Alumni, family, friends travel
IGS offers four exclusive travel programs to Europe next spring
3:08 p.m., May 30, 2014--The University of Delaware Institute for Global Studies (IGS) has announced four different trips to Europe during spring 2015 as part of the UD Alumni, Family and Friends Travel Program.
This year’s inaugural spring break trip to Paris was such a success that IGS is expanding offerings for 2015.
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Travelers can embark on a journey at the end of March with fellow Blue Hens to Europe, where they can create unforgettable memories in cities that are rated among the top five to visit.
Options in 2015 include:
- “Italy Past and Present” in Rome and Pompeii, Italy
- “A Taste of Tuscany” in Florence, Italy
- “A Brilliant Adventure” in London, England
- “French Markets and Museums” in Paris, France
Each program departs from the Philadelphia International Airport and is priced at $2,950 per person. Included in this price are round-trip flights, airport-to-hotel transfers, hotel accommodations with full breakfast and Internet access, an exclusive opening dinner, site-specific excursions, free time to explore on one’s own, and a celebratory closing dinner with the group.
All programs are organized by the Amy Johnson, IGS deputy director. Johnson, a professor of nursing, veteran study abroad leader and metro expert, was program coordinator and leader on both trips to Paris this spring.
"We were so thrilled at the response by participants on this year's spring trips to Paris, that IGS decided to broaden our portfolio to offer this wonderful opportunity to more alumni, family and friends. The 2015 spring programs will provide participants with unforgettable memories and fun at a variety of locations," said Johnson, who was described as an “enthusiastic, fun, caring and fantastic leader” by 2014 Paris participants.
Rave reviews
The Paris program and its faculty leader were praised by participants:
“It was an amazing experience,” said one, with another adding, “I loved the program. All the tours were very informative. The hotel (especially breakfast) was great.”
One traveler said, “Setting out on our own to discover restaurants, shops and sights not scheduled. We could not have done this without Amy's excellent orientation.”
“This was such a well planned trip from beginning to end; I am rethinking the whole idea of group travel,” one said, with another adding, “Hoping I am able to go on your next trip! Thank you a million times!”
Perhaps the greatest compliment came from a participant who appreciated the opportunity to engage with other alumni. (More than 60 percent of program participants were UD alumni.) “Thank you for organizing this program for UD folks! In addition to the fun time, it also gave us a chance to meet some other Delawareans, with UD in common, that will likely remain longtime friends.”
Book early
With such sentiments in mind, UD alumni and all members of the University community are encouraged to take advantage of IGS travel opportunities next year. As programs filled early for Paris 2014, interested parties are encouraged to explore options and reserve their spots soon.
Also, information about a 2015 summer program to Peru will be coming soon.
About the Institute for Global Studies
The Institute for Global Studies was created in 2009 to enhance the international dimensions of teaching, research and outreach at the University of Delaware. IGS provides leadership and support for programs and experiences that contribute to the education of informed, skilled, open-minded citizens of the world.
Best known for coordinating the University’s study abroad program, IGS also awards scholarships and grants to faculty and students for myriad global opportunities, administers internationally-recognized programs such as the MEPI (Middle East Partnership Initiative) Student Leaders Institute, and sponsors such signature events as International Education Week each fall and country-specific celebrations each spring.
IGS collaborates with other global partners on campus, including the Office for International Students and Scholars, the Confucius Institute and the Center for Global and Area Studies.
Article by Elizabeth Adams