UNC Alumni Travel Programs: Explore the World with Fellow Tar Heels
The UNC Alumni Association offers a diverse range of travel programs designed to connect alumni, friends, and families through enriching and unforgettable experiences. These programs, often in partnership with travel experts like AHI Travel, provide opportunities to explore the world with like-minded individuals while enjoying exceptional quality and value. Whether you dream of ancient historical sites, breathtaking landscapes, or vibrant cultural immersion, there's an alumni travel program to ignite your wanderlust.
Diverse Destinations and Experiences
The UNC Alumni Travel programs cater to a wide range of interests and preferences, offering a variety of destinations and travel styles. From relaxing beach getaways to immersive cultural explorations, there's something for everyone.
European Adventures: Celebrate graduation with a 17-day European adventure, exploring iconic landmarks like Notre Dame in Paris and the Parthenon in Athens. Discover London's pubs, bask on Greek beaches, and create unforgettable memories.
Greek Islands Getaway: Discover the sun-kissed beaches and breathtaking coastal views of Mykonos and Santorini. Explore archaeological treasures, delve into the history and culture of the region, and savor delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Unearth the myths and legends of ancient Athens, visit the magnificent Acropolis, and wander the paths of Plato, Socrates, and Sophocles.
Icelandic Exploration: Escape to the breathtaking Land of Fire & Ice, where adventure awaits at every turn. Witness the thunder of Gullfoss, an awe-inspiring waterfall plunging into a rugged canyon. Watch the Strokkur geyser erupt, relax in the surreal Blue Lagoon, and keep an eye out for the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
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East African Wildlife Safari: Embark on a transformative wildlife safari through the heart of East Africa, the backdrop to the year-round migration of grazing herbivores that traverse the Serengeti Plains.
France River Cruise: Enjoy seven nights onboard Amadeus Provence, an ultra-modern, environmentally friendly, premium river ship. Survey the region’s history with tours of Beaune’s Hôtel Dieu and Caves Patriarche, Lyon’s Fourvière Hill, and more. Join an intimate, hands-on cooking class with a professional French baker to produce traditional baguettes in a boulangerie. Tour the Village of Fleurie with an exclusive wine experience at family-owned Château de Chasselas on 12 hectares of vines located in the Burgundy and Beaujolais wine regions.
Canadian Rail Odyssey: Embark upon a once-in-a-lifetime rail odyssey across Canada’s five provinces, gliding through rolling prairies, rugged lake country, and the snowy peaks of the magnificent Rockies. This five-star journey features hotel stays at luxurious, historic rail properties bookending four amazing days and nights in Prestige Class aboard VIA Rail’s The Canadian.
Ancient Egypt Exploration: Immerse yourself in the historical and cultural wonders of Egypt, from iconic landmarks to architectural marvels. Embark upon a private dahabiya sailing the tranquil Nile River, gaining rare access to ruins and temples during less occupied times. Enjoy luxurious accommodations at five-star hotels.
Northern Italy Gastronomic Journey: Embark upon a cultural and gastronomic journey to the enchanting region of Northern Italy-an area renowned for spectacular landscapes, world-class wine, and a rich heritage.
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New York City Football Weekend: The UNC Charlotte Alumni Association has partnered with Sports & Entertainment Travel (SET) to provide 49er alumni and fans an exciting weekend in New York City surrounding the Charlotte at Army Football Game at West Point on Saturday, October 11, 2025.
The AHI Travel Partnership
For over 40 years, the UNC Alumni Association has partnered with AHI Travel to offer a wide variety of travel opportunities to the Carolina community. AHI Travel is an international company providing personalized group travel to the endlessly curious of the world. AHI's goal is to connect travelers with the people, places, and cultures they'll never forget. These educational, group tours offer exceptional quality and value.
Travelers frequently appreciate the small groups, in-depth learning experiences, and the knowledgeable, resourceful, and attentive AHI travel directors. The itineraries and camaraderie of the groups are also highly valued.
AHI Travel's expertise and knowledge ensure a seamless and carefree trip. Their experts are trained to make sure every need is met along the journey.
AHI's Legacy
AHI Travel has a rich history of providing exceptional travel experiences:
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- 1962: Richard and Arlene Small open Studentaire Travel, a company solely focused on travel for college students.
- 1964: Launched Alumni Holidays with a focus on serving the university alumni association market to connect graduates back to their alma maters-the first company to focus on this market.
- 1965: All travel now operated under the name Alumni Holidays.
- 1967: Alumni Holidays operates their first trip to Europe.
- 1968: Alumni Holidays operates a chartered aircraft to the 1968 Rose Bowl to Indiana University, the largest civilian air movement ever.
- 1984: AHI incorporates under the name AHI International Corporation.
- 1985: AHI expands into Canada.
- 1986: The first overnight passenger ship on France’s Rhone and Saone rivers is launched.
- 1989: The first overnight passenger ship on France’s Seine River.
- 1993: The Alumni Campus Abroad (ACA) concept begins, featuring inclusive air, excursions, meals, seminars, and more.
- 2000: Richard and Arlene Small retire.
- 2003: Launches-first-ever cruises for Americans between St. Petersburg and Moscow; and a long-standing relationship with the Eastern and Orient Express, operating luxury journeys in Old World style between Bangkok, Thailand and Singapore.
- 2011: Launches Art of Living to extended stay three and four week programs featuring aparthotel accommodations and learning tracks, including language, art, cuisine and other cultural learning opportunities. The first program operated in Cuenca, Ecuador.
- 2012: Listening devices added for all excursions allow for clear hearing and free movement of travelers.
- 2014: Added “Art of Living in Provence” in the town of Aix and “Art of Living in Tuscany” in Florence, Italy.
- 2016: AHI expands into Great Britain, operating first trip with Oxford University.
- 2020+: Continue to innovate while providing transformative experiences to educated travelers.
Benefits of Traveling with the UNC Alumni Association
- Camaraderie: Connect with fellow alumni, friends, and families who share a common bond and a love for travel.
- Expertly Planned Itineraries: Enjoy thoughtfully selected itineraries designed to provide enriching and memorable experiences.
- Exceptional Value: Benefit from group rates and exclusive offers, making your dream vacation more affordable.
- Hassle-Free Travel: Let experienced travel professionals handle the details, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.
- Educational Opportunities: Engage in in-depth learning experiences and gain a deeper understanding of the destinations you visit.
Getting Involved
To explore available tours and learn more about the UNC Alumni Travel programs, visit the cobranded webpages. For personalized assistance, contact Douglass Payne '04, Catherine Nichols '89, and Audrey Liles '13 toll-free at 877-962-3980.
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