Travel Program 2027
Reynisfjara black sand beach, Iceland
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Reichsburg Castle, Germany
S TA R T YO U R J O U R N E Y LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR 4
WHY TRAVEL WITH WASHU?
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TRAVEL LOG
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2027 TRIP SUMMARY
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TRAVEL TIPS
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TRIP SPOTLIGHT
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TRAVEL FAQS
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TRAVEL PARTNERS
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THE WASHU T R AV E L P R O G R A M IS SPONSORED BY
WashU Alumni
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LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR
Dear travelers, Welcome to the 2027 edition of the WashU Travel Program catalog. Each year, this collection reflects our belief that travel is one of the most meaningful ways to remain curious about the world and one another. Within these pages, you’ll find a thoughtfully curated selection of journeys, insights from alumni travelers, and practical guidance to help you imagine what it’s like to travel with our program. The past year offered many memorable moments. Travelers traced historic waterways in Europe, explored dramatic northern landscapes, and engaged deeply with local communities and cultural traditions. Whether walking through storied cities, sailing remote coastlines, or learning from expert guides and fellow alumni along the way, these experiences reinforced what makes the WashU Travel Program distinctive: a shared spirit of inquiry, connection, and discovery. Looking ahead to 2027, we’re pleased to present a diverse and inspiring lineup of destinations. The coming year offers opportunities to immerse yourself in the refined traditions of Japan, the artistic heritage of Europe, and the coastal rhythms of the Mediterranean. Several journeys invite a deeper academic or thematic focus, while others offer a slower pace and time to savor place, culture, and conversation. Whether you’re a longtime traveler with us or discovering the program for the first time, I hope this catalog sparks your imagination. Our trips are designed to offer more than sightseeing — they invite learning, reflection, and the pleasure of traveling with a wonderful group on a remarkable journey. I invite you to explore the digital catalog online, where you can learn more about each experience and find details on how to join us. If you have questions about the travel program or any of our upcoming trips, please feel free to contact me directly at davidewebb@wustl.edu or by phone at 314-935-0474.
Sincerely,
David Webb David Webb Director, Travel Programs & Education
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Iceland, 2025
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WHY TRAVEL WH AT B E T T ER WAY TO CO N TI N UE YOUR JOURN E Y O F L I F E LONG LEARNING THAN BY E XPLO RI N G THE WOR L D WIT H OT HER WAS HU ALUMN I , PARE N TS, A ND FR I E ND S? 6 / WashU
Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand
The travel program partners with the world’s leading affinity travel organizations — companies with decades of experience in planning travel programs that go beyond the ordinary group tour — to offer exciting destinations with itineraries that meet our objective of learning through travel. Each year, select trips welcome WashU faculty members who join the tour to share their expertise and insights on topics related to the destination.
Whether you are a seasoned traveler or eager to begin, the travel program is a wonderful way to experience the world and meet other curious explorers. We hope you will join us on an upcoming trip.
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T R AV E L P R O G RA M 2027
TRAVEL LOG
GUEST MANIFEST NAMES:
Lisa (Elisa M.) Cooper, AB ’84 Mitchell D. Cravens No. OF TRIPS TAKEN:
W E C H AT T E D W I T H T W O WA S H U T R AV E L E R S W H O R E C E N T LY E M B A R K E D O N A A N TA R C T I C E X C U R S I O N . F I N D O U T
MOST RECENT DESTINATION:
Baltic Sea, 2024 Antarctica, 2025
W H AT M A D E T H E I R T R I P W I T H T H E T R A V E L P R O G R A M S O G R E A T.
Antarctica
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M O S T R E C E N T T R I P TA K E N W I T H W A S H U ? Antarctica Direct: Sail and Fly the Drake Passage, 2025
W H Y D O YOU T RAV E L? We love exploring new places and learning so much about history, culture, and the environment. Antarctica was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. What we saw and experienced will stay with us forever.
W H Y D I D YOU D ECI D E TO T RAV E L W I T H T H E WAS H U T RAV E L PROGRAM? Our first trip was to the Baltic Sea in 2024. We received the brochure and agreed that it was such a wonderful adventure to go to six countries we had never been to before. On that trip, we met a great group of WashU alumni, several of whom we stayed in contact with and one with whom we took another WashU trip! We are so impressed and grateful for the incredible travel companies that organize all elements of each trip. Plus, we enjoy the educational elements of each trip.
D O YOU H AV E A N Y T RAV E L T I P S, T R I CKS, OR ADVICE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE? Pack lightly and be sure to check in advance the recommendations for what to bring. Be sure to have appropriate plugs and chargers to keep all equipment fully functional. Be open to meeting wonderful new people (of all ages).
WHERE ARE YOU PLANNING TO GO NEXT? We are currently booked for Classic Safari: Kenya & Tanzania. After that, we would love to explore Japan.
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2 0 2 7 Tr i p Summary
WINTER (JANUARY-FEBRUARY)
SPRING (MARCH-MAY)
SUMMER (JUNE-AUGUST)
FALL (SEPTEMBER-DECEMBER)
Antarctica Direct: Sail and Fly the Drake Passage
New Zealand Adventure
Great European Journey
Spectacular Seine River
Dutch Waterways
San Juan Islands
Grand Danube Passage
Village Life Italian Lakes
Exploring Iceland
Insider’s Japan
Arctic Circle Cruise
The Charm of the Amalfi Coast
Vancouver to Toronto by Rail
Cuba and its People
Egypt and the Eternal Nile
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Let your imagination run wild as you peruse our 2027 tours! Additional details and booking information is available on our website: travel.washu.edu. You can also call us at 314-935-0474.
Vancouver, B.C.
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A N TA R C T I C A D I R E C T : S A I L A N D F LY T H E D R A K E PA S S A G E JA N UA RY 2 6 – F E B RUA RY 4 , 2 02 7 Venture to the wild grandeur of Antarctica on a journey like no other.
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Sail aboard the National Geographic Explorer through channels and coves framed by towering peaks, where whales glide, penguins gather, and albatross soar overhead. Hike, kayak, or simply take in the pristine landscapes of ice and snow, choosing your own pace between adventure and relaxation. Cross the iconic Drake Passage on the way south, then return to South America via a quick flight, maximizing your time on the continent. This is an immersive expedition into one of the planet’s most extraordinary and untouched environments.
EGYPT AND THE ETERNAL NILE F E B RUA RY 19 – M A RCH 5, 2 02 7 Experience the timeless allure of Egypt on a small-group journey with an expert guide. Explore Cairo’s iconic sites, including the Great Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), before sailing the Nile to Aswan and Luxor. Along the way, encounter ancient temples and the river landscapes that have shaped this civilization for millennia. This journey blends history, culture, and the enduring spirit of Egypt, offering an immersive glimpse into one of the world’s most remarkable and storied destinations.
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NEW ZEALAND ADVENTURE MARCH 11–26, 2027 Discover the highlights of New Zealand on a smallgroup journey across its North and South Islands. Explore lively cities, rolling farmland, enchanted forests, and pristine fjords, immersing yourself in the country’s renowned natural beauty. Along the way, meet friendly Kiwis and encounter traditional Māori culture, gaining insight into the heritage that shapes this remarkable land. From vibrant urban centers to sweeping landscapes, this trip offers an authentic experience of New Zealand’s unique spirit and outdoors lifestyle.
D U T C H WAT E R WAY S A P R I L 2 -10, 2 02 7 Explore the charm of the Netherlands and Belgium on a seven-night river cruise. Meander through lively canals, stroll amid colorful tulip landscapes, and discover the history and architecture of picturesque
FA C U LT Y F I E L
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towns and cities. With opportunities to enjoy cultural
“Traveling with WashU Alumni is more than just an opportunity
and culinary experiences along the way, this journey
to explore an exciting destination. It’s a chance to connec t with
combines serene river travel with the rich heritage and timeless beauty of the Low Countries.
the WashU community. As a faculty member, I enjoy being able to share my expertise through lec tures and informal discussions, while also having a chance to update alums about exciting developments at the university. I’m still in frequent contac t with those I met on trips a decade ago.” – DAVID A. FIKE, Chair, earth, environmental, and planetary sciences
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V I L L A G E L I F E : I TA L I A N L A K E S A P R I L 2 4 – M AY 2 , 2 0 2 7 Experience the charm and natural beauty of northern Italy’s famed Lake District, where deepblue lakes, Alpine vistas, and elegant waterfront villages create an unforgettable setting. Unpack once at the Palace Hotel on the shores of Lake Como and enjoy a relaxed week exploring the region. Discover historic towns, exquisite villas, and notable artistic and architectural treasures, including a visit to Milan. From colorful Bellagio to the serene waters of Lakes Como and
“This was an amazing adventure through Yellowstone during the winter. All promises were delivered! Wolves, 22 other animals, and plenty of birds. The animal ac tion was all close -up with great photo opportunities with the s potting scopes and binoculars provided by the tour operator. One of the best trips I have ever been on and I’ve been j ust ab out every where.” -WASHU TRAVELER, Wolves and Wildlife of Yellowstone
Maggiore, this journey captures the enduring allure of Italy’s northern lakes.
G R E AT E U R O P E A N J O U R N E Y JUNE 15 –26, 2027 Embark on an immersive 12-day journey celebrating Europe’s storied history, grand architecture, and breathtaking scenery. Cruise along the Rhine and Moselle Rivers past terraced vineyards, medieval castles, and storybook towns. Explore cultural landmarks in cities such as Amsterdam, Cologne, Heidelberg, and Strasbourg before continuing into Switzerland for alpine vistas, a Lake Geneva cruise, and a panoramic train ride through the Alps.
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SAN JUAN ISLANDS J U LY 1 9 – 2 4 , 2 0 2 7 Join this small-group journey through one of North America’s most captivating marine ecosystems. Cruise among the serene San Juan Islands, where coastal landscapes, tranquil forests, and abundant wildlife — including orcas, humpback whales, and seabirds — await. Visit remote shores such as Sucia Island and enjoy sweeping views from Mount Constitution and Lime Kiln State Park, one of the world’s premier land-based whale-watching sites.
E X P LO R I N G I C E LA N D AUGUST 5 –1 5, 2 02 7 Discover a land shaped by fire and ice, where glaciers carve valleys and steam rises from geothermal fields. Iceland’s dramatic landscapes — waterfalls, black-sand beaches, volcanic plains, and rugged coastlines — offer a sense of true remoteness. Traveling in a small group allows for close exploration of the country’s geology, birdlife, fishing villages, and striking natural contrasts.
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“The trip was well planned and organized. The accommodations are of the highest quality and the guide was very good.” -WASHU TRAVELER, Swiss Alps
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A RCT I C CI RCL E CRU I S E AUGUST 14–25, 2027 Sail into the Arctic Circle during the season of the midnight sun. Beginning in Reykjavík, explore Iceland, Greenland’s dramatic fjords, and Norway’s remote Svalbard archipelago. Watch for polar bears, walruses, seals, whales, and Arctic birdlife while cruising along icy coastlines framed by cliffs, mountains, and glaciers. Conclude with an overnight stay in Oslo.
VA N COU V E R TO TO RO N TO BY RA I L AUGUST 26–SEPTEMBER 1, 2027 Experience a transcontinental journey across Canada aboard VIA Rail’s iconic train, The Canadian. Travel in prestige class as landscapes unfold — from prairies and lake country to the towering Canadian Rockies. Enjoy elegant onboard dining and a leisurely pace that recalls the romance of classic rail travel while showcasing the breadth of Canada’s natural beauty.
S P E C TA C U L A R S E I N E R I V E R SEPTEMBER 21–29, 2027 Sail from Paris to Normandy and back on a seven-night journey along the Seine. Visit Honfleur, Rouen, Giverny, and Versailles, taking in pastoral landscapes, Gothic architecture, and artistic heritage. In Normandy, walk the D-Day beaches with historian Dwight David Eisenhower II, who offers personal insight into this pivotal chapter of World War II.
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G RA N D DA N U B E PAS SAG E O CTO B E R 2 -16, 2 02 7 Sail the Danube through eight European countries, from Prague to Sofia, where medieval villages, vineyard-lined hills, and historic cities unfold along the riverbanks. Sample regional cuisine, visit iconic landmarks, and experience the cultural character of Central and Eastern Europe. This journey offers a rich perspective on the region’s history and enduring charm.
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I N S I D E R’ S JA PA N OCTOBER 13 –25, 2027 Explore Japan’s refined traditions and modern vitality on a thoughtfully designed journey. Highlights include Tokyo and Kyoto, along with lesser-visited historic cities such as Takayama and Kanazawa. Traveling in a small group allows for deeper engagement with local life, cultural practices, and the contrasts that make Japan endlessly fascinating.
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THE CHARM OF THE AMALFI COAST N OV E M B E R 3 –11 , 2 02 7 Stay in Vietri sul Mare and experience the Amalfi Coast at a relaxed pace. Explore villages set along dramatic cliffs, visit Pompeii, Sorrento, and Naples, and enjoy authentic Italian cuisine amid lemon-scented breezes. Each day blends history, scenery, and culinary traditions along one of Italy’s most iconic coastlines.
CUBA AND ITS PEOPLE D E C E M B E R 1 0 - 1 7, 2 0 2 7 Experience Cuba’s history and culture through meaningful exchanges with local residents. Based in Havana, connect with entrepreneurs, artists, musicians, and community leaders while exploring the city’s architecture and vibrant streets. This small-group journey offers insight into Cuba’s evolving social and cultural landscape through the voices of its people.
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“I embarked on this expedition thinking about the dramatic landscapes and marvelous wildlife that we would be seeing. However, the most lasting impression for me has been the experience of traveling with such an extraordinary group. Based on my daily interac tions with WashU students, it comes as no surprise to me that our alumni are exceptional people. They were such an engaging, ins piring, and fun group. Traveling with them was truly the highlight of my trip!” – CRICKETTE SANZ, Chair and professor of biological sciences 24
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TRAVELTIPS Successful travel is shaped by preparation and curiosity. Beyond packing efficiently, the most rewarding journeys come from being attentive, flexible, and open to the unexpected. In this section, we offer tips to guide your planning. While tour operators typically provide detailed guidance in pre-trip materials or meetings, don’t hesitate to reach out to them if you have any additional questions or need clarification.
J OU R N E Y E N R I CHM ENT Smart Accessories: field guides, sketchbooks, binoculars, or compact journals can deepen your engagement with a place. Local Language: learning a few common phrases in the local language can make interactions smoother and more rewarding.
S M ART PACK I NG & G E A R
TECH N O LO GY TIP S
Local Currency: while most larger establishments accept credit cards, having some local cash on hand is helpful for smaller transactions at markets or with street vendors.
Choose versatile, high-quality items that do double duty:
A bit of advance planning can make technology seamless during your travels:
D E ST I N AT I ON -SPECIF IC INSIG HT
Scarf: provides warmth, shade, or even a picnic blanket.
International Voltage Differences: most devices are dual voltage, but check if you need a converter for items like hair dryers. Don’t forget a plug adapter for different outlets.
Jacket: layers for comfort and can dress up an evening outing. Poncho/Raincoat: protects from the elements without adding bulk or needing an umbrella. Tech Essentials: noise-canceling headphones, portable chargers, and e-readers keep you prepared for long flights, remote excursions, or quiet moments of reflection. Multi-Purpose Footwear: comfortable for walking and stylish for evenings. Packing Cubes: organize luggage and maximize space. Reusable Water Bottle: stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste. Portable First Aid Kit: essential items for peace of mind. Ziploc Bags: protect electronics or store snacks.
Data Plans: consider an international plan or confirm roaming options with your carrier before you travel. Group Communication: use apps like WhatsApp to stay in touch with your group; download and familiarize yourself with them ahead of time. Photo Sharing: create shared albums with Google Photos or Apple Photos, or try PhotoCircle and Cluster for easy sharing. Offline Maps: download maps for offline use with apps like Google Maps or Maps.me for areas with limited service. Backup Important Documents: store digital copies of passports and travel insurance in a secure cloud service or USB drive. Battery Backup: carry a high-capacity portable charger to keep devices powered during long days out. Security Apps: enable tracking apps for lost devices and use two-factor authentication for added security. Language Translation Apps: download apps like Google Translate for offline use to assist with communication. Travel-Friendly Apps: research and install destination-specific apps for local insights, guides, or transport options.
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Seasoned travelers know the value of small details. For example, in Japan, quiet socks are appreciated at temples, while in Norway, layers are essential for rapidly shifting fjord weather. Each trip comes with thorough pre-departure documentation from our tour operators, outlining everything you need to know — from what to bring to handling money and packing strategies. Preparing for each destination’s quirks ensures a seamless and immersive experience. COM M ON P I T FA LLS FOR EX PERIENCED T RAV E L E R S Even on thoughtfully-designed itineraries, it’s important to check in with yourself. Travel can be exhilarating but demanding, so it’s okay to skip an excursion if you’re not feeling up for it. Listen to your body, pace yourself, and prioritize rest to stay healthy and energized throughout your journey. Remember to keep maps and data accessible offline, and be aware that each region has its own customs and local expectations. T RAV E L P R E P & CULT URAL INT ELLIG ENCE Reading, podcasts, or short guides can provide context that transforms sightseeing into understanding. Learning key phrases, asking thoughtful questions of guides, and engaging with local artisans adds depth and meaning to your experiences. Mindful choices — such as sustainable travel and ethical encounters — help ensure that exploration benefits both the traveler and the community. T RAV E L P R O G RA M / 27
Lower Nile from Aswan to Luxor, visiting storied temples, ancient tombs, and beautifully preserved archaeological sites along the way. At each destination, Professor Aravecchia provided historical framing, discussions of art and architecture, and opportunities for participants to engage in rich conversations about the ancient world. A H I G H L I G H T : T H E R O M A N ‑ E RA T E M P L E O F KA LA B S H A
EGYPT AND THE ETERNAL NILE
One of the most memorable stops was the visit to the Temple of Kalabsha, located near Aswan. Built during the reign of Emperor Augustus, the site embodies the fascinating interactions between Roman authority and Egyptian religious traditions — making it an especially meaningful stop for our Classics community.
CE L E B RAT I N G L E ARNING AND COM M UNIT Y
The Department of Classics is proud to see its faculty contributing to University Advancement’s alumni and friends travel programming. Professor Aravecchia’s involvement exemplifies the department’s commitment to sharing classical and archaeological scholarship beyond the classroom — bringing the ancient world to life for our broader WashU community. We extend our thanks to University Advancement for organizing this remarkable program and to the many alumni and friends whose enthusiasm is making the journey so memorable. The travel program will return to Egypt in 2027 and regularly offers educational tours to Greece, Italy, and other centers of the classical world.
Originally published by: The John and Penelope Biggs Department of Classics This past February, a group of Washington University alumni and friends embarked on an extraordinary educational journey through ancient Egypt as part of the “Egypt and the Eternal Nile” travel program, organized by University Advancement. The John and Penelope Biggs Department of Classics is especially delighted that Associate Professor of Classics and of Art History and Archaeology Nicola Aravecchia served as the scholarly host for the tour. P ROFES SO R ARAVECCHIA’S E XPERTIS E E NRI CHES THE EXPE R IE NCE
Throughout the trip, Professor Nicola Aravecchia provided participants with rich historical, archaeological, and cultural context, transforming each visit into a dynamic learning experience. Renowned for his work in late antique archaeology and the study of early 28 / Was h U
Christian communities in Egypt, Aravecchia offered travelers a deeper understanding of the ancient sites they encountered, highlighting connections between Egyptian, Greek, and Roman traditions. His presence added an invaluable academic dimension to the journey, complementing the insights of the group’s expert Egyptian guide and creating a rare combination of local knowledge and classical scholarship. A JOUR N EY TH ROUGH TH E H EA RT OF A N CIEN T CIV IL IZATIO N
Beginning in Cairo, the group explored the Great Pyramids and other iconic monuments before traveling south to Abu Simbel. The itinerary included a serene cruise on Lake Nasser, followed by a classic voyage along the T R AV E L P R O G R A M / 29
FAQ s HOW DO I REGISTER FOR A TRIP?
WHAT ARE THE PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR A TRIP?
unable to book all the seats, the tour operator will open the tour up to another institution. DO WASHU FACULTY MEMBERS GO ON THE TRIPS?
WashU affiliations are an important part of our program, but you do not have to be an alum to travel with us. We welcome alumni, parents, families, and friends of students and graduates who are interested in participating in educational travel experiences with WashU.
To enjoy the travel experience, participants should be in good physical and mental health and feel comfortable keeping pace with a group. All tours require a certain degree of physical activity, such as walking and getting on and off ships, planes, buses, or other vehicles. Activity levels will vary based on the destination and itinerary. Extreme variations in altitude, temperature, and humidity should be considered when traveling in certain parts of the world and many excursions will involve walking on uneven terrain (e.g., cobblestone streets, hiking trails). Program participants who need special assistance and/or equipment must be accompanied by someone who can provide the required assistance. We recommend that you review the details on the trip website and contact the travel company directly if you have specific concerns or questions about the level of activity involved.
ARE SINGLE ROOMS AVAILABLE?
WHO WILL BE ON THE TOUR?
Many trips will charge a single supplement for those who wish to room alone. On most tours, a limited number of single rooms are available. Single travelers can request to be matched with a roommate to reduce the cost and the tour operator will strive to find a compatible partner to share a room. On a few select tours offered by our tour operators, a single supplement fee is not required.
WashU often shares tours with other universities and organizations that have education-oriented travel programs. This is most common on cruises that can accommodate large numbers of guests. Typically, land-based tours are smaller, with a maximum capacity between 12-30 guests, depending on the tour operator and destination. On these smaller trips, tour operators give us a window of time to offer the trip exclusively to WashU travelers. If we are
If you would like to reserve a space on a trip, please contact the tour operator directly. Contact information is available on our website on the Travel Partner page and on the individual trip detail pages. If you subscribe to our mailing list, you will also find contact information printed on the paper brochures you receive in the mail. Deposits can be made by check or credit card and are required at the time of reservation. Some travel companies will offer a discount if you pay in full upfront. Space is not guaranteed. DO I HAVE TO BE A WASHU ALUM TO PARTICIPATE IN THE TRAVEL PROGRAM?
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Each year, several of our trips feature university faculty members who accompany the tour and share their expertise and insights. Faculty participation is listed in the summarylevel details for the trip on the Upcoming Destinations page. We can only send a faculty member if a minimum number of WashU travelers sign up for a trip. The minimum requirement varies by destination and tour operator. HOW ARE TRIPS PRICED? All tour prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, current exchange rates, and tariffs at the time the tours are arranged. Single occupancy is available on a limited basis for each program at a supplemental charge (unless otherwise noted). Dates, prices, itineraries, and program details are subject to change and revision, but every effort will be made to conduct the tour program as planned and advertised. WHAT DOES THE PRICE OF THE TRIP INCLUDE? The listed price is the starting price per person based on double occupancy. Trips typically include lodging, local transfers to and from the airport and other destinations on the tour, baggage handling, most meals, and sightseeing as specified in the brochure and on the trip
Japan
FAQ s
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details website. Trips do not include passport and visa fees, some gratuities, or personal travel insurance. Airfare varies by program, so please contact the travel company for more information. All pre- and post-trip extensions are offered at an additional charge.
flyer miles, and mileage credit may not be applicable with fares. Please contact the tour operator directly for more information on airfare options.
IS AIRFARE INCLUDED AND IF NOT, HOW DO AIRLINE ARRANGEMENTS WORK?
Cancellation policies vary according to individual tour operator’s policies. Cancellation penalties go into effect after the tour operator has received the deposit, and fees increase as you get closer to the departure date. Please read the terms and conditions for your specific tour and contact the tour operator for more information.
Some tours include airfare. If not, most of our tour operators offer an option to purchase airfare from various cities at an additional cost. You may also make your own arrangements with a preferred airline. If you choose to schedule your own flights, you will be responsible for arranging your own round-trip ground transportation between the destination airport and the hotel. If airfare is included, routings are at the discretion of the tour operator and are based on flight availability and agreements among the air carriers and the tour operator. All special flight requests (specified carriers, routings, and departure/arrival times) may be subject to a deviation fee. Airline flights may not be eligible for upgrades with frequent
WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?
IS TRAVEL SAFE? The WashU Travel Program and each of our tour operators consider the safety of our travelers to be a top priority. We recommend visiting the U.S. Department of State’s Travel Resources website for up-to-date information on travel advisories, passport processing, pre-trip checklists, overseas emergency protocols, and more. Basel, Switzerland
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SHOULD I PURCHASE TRAVEL INSURANCE? We strongly encourage all travelers to purchase trip protection. Travel insurance offers a reasonably priced and convenient way to safeguard your investment in case of unforeseen events before or during your journey. We recommend purchasing insurance for both international and domestic trips. As a service to our travelers, the travel program has partnered with Meyer and Associates to offer various travel protection plans. Insurance is not required but highly recommended, and you are welcome to use any company you like. If you are interested in learning more about the plans Meyer and Associates offers, please visit Travel Insurance Options on our website. If you have questions about the plans or coverage, please call them directly at 866-679-7836 to speak to a licensed professional. Please note that certain insurance features, such as “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage and pre-exiting condition waivers, must be purchased within a specific window of time, typically 10-21 days from the date on your welcome letter. The travel program will send your official trip registration welcome letter to the email address you provide the tour operator when signing up for the trip. If you choose to work with Meyer and Associates, you will need that letter to purchase timesensitive coverage. One of their licensed professionals can provide more details on these offerings.
HOW DO I APPLY FOR OR RENEW A PASSPORT? The U.S. Department of State has detailed information on how to apply for/renew a passport. DO TRIPS SELL OUT? Yes. We have a limited number of spots for each program. If a trip is sold out, you can ask the travel company to be added to the waitlist. In some cases, an additional departure date may be added to accommodate high demand. HOW CAN I GET INFORMATION ABOUT UPCOMING TRIPS? Sign up for our mailing list to start receiving brochures in the mail from our travel partners and periodic emails (6-8 per year) from the travel program. Our travel partners mail trip brochures about 8-10 months before the tour’s departure date. You can request a specific brochure by emailing us at alumni.travel@wustl.edu or calling 314-935-0474. CAN I CALL THE TRAVEL COMPANY DIRECTLY? We encourage you to contact the individual travel companies for specific questions regarding each trip. When you call, please let them know that you are inquiring about a “Washington University in St. Louis” trip.
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T RAVEL PA RTNE RS
We work with some of the most experienced tour operators in the educational travel industry. Please call the tour operator directly for questions about billing, airline seat assignments, or health concerns such as dietary restrictions, allergies, and mobility factors. You can also visit the Travel Partners page of our website for a list of our tour operators and their contact information.
A H I T RAV E L 800-323-7373
LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS 844-931-0045
ARRANGEMENTS ABROAD 800-221-1944
ODYSSEYS UNLIMITED 888-370-6765
CLASSIC ESCAPES 800-627-1244
ORBRIDGE 866-639-0079
G O H AGA N & CO M PA N Y 800-922-3088
R OYA L A D V E N T U R E S 800-453-4754
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“The world is a book and those who don’t travel read o n l y o n e p a g e .” SAINT AUGUSTINE
CO NTACT US AT alumni.travel@wustl.edu 314-935-0474
Mountreax Chillon Castle, Switzerland
TO LEA RN MORE scan the code or visit: TRAVEL.WASHU.EDU