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Fireside Chat with Cal Alum Sabrina Ramonov

Oct 7th 2026 at 3:00 pm
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Grand Danube Passage: Sofia to Prague 2026

October 11 - 26, 2026
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A dramatic solar eclipse shows the dark moon covering the sun, with a bright burst of light and a glowing ring around its edge.

Total Solar Eclipse: Observed in the Ancient Land of Algeria

Witness one of the longest total solar eclipses of the 21st century from a prime location in Timgad, Algeria, a remarkably preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Pompeii of North Africa." On August 2, 2027, the moon’s shadow will sweep across the sky here for nearly six minutes of totality, offering an extraordinary celestial spectacle under Algeria’s typically clear late-summer skies. Before and after this rare event, trace millennia of history at superbly preserved Roman and early Christian sites, wander atmospheric cities shaped by Arab, Berber, Ottoman, and French influences, and savor the flavors of North Africa in a country few travelers have truly explored.NOTE: This itinerary is designed first and foremost as a journey of cultural immersion and destination-focused learning, with eclipse viewing included as a special highlight.

The image shows the Sphinx and the Great Pyramid of Giza under a vibrant blue sky with golden clouds, conveying a sense of ancient grandeur and mystery. The Great Sphinx, Giza

Egypt & the Eternal Nile

Travel through the heart of ancient Egypt with an expert Egyptian guide, tracing a timeless route from vibrant Cairo and the Great Pyramids to Abu Simbel and the Upper Nile. Cruise across Lake Nasser through the old Nubian homeland, then follow the classic course of the Nile from Aswan to Luxor before returning to Cairo, taking in monumental temples, desert landscapes, and unforgettable riverside scenes along the way.

Hadrian’s Gate stone arches framing a turquoise coastline and sandy beach in Antalya.

Legendary Türkiye from Istanbul to the Turquoise Coast

Savor the rich tapestry of Türkiye, where fascinating sights, scents, and sounds fill a land bridging Europe and Asia. From Istanbul, the magnificent “Empress of the World,” to evocative ancient ruins, dramatic landscapes, and the legendary Turquoise Coast, this small-group journey weaves together history, culture, and coastal beauty in unforgettable ways.

Traditional Japanese castle building framed by cherry blossoms in Kanazawa, Japan.

Insider’s Japan II 2027

Set out on a well-crafted journey through Japan, where delicate art meets high-speed modernity and centuries-old traditions live alongside neon streetscapes. From Tokyo and Kyoto to the atmospheric towns of Takayama and Kanazawa, this small-group itinerary blends iconic highlights with encounters in local neighborhoods, historic districts, and timeless cultural rituals.

Group of giraffes standing in a dry savanna at sunset beneath dramatic clouds.

Classic Safari: Kenya and Tanzania

Experience the magic of safari in two of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife regions as you travel with a small group through Kenya and Tanzania. From sweeping grasslands to volcanic highlands, encounter iconic species, ancient landscapes, and Masai homelands while staying in comfortable, well-situated lodges close to the action.

Sea Cloud Spirit yacht

The Luxurious Caribbean Sea 2027

Set sail on a windjammer Caribbean adventure aboard a chartered, deluxe three-masted yacht. Cruise from St. Maarten to Curaçao, stopping at six unique islands. Explore pristine beaches, lush forests, and vibrant tropical towns. Marvel at volcanic spires, hot springs, and a drive-in volcano. Behold exotic flora, fauna, and breathtaking island vistas.

Overhead view of a gray whale just beneath the surface, its long body and tail visible through clear teal water with sunlight glinting on the waves.

Baja California: Among the Great Whales

SPECIAL 20% GROUP SAVINGS: Save 20% on cabin fare when traveling with the California Alumni Association/Cal Discoveries Travel on this departure (conditions apply).Explore Baja California’s pristine coastlines and living sea in search of dolphins, sea lions, and as many as five different varieties of whales. Board local pangas and enter sheltered lagoons for up-close encounters with California gray whale mothers and their newborn calves. Witness an undersea wonderland, serene desert isles, and the most beautiful sunsets on Earth. Hike through towering cacti and up striking desert canyons or take a slow photo stroll along the shore.

A body of water with flowers and boats in it Portoferraio, Elba Island, Italy

Rivieras of France & Italy

Experience the allure of sailing the sparkling Mediterranean under the billowing white sails of the Wind Spirit. Immerse yourself in the best of the French and Italian Rivieras, from Rome along the sparkling Mediterranean coastline to such iconic destinations as Monaco, Portofino and Cinque Terre and on to the legendary Cote d’Azur.Early booking and full payment discounts may be available.

The magnificent fort of the Kasbah Ait Benhaddou. The magnificent fort of the Kasbah Ait Benhaddou

Moroccan Discovery from the Imperial Cities to the Sahara 2026

This land of dramatic contrasts invites us to encounter its ancient ruins and sacred mosques, endless desert and storied mountains, imposing kasbahs and spirited souks. As we travel from the imperial cities of Rabat, Fez, and Marrakech to the High Atlas and vast Sahara, we open our eyes and hearts, to a truly foreign land, an age-old culture, and genuinely hospitable people.

Adult female leopard seal (Hydrurga leptonyx) with Lindblad Expedition guests at Brown Bluff near the Antarctic Peninsula, Southern Ocean. Female leopard seal with Lindblad Expedition guests. Photo credit: Michael S. Nolan

Antarctica Direct: Fly the Drake Passage

SPECIAL 10% GROUP SAVINGS: Save 10% on cabin fare when traveling with the California Alumni Association/Cal Discoveries Travel on this departure (conditions apply).Experience the wild beauty of Antarctica with a faster, more efficient journey—flying over the Drake Passage. Then board an expedition cruise ship to explore dramatic glaciers, spot amazing wildlife, kayak among icebergs, and capture unforgettable moments alongside a National Geographic photographer and expert expedition team.

Male great frigatebird (Fregata minor) in breeding plumage. wiht vibrant red chest puffed up

Exploring Galápagos Aboard National Geographic Endeavour II

SPECIAL GROUP SAVINGS: Save 5% on cabin fare when traveling with the California Alumni Association/Cal Discoveries Travel on this departure (conditions apply).Experience the Galápagos aboard an elegant and nimble ship, well-equipped for up-close exploration. Encounter abundant wildlife—blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, Darwin’s finches, pink flamingos, giant tortoises and more—all famously unafraid of human presence.

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