Beginning in Florence, where Dante was born in 1265, spend three days discovering the cathedrals and palaces, built by Brunelleschi and Alberti and decorated by Donatello, Giotto, and Michelangelo, that have earned the city the title of "birthplace of the Renaissance." In stark contrast to Florence, Ravenna, the main center of Eastern Orthodox influence in Italy, is very much a Byzantine city whose magnificent basilicas and numerous public monuments are decorated with stunning mosaics that Dante described as "a symphony in color." During three days here, discover a wealth of Byzantine art a

Discover beloved Provence, nestled between the Rhone and the Mediterranean, on this 12-day small group journey par excellence.  A three-night stay in charming Aix-en-Provence offers a quintessential Provençal experience, from an excursion to the scenic Luberon region, including a Renaissance château and picturesque Roussillon, to visiting Cézanne’s studio and dinner and a tasting at a winery.  In the rugged Camargue, explore historic Arles, experience life at a traditional ranch, and see the region’s iconic pink flamingos.  After touring medieval Aigues-Mortes, witness the im

From city to country, loch to glen, encounter breathtaking natural beauty, a colorful past, and a cosmopolitan present on this sweet small group journey.  The 12-day Scottish sojourn begins with a two-night stay in vibrant Glasgow.  Enjoy a tour highlighting the city’s distinct architecture, and a private tour of historic Pollok House.  Setting out next for the scenic Highlands and stays in Fort William and quaint Brora, stop at bonnie Loch Lomond and dramatic Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most beautiful spots.  Embark on a stunning Isle of Skye excursion and a boat ride on

Awe-inspiring natural beauty and outdoor adventure await as your small group explores the varied landscapes and noteworthy cities of Alaska, America’s Last Frontier, on this superlative 11-day journey.  Setting out by deluxe railcar, encounter Denali National Park’s stunning wilderness during a three-night stay.  Hike through the park’s tundra, visit an Iditarod sled dog kennel, and attend a show at the Denali Dinner Theater.  After a scenic flight deep into remote Wrangell-St.

The Duke Lemur Center has been working in Madagascar for 30 years and we will have access to Duke connected conservation projects and people. This trip is perfect for first time Madagascar visitors as well as for those returning to Madagascar for a second or third trip! Madagascar is home to all of the world’s lemurs (some 100+ species) and over half of the world’s chameleons, in addition to more than 170 species of frogs. Every year scientists discover new species of plants and animals in Madagascar’s deserts and forests.
 

Discover why Iceland is known as the “land of fire and ice” on a voyage to the remote fjords and volcanic isles along the country's western coast. Venture across the stark landscape of an island formed by volcanic eruptions, where the ground is still warmed by geothermal activity. Set out by Zodiac from National Geographic Resolution to view towering cliffs teeming with nesting seabirds and snow-capped plateaus rising into the clouds. Explore the legacy of Viking explorers and intrepid fishermen as you visit historic villages.