Alumni Campus Abroad: Provence

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Approximately $2,495 per person, plus airfare and V.A.T., based on double occupancy.

Operated by Alumni Holidays International (AHI)

Discover the treasures of magical Provence—a land of colorful sunflowers and fields of lavender, lush vineyards and charming towns. Stroll through colorful markets where the stalls are brimming with local arts and crafts. Learn about wine and olive oil production, and enjoy some of the finished products. Immerse yourself in the artistic tradition of Provence while walking in the footsteps of van Gogh and Cézanne. Your base from which to explore this land of enchantment is Aix-en-Provence, a lovely town of impressive architecture, sun-drenched promenades and fashionable shops. Discover the villages of Les Luberon, view the impressive ruins at Arles and visit delightful Les Baux. Marvel at the magnificent palace at Avignon and the amazing Pont du Gard. Join us on this travel experience that promises to be magnifique!

ITINERARY

DAY ONE
Depart your gateway city for Marseille, France, aboard scheduled jet service. (Provided for Air Program participants only.)

DAY TWO
Upon arrival, transfer to Aix-en-Provence and the Grand Hôtel Roi René. (Transfer provided for Air Program participants only.)

Tonight, gather with fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception and Dinner at the hotel.

DAY THREE
Educational Focus: An Introduction to Provence.

Excursion: Aix-en-Provence.
Set out on a walking tour to explore this historic capital of the Provence region. Its main street, Cours Mirabeau, is one of the most beautiful in Europe.

Independent Exploration: Spend some time on your own in Aix.

Local Flavor: Lunch is served at a restaurant in Aix.

Local Flavor: Dinner is served at a restaurant in Aix.

DAY FOUR
Excursion: Le Luberon.
The Lubéron is well off the beaten path in a protected and picturesque mountain region. See ancient churches, towering fortresses and charming hilltop villages, such as Bonnieux and Roussillon, clinging to the rocky cliffs. Then, visit the Abbaye de Sénanque.

Local Flavor: Savor lunch at a local restaurant.

Local Flavor: Enjoy a country-style buffet dinner at the charming Chateau d’Arnajon.

DAY FIVE
Educational Focus: The Art of Provence.

Excursion: Arles and Les Baux.
Begin your tour with a visit to the Museum of Ancient Arles. See the ancient amphitheater of Les Arènes and stroll through the old town. Afterward, travel to Les Baux. Its cobbled streets, tiny squares, ancient fortress and chapels, offer a glimpse of medieval life.

Local Flavor: Lunch is served at a local restaurant in Arles.

DAY SIX
Educational Focus: The Religious and Political History of Avignon.

Excursion: Avignon and the Pont du Gard. Explore the impressive Palais des Papes, a fortress-like medieval masterpiece on the banks of the Rhône River. Then, see the remarkable Pont du Gard, a threetiered aqueduct built by the Romans in 19 B.C. as part of a 30-mile canal to supply water to the town of Nîmes.

Independent Exploration: Enjoy lunch and time at leisure in Avignon.

DAY SEVEN
Excursion: Walk in the Footsteps of Cézanne.
Cézanne found inspiration for many paintings in and around Aix. Visit his studio and view Mont Ste-Victoire, a favorite landscape subject.

Local Flavor: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Educational Focus: Meet the People.

DAY EIGHT
Educational Focus: Contemporary France.

Independent Exploration: The day is at leisure to explore the colorful open-air market in Aix-en-Provence or pursue your own interests.

This evening, join your friends for a Farewell Reception, Graduation Ceremony and Farewell Dinner.

DAY NINE
After breakfast, transfer to the Marseille airport for the return flight(s) to your gateway city.