The Art of Living PROVENCE

Transcription

1 The Art of Living PROVENCE QUEEN'S UNIVERSITY ALUMNI EDUCATIONAL TRAVEL MARCH 31-APRIL 29, 2017

2 PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS > Groups are limited to 36 travellers to maximize your travel experience. > Enjoy four weeks accommodations in the heart of Aix-en-Provence; includes cable television and broadband Internet access. > Enjoy an in-depth walking tour of Aix-en-Provence led by an expert guide. > Embark on included group excursions to the Luberon Valley, Marseille, Avignon and Arles and Les Baux. > Taste regional wines and discover Provençal cuisine during French cooking classes. > Customize your journey by joining one, two or three Elective Activities. > Experience life abroad as you equip yourself to live independently in France. Avignon Active Travel for Cultural Explorers This program is moderately paced with a good balance of included activities and excursions and time to explore on your own. Travellers should be physically fit, able to walk distances of up to five kilometres and navigate stairs, hills and uneven terrain. Our International Explorations programs are not for the average tourist. They are designed to give curious travellers an extended, customizable experience abroad. With an itinerary that takes you to must-see sites as well as off-thebeaten-path treasures, you can enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime introduction to the Art of Living in unparalleled destinations. These unique journeys are limited to 36 travellers and feature four weeks first-class apartment-style accommodations with modern amenities.

3 Dear Fellow Alumni and Friends, You re invited to join other Tricolour Travellers and spend four weeks in vibrant and historic Aix-en-Provence, the cultural heart of southern France where ancient monuments mingle with cozy cafés and fascinating museums, all bathed in the dazzling light of Provence. From my own experience in Aix, this is an area that should be on everyone s list of journeys! Whether or not this is your first time living abroad, with exclusive accommodations in a modern, fully furnished aparthotel near Aix s Old Town, just a short walk from the famed Cours Mirabeau, you will quickly feel right at home. Our itinerary explores greater Provence with included excursions to the Luberon, the setting for Peter Mayle s modern classic A Year in Provence, as well as Marseille, Avignon, and Arles and Les Baux. The region will seduce you with its urban charm, wonderful restaurants, and tranquil atmosphere. Take advantage of included events, such as French cuisine cooking classes, a wine tasting and a scenic hike to connect with the people and culture of Provence. Broaden your experience further with Elective Experiences, including language classes, art classes, and unique Active Provence activities. Enjoy the camaraderie of travelling with a group and, during your ample free time, feel the thrill of making your own discoveries. Space is limited, so call to place your reservation today! Cha Gheill! Melanie McEwen, Artsci 87 Manager, Alumni Education & Travel Queen's University queens.ahitravel.com Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

4 Provence. The very name conjures images of idyllic days of dazzling light illuminating the countryside s lush olive groves and sloping vineyards. It was the colourful scenery and light of Provence that enraptured artists such as Cézanne, Chagall and van Gogh. On this unique journey, step off the beaten path and experience Provence as few travellers have before. Explore the picturesque, lavender-scented countryside at your own pace. Dine in restaurants that no tourist could hope to stumble upon. Stroll the elegant cobblestone streets on your way to a bustling outdoor market. Linger in mediaeval hilltop villages, sip wine among the rolling vineyards and immerse yourself in the Provençal way of life. At the end of your month stay, you will come away with new friends and memories for a lifetime. Markets of Delight Les marchés, street markets, are a big part of life in Aix. Locals arrive daily to purchase produce from farmers, mingle with neighbours and catch up on gossip. The markets generally open at 8 a.m. and close in the early afternoon. Aix s specialty markets are open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Place des Prêcheurs and Place de la Madeleine have terrific food markets, where you ll find fruit and vegetables, herbs, cheese, olives and cured meats. Sunflowers, roses and potted olive trees fill the flower market at Place de l Hôtel de Ville. And don t miss the antiques and flea market. While shopping, the general rule is ne touchez pas, don t touch. Rather, point and let the vendors, some of whom may speak a little English, serve you. They ll tally your bill on a scrap of paper and hand it to you. Palace of the Popes, Avignon UNESCO The Pont du Gard, Historic Centre of Avignon and the Arles, Roman and Romanesque Monuments are three of France s UNESCO World Heritage sites featured in this program.

5 St. Sauveur Cathedral, Aix ITINERARY Day 1~Friday IN TRANSIT Depart for Marseille, France. A A Provided for AHI FlexAir participants. AIX-EN-PROVENCE Day 2~Saturday Arrive in Marseille and transfer A to Aix-en-Provence and the Adagio Aix-en-Provence Centre. Settle into your new home. Then, gather for a briefing to ensure you are fully informed about the program. Enjoy an orientation tour of Aix and locate the nearby shops and other essentials. Tonight, gather with fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception and Dinner. Day 3~Sunday Attend a lecture on the history of Provence, and explore Aix during a walking tour. Dine on regional flavours during lunch. Days 4-8 Monday-Friday Each Monday through Friday, experience Aix through included excursions, participation in ELECTIVE EXPERIENCES and the joy of making your own discoveries. This Monday, students begin their ELECTIVE language classes. In the evening, savour dinner with new friends. Tuesday invites you to learn about Provence s history and culture followed by a tasting of red, white and rosé wines. On Wednesday, discover landscapes lush with cherry trees and vineyards during a guided hike through Aix s beautiful environs. Kick off each weekend with a Friday night mixer at a local café, where you can engage in lively conversation with your fellow travellers. The first drink is on us! Days 9-10 Saturday-Sunday Enjoy free time to explore Aix and its surroundings. Art students participate in the first of two ELECTIVE art classes on Saturday afternoon. On Sunday, travel to the picturesque Luberon region. Visit a lively market in Isle-sur-la- Sorgue, explore the red-ochre village of Roussillon and visit Gordes, a pretty hilltop town. Days Monday-Friday On Monday, ELECTIVE language classes resume. Learn about the region s artistic legacy during a lecture about the art of Provence, and gather for dinner. Tuesday, experience the first of two French cuisine cooking classes with your group, followed by a dinner of local flavours. On Wednesday, participants in the ELECTIVE Active Provence activity navigate the Provençal countryside on electric bikes, and art students embrace their creativity during a second ELECTIVE art class. Thursday all travellers enjoy Luberon Valley

6 La Rotonde fountain, Aix a lunch of French cuisine. Then, join your group for a drink and merriment on Friday. Days Saturday-Sunday The weekend is free to explore Aix. Buy fresh produce at the street market, visit boutiques or journey beyond Aix. Days Monday-Friday On Monday, ELECTIVE language classes resume. In the afternoon, contemplate history at the Cézanne Studio. Tuesday, discover French cuisine during a second French cooking experience, followed by a dinner of savoury fare. On Wednesday, travel to Avignon to explore the impressive Palace of the Popes and Old Palace. After lunch in Avignon, visit Pont du Gard, the inspiring Roman aqueduct. Thursday, share your Aix experiences and adventures with friends over a delicious lunch. Toast the week with a drink and camaraderie Friday night. Days Saturday-Sunday Continue to explore Provence and its surroundings. Saturday morning, participants of the ELECTIVE Active Provence activity join a guide for a hike featuring lovely country vistas. On Sunday, travel to the bustling city of Marseille and uncover highlights of its vibrant Old Port. Days Monday-Thursday ELECTIVE language classes resume on Monday. Pont du Gard Gather with fellow travellers for lunch on Monday and, on Tuesday, enjoy a group dinner. On Wednesday, explore the ancient monuments and fascinating Roman ruins of Arles and Les Baux. Day 29~Friday Visit your favourite spots one last time during your final day in Aix-en-Provence. In the evening, celebrate your adventure at a festive Farewell Reception and Dinner. Day 30~Saturday IN TRANSIT After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the return flight to your gateway city. A Note: Days without specified activities are spent at leisure or on programs as part of the Elective Experiences. Itinerary sequence or scheduled events may change. Elective Experiences available at an additional cost

7 YOUR INDIVIDUAL EXPERIENCE The Art of Living ~ Provence offers increased choice and personalized experiences. The main program features the included excursions detailed in your itinerary, but you also may choose to enrich your experience by adding one or more of the ELECTIVE EXPERIENCES, which let you customize your adventure based on your interests. This program offers three ELECTIVE EXPERIENCES to suit a variety of curious travellers: ELECTIVE EXPERIENCES At an additional cost 1LANGUAGE This track includes 15 three-hour French language classes held at a language school near your aparthotel. Classes are typically small and tailored to your skill level, guaranteeing individual attention and a comfortable progression through the lessons. The school can accommodate beginning, intermediate and advanced students. Leading your language classes will be a professional teacher who uses an established curriculum and teaching methods. The focus of your classes will be on oral communication. Using the immersion method, your teacher will provide instruction in French only. This may seem daunting at first, but soon you will find this a natural way of learning as your ears become attuned to listening to French. You will be surprised how much and how quickly you can learn this way! $895 per person 2ART CLASSES Provence s picturesque setting may feel as if you are immersed in the colours of an impressionist s canvas. The beauty, scenery and light of this region inspired many 19th- and 20th-century painters such as Cézanne, van Gogh, Monet, Renoir and Dufy. Matisse described the area s luminescent light as, soft and tender. To take advantage of this luminary brilliance, we have arranged a two-part series of art classes with an English-speaking art teacher. You will test your artistic talents, learn new skills through a variety of media, and create one-of-a-kind mementos of your stay in Provence. $140 per person 3ACTIVE PROVENCE Outside the city, cypress trees, vineyards and lavender fields provide a fairy-tale backdrop for hiking and biking. Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in this two-part Active Provence activity that includes a guided hike and an electric bike ride. Guided Hike: Join an experienced guide for a hike in the country. While stretching your legs and breathing fresh Provençal air, you will be surrounded with beautiful panoramas of Montagne Sainte- Victoire. You will also see sites where Cézanne set up his easel! Electric Bike Ride: The adventure begins with a detailed lesson in how to operate your electric bike. Then, you will ride through the countryside to Vauvenargue, a village where Picasso once lived and is now buried. Enjoy the freedom of coasting along a scenic and idyllic country road. $135 per person All prices listed are in USD.

8 ACCOMMODATIONS ADAGIO AIX-EN- PROVENCE CENTRE AIX-EN-PROVENCE This exciting French immersion experience is grounded in comfort and convenience. Your home away from home is on a peaceful street in the centre of Aix-en-Provence. Newly renovated, modern and stylish, the aparthotel building is a short stroll from the fountains and cafés of Cours Mirabeau. Groceries, bakeries, a pharmacy and other convenience stores are located just around the corner. The well-equipped studios and apartments all feature satellite TV, broadband Internet access and a kitchen with a cooktop, a microwave oven, dishwasher, an electric coffeemaker and tableware. Best of all, you will have access to many services, including a 24-hour reception desk, weekly cleaning service, a self-service laundry and dry cleaning services. This is a unique opportunity to combine independence with easy support services. Cours Mirabeau

9 Reserve your trip to France today! Send to: Alumni Educational Travel Program Alumni Relations & Annual Giving Trip #: W 55 Stuart St Room 101B, Summerhill Bldg. Kingston, ON K7L 3N6 Fax: Toll Free: Please contact AHI Travel at with questions regarding this trip or to make a reservation. Full Legal Name (exactly as it appears on passport) (1) Title First Middle Last Date of Birth (2) Title First Middle Last Date of Birth Street Address City Province Postal Code Home ( ) Cell ( ) Sharing with. (Form sent separately.) I/we authorize you to make my/our reservations as follows: Enrichment Tracks (available at an additional cost) Language Art Classes Active Provence Accommodations desired (please number in order of preference): Studio Apartment One-Bedroom Apt. Land Program and AHI FlexAir I/we reserve the Land Program and request the round-trip AHI FlexAir to Marseille, France, to depart from: Departure City Please contact me regarding air options. Please send me information on upgrading my flights. Land Program I/we will make my/our own air arrangements and transfers. Single Accommodations I prefer single accommodations at an additional cost (limited availability). I request assistance in securing a roommate but will accept a single, if one is available at this time, and pay the single supplement. Should a roommate be found, I understand the supplement will no longer apply. Reservations are subject to availability and processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations to be paid in full by January 15, 2017 (75 days prior to departure). Reservations received after this date must be accompanied by payment in full. Final payment may be made by personal cheque, MasterCard, Visa, Discover or Amex. Make cheques payable to AHI Travel. Neither Queen's University nor Queen's University Alumni Association will be responsible for the financing, the arranging or the conducting of these tours. They assume no liability or responsibility for damages or financial loss to person or property of any description, that might occur in connection with these tours howsoever arising from the negligence, omission or otherwise of travel services arranged through AHI Travel. AHI has assumed all costs for the printing and distribution of this promotion. This program has been exclusively arranged by AHI Travel, 8550 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Suite 600, Chicago, IL U.S.A. For further information, please call AHI Travel at The personal information collected on this form is collected under the legal authority of the Royal Charter of 1841, as amended, and will be used for your reservation for the abovementioned alumni travel program and for related correspondence; to keep you up to date on campus happenings; for fundraising purposes and university advancement activities; and to facilitate answering any University-related questions you may have. For additional clarification, please contact a representative of Queen's Alumni Travel program at or toll-free at Enclosed is a deposit of ($600 pp required) to reserve place(s). Accept my cheque made payable to AHI International. Charge my: MasterCard Visa Discover Amex Expires / NOT INCLUDED-Fees for passports, visas, entry/departure fees, personal gratuities, laundry and dry cleaning; excursions, meals and beverages not described in this brochure as included, travel insurance and all items of a strictly personal nature. MOBILITY AND FITNESS TO TRAVEL-Participants should be in good health and able to walk moderate distances over varied terrain. Participants needing individual assistance for walking, dining or other personal needs must be accompanied by an able companion who will assist them. The right is retained to decline to accept or to retain any person as a member of this trip who, in the opinion of AHI Travel is unfit for travel or whose physical or mental condition may constitute a danger to themselves or to others on the trip, subject only to the requirement that the portion of the total amount paid which corresponds to the unused services and accommodations be refunded. AIR TRANSPORTATION-The price of air transportation offered by AHI Travel is based on Advance Purchase Excursion fares. After tickets are issued, penalties up to 100% of the ticket price may be levied. If connecting flights are requested, special promotional fares may be used, in which case penalties of as much as 100% may be assessed by the airlines if reservations are changed or canceled after ticketing. After departure, if the reservations are changed, you will be charged the higher, all year Economy class fare. VARIATIONS TO THE GROUP ITIN- ERARY MUST BE REQUESTED NO LATER THAN 60 DAYS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE. Passengers who choose to make their own airline reservations independently will be wholly responsible for arrival and departure transfers, and any airline fees or penalties incurred as a result of program cancellation and/or change in travel dates, or airline schedule(s). BAGGAGE-Baggage restrictions vary according to the airline policy and the class of service flown. Details will be provided with your predeparture information. Baggage allowances are subject to change by the carrier without notice. Excess baggage charges for additional or oversized/overweight pieces are expensive and not included in your trip price; plan your wardrobe accordingly. Transport of baggage and personal effects is at the owner's risk throughout the travel program. RESPONSIBILITY OF PARTICIPANT-This program includes accommodations in an apartment in Aix-en-Provence, France. It is the responsibility of each participant to leave his/her apartment at the conclusion of the program in as good a condition as it was when the program began. Participants may be assessed charges for repairs or cleaning required due to damage beyond normal wear and tear caused or permitted by a participant. AUTHORITY TO USE IMAGES AND AUDIO RECORDINGS-On occasion, AHI Travel obtains, from its staff, or from trip participants, photographic or video images of passengers and trip activities. By participating in this travel program, you authorize AHI Travel, without providing compensation to you, or obtaining additional approvals from you, to include photographic and video recordings of you, as well as voice recordings included with any videos, in AHI Travel's sales, marketing, advertising, publicity and/or training activities. RESPONSIBILITY-AHI Travel and the Sponsoring Association do not own or operate any entity which provides goods or services for this program, and act only as agents for the independent suppliers of travel conveyance, transport, accommodations or other services. All such persons or entities are independent contractors. As a result, AHI Travel and the Sponsoring Association are not liable for any negligence or willful act of any such person or entity or any third person. In addition and without limitation, AHI Travel and the Sponsoring Association are not responsible for any delays, delayed departure or arrival, missed carrier connections, loss, death, damage or injury to person or property or accident, mechanical defect, failure or negligence of any nature howsoever caused in connection with any accommodations, transportation or other services or for any substitution of hotels or of common carrier equipment, with or without notice, or for any additional expenses occasioned thereby. Dates, Program Details and Tour costs, although given in good faith and based on tariffs, exchange rates and other information current at the time of printing, are subject to change at or before the time of departure. No revisions of the printed itinerary or its included features are anticipated; however, the right is reserved to make any changes, with or without notice, that might become necessary, with the mutual understanding that any additional expenses will be paid by the individual passenger. Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the owners at all times. If the entire program is canceled for any reason, participants shall have no claim other than for a full refund. By forwarding the deposit, the passenger certifies that he/she has no physical, mental or other condition of disability that would create a hazard for himself/herself or other passengers and accepts the terms of this contract set out herein and in more specific pre-departure passenger information. The airlines and other transportation companies concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission, or event, during the time passengers are not on board their conveyances. The passage contract in use, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the company(ies) and the passenger and/or purchaser of this trip. CANCELLATION-All cancellations for any reason will be subject to a $250 per person administrative fee. You may choose, at the time of cancellation, to apply the withheld administrative fee to a future AHI Travel program that will operate in the current calendar year or year following. Cancellation from 120 days to 76 days prior to departure will result in forfeiture of 10% of the entire cost of the trip per person; days, 50% of the trip cost per person; cancellation from 29 days up to the time of departure will result in 100% forfeiture of the entire cost of the trip. TRIP CANCELLATION INSURANCE IS AVAILABLE. AN APPLICATION WILL BE SENT AFTER YOU RESERVE. All cancellations must be submitted in writing to AHI Travel. CANCELLATION OF TRIP OPTIONS-Purchases of optional excursions, trip extensions and additional hotel nights become fully non-refundable 45 days prior to departure. Air transportation and private transfer purchases are subject only to penalties assessed by the airlines and transfer suppliers. Card # (Signature as it appears on credit card) Please note: Any payment to AHI Travel constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out herein, including but not limited to the cancellation terms. All prices listed are in USD.CST Registration No Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST Iowa Seller of Travel No. 520 Ohio Seller of Travel Reg. No Washington State Seller of Travel Reg. No PARTICIPATING AIRLINES-all IATA and ARC Member Carriers 2016 AHI Travel Printed in the USA.

10 LAND PROGRAM April 1-29, 2017 Full Price Special Savings Special Price* B0 Studio $4,545 $250 $4,295* Based on double occupancy. Single supplement is $1,695. B1 One-Bedroom Apartment $5,245 $250 $4,995* Based on double occupancy. Single supplement is $2,195. *Special Price valid if booked by the date found on the address panel. VAT is an additional $495 per person. All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Let us arrange your flights! March 31-April 29, 2017 A AHI FlexAir Our experts are ready to assist you in booking flights. Our personalized air program offers the following advantages: > a price guarantee to protect you from fuel surcharge increases after ticket purchase > arrival and departure transfers on most flights > flexibility to change or cancel your reservations without penalty up to 60 days before departure on most flights > discounted prices for business-class upgrades > assistance in the event of schedule changes or delays > flight insurance worth up to $250,000, subject to policy terms Travel stress free with AHI FlexAir. St. Sauveur Cathedral, Aix queens.ahitravel.com Aix

11 ACCOMMODATIONS (With baggage handling & weekly cleaning service.) 28 nights in Aix-en-Provence, at the first-class Adagio Aix-en-Provence Centre. MEALS Enjoy an extensive meal program, including three breakfasts, six lunches and seven dinners. Tea or coffee is included with all meals, plus wine with dinner. Take advantage of leisure time to try local cuisine independently. Sample authentic regional specialties during select meals at featured local restaurants. Attend a special Welcome Reception and Dinner. Gather for an exclusive Farewell Reception and Dinner. AHI TRAVEL EXPERTISE From your reservation to your return home, we are here to ensure you have the adventure of a lifetime. INCLUDED FEATURES ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS Informative educational programs, presented by local experts, will enhance your insight into the region. The following excursions: Take a walking tour through Aix. Visit a market and hilltop village in the Luberon region. Prepare and then taste savoury local flavours during French cooking classes. Walk in the footsteps of Cézanne. Uncover the highlights of Avignon, and see the incredible Pont du Gard. Travel to the bustling port city of Marseille. Explore ancient marvels in Arles and Les Baux. MANY INCLUDED EXTRAS Detailed travel and destination information to assist in your planning. Tipping of excursion guides and drivers. Complimentary travel wallet. Before you go: > TRAVEL CONSULTANTS These experts stand ready to answer your questions about activities, meals, accommodations and more as they guide you through the reservation process. > PASSENGER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE Once you have reserved your spot, enjoy personalized assistance from this specialist, your one point of contact who will help you with everything from arranging flights to booking elective activities to fulfilling special requests. > TRAVEL INFORMATION Receive extensive destination information and travel tips compiled by our travel-savvy team to prepare you fully for your journey. Once you arrive: On the ground, three layers of top-quality professionals offer their insiders perspective. From suggesting the best café or pub to sharing a laugh over the stories of the day, our dedicated team takes your adventure to the next level. > TRAVEL DIRECTOR Throughout your journey, you will be in the care of a seasoned AHI travel professional who will manage all the logistics, allowing you to relax and simply soak up the ambience. Resourceful, knowledgeable and attentive, your Travel Director helps to ensure you enjoy an unforgettable travel experience. > EXPERT GUIDES Who better to show you around than the people who live there? We ve specially selected informed and enthusiastic local professional guides who understand the needs of our educated and curious travellers. Warm and genuine, they re ready to share their passion for their country with you. > LECTURERS Coming from all walks of life, our entertaining local lecturers open your eyes to history and current events. The breadth of their knowledge deepens your appreciation for the region and its heritage.

12 Alumni Educational Travel Alumni Relations & Annual Giving 55 Stuart St Room 101B, Summerhill Bldg. Kingston, ON K7L 3N6 FRALIFE AHI Travel s mission is to deliver inspirational educational and cultural travel programs that delight travellers. With AHI you can rely on: Experienced Travel Directors who attend to every detail of your journey. An exceptional travel value. Unique access to local sites. Flexibility and customization. Safety and security queens.ahitravel.com Experience life in Provence the way locals do! Please call or refer to our website for the most current program information, discounts and pricing.