lakes

From glamorous St. Moritz to the lauded Italian Lakes, Switzerland and Italy come together on this epic eight-night journey like no other. Enjoy stays in St. Moritz, Switzerland, a chic resort town, and Stresa, Italy, tucked on the shores of shimmering Lake Maggiore. As you travel through two culturally distinct countries, discover coveted destinations, untouched natural landscapes and celebrated heritage. Journey by train to Zuoz, a charming Engadine village, and wind through ever-changing scenery on the Bernina Express. Cruise by private boat to the enchanting Borromean Islands, experience la dolce vita in the lakeside towns of Bellagio and Como, and stand before Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” in Milan. All this and much more await! Plus, learn to prepare regional dishes at a family restaurant in the Piedmontese region. Enjoy first-class accommodations and an extensive meal plan including wine with dinner.

June 2024

Vancouver to Toronto

Dates: June 24 - September 13, 2023
Price: $6,995
Operator: Orbridge

Join this once-in-a-lifetime train trip across Canada—a small-group journey (26 guests maximum) from Toronto across five provinces, through the Canadian Rockies to the Pacific Northwest. Enjoy upgraded Prestige Class premium accommodations onboard VIA Rail’s The Canadian. It provides 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.

July 2024

Western Canada

Western Canada’s Rockies, lakes, and wine country are a must-visit destination for anyone who loves stunning natural beauty, delicious wine, and outdoor adventures. The Canadian Rockies are home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, including towering mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, and sparkling glaciers. Visitors can explore the Banff and Jasper National Parks, take a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway, or hike to the top of a mountain for incredible views. After a day of outdoor activities, visitors can relax and unwind in the nearby wine country. The Okanagan Valley is home to over 200 wineries, producing some of Canada’s finest wines. Visitors can take a wine tour, sample local cuisine, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a food and wine lover, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Western Canada’s Rockies, lakes, and wine country have something for everyone.

Icelandic Revelation

Bask in the beauty of this 10-night cruise through Iceland and Denmark aboard an extraordinary ship, Oceania Cruises’ Sirena! This tour is filled with gorgeous green coasts and iconic museums you don’t want to miss.

Embark in Reykjavik and set sail for Grundarfjordur. Enjoy the ambiance of serene waterfalls and unique views. Take a boat trip around Isafjordur where you can fish along the bay. Surround yourself with Icelandic folk culture in Akureyri. Picturesque Seydisfjordur holds some of Iceland’s most iconic scenery to experience and wildlife to spot. Stroll through the streets of Djupivogur where the culture is rich and the nature is breathtaking. Take a trip to the mysterious Faroe Islands dotted midway between Iceland and Norway to experience a unique blend of quirky local culture and modern-day cafes. Before the journey end, spend time in Heimaey and cruise around the island where you will find lava formations and can spot puffins in their natural habitat.

North Sea Escapade

Sail away with us to the North Sea on this 10-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Nautica. Let the ebb and flow of the ocean take over as you feel relaxed and energized by the people and places along the way.

Begin your journey in Le Havre and set sail for Kristiansund. Soak in Norway’s laid back vibe while admiring the colorful wooden houses and partaking in some of the town’s famous klippfisk (dried cod). Be inspired by the Viking spirit in Oslo as you take in the innovative architecture and sample the delectable seafood. Find out why the Danes are considered some of the happiest people as you meander down the cobblestone streets of Copenhagen. Relax in Travemünde, a seaside resort with delicious marzipan and beautiful churches, and bask in the magnificent architecture of Riga. Tour Tallinn’s underground passageways as you learn about its historic past and explore the vibrant city, modern architecture, and open-air market of Helsinki before ending in Stockholm.

Cape Cods & the Islands

From your one hotel for five nights, Cape Cod’s charming beaches, majestic coasts, beautiful islands, and rich history are yours to enjoy. Start your tour with a night and sightseeing in Boston and top off your stay with a traditional New England lobster feast to truly experience Cape Cod & the Islands.

August 2024

Discover Scotland

Dates: August 1 - August 01, 2024
Price: $5,999.00
Operator: Collette

Scotland is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves stunning natural landscapes, rich history and culture, and lively festivals. One of the highlights of Scotland’s cultural calendar is the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which takes place annually in August. The Tattoo is an incredible showcase of military music, dance, and precision drill, set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. The event attracts performers and spectators from all over the world, and the atmosphere is electric. However, Tattoo is just one of the many reasons to visit Scotland. From the stunning Scottish Highlands and islands to the vibrant cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland has something to offer everyone. Its fascinating history, delicious food, and warm hospitality are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Flavors of Ireland

Ireland, as rich with history as it is with beauty, offers travelers the chance to explore all facets that go into a ‘farm-to-table’ eating lifestyle. Meet individuals and families who have spent a lifetime creating, distilling, brewing, and perfecting these beverages and culinary experiences. Prepare to open your mind and your taste buds while traveling from Dublin to Galway and along the picturesque southern shore of Ireland. This journey is filled with behind-the-scenes glimpses, sights you’ll never forget, and plenty of knowledge. Come with us on the trip of a lifetime. Sláinte!

This tour speaks to those for whom the days of sweet and simple are no more and the reign of sophisticated distilling and microbreweries has arrived in conjunction with a passion for healthier eating and ‘farm-to-table’ foods. If you are looking to learn and explore this new lifestyle, Ireland, as rich with history as it is with beauty, offers you the chance to explore all of these facets. Knowledge is shared by individuals and families who have spent a lifetime creating and perfecting these beverages and culinary experiences. Prepare to open your mind and your taste buds while visiting Dublin, Galway, and Cork on a journey filled with sights you’ll never forget. Don’t wait, come with us on the trip of a lifetime. Sláinte!

Irish Emeralds

Dates: August 3 - August 14, 2024
Price: $4,799.00
Operator: Go Next

Join us as we explore the gorgeous green coasts of Ireland on a 10-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Nautica. Begin your journey in Dublin and set sail for Waterford–a 1,110-year-old Viking town and the oldest city in Ireland.

Let the rainbow-colored buildings of Belfast welcome you to a place where local business and street art thrive. Stroll beneath an impressive skyline that includes the Belfast Cathedral and Clifton Suspension Bridge. Explore storied castles outside Cork and Bantry Bay, a region where whisky distilleries, fishing villages, and Irish pubs uphold the nation’s strong traditions. Venture to the countryside of Galway to take in the dramatic Cliffs of Moher. Explore the town history of Killybegs and see the world’s largest knotted loom. Enjoy walking the promenade in Douglas next to horse-drawn trams as you explore this capital of the Celtic Isle of Man. Before making your way back to Dublin, “Let it Be” in the Beatles’ home of Liverpool as you immerse yourself in the creative culture where foodies and artists abound.

National Parks & Lodges of the Old West

Dates: August 16 - August 24, 2024
Price: $5,395 + airfare
Operator: Orbridge

Awaken your pioneering spirit by tracing the legends and natural splendors of the American West—an awe-inspiring expanse filled with beautiful scenery, abundant wildlife, hiking, storytelling, and incredible historic lodges you’ll write home about.

September 2024

Easy Company (80th Anniversary Commemorative Tour)

Dates: September 2 - September 15, 2024
Price: $10,299.00
Operator: WWII Museums

North American Waterways

Dates: September 6 - September 16, 2024
Price: $6,099.00
Operator: Go Next

Relax along the majestic waterways from Chicago to Montreal as you spend 11 nights aboard American Queen Voyages’ Ocean Voyager™. Enjoy a 1-night pre-cruise hotel stay in Chicago, The Windy City. The following day, set sail on scenic Lake Michigan.

Get lost in time on Mackinac Island, a car-free community for over a century. Visit one of the oldest cities in America, Sault Ste. Marie, and marvel at the mighty Soo Locks. Enjoy the charming lighthouses of Little Current before exploring the cultural touchstone museums and revitalized waterfronts of Cleveland and Detroit. Make a splash at the thundering Niagara Falls. In Toronto, snap up souvenirs at one-of-a-kind shops in the Distillery District and catch bird’s-eye views of one of the world’s greatest cities from the sky-scraping CN Tower.

Flavors of Northern Italy

Dates: September 7 - September 24, 2024
Price: $4,995 + airfare
Operator: Orbridge

From art-packed museums and mosaic-filled cathedrals to Roman ruins and hill towns amid vineyards that produce some of Europe’s best wines, Northern Italy’s riches are plentiful, wide-ranging, and ripe for discovery. Embark on a cultural and gastronomic adventure with this signature journey where days are dedicated to the joy and art of good food and wine, and evenings are for a quiet relaxation at guestrooms in the country.

Ancient Greece

Dates: September 15 - September 28, 2024
Price: $6,992
Operator: Odysseys Unlimited

Unearth the ancient world’s grandeur on this singular 14-day small group journey combining premier archaeological sites with the beauty of the Aegean isles. Visit Athens’ key sights, explore Delphi’s spectacular ruins and tour the renowned National Archaeological Museum. After seeing Ancient Corinth’s ruins, spend three nights on the Peloponnesian coast. Marvel at Epidaurus and Mycenae’s ruins and discover idyllic Hydra. Staying three nights in Crete’s fascinating capital, Heraklion, tour the Palace of Knossos, cruise to Spinalonga, and visit an olive oil farm. With two nights on picturesque Santorini, tour a winery and the Akrotiri archaeological site before returning to Athens.

In The Path of Cartier

Dates: September 25 - October 06, 2024
Price: $4,799.00
Operator: Go Next

Immerse yourself in wild and natural wonders on this 11-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Nautica. Embark in Boston and set sail for Bar Harbor.

Cruise to Saint John where you can catch a glimpse of Reversing Falls—a mesmerizing tidal phenomenon. Get a taste of Nova Scotia in Halifax and Sydney as sample local brews in downtown pubs. Explore the charm of Bar Harbor as you meander through its lively downtown area or enjoy the lovely waterfront and parks. Bask in the natural beauty of Havre Saint Pierre and the astonishing rock formations of the Mingan Archipelago. Continue your journey through wild wonders in Sept-Iles and hike to the lookout point of Grand Basque Island before visiting Baie Comeau. In Saguenay, indulge your flair for the French—enjoy a flamboyant performance at the Théâtre Palais Municipal depicting the founding of the area. Before completing your tour in Montréal, stop in Quebec City for high tea at the iconic Château Frontenac.

October 2024

Balloon Fiesta

Dates: October 4 - October 07, 2024
Price: TBA
Operator: Sports Entertainment Travel

Hear the thrilling roar of hundreds of burners simultaneously igniting, turning the Balloon Fiesta Park into a remarkable site with hundreds of thousands of smiling, upturned faces, awestruck by the spectacular beauty of hot air balloons filling the big blue New Mexico sky. Enjoy deluxe hotel accommodations at Hotel Albuquerque and free time in Old Town Albuquerque to explore museums, shops, and galleries. Sit front and center at the Gondola Club, the Balloon Fiesta’s premium hospitality location for two mornings and one evening session featuring Dawn Patrol and Evening Glow. Join us for special access to experience the world-renowned attraction, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta!

Peru’s Inca Trail

Considered one of the most famous archaeological sites on the continent, the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu exceeds every visitor’s expectations. Set in a spectacular location in the middle of a tropical mountain forest, it is likely the most amazing urban creation of the Incan Empire. Explore the spectacular ruins of Ollantaytambo in the beautiful Río Urubamba Valley known as the Sacred Valley, then visit the Moray archaeological site with its series of concentric agricultural terraces. Discover the ancient, terraced salt ponds known as Salineras de Maras that have been used for salt extraction since pre-Inca times. This journey will take your breath away!

Visit one of the most famous archaeological sites on the continent, the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, set in the middle of a tropical mountain forest. Put on your hiking boots and get ready to explore spectacular Incan ruins. This journey will take your breath away!

Egypt and the Eternal Nile

Dates: October 14 - October 28, 2024
Price: $5,797.00
Operator: Odysseys Unlimited

Accompanied by an expert Egyptian guide, this singular journey through antiquity reveals a storied land’s many treasures. Your small group of no more than 24 travelers begins its 15-day immersion in Egypt’s unsurpassed historic atmosphere in Cairo and its environs. Tour the acclaimed Egyptian Museum and the open-air museum at Memphis, Egypt’s first capital. Continue on to splendid Sakkara, royalty’s burial site for 3,000 years; and the astounding Pyramids of Giza guarded by their enigmatic Great Sphinx. Traveling to Abu Simbel, embark on a fascinating three-night Lake Nasser cruise through ancient Nubia. Visit the massive Abu Simbel temple complex overseen by the colossal statues of Ramses II, and watch a dramatic sound-and-light show. After stops to admire the outstanding temples at Amada, Wadi el-Seboua, and New Kalabsha, tour the massive Aswan High Dam – an engineering marvel – and explore the Temples of Philae. Then depart from Aswan on a classic four-night Nile voyage, enjoying a leisurely sail aboard a traditional felucca along the way, and visiting Kom Ombo’s unusual temple and Edfu’s Temple of Horus, Egypt’s best-preserved temple. Cruise on to Luxor, the world’s “greatest open-air museum,” to explore its wonders: the awe-inspiring Luxor and Karnak temple complexes; the haunting Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens, the impressive Temple of Hatshepsut; and the massive Colossi of Memnon. Returning to Cairo for two nights, tour the exotic Khan el-Khalili bazaar and historic Old Cairo. Discover fabled “rose-red” Petra, ancient Jerash, and Amman with an optional 5-day/4-night post-tour Jordan extension.

Classic Greece & Turkey

Dates: October 19 - October 30, 2024
Price: From $4,699
Operator: Go Next

Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Greece and Turkey on this 10-night cruise from Athens to Istanbul aboard Oceania Cruises’ Vista.

Begin your journey in Athens and set sail for Nauplion. Explore this romantic city as you view the walls of Acronauplia. Visit the Minoan Palace of Knossos in Heraklion–the capital of Crete. Make your way through Turkey’s turquoise coast and dive into traditional culture in Bodrum and Antalya. See thousands of archaeological pieces in the Alanya Museum and witness gorgeous groves of olives, oranges, and lemons growing beneath the majestic mountains in Limassol. View the Carian Rock Tombs, admire the Dancing Fountains, or stroll on the golden sandy beaches while basking in the crystal-clear seas of Marmaris. Relax on the quaint, picturesque beaches of Bozcaada before taking in the architecture of empires and many fascinating landmarks in Istanbul.

November 2024

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Dates: November 1 - November 01, 2024
Price: TBA
Operator: Sports Entertainment Travel

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a beloved American tradition that has been entertaining audiences for nearly a century. The parade is held annually on Thanksgiving Day in New York City and features giant character balloons, floats, marching bands, and performances by celebrities and Broadway shows. The atmosphere is electric, with millions of spectators lining the streets to watch the parade and millions more tuning in on TV from around the world. The parade is a fantastic way to kick off the holiday season and is sure to put you in a festive mood. Whether you’re a fan of balloons, floats, or performances, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a must-see event that is sure to create lasting memories. It’s a great way to spend time with family and friends and experience the magic of the holiday season in New York City.

December 2024

Holiday Markets Cruise

Dates: December 3 - December 11, 2024
Price: $2,995.00
Operator: AHI

Feel the magic of the holidays in Germany and France on a seven-night Rhine River cruise! Celebrate centuries-old traditions in festive markets. Visit Heidelberg’s castle and enjoy an exclusive musical performance in the romantic old town. In the ports of Breisach, Strasbourg, Rüdesheim, and Düsseldorf, choose excursions that fit your interests, such as wine tastings, culinary tours, or cultural experiences. Aboard your exclusively chartered, first-class ship, and revel in the beauty of the Rhine Gorge. This journey includes an ample meal plan, plus wine and beer with lunch and dinner. There is no single supplement.