TRAVEL SIGHTSEEING SOONERS | 2023 CATALOG - TAKE THE JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME
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TRAVEL SIGHTSEEING SOONERS | 2023 CATALOG TAKE THE JOURNEY TRAVEL ON, THE WORLD IS WAITING OF A LIFETIME UNIVERSITY TO BE DISCOVERED SEE ALL 7 HUNDREDS OF DOZENS OF CONTINENTS SOONER TRAVELERS UNIQUE TRIPS
GOAL The goal of the Sightseeing Sooners travel program is to provide educational trav- el opportunities for our alumni and friends, and to carry the strong Sooner spirit to every part of the world. PROGRAM INFORMATION The Sightseeing Sooners travel program will offer dozens of trips in 2023 that will visit all seven continents. The offerings include ocean and river cruises, land tours, nature and wildlife experiences, along with other types of programming. Sightseeing Sooners provides alumni and friends the opportunity to travel together on trips that provide enriching and quality educational travel opportunities and are always under the direction of top-rated tour directors and operators. Our goal is to create a unique experience for our travelers and con- nect alumni back to their alma mater in a special way. DISCLAIMER Dates, schedules, pricing and program details listed in this catalog are all subject to change. Please verify details, dates and pricing prior to booking a reservation directly with the tour operator and check TO TRAVEL home.oufoundation.org/sightseeingsooners for updates throughout the year. The OU Alumni Association provides the service of facilitating unique travel opportunities for its alumni and friends. Though the Sightseeing Sooners travel program works with its tour operators to offer interesting and educational trips, please remember that the Alumni Association does not conduct tours, nor does it act as an agent for guests interested in tours. The Sightseeing Sooners travel program, IS TO instead, functions as a facilitator with tour operators with whom our travelers make arrangements for completing travel. We are pleased to act as a liaison with tour operators should you have any questions before, during or after your tour. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with each tour operator’s cancellation and refund policy, and also to investigate other services such as trip cancellation LIVE insurance before making reservations. The OU Alumni Association is not responsible for changes to trips or travel arrangements or for losses or additional expenses resulting from travel. HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN
DISCOVER YOUR DESTINATION Africa Europe North America South America p. 9 Journey to Southern Africa JAN 29-FEB 13 p. 14 Spain - Andalucia in a Parador APR 13-21 p. 8 Wolves & Wildlife of Yellowstone JAN 7-13 p. 9 Panama Potpourri JAN 18-28 p. 23 Kenya Safari AUG 23-SEPT 2 p. 15 Romantic Coastlines APR 20-27 p. 12 Springtime Coasts of the South MAR 18-29 p. 12 Wonders of Peru - featuring an MAR 2-13 p. 17 D-Day - The Invasion of Normandy MAY 11-17 p. 14 Experience the Victory APR 10-13 Amazon Cruise & Machu Picchu p. 18 Trans-Atlantic Cruise JUNE 1-12 Kentucky Derby MAY 3-7 Antarctica p. 16 p. 19 Ancient Cities & Seaside Retreats JUNE 7-15 p. 16 Charms of the South MAY 7-15 p. 8 Expedition to Antarctica JAN 4-17 p. 20 Jewels of The Rhine with Lucerne JULY 7-16 p. 18 Utah’s Mighty National Parks JUNE 4-10 Private Jet p. 20 The Great Journey through Europe JULY 12-23 p. 19 Historical Baseball Tour MID-JUNE p. 27 Around the World: A Luxury Tour by OCT 29-NOV 21 p. 21 Alpine Splendor JULY 20-AUG 2 p. 19 Discover Southeast Alaska JUNE 23-30 Asia & Middle East AUG 8-20 p. 28 Private Jet NOV 28-DEC 21 p. 22 Cruise the Rhine & Mosel Rivers p. 21 Alaskan Heritage and Wildlife JULY 23-30 p. 29 DEC 30-JAN 22 p. 23 Cotswolds Escape AUG 17-25 p. 22 Polar Bears & Beluga Whales AUG 2-8 p. 15 The Inland Sea of Japan APR 18-29 p. 23 Enchanting Ireland AUG 27-SEPT 8 p. 23 The Majestic Great Lakes AUG 15-25 p. 27 Journey through Israel OCT 10-20 p. 24 Romance the Douro River SEPT 12-23 p. 25 Southwest National Parks SEPT 13-21 p. 28 Egypt & The Nile River NOV 18-28 p. 25 WWII in Poland SEPT 15-22 p. 25 Lighthouses & Landscapes of Coastal SEPT 30-OCT 6 p. 25 Passion & Pursuits - Golfing & Culture SEPT 19-28 Maine Australia & The South Pacific p. 26 Passage along the Danube River OCT 7-19 p. 26 Toronto to Vancouver by Rail OCT 3-9 p. 27 Portrait of Italy OCT 7-22 p. 29 Montreal & Quebec City Christmas Markets DEC 7-11 p. 10 Fjords & Tasman Tales FEB 13-28 p. 27 Gladiators to Gondolas OCT 20-30 p. 10 Tahiti & French Polynesia Under Sail FEB 28-MAR 10 p. 27 The River Seine to Normandy OCT 29-NOV 6 p. 24 Exploring Australia & New Zealand SEPT 13-OCT 4 p. 29 Holiday Markets – The Festive Rhine River DEC 10-18 4 | ou.edu/alumni/travel ou.edu/alumni/travel | 5
LEGEND TOUR & PRICE CHART OPERATORS Travel Method LAKE CRUISE LAND TOUR OCEAN CRUISE RIVER CRUISE Booking AIRFARE INCLUDED PRIVATE JET SINGLE TRAVELER STARTING PRICE AT STARTING PRICE BETWEEN STARTING PRICE AT OR BELOW $3,999 $4,000 - $7,999 $8,000 OR ABOVE PER PERSON PER PERSON PER PERSON 6 | ou.edu/alumni/travel ou.edu/alumni/travel | 7
PANAMA POTPOURRI JAN. 18-28, 2023 | OCEAN CRUISE GoNext Let’s go to Central America! Revel in a journey through the Panama Canal, one of the modern world’s most heroic feats of engineering. Sail on a catamaran in Key West, explore Mayan ruins in Costa Maya, and swim by the reef in Harvest Caye. Hike through the rainforest in Santo Tomas and relax on the beach in Roatan. Discover Puerto Limon’s incredible wildlife at Cahuita National Park. Prices starting at $3,099 per person, double occupancy. JOURNEY TO SOUTHERN AFRICA JAN. 29 - FEB. 13, 2023 | LAND TOUR AHI Travel Discover the incredible wildlife and wonders of South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana on this 12-night journey! Visit Cape Town and Soweto, Victoria Falls and Robben Island, and search for exotic animals in Chobe National Park, Hwange National Park, JANUARY and Kapama Private Game Reserve. Prices starting at $8,295 per person. EXPEDITION TO ANTARCTICA JAN. 4-17, 2023 | OCEAN CRUISE Gohagan & Co. IT’S TIME TO START GO FURTHER WITH GO NEXT Let’s go! It’s time to recharge, disconnect, and explore. From world-famous ports to the most Join us for this spectacular 14-day journey featuring a nine-night, exclusively chartered PLANNING FOR YOUR exotic locales, go where you’ve always wanted to go. cruise to Antarctica, Earth’s last frontier, aboard the intimate L’Austral. Experience “The White Continent” in its unspoiled state, accompanied by the ship’s expert team NEXT DREAM VACATION. Join fellow Sooners on a captivating getaway that is tailor made to fit your preferences. Explore memorable ports, discover rich history, indulge in local culinary spectacles, and share of naturalist. Spend two nights in vibrant Buenos Aires. Iguazu’ Falls post-program experiences with old (and new!) friends. Go Next and our trusted cruise partners are ready to option. provide top tier hospitality and ensure your trip is safe and seamless. Join us! Majestic Great Lakes Toronto to Chicago July 22 - August 1, 2022 Northern Realms Copenhagen to Stockholm August 7 - 17, 2022 Estimated pricing starting at $9,995 per person. Great Pacific Northwest Portland to Spokane August 14 - 22, 2022 Adriatic & Aegean Array Rome to Athens October 6 - 16, 2022 Panama Potpourri Miami to Panama City January 18 - 28, 2023 WOLVES & WILDLIFE OF YELLOWSTONE Fjords & Tasman Tales Sydney to Sydney February 13 - 28, 2023 JAN. 7-13, 2023 | LAND TOUR Springtime Coasts of the South Amelia Island to Amelia Island March 18 - 29, 2023 Orbridge Romantic Coastlines Barcelona to Rome April 20 - 27, 2023 Charms of the South New Orleans to Memphis May 7 - 15, 2023 Ancient Cities & Seaside Retreats Valletta to Venice June 7 - 15, 2023 Join us on an extraordinary winter adventure: a seven-day wildlife expedition to Jewels of the Rhine with Lucerne Lucerne to Amsterdam July 9 - 16, 2023 Yellowstone—North America’s best wolf-watching habitat. Hushed and magical landscapes are the setting for steaming geysers, trees covered in ice crystals, and Majestic Great Lakes Toronto to Chicago August 15 - 25, 2023 the movements of bison, elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife—followed Gladiators to Gondolas Rome to Venice October 20 - 30, 2023 closely by the park’s wolves. www.GoNext.com/Sooners Estimated pricing starting at $4,995 per person. or Call 888.664.0141 to Book Your Trip! 8 | ou.edu/alumni/travel ou.edu/alumni/travel | 9
FEBRUARY FJORDS & TASMAN TALES - SYDNEY TO SYDNEY FEB. 13-28, 2023 | OCEAN CRUISE GoNext Adventure awaits in the great down under! Cruise the Fjords of Milford Sound as craggy cliffs tower over you. Watch for kangaroos, sea lions, and other exotic wildlife. Sip local wine in Napier, while getting a glimpse of Maori culture. In Rotorua spot spouting geysers and dolphins in Bay of Islands. Prices starting at $7,349 per person, double occupancy. TAHITI AND FRENCH POLYNESIA UNDER SAIL FEB. 28 - MAR. 10, 2023 | OCEAN CRUISE Discover the Beauty Gohagan & Co. of Small Group Travel with Join us for nine nights in French Polynesia, with seven nights aboard the Wind Spirit. Includes round-trip airfare from Los Angeles, an excursion on each island – Tahiti, Mo’orea, Ra’iatea, Taha’a, Bora Bora and Huahine – and two nights (air schedule permitting) in Pape’ete, Tahiti. Just 12-24 Guests “It was the best value in travel we’ve ever had. It was a wonderful experience.” Trish Merrill & Mac White Prices starting at $5,995 (including air from Los Angeles). 10 | ou.edu/alumni/travel ou.edu/alumni/travel | 11
Utah’s Mighty National Parks HIGHLIGHTS • Grand Junction Colorado • Scenic Byway 128 • Colorado River Cruise • Canyonlands National Park • Dead Horse Point State Park • Monument Valley • Arches National Park • 5 Night Stay in Moab Utah JUN 4- JUN 10, INCLUDES 2023 6 Nights First Class Hotels, 10 Meals: 6 B, 1 L, & 3 D Toll Free: 877-953-8687 premierworlddiscovery.com MARCH WONDERS OF PERU MAR. 2-13, 2023 | LAND TOUR AHI Travel Set off on a thrilling, active adventure in Peru for 10-nights! Stroll through Lima’s elegant Plaza Mayor and spot amazing wildlife on a deluxe cruise in the Amazon basin. Meander through mystical Machu Picchu high in the Andres and explore impressive Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley and Cusco. Prices starting at $6,795 per person. tAhiti And frEnch polynESiA undEr SAil February 28 to March 10, 2023 SPRINGTIME COASTS OF THE SOUTH ExpEdition to AntArcticA From $5,995 per person inlAnd SEA of JApAn April 18 to 29, 2023 January 4 to 17, 2023 (land/cruise/round-trip air from Los Angeles) MAR. 18-29, 2023 | RIVER CRUISE From $9,995 per person (land/cruise only) From $6,595 per person (land/cruise only) Upcoming Featured Travel Programs. GoNext For additional information, please call the offices of Gohagan & Company at (800) 922-3088. Soak up the sun in Fernandina Beach and sample fresh-caught shrimp at a Brunswick bistro. Explore Savannah, the “Hostess City of the South”, take in Charleston’s fascinating history, and visit art galleries and charming cafés in Beaufort. See the eclectic architecture of West Palm Beach and snorkel the reef near Freeport. Prices starting at $5,299 per person, double occupancy. trAnSAtlAntic thE GrEAt JournEy throuGh EuropE dAnubE blAck SEA to ViEnnA June 1 to 12, 2023 July 12 to 23, 2023 October 7 to 19, 2023 From $5,995 per person (land/cruise only) From $4,195 per person (land/cruise only) From $4,795 per person (land/cruise only) 12 | ou.edu/alumni/travel ou.edu/alumni/travel | 13
THE INLAND SEA OF JAPAN APR. 18-29, 2023 | OCEAN CRUISE Gohagan & Co. Experience the timeless splendor of Japan and South Korea on this seven-night cruise across the full length of the historic Inland Sea and during three nights in Kyoto. On board the exclusively chartered Five-Star Le Soleal, visit captivating port calls featuring sever UNESCO World Heritage sites. Tokyo pre-program and Nara post-program option. Prices starting at $6,295 per person. ROMANTIC COASTLINES APR. 20-27, 2023 | OCEAN CRUISE GoNext Set sail on the sunny Mediterranean. Access ancient vineyards and hilltop towns in Provence. Glide down the Grande Cornish or try your hand at the famous Monte Carlo Casino. See the whimsical Leaning Tower of Pisa, sample locally caught fish in Palma de APRIL Mallorca and an array of Tuscan wines as you relax in an ancient Italian wine cellar. Prices starting at $2,499 per person, double occupancy. EXPERIENCE THE VICTORY APR. 10-13, 2023 | LAND TOUR The National WWII Museum Travel JOIN THE SIGHTSEEING SOONERS IN 2023 Travel to The National WWII Museum in New Orleans to explore, remember, and reflect on World War II through exclusive access to the Museum’s campus. The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American experience in the ware that The Wolves and Wildlife of Yellowstone Passions & Pursuits River Cruise: changed the world - why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today. January 7-13, 2023 Golfing in Southern France September 19-28, 2023 Prices starting at $1,399, per person. Discover Southeast Alaska June 23-30, 2023 Toronto to Vancouver by Rail October 3-9, 2023 Polar Bears & Beluga Whales August 3-9, 2023 Journey Through Israel SPAIN — ANDALUCIA IN A PARADOR October 11-21, 2023 APR. 13-21, 2023 | LAND TOUR AHI Travel Kenya Safari: The Big 5 August 23 - September 2, 2023 Egypt & the Ancient Nile River November 16-26, 2023 Immerse yourself in southern Spain’s enchanting culture and history on a 7-night adventure! From your base in a first-class, modern parador in Andalucia’s heartland, Southwest National Parks discover the legacy of Moorish Spain. Explore Granada, Cordoba, Sevilla, and Ronda, September 13-21, 2023 and along the way, gain insights from local experts. Embrace the passion of flamenco and sip wine in the Andalucían countryside. Visit ou.orbridge.com or call (866) 639-0079 for more information. DESTINATION SPECIALISTS Prices starting at $2,995, per person. 14 | ou.edu/alumni/travel ou.edu/alumni/travel | 15
D-DAY – THE INVASION OF NORMANDY AND LIBERATION OF FRANCE MAY 11-17, 2023 | LAND TOUR The National WWII Museum Travel The National WWII Museum’s most popular tour provides an in-depth itinerary exploring America’s most famous WWII battle. Offering a full week of touring Normandy, this unforgettable educational travel program features top guides, quaint and historic accommodations, comprehensive dining and exclusive access to site not offered on other programs. Prices starting at $4,695 per perspm, double occupancy. MAY CHARMS OF THE SOUTH MAY 7-15, 2023 | RIVER CRUISE GoNext OU_Ad_AMAZON22.qxp_Layout 1 3/28/22 6:42 PM Page 1 Experience true southern hospitality. Catch sight of the colorful French Quarter in New Orleans, and in Nottoway, view the largest remaining historic mansion in the south. Delve into the history of the Mississippi River in Vicksburg and the Civil War in Greenville. Prices starting at $2,399 per perspm, double occupancy. AHI Travel has partnered with KENTUCKY DERBY OU for more than 36 years. MAY 3-7, 2023 | LAND TOUR Together, we deliver enriching group SET travel programs that connect travelers to the people, history, Delight in the horse capital of the world with an exclusive Kentucky Derby experience in and culture of the world. Lexington. Explore what makes the Run for the Roses a truly special event including the Belle of Louisville, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, working horse farms tour, Keeneland To learn more about our travel race track, and more! Sit front and center for all the excitement on Derby Day, take in offerings call 800.323.7373 or visit the sights, grandeur (and hats!!!) at Churchill Downs. our website at ou.ahitravel.com Prices starting at $2,899 per perspm, double occupancy. 16 | ou.edu/alumni/travel ou.edu/alumni/travel | 17
ANCIENT CITIES & SEASIDE RETREATS JUNE 7-15, 2023 | OCEAN CRUISE GoNext Explore the well-preserved ancient city of Ephesus as you walk where chariots roamed. Visit a winery in the beautiful whitewashed, hilltop towns in Santorini. Roam the streets of Venice and see breathtaking views of the city as you cross the Accademia Bridge. Prices starting at $3,599 per person, double occupancy. HISTORICAL BASEBALL TOUR MID-JUNE 2023 | LAND TOUR SET Time and again referred to as America’s National Pasttime, the game of baseball has helped play a key role in the shaping of our nation. Join us on this historical baseball experience that will take a deep dive into the historical aspects that make baseball the JUNE game we enjoy today. Visit two historical baseball parks in Yankee Stadium and Fenway Park. Prices starting at $3,499 per person. Photo credit of Milo Stewart, Jr/National Baseball Hall of Fame Museum TRANS-ATLANTIC CRUISE JUNE 1-12, 2023 | OCEAN CRUISE Gohagan & Co. DISCOVER SOUTHEAST ALASKA JUNE 23-30, 2023 | OCEAN CRUISE Orbridge Cruise across the northern Atlantic Ocean to Dublin, Ireland, featuring port calls at Bar Harbor, Maine; Shelburne, Nova Scotia, Canada; and the picturesque island of Newfoundland, accessible only by small ship. Arrive in County Cork, Ireland, at the Join us for a summertime expedition through some of nature’s more secluded port village of Ringaskiddy, containing up to Dublin. New York pre-program and Dublin landscapes as we discover the remote inner reaches of Alaska’s Inside Passage aboard post-program options. the 76-guest Chichagof 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 including an Orbridge Expedition Leader. Prices starting at $5,995 per person. Prices starting at $4,395 per person. UTAH’S MIGHTY NATIONAL PARKS JUNE 4-10, 2023 | LAND TOUR Premier World Discovery Explore Utah’s Mighty National Parks, renowned for awe-inspiring views, impressive rock formations and otherworldly landscapes that must be seen to be believed. Enjoy 5-nights at one hotel on this relaxed tour that features Canyonlands, Arches and Capitol Reef National Parks along with Dead Horse Pointe State Park and Monument Valley Prices starting at $3,649 per person. 18 | ou.edu/alumni/travel ou.edu/alumni/travel | 19
ALPINE SPLENDOR JULY 20 - AUG. 2, 2023 | LAND TOUR Odysseys The Alps serve as the stunning backdrop for this 14-day Swiss and Austrian exploration. As your small group discovers villages and cities, rides the fames Glacier Express, cruises on glassine lakes, and ascends snowcapped summits, the region enchants one and all. Savor beloved Vienna with an optional 4-day/3-night post-tour extension. Prices starting at $6,692 per person (includes air from Oklahoma City). ALASKAN HERITAGE AND WILDLIFE JULY 23-30, 2023 | LAND TOUR AHI Travel Nourish your soul on a 7-night adventure in Alaska, immersing yourself in breathtaking landscapes, history, and nature! Enjoy stays in Anchorage and Denali National Park, visit friendly communities, and witness spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife! Plus, local JULY experts share their experiences and knowledge of this once-in-a-lifetime destination! Prices starting at $4,995 per person. JEWELS OF THE RHINE WITH LUCERNE JULY 7-16, 2023 | RIVER CRUISE GoNext Join us for the old-world charm of Switzerland, Germany, France, and the Netherlands. Cruise Amsterdam’s canals, take in the magical medieval history of Cologne. See storybook landscapes of the Rhine Gorge, and sip wine among the crooked half-timbered homes in Strasburg. It all begins with an included 2-night pre-cruise in Lucerne. Prices starting at $5,190 per person, double occupancy. THE GREAT JOURNEY THROUGH EUROPE JULY 12-23, 2023 | RIVER CRUISE GoNext This extraodrinary 11-day “Grand Tour” of Europe combines river, rail, lake, and mountain travel and features Switzerland, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Cruise aboard the deluxe Amadeus Imperial along the Rhine River. Ride aboard three legendary railways - the Gornergrant Bahn, the Glacier Express, and the Pilatus Railway. Amsterdam post- program option. Prices starting at $4,195 per person, double occupancy. 20 | ou.edu/alumni/travel ou.edu/alumni/travel | 21
THE MAJESTIC GREAT LAKES AUG. 15-25, 2023 | LAKE TOUR GoNext Make a splash at Niagara Falls, take in Cleveland’s rock music heritage, and visit the must-see Detroit Institute of Art. Learn the maritime lore and Ojibwe culture of the U.S.-Canada borderlands, see the Soo Locks in action, and travel back in time on Mackinac Island. Prices starting at $4,699 per person, double occupancy. COTSWOLDS ESCAPE AUG. 17-25, 2023 | LAND TOUR AHI Travel The beautiful Cotswolds are waiting! Spend 7-nights in Woodstock and enjoy exploring honey-colored villages and colorful gardens. Stand beneath the towers of Oxford’s storied university. Uncover the lives of Shakespeare and Sir Winston Churchill in Stratford-upon-Avon and Blenheim Place. Visit picturesque villages, a family farm and Bath, filled with Georgian architecture. This small-group journey features a first-class AUGUST hotel and extensive meal plan. Prices starting at $3,795 per person. POLAR BEARS & BELUGA WHALES KENYA SAFARI AUG. 2-8, 2023 | LAND TOUR AUG. 23 - SEPT. 2, 2023 | LAND TOUR Orbridge Orbridge Discover the beauty and magnitude of Churchill, Manitoba, renowned for hosting polar This 11-day journey of a lifetime provides exclusive access to reserves and national bears and beluga whales. On this journey, guests are delighted to get amazingly close to parks The Big 5—endangered black rhino, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and lion. a multitude of friendly and vocal beluga whales while exploring by flat-bottomed boat Accompanied by local guides and a naturalist Orbridge Expedition Leader, set out on or skiff. During the summer, these curious mammals are often found in warm-water game drives in comfortable 4x4 vehicles to spot for endless wildlife. estuaries and river basins, making this an ideal place to see them. Prices starting at $5,995 per person. Prices starting at $5,995 per person. CRUISE THE RHINE & MOSEL RIVERS ENCHANTING IRELAND AUG. 8-20, 2023 | LAND TOUR | RIVER CRUISE AUG. 27 - SEPT. 8, 2023 | LAND TOUR AHI Travel Odysseys Castles, cathedrals, and alpine grandeur await you in Switzerland, France, Germany, From Dublin to Galway, Killarney to Kilkenny, this full yet well-paced 13-day tour and the Netherlands! Enjoy 3-nights in stunning Interlaken, then embark on a 7-night, showcases Ireland’s many charms – old and new – to your small band of travelers. first-class cruise along the Rhine and Mosel rivers! Revel in enchanting riverside The Emerald Isle delights with magnificent scenery, abundant culture, and its people’s scenery, Amsterdam’s iconic canals and Cologne’s Gothic cathedral, plus choose from a warmth and hospitality. Experience Northern Ireland with an optional 4-day/3-night variety of included excursions, featuring biking, food tours and cultural experiences. post-tour extension. Prices starting at $6,492 per person (includes air from Oklahoma City). Prices starting at $4,795 per person. 22 | ou.edu/alumni/travel ou.edu/alumni/travel | 23
SOUTHWEST NATIONAL PARKS SEPT. 13-21, 2023 | LAND TOUR Orbridge Join fellow travelers on a journey to the exceptional national parks and monuments of the Southwest. Travel to Grand Canyon National Park for awe-inspiring views from the park’s rim. Admire the beauty of light striking Antelope Canyon’s narrow sandstone walls. Share a peaceful evening with Navajo storytellers and ponder cultures past and present at a petroglyph site during a river raft ride down Glen Canyon. Prices starting at $4,595 per person. WWII IN POLAND: HOLOCAUST, RESISTANCE, AND REBIRTH SEPT. 15 - 22, 2023 | LAND CRUISE The National WWII Museum Travel This poignant journey will trace the history of Poland from 1939 to the fall of communism and the rejuvenation of a country and its people. You will travel through Poland, exploring historical sites and reflecting on how the Nazis rose to power and SEPTEMBER then brought destruction and misery to Europe. Visiting battlefields, museums, memorials, and interacting with locals, this tour immersesyou in the expert storytelling of top local guides. Prices starting at $6,995 per person. ROMANCE THE DOURO RIVER PASSION & PURSUITS: GOLFING & CULTURE OF SOUTHERN FRANCE SEPT. 12-23, 2023 | RIVER CRUISE SEPT. 19 - 28, 2023 | RIVER CRUISE AHI Travel Orbridge Enjoy the romance of Portugal and its scenic winemaking region! This fantastic Embark on a cruise along the meandering rivers Rhone and Saone with prime 10-night journey includes a 7-night cruise on an exclusively chartered ship. Portugal’s opportunities to experience golf and the local culture of Southern France. Accompanied history comes to life as your embrace the “River of Gold,” wander colorful Porto, spend by an expert golf professional, you’ll visit select golf courses that provide a superb time in Lisbon, and venture to Salamanca, Spain! golfing experience, combining beautiful natural settings with technical challenges. Enriching land excursions, enticing gourmet meals, and luxury ship accommodations Prices starting at $4,495 per person. abound in this epic journey through one of the most breathtaking parts of the world. Prices starting at $4,795 per person. EXPLORING AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND SEPT. 13 - OCT. 4, 2023 | LAND TOUR LIGHTHOUSES AND LANDSCAPES OF COASTAL MAINE Odysseys SEPT. 30 - OCT. 6, 2023 | LAND TOUR Premier World Discovery The Lands Down Under delight on this 22-day small group journey, form the spectacular Great Barrier Reef and the storied Outback to sophisticated Sydney, from From the iconic lighthouses perched along sparkling bays to Portland’s cobblestone towering Mt. Cook and breathtaking Milford Sound to high-spirited Queenstown and streets boasting award-winning restaurants, Maine offers unique landscapes nautical Auckland. Enjoy additional time in Auckland with an optional 3-day/2-night and experiences for everyone. Spend 5-nights in a historic and picturesque post-tour extension. Kennebunkport, 2 ocean cruises, a scenic rail trip, a traditional Lobster Clambake and a tour of Fenway Park are just a few of the highlights of this amazing tour. Prices starting at $9,784 per person (includes air from Oklahoma City). Prices starting at $3,799 per person. 24 | ou.edu/alumni/travel ou.edu/alumni/travel | 25
PORTRAIT OF ITALY OCT. 7-22, 2023 | LAND TOUR Odysseys 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-rang- ing 16-day small group tour showcases ancient sites, contemporary life, priceless art, and beautiful natural scenery. Savor more time in Venice with an optional 3-day/2-night post-tour extension. Prices starting at $5,874 per person (includes air from Oklahoma City). JOURNEY THROUGH ISRAEL OCT. 10-20, 2023 | LAND TOUR Orbridge Join us on a trip of a lifetime to the Holy Land of Israel. From the scorching sands of the Judean Desert to the salty buoyancy of the Dead Sea, from grand remnants of Ancient to the humblest aspects of Nazareth, we will have so many incredible opportunities to explore, learn, and sample all that Israel has to offer. Prices starting at $4,995 per person. OCTOBER GLADIATORS TO GONDOLAS OCT. 20-30, 2023 | OCEAN CRUISE GoNext Take a boat ride along the Amalfi Coast, see St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, and sip TORONTO TO VANCOUVER BY RAIL hand-crafted wine in Messina. Visit ancient Olympia near Katakolon and take a beach OCT. 3-9, 2023 | LAND TOUR day in Corfu. Explore a 14th-century monastery in Dubrovnik, shop a farmers’ market in Koper, and take a gondola ride in Venice. Orbridge Prices starting at $3,449 per person, double occupancy. Join this once-in-a-lifetime train trip across Canada—a small-group journey from To- ronto across the expanse of five provinces, through the Canadian Rockies to the Pacific Northwest. Enjoy upgraded Prestige Class premium accommodations onboard VIA Rail’s AROUND THE WORLD: A LUXURY TOUR BY PRIVATE JET The Canadian, providing the perfect combination of modern and elegant cabins, private OCT. 29 - NOV. 21, 2023 | PRIVATE JET concierge service, delightful meals prepared by onboard chefs, all-inclusive bar service, TCS and observation cars allowing for unobstructed viewing of Canada’s great wilderness. Prices starting at $5,995 per person. The world’s most iconic places, remarkable experiences and not-to-be-missed natural wonders are waiting for you! Our flagship journey combines a life list of global destina- tions into a seamless, elegant trip. Discover ten legendary destinations, from Machu PASSAGE ALONG WITH DANUBE RIVER Picchu to the Taj Mahal, Angkor Wat to Easter Island. OCT. 7-19, 2023 | RIVER CRUISE Gohagan & Co. Prices starting at $125,950 per person ($12,595 solo supplement). This extraordinary 13-day travel program features sever countries in the eastern Dan- THE RIVER SEINE TO THE BEACHES OF NORMANDY ube River Valley. Cruise for nine nights aboard the exclusively chartered Amadeus Star OCT. 29 - NOV. 6, 2023 | LAND TOUR/RIVER CRUISE and travel from Vienna to the Black Sea with two nights in Bucharest. Visit medieval The National WWII Museum Travel cities, charming villages, and mystical landscapes. Vienna pre-program and Transylvania post-program options. This land and cruise tour program brings together the very best of The National WWII Prices starting at $4,795 per person. Museum’s flagship Normandy program with a whole new level of luxury – Expert local guides will guide you to Sainte-Mere-Eglise, Pointe de Huc, Omaha Beach, Pegasus Bridge, and stops to explore the cultural treasures along the Seine River. 26 | ou.edu/alumni/travel Prices starting at $7,499, per person.
MONTREAL & QUEBEC CITY CHRISTMAS MARKETS DEC. 7-11, 2023 | LAND TOUR Premier World Discovery Embrace the holiday spirit with the wonderland of the Christmas markets with a unique and warm atmosphere, beautiful decorations, a great selection of succulent German treats, exquisite Christmas gifts, choral singing, and indoor and outdoor performances. This tour features world famous hotels, sightseeing, wonderful meals and provides ample time to explore the Quebec and Montreal Christmas markets. Prices starting at $3,375 per person. HOLIDAY MARKETS – THE FESTIVE RHINE RIVER DEC. 10-18, 2023 | RIVER CRUISE AHI Travel NOVEMBER Embrace the joyous Old-World history spirit of Germany and France on a 7-night, first-class Rhine River cruise! Explore enchanting, festive markets decked out for the holidays, stroll through charming medieval towns and personalize your journey with a choice of excursions, from wine tasting to culinary tours, in many ports. & DECEMBER Estimated pricing starting at $3,045 per person AROUND THE WORLD: A LUXURY TOUR BY PRIVATE JET DEC. 30, 2023 - JAN. 22, 2024 | PRIVATE JET EGYPT & THE NILE RIVER TCS NOV. 18-28, 2023 | LAND TOUR Orbridge The world’s most iconic places, remarkable experiences and not-to-be-missed natural wonders are waiting for you! Our flagship journey combines a life list of global destina- Discover why the marvels of ancient Egypt have drawn visitors for millennia on this tions into a seamless, elegant trip. Discover ten legendary destinations, from Machu dynamic 11-day expedition, featuring a cruise down the Nile River. Traverse the Nile Picchu to the Taj Mahal, Angkor Wat to Easter Island. Valley like past adventurers and behold treasures of a fabled land of pharaohs and kings, including colossal pyramids and the Great Sphinx, iconic temples, and legendary tombs. Prices starting at $125,950 per person ($12,595 solo supplement). Prices starting at $5,495 per person. AROUND THE WORLD: A LUXURY TOUR BY PRIVATE JET NOV. 28 - DEC. 21, 2023 | PRIVATE JET TCS The world’s most iconic places, remarkable experiences and not-to-be-missed natural wonders are waiting for you! Our flagship journey combines a life list of global destinations into a seamless, elegant trip. Discover ten legendary destinations, from Machu Picchu to the Taj Mahal, Angkor Wat to Easter Island. Prices starting at $125,950 per person ($12,595 solo supplement). 28 | ou.edu/alumni/travel ou.edu/alumni/travel | 29
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHO CAN TRAVEL WITH SIGHTSEEING SOONERS? The opportunity to travel with Sightseeing Sooners and the OU Alumni Association is open to ALL OU alumni and friends, and their families and friends! You do not have to be a graduate of OU to travel with our program. HOW MANY OU ALUMNI AND FRIENDS SHOULD I EXPECT TO TRAVEL WITH? While we hope that all of our 2023 tours will receive high reservation numbers, there are no guarantees and no way to predict the response to a particular tour. Our group sizes over the years have ranged from as small as two people to as large as 45. Our average size group in the Travel Sooner S I G H T S E E I N G S O O N E R S last decade has been around 12 travelers. If it’s one of our OU exclusive WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT A TRIP? tours, the group size is usually kept to a maximum size of 24. You can Brochures or other available information may be requested from the OU Alumni always call the OU Alumni Association to check the status of a trip’s Association online by emailing shassinger@ou.edu, by contacting tour operators group size before or after you book a tour. or by calling our office. Brochures for each trip will be mailed by the tour operator approximately six to nine months prior to departure. However, each tour operator chooses how many brochures to mail, which results in not everyone receiving every brochure. In most cases, there is no need to wait for a brochure to reserve space on a WHAT HAPPENS IF I NEED TO CANCEL? tour. Many tours fill quickly and we encourage you to call the tour operator to help WILL I GET A REFUND? you make your decision. Tour participants are subject to cancellation penalties as outlined in the individual trip brochures. Cancellation penalties are structured to coincide with advance DO YOU OFFER SPECIALS OR DISCOUNTS? payments that our tour operators must make to their suppliers, and the Most of our travel partners offer special discounts throughout the year. In most cases penalties are strictly enforced due to these contractual commitments. these special discounts are an Early Booking Because our tour operators have different cancellation policies, please Discount price. Book early to get the best price and to take make sure that you understand all cancellation penalties prior to advantage of special amenities! making your trip deposit. Each tour operator has a unique cancellation and refund policy. Please review each trip brochure carefully prior to reserving space on a tour. We also strongly encourage purchasing trip HOW DO I REGISTER FOR A TRIP? cancellation insurance. To register for the various travel opportunities listed in this catalog, please contact the respective tour operator for that program, or if there is an online booking option, visit the appropriate website. These links are available on our website. Contact information for the tour operators will be outlined in individual trip brochures or you can call the OU Alumni Association to get contact information or visit our website. SHOULD I PURCHASE TRAVEL INSURANCE? IF SO, HOW SOON DO I NEED TO ENROLL? We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance to ensure coverage in case of illness, injury, medical WHAT IF I’M TRAVELING SOLO? evacuation, delay or unforeseen emergency. For your convenience, the All trip pricing is based on double occupancy, or two people sharing a room or cabin, OU Alumni Association has unless specified by the “no single supplement” text and icon. Many of the trips offered partnered with USI Travel Insurance Select to provide travel insurance will require a single supplement for those who wish to travel alone. On most tours, a to our travelers. We encourage you to call (800) 937-1387 for details limited number of single rooms are available. and coverage options. We also ask you to research the many options of travel insurance available to you, as each person has individual needs. While we feel USI Travel Insurance Select offers some of the best MAY I ARRANGE MY OWN AIR TRAVEL? possible coverage, you may purchase travel If airfare is included with a trip and to lock in low airfares, our tour operators have insurance from another provider. We also suggest that you check with negotiated special rates with major airlines that may require you to take non-direct your medical insurance provider to determine if you are covered outside flights. Please feel free to discuss “land only” options with the tour operator should the United States. Medicare does not provide coverage outside the you desire a more direct flight or want to use frequent flyer miles. The OU Alumni United States. Association has no control over air travel and sometimes challenging airport infrastructures. Important to remember: If you book your own flights, you are responsible for making connections with the main group. Contact Us 900 Asp Ave., Suite 427 alumni@ou.edu 405-325-3453 home.oufoundation.org/sightseeingsooners 30 | ou.edu/alumni/travel
SIGHTSEEING SOONERS 900 ASP AVE., SUITE 427 ALUMNI@OU.EDU 405-325-3453 HOME.OUFOUNDATION.ORG/SIGHTSEEINGSOONERS
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