A Portrait of IRELAND

Transcription

1 A Portrait of IRELAND SMALL GROUP MAXIMUM OF 28 TRAVELERS AUGUST 17-28, 2017 DUBLIN BELFAST DONEGAL GALWAY

2 Inspiring Moments A World Apart The story of travel involves more than a ticket and a passport. It should weave together discovery, education and humanity, the best elements of any compelling tale. Your personal travel story begins with our commitment to delivering authentic experiences with local people. The incomparable value of your journey lies in the personalized care you receive from your Travel Director and the knowledge you gain from expert guides and lecturers, who call this area home. By eliminating logistical worries, your multilingual Travel Director allows you to immerse yourself comfortably in your surroundings. This high-caliber professional makes you feel safe and important by creating a convivial, welcoming atmosphere. The other important characters in this story are the guides and lecturers, whose regional expertise shines in their insider perspective and commentary. The pages of your Ireland chapter are filled with historic delights and mythic landscapes that kindle the imagination and beckon to be captured on an artist s canvas. Above: Causeway Coast Cover photo: Giant s Causeway >Uncover Ireland s legends as you wander the region s ancient, dramatic landscapes. > Explore Donegal, which claimed first place on National Geographic Traveller s Cool List: 17 for >Ride in a London-style black cab to discover Belfast s political murals. >Absorb the vibrancy and culture of Dublin. >Relive the action of Ireland s 1916 Easter Rising at the GPO Witness History Visitor Centre. >Sip Irish coffee at Leo s Tavern, the family-owned pub of singer Enya. > Explore Europe s greatest concentration of megalithic art at Brú na Bóinne. >Marvel at the beauty of Giant s Causeway. >Traverse the rugged, desolate and captivating region of Connemara.

3 Dear Duke Alumni and Friends, Join us for a 10-night journey to the mythical Emerald Isle. Together we ll travel the breadth of Ireland and Northern Ireland, experiencing the ever-changing scenery, fascinating history and rich culture that comprise this mesmerizing land. We begin amid the medieval cobbled streets of Dublin, Ireland s cosmopolitan capital, and journey into Northern Ireland. In Belfast, sample ShortCross Gin and, during a black cab tour, examine vestiges of The Troubles. As your Irish narrative unfolds, savor the unspoiled panoramas of County Donegal and listen to romantic legends at Kylemore Abbey. Then, during an exclusive dinner aboard the Pullman Restaurant s refined train carriages, celebrate and share memories of Ireland s historic sites, sacred ruins and beautiful landscapes that inspired the likes of W. B. Yeats and Oscar Wilde. As our Duke group grows in size, a Duke Host will be engaged to join the program to bring a uniquely Duke perspective to the tour. Space is limited on this one-of-a-kind journey, so we encourage you to make your reservation today! Forever Duke, Beth Ray-Schroeder 83 Director, Alumni Travel Duke Alumni Association Yeats monument, Sligo View from ancient walls in Derry

4 Below: Grafton Street, Dublin Inset lower: Glendalough monastic ruins Tiny, charm-laden Ireland boasts a landscape of astonishing diversity, packed with natural splendor and steeped in ancient lore. Your journey carries you from lively Dublin to the politically transformed north and on to the untamed northwestern coast where you ll witness an ethereal tapestry of pastureland, primeval peat bogs, verdant mountains and granite cliffs that overlook a raging sea. Visit sites cloaked in history, from majestic castles and monastic ruins, to the spectacular prehistoric monuments of Brú na Bóinne. And over a frothy pint of Guinness, enjoy craic, a friendly Irish chat, as you interact with a people whose welcoming warmth and humor ensures you ll feel at home in the Emerald Isle. day one In transit Depart your gateway city for Dublin, Ireland.A YOUR INDIVIDUAL EXPERIENCE Free time means something different to every traveler. Some people like to linger in a cozy café, while others prefer to stay on the go. That s why we have designed elective activities and an extension to allow you to craft your individual travel experience. Check out our itinerary for more details. We ve done the legwork. Now the choice is yours. ELECTIVE experiences are available at an additional cost. day two d Dublin, Ireland Upon arrival, transfera to The Westbury. Excursion: Orientation to Dublin. Situated on the banks of the River Liffey, cosmopolitan Dublin is a city of contrasts. Discover this Irish capital on a walking tour with your Travel Director. Witness neoclassical buildings, prosperous Georgian terraces and garden squares that give way to the mellow patina of timeless architectural treasures. Get to know your fellow travelers during a Welcome Reception and Dinner this evening. day three b Dublin Educational Focus and Excursion: Cosmopolitan Dublin. Dublin is a vibrant city that features historical and cultural charm. Start your exciting excursion with a thought-provoking visit to the GPO (General Post Office) Witness History Centre. Follow a series of engaging exhibits, featuring audio and video displays, and feel the impact of the momentous 1916 Easter Rising during this immersive experience.

5 Kylemore Abbey Visit historic Trinity College and see the famous hand-illuminated Book of Kells, which dates from the eighth century. Explore St. Patrick s Cathedral, named for the Patron Saint of Ireland, and discover the shops of Grafton Street. Independent Exploration: Spend the afternoon at leisure. Stroll along O Connell Street, or enjoy a pint of Guinness at a local pub. day four b Dublin Independent Exploration: Enjoy a day at leisure. Consider exploring tranquil Dubh Linn Gardens or visiting the James Joyce Centre. ELECTIVE Wicklow: The Garden of Ireland. Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of County Wicklow, the Garden of Ireland. Discover the gardens of Powerscourt Estate, visit the ancient monastic ruins of 6th-century Glendalough, and meander through Russborough House, a stately Palladian mansion. Enjoy lunch during the outing. day five b l County Meath Belfast, Northern Ireland Excursion: Prehistoric Ireland. En route to Belfast, stop in County Meath to visit Brú na Bóinne. Tucked within the bend of the River Boyne, it s home to Newgrange and Knowth, large tombs that contain Europe s greatest concentration of prehistoric megalithic art. Local Flavor: Gather with your group for a lunch of Irish fare. Cross into Northern Ireland. Arrive in Belfast and gather for a short orientation tour with a local guide. Check in to the Culloden Estate & Spa. Local Flavor: Treat your taste buds to the flavors of a ShortCross Gin Tea. Taste the unique floral meadow notes of this locally distilled gin accompanied by Irish wheaton bread and smoked salmon. day six b d Belfast Educational Focus and Excursion: Belfast Black Cab Tour. Relax in a London-style black cab as it carries you through Northern Ireland s beautiful capital city, infamous for its history of political and religious unrest. See Belfast s Victorian architecture, a legacy from the city s heyday, during your ride and witness the lingering physical scars from The Troubles. Along the way, see vibrant political murals decorating the Peace Wall that separates the Catholic and Protestant communities. Excursion: The Titanic Centre. Belfast was once home to a prosperous shipbuilding industry, and it was from Belfast Harbor that the RMS Titanic was launched. Explore the remarkable Titanic exhibition where the ship s saga is brought into present day. Listen to real-life accounts and experience shipyard life from 100 years ago.

6 Connemara Irish dancers day seven b d Derry Donegal Excursion: Giant s Causeway in County Donegal. Travel to the ancient geologic wonderland known as Giant s Causeway. Witness more than 40,000 honeycomb-like pillars of black, volcanic basalt bursting vertically from the sea. Continue to charming Derry, wrapped in 400-year-old walls and laced with cobbled streets, and marvel at the city s iconic Peace Bridge during a walking tour. Depart Northern Ireland and drive to County Donegal, recognized as the coolest place to visit in 2017 by National Geographic Traveller. Check in to the Lough Eske Castle in Donegal. day eight b Donegal Independent Exploration: Spend the day at leisure in Donegal. ELECTIVE Donegal Bay Cruise. Sail around Ireland s largest bay and visit the tiny folk village of Glencolmcille to learn about centuriesold rural life. Pass Stone Age settlements before taking in the dramatic, crashing waves along Slieve League, Ireland s highest seaside cliffs. Lunch will be served during the excursion. day nine b l Donegal Excursion: Glenveagh National Park. Visit one of Ireland s largest national parks, spanning more than 24,000 acres of hauntingly beautiful mountains, glens, lakes and moorland. See the enchanting 19th-century Glenveagh Castle with its medieval-style castellated battlements. Nearby, admire extensive gardens blooming with exotic plant life and luxuriant rhododendrons. Local Flavor: Enjoy lunch in Dunfanaghy. Savor a unique experience at Leo s Pub over Irish coffee and music. The establishment is owned by the family of Enya, an Irish singer. day ten b l Sligo Galway Excursion: Sligo, Yeats and Ireland s Tombs. Journey into Sligo s Yeats Country and witness the alluring windswept landscapes that inspired the Nobel Laureate s work. Visit Lissadell House, a Greek revivalist mansion that was once home to Irish nationalist Constance Markievicz. Wander the dramatic 33-foot-high gallery and walled Victorian kitchen garden. At Drumcliff Cemetery, pay respects to W.B. Yeats.

7 The Westbury Local Flavor: Dine at the Lissadell House. Educational Focus: Irish Literature Featuring Yeats. Learn how Yeats connection with modernism influenced 20th-century writings and poetry styles. Continue to County Galway. Upon arrival, check in to the Glenlo Abbey Hotel. day eleven b d Connemara Excursion: Connemara. Against the quartzite peaks of the Twelve Bens mountains, travel along craggy coastline and delve into the untamed beauty of Connemara. Sheep and wild ponies graze alongside rusty bogs, remote valleys and gleaming black lakes. Continue to Kylemore Abbey, a Benedictine convent and all-girls school ensconced between a glistening lake and the forested slopes of magnificent Duchruach Mountain. See its magnificent Gothic church and elaborate walled gardens. Tonight, gather for a Farewell Reception and delight in a special Farewell Dinner aboard two historic Pullman train carriages. Relish the refined ambience of these beautifully restored carriages while enjoying classic Irish fare and views of the Glenlo Abbey Estate. day twelve b In transit TransferA to the Shannon airport for the return flight to your gateway city. Note: Itinerary may change due to local conditions. Walking is required on many excursions, and surfaces may be uneven or unpaved. A Transfers and flights provided for AHI FlexAir participants B L D denotes included breakfasts, lunches and dinners. Elective experiences available at an additional cost Culloden Estate & Spa Lough Eske Castle Glenlo Abbey Hotel

8 Accommodations THE WESTBURY DUBLIN CULLODEN ESTATE & SPA BELFAST Our travel experts have selected these luxurious properties, each in a prime location, for your comfort. Details in the design and décor celebrate the local culture and enhance the ambience of each hotel. Their restaurants feature menus of elegantly prepared local and international cuisine. Of utmost importance is the superior quality of the services, amenities and accommodations, allowing you to maximize the enjoyment of your stay. LOUGH ESKE CASTLE DONEGAL GLENLO ABBEY HOTEL GALWAY Historic train carriages at the Pullman Restaurant

9 Reserve your trip to Ireland today! Trip #:5A Send to: Portrait of Ireland Duke Alumni Travels P.O. Box Durham, NC Phone: 800-FOR-DUKE Travel Fax: Please contact Duke Alumni Travels at to reserve your space or AHI Travel with questions. 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: State: ZIP: Home: ( ) Cell: ( ) Sharing with. (Form sent separately.) I/we authorize you to make my/our reservations as follows: Land Program and AHI FlexAir I/we reserve the Land Program and request the AHI FlexAir to Dublin, Ireland, with a return from Shannon, 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 $995 (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 June 3, 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 check, MasterCard, Visa, Discover or Amex. Make checks payable to AHI Travel. Enclosed is a deposit of ($600 pp required) to reserve place(s). Accept my check made payable to AHI Travel. Charge my: MasterCard Visa Discover Amex Card # Expires / (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. If you are interested in making independent travel arrangements before and/or after this program, please contact AHI Travel at no later than 60 days prior to departure and they will be happy to assist you with your reservations. A nonrefundable service fee and additional air/land charges based on reservations apply. NOT INCLUDED-Fees for passports and, if applicable, visas, entry/departure fees; personal gratuities; laundry and dry cleaning; excursions, wines, liquors, mineral waters and meals not mentioned in this brochure under included features; travel insurance; all items of a strictly personal nature. MOBILITY AND FITNESS TO TRAVEL-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. Passengers requiring special assistance, including without limitation those who permanently or periodically use a wheelchair, must be accompanied by someone who is fit and able to assist them, and who will be totally responsible for providing all required assistance. 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 ITINER- ARY 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 pre-departure 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. 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. CANCELLA- TION 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. 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 2017 AHI Travel Printed in the USA.

10 LAND PROGRAM August 18-28, 2017 Full Price Special Savings Special Price* $4,445 $250 $4,195* *Special Price valid if booked by the date found on the address panel. VAT is an additional $395 per person. All prices quoted are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy and do not include air transportation costs (unless otherwise stated). Single accommodations are an additional $995 (limited availability). Let us arrange your flights! August 17-28, 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 > 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. Giant s Causeway UNESCO World Heritage 1. Brú na Bóinne, Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne, Ireland 2. Giant s Causeway and Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland Brú na Bóinne

11 INCLUDED FEATURES ACCOMMODATIONS (With baggage handling.) Three nights in Dublin, Ireland, at The Westbury, a first-class hotel. Two nights in Belfast, Northern Ireland, at the first-class Culloden Estate & Spa. Three nights in Donegal, Ireland, at the deluxe Lough Eske Castle. Two nights in County Galway at the deluxe Glenlo Abbey Hotel. TRANSFERS All deluxe motor coach transfers in the Land Program and baggage handling. MEALS Enjoy an extensive meal program, featuring 10 breakfasts, three lunches and four dinners; tea or coffee with all meals, plus wine with dinner. Sample authentic regional specialties during select meals at featured local restaurants. Take advantage of leisure time to try the local cuisine independently. Attend a special Welcome Reception and Dinner. Gather for a Farewell Reception and Dinner in the Pullman Restaurant s unique train carriages. YOUR EXCITING TRAVEL PROGRAM Informative educational programs, presented by local experts, will enhance your insight into the region. Personal VOX listening devices allow you to hear every word from your expert, Englishspeaking guides. Tipping of excursion guides and drivers. The following excursions: Take an orientation tour of Dublin. Experience significant moments in history at Dublin s GPO Witness History Visitor Centre. Explore Dublin s captivating highlights. Witness the prehistoric Bend of the Boyne. Enjoy an orientation tour of Belfast. Journey through Belfast in a black cab. Step into history at the Titanic Centre. Marvel at the beautiful Giant s Causeway. Visit Glenveagh National Park, and admire Glenveagh Castle. Reflect at the grave of W.B. Yeats in Sligo. Travel the coast of Connemara, and visit Kylemore Abbey. AHI TRAVEL EXPERTISE From your reservation to your return home, we are here to ensure you have the adventure of a lifetime. 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 Titanic Centre tour guide 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 travelers. 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 Duke Alumni Travels P.O. Box Durham, NC IRENO London-style black cab tour in Belfast Glenveagh National Park Discover the history, culture and epic landscapes of Ireland. AHI Travel s mission is to deliver inspirational educational and cultural travel programs that delight travelers. 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. Presorted Std. U.S. Postage Paid AHI Travel