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Travel Opportunities

UWF Alumni Association Travel Program

Travel the world with your fellow Argos! Learn, discover and explore the world on tours coordinated by the experts at Collette Travel.


Upcoming Group Travel Itineraries

A whale jumps out of the water in Alaska

Alaska Discovery Land & Cruise
September 9-20, 2026*

Traverse the Pacific coast by land and sea aboard one of Holland America Cruise Lines’ lovely ships on a breathtaking journey that takes you from Alaska to Vancouver, British Columbia. Cruise the Sternwheeler Discovery and encounter Alaska’s diverse culture and rich history. Enjoy local dishes and a lively musical performance at the Denali Dinner Theater about the first brave men to summit Denali. Ride a luxury domed railcar from Denali to Talkeetna, soak in views of the incredible landscapes from glass-ceiling railcars and open-air observation platforms as guides provide expert commentary. Travel deep into Denali National Park for the best opportunities to view the region’s wildlife. Cruise through Endicott Arm fjord and the Inside Passage, taking in rugged natural wonders. Explore Alaska’s gorgeous capital, Juneau. Visit Ketchikan, the “Salmon Capital of the World.” This is Alaska as you always imagined.

12 days, 26 meals

Activity Level 1: This means you’re a leisurely traveler. You typically take it easy and discover the energy of a new place by people-watching or soaking in the atmosphere at a local café. You can climb at least one flight of stairs, board a coach, and walk unassisted at a relaxed pace for up to 60 minutes without difficulty. You can easily handle altitudes up to 5,000 feet.

Pricing:
Inside double: $6249
Inside single: $8449

*The departure date for this itinerary has been pushed from September 2 to September 9 due to a ship change. Thank you for your understanding and we apologize for any inconvenience.

***WAITLIST AVAILABLE***

Learn More About the Alaska Itinerary


Snow covered field in Finland with the northern lights up above

The Northern Lights of Finland
January 14-21, 2027 

Hunt for the elusive northern lights and discover fascinating Finland, from Lapland to Helsinki, “Daughter of the Baltic.” Come to know Finnish culture and history on a tour of Helsinki with a local expert. Savor the local cuisine in Helsinki’s restaurants. Experience rugged Lapland during a 3-night stay in the north of Finland. Overnight surrounded by wilderness in a glass igloo and a Finnish log cabin. Embark on a reindeer safari with a local herder. Mush yourself to breakfast in your own Finnish sleigh and lead your own dog sled team. One dynamic experience follows another on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure through Finland.

8 days, 12 meals

Activity Level 3: You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced two-and-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.

Pricing:
Double Occupancy: $6649
Single Occupancy: $7649

Learn More About the Finland Itinerary


Tourists in front of the busy red Asakusa Kannon Temple in Tokyo Japan

Cultural Treasures of Japan
February 28 - March 13, 2027

Immerse yourself in the ancient and modern cultures of Japan. Learn the art of gold leaf decorating and stand before the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine. Tour Matsumoto Castle, known as the “Crow Castle” for its black exterior. Taste legendary Hida beef and sip sake at a local brewery. Delve into Kyoto, the marvelous cultural capital of Japan. Board the Shinkansen “bullet” train to travel to Hiroshima to visit Shrine Island and the Peace Memorial Museum. Absorb the beauty of the Golden Pavilion and the majesty of Nijo Castle. Japan slowly draws you into its eclectic culture and charm, revealing incredible moments every step of the way.

14 days, 18 meals

Activity Level 3: You’re an on-the-go traveller. You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced 2.5 hour walking tour, covering several kilometres, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem. Walking 6 km over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travellers who require mobility assistance devices.

Pricing:
Double Occupancy: $8349
Single Occupancy: $9349

Learn More About the Japan Itinerary


View of the inside of the Coliseum showcasing the entire area with a picturesque blue sky in the background

Treasures of Europe
March 11-24, 2027

Set your sights on the European journey of a lifetime and discover all the must-sees of England, France, Switzerland, and Italy. See the incredible sights of London, from Buckingham Palace to Big Ben. Take the Eurostar train to Paris and personalize your stay by touring the “City of Lights” on a relaxed panoramic drive or on a walking tour of the hilltop Montmartre district. Take in breathtaking views from your dinner table aboard a Parisian riverboat. Board a high-speed train bound for Lucerne, the enchanting Swiss city on a cobalt lake and one of Switzerland’s most beautiful places. In Venice, discover a floating city where iconic landmarks of centuries-old history line canals dotted with gondolas. Tour Florence, the “Cradle of the Renaissance.” Finally, in Rome, bask in cultural treasures and envelop yourself in the history of the “Eternal City,” which includes a visit to the Sistine Chapel. Storied history, mouthwatering cuisine, and iconic landscapes await.

14 days, 17 meals

Activity Level 3: This means you’re an on-the-go traveler. You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced two-and-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces that may be slippery, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation. You can climb three flights of stairs easily. Expect leisurely mornings with some late nights balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.

Pricing:
Double Occupancy: $7199
Single Occupancy: $8249

Learn More About the Europe Itinerary


Upper bust of the Green New York City Statue of Liberty with the blue sky in the background

Spotlight on New York City
March 22-26, 2027 

Featuring Hamilton: An American Musical

Experience the best of the "Big Apple” in this spectacular tour. From Rockefeller Center to Greenwich Village, New York City is a destination that will dazzle even the most seasoned traveler. Spend four nights in the heart of Midtown close to Central Park and Times Square. Take your seat and watch the curtain rise for two exciting Broadway shows. Ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. See the Empire State Building and Central Park. Visit the poignant 9/11 Museum and 9/11 Memorial. Enjoy plenty of free time to shop and explore this fabulous city on your own. Get ready to “start spreading the news!”

5 days, 5 meals

Activity Level3: You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced two-and-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.

Pricing:
Double Occupancy: $2849
Single Occupancy: $3249

Learn More About the NYC Itinerary


City view sunset of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona Spain

Journey through Spain: Madrid to Barcelona
April 17-27, 2027

Embark on a Spanish adventure as you take in medieval architecture, idyllic landscapes, and delectable cuisine. Marvel at the Prado Museum, a treasure trove of European masterpieces. Stand in awe before the majestic Cathedral of Seville, the world's third-largest cathedral. Feel the fiery passion of Flamenco with reserved seating at an electrifying show. Wander through the enchanting Alhambra palace, a realm of exotic beauty and grandeur. Treat yourself to an authentic paella feast, bursting with flavors. Be captivated by Antoni Gaudí’s architectural wonders in Barcelona, including the iconic La Sagrada Familia. Immerse yourself in Spain's rich tapestry of art, history, and culture, all set against the stunning backdrop of sun-kissed Mediterranean shores and towering mountain ranges.

11 days, 14 meals

Activity Level 3: You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced two-and-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.

Pricing:
Double Occupancy: $6199
Single Occupancy: $7299

Learn More About the Spain Itinerary


Previous Itineraries

Iceland's Magical Northern Lights | February-March 2025

Argos ventured to the “land of fire and ice” to chase the famed northern lights. There was plenty of sightseeing at the “Golden Circle,” home to renowned natural wonders, Thingvellir National Park, the Gullfoss waterfall, black volcanic sand beaches and the geothermal fields at Geysir. Our alumni learned about the history of Iceland at the Skógar Museum where they explored the exhibits and viewed traditional turf-built homes. They took in awe-inspiring views at Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs and relaxed in the warm, mineral-rich water of the Blue Lagoon.

"Going to Iceland to see the Northern Lights was a bucket list trip for me and my husband. After hearing about how much fun everyone was having on these group trips, we booked the Iceland itinerary with our friends who are also UWF alumni. It was everything we dreamed of and more! Traveling with Collette was a breeze - they handled all of our transportation, hotels and excursion reservations. We packed so much into a 7-day trip! My favorite part of the trip was visiting the unforgettable Diamond Beach and learning all about Iceland’s incredible volcanoes. We were able to share once-in-a-lifetime experiences with other Argos from across the country. I would highly recommend booking an itinerary with the Alumni Association and Collette for your next vacation." - Whitney Fike, UWF alumni

Sunny Portugal | February 2025

Argos traveled from Portuguese Capital, Lisbon to the sunny cliffs of the Algarve and Portuguese Riviera, explored Evora, a medieval city with Roman ruins, and enjoyed a leisurely 3-night stay in the Algarve region. It was an unforgettable getaway featuring sandy beaches and classic fishing villages, local food and wine, resort towns, winding cobblestone streets, oceanfront promenades and quaint villages.

"We had a great time exploring the South of Portugal! Collette travel provided an excellent tour guide who was incredibly knowledgeable and took great interest in making sure that our experience was top notch. We enjoyed locally led tours where we were immersed in the culture and cuisine, quaint villages with the most beautiful architecture, a Roman temple that was breathtaking, and the coastline that left us in awe. From the Fado night in Lisbon to the wonderful dinners paired with wine in the quaint villages, we enjoyed it all! For many of us, this was our first time experiencing group travel. The coordination was seamless and to be able to just show up and leave all the driving, planning, and coordination to someone else was a real vacation!! The overall experience was fantastic, and all our group would travel with UWF/Collette again!" - Karen Emmons, UWF alumni

Magical Christmas Markets | December 2024

Travelers had the opportunity to experience the magical Christmas markets in Austria and Germany, an unforgettable journey filled with festive charm and timeless traditions! They explored centuries-old markets, enjoyed a traditional Tyrolean dinner show, and even took a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy landscapes of Seefeld.

"My trip to the Magical Christmas Markets in Austria and Germany was filled with festive cheer and rich traditions. I explored centuries-old Christmas markets, participated in a traditional Tyrolean dinner show, and glided through snowy landscapes on a horse-drawn sleigh in the Alpine village of Seefeld. From the streets of Innsbruck to dinner at St. Peter’s restaurant in Salzburg, each moment captured the spirit of the season. The twinkling lights, cultural charm, and festive atmosphere made it a trip to remember! This was my first experience being part of a tour group, and it made the trip easy by handling the daily plans, while still allowing plenty of free time to explore and enjoy at my own pace." - Christy Rogers

Tropical Costa Rica | June 2024

Alumni and guests went on an action-packed trip to Costa Rica this past June including a riverboat adventure in the 20,000-acre Cano Negro nature preserve, zip lining and walking across hanging bridges in the forest canopy. Stops included Monteverde and Playa Carrillo. Breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano, a snorkeling excursion and a dolphin cruise made this a vacation to remember!

"My trip to Costa Rica with Collette was simply wonderful.  I did not have to worry about ANYTHING because everything was handled by Collette (flight, hotel, most meals, most excursions, transportation, etc.). They answered most of my questions before I could ask (via email, website, onsite, etc.).  I will now do all my personal travel through Collette because they make it so easy at a very reasonable price." - Dree Jenkins, UWF alumni

British Landscapes | May 2024

UWF alumni embarked on a memorable journey to the United Kingdom this past May. They explored Edinburgh, Scotland, including its iconic castle and the historic Royal Mile. They ventured to the ancient roman fortress at Vindolanda and walked along Hadrian’s Wall. In addition, they explored the medieval cities of York and Chester, admired the picturesque countryside of Llangollen in Wales, and visited Shakespeare’s birthplace. Their itinerary also included Oxford, where they discovered the oldest university in the UK. Wrapping up their trip in London, they marveled at Big Ben, Westminster, the Houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace. They devoted hours to exploring the Tower of London and admiring the Crown Jewels. 

Northern Italy and Its Lakes | April 2024

Our UWF group took in the essence of Northern Italy during a leisurely 4-night stay on the shores of Lake Maggiore. They visited Lake Como, Sirmione and Treviso before heading to Venice.

"The trip to the Northern Lakes of Italy was nothing short of a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The organization from UWF and from Collette made the whole experience seamless and stress free. The food, the travel plans, it all was done so well. I simply just showed up to have a good time. I cannot express properly how nice it was for arrangements to already be made on my behalf. Flights were booked, hotel reservations were made, and transportation was all set up. I didn't have to worry about how I was getting places in a place where I didn't speak the language. This allowed me to really take in the sights and experiences Italy had to offer. The app Collette has is user friendly and such a great touch. This allowed me to see the itinerary, my travel plans, and phone numbers to call in case I needed assistance. I felt taken care of! Thank you UWF and Collette for providing memories I will never forget!" - Sierra, UWF Alumni

Irish Splendor | March 2023

Argos took the trip of a lifetime to Ireland in our very first itinerary offering through the Collette group travel program. There was so much interest, the trip sold out twice over! A total of 39 alumni and guests in two tour groups traveled all over Ireland, visiting medieval castles, stunning vistas and even the famous Guinness factory. Everyone is already talking about where they want to go in 2024. Go Argos!

Questions?

If you have questions, please contact Teresa Burgess at 850.474.2423 or email alumni@uwf.edu.