|
CWU 2008 Alumni Exploratory Tour
IRELAND Ancient & Modern
August 26-September 4, 2008
Following 2007’s sold-out tour of Ireland and Scotland, Ireland Ancient & Modern explores the last stronghold of traditional Irish culture in the island’s Southwest along with the dynamic marvel of modern Dublin.
Again led by CWU Professors Virginia and Richard (Moose) Mack, Ireland Ancient and Modern is a one-of-a-kind experience exclusively for CWU alumni, faculty and staff. The trip will be supported by Aisling Tours, a family-run Irish company.
Unbeatable CWU Alumni Price
$3,650 (pp/double occupancy) - Price includes airfare
PROGRAM ITINERARY
Day One: The Shannon
In Shannon, visit the splendid 15th Century Bunratty Castle, a significant stronghold of the O’Brien Clan. From there visit picturesque Adare in County Limerick, one of “Ireland’s prettiest villages.” Spend the afternoon relaxing and acclimating or investigating the Shannon region.
Days Two and Three: The Dingle Peninsula
Journey to the Dingle Peninsula, which until recently was remote from the influence of the modern world and remains a unique storehouse of traditional Irish culture and heritage. It is the perfect place to experience real Irish music and dance, listen to the spoken Irish language and learn of the region’s poetry and literature. End with a visit to the remote Blasket Islands, which were inhabited until 1953.
Day Four: Killarney and County Kerry
John B. Keane wrote “There are only two real kingdoms, the kingdom of God and the kingdom of Kerry.” Spend a day in this glorious region, experiencing firsthand the beauty that inspired Keane to write plays like The Fiel and The Roses of Tralee. Also, visit Killarney National Park and tour the Muckross House and Gardens. Evening events complete the visit to “Keane’s Kingdom”.
Days Five and Six: Kilkenny and Ireland’s Medieval History
Explore some of the most significant medieval sites in Ireland. On the drive to Kilkenny, pass through Tipperary with stops at Holy Cross Abbey and the spectacular Rock of Cashel, originally the seat of the King of Munster before thriving as a religious centre until 1647. Explore medieval Kilkenny with its narrow alleyways or “slips,” dungeon restaurants and majestic castle and cathedral. Stops also include St Canice’s Cathedral and the Black Abbey. In the evening enjoy the city’s splendid pubs and restaurants, several of which are renowned for traditional Irish music sessions.
Days Seven and Eight: Dublin, the Fair City
Travel through County Carlow and stop at the Alamont Gardens, set on the grounds of a magnificent country estate. Then continue into Dublin for two days of in-depth exploration of Ireland’s booming “Fair City,” including walking tours, local experts and visits to sites like Kilmainham Gaol, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity College and the National Museums. An evening activity will be planned to round out this cultural tour of Dublin.
Day Nine
Depart Ireland for Seattle.
INCLUDED FEATURES
Flights: Tourist class airfare from and to Seattle.
Accommodations: 8 nights in 3-4 star hotels/ double occupancy. Additional costs for single occupancy.
Meals:
8 Full Irish breakfasts
4 Evening meals
Ground Transportation: Private Tour bus with own driver/guide
Excursions and Activities: Entrance to sites, scheduled evening activities, speakers and local guides.
Not included: Not included are fees for passports, gratuities, some meals, laundry, alcoholic beverages and items of a strictly personal nature. Surcharges – see below are not included in the price.
Surcharges: Additional fuel surcharges imposed by the air carrier may apply. Additional costs may occur if the rate of exchange increases .05 over the current rate of exchange.
Air transportation: Tickets are issued from Seattle. For changes to the flight itinerary contact Aisling Tours at least 4 months prior to departure. Additional costs may apply.
Extras:
Knowledge and leadership of CWU professors Dr. Virginia and Richard Mack
Consultations with Aisling Tours, LLC prior to departure
Access to local guides, speakers and specialists
Aisling Tours’ strong local ties to Ireland
THE FINE PRINT
Deposits and Payment Schedule:
Nonrefundable deposit of $250/person is due by February 29, 2008
An Installment of $1575.00 is due April 15th, 2008
Final payment of $1825.00 is due May 31st, 2008
Cancellation Policy: The CWU Alumni Association and Aisling Tours, LLC reserve the right to cancel. Participants may cancel until May 31st 2008 and will be refunded payments less the $250.00 deposit. After May 31st, 2008 no refunds will be provided.
Travel Insurance: Travel Insurance will be made available at time of deposit. The purchase of Travel Insurance is optional but highly recommended. Participants will be asked to sign an Aisling Tours, LLC Travel Waiver stating that they received information on travel insurance.
Registration
For more information, please contact Marisa Christian at 509-963-2752 or email her at nielsenm@cwu.edu. You may also register online.
|
