Explore the rugged beauty of Maine and some of its most iconic lighthouses, from the Nubble Lighthouse in southern Maine to West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, the easternmost point in the continental U.S. Along the way, enjoy charming seaside towns, fresh seafood and iconic spots, like historic downtown Portland, Kennebunkport and Acadia National Park. Whether you’re after history, nature or just a breath of salty air, the Lighthouses of Maine Tour promises a wonderful week. Enjoy all of the fun and beauty of the northeast in the company of Christian friends.
FRIDAY, SEPT. 18: Arrive in Portland, Maine. Check-in begins at 3 p.m. at the Portland Doubletree by Hilton. Join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner and settle in for a wonderful tour. (D)*
SATURDAY, SEPT. 19: Relax on our luxury coach as you enjoy a guided tour of Portland-area lighthouses, including the iconic Portland Head, the most photographed lighthouse in the country. Enjoy lunch on your own in historic downtown Portland, followed by a survey of beautiful Casco Bay aboard the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad. Our day winds down back at the hotel with a relaxing dinner. (B,D)
SUNDAY, SEPT. 20: After breakfast, we head south to Kittery to join a local church for worship. Lunch is on your own in the quaint Wallingford Square in Kittery. Our afternoon will find us viewing
two iconic Maine lighthouses: Nubble and Whaleback. We will stop for fresh seafood (non-seafood options available) in York on our way back to Portland, and then prepare to head north to Bar Harbor in the morning. (B,D)
MONDAY, SEPT. 21: Today will begin with breakfast and check out at the Doubletree. Heading north toward Bar Harbor, we’ll stop at Pemaquid Point Lighthouse. Lunch will be on your own in downtown Camden, often called the “Jewel of the Coast.” This quintessential New England town is perfect for exploring with its picturesque harbor and historic architecture. Our day ends in Bar Harbor with check-in at our home for the next two days, the Atlantic Oceanside Resort. With stunning grounds and amazing ocean views, this property has a pick-up stop for the free Island Explorer shuttle to downtown Bar Harbor. Dinner is on your own at the hotel or in Bar Harbor. (B)
TUESDAY, SEPT. 22: Choose how you would like to start your day. A morning sail along the coast of Mount Desert Island is offered for those who would like a little adventure. You can help hoist the sails, or just relax on the deck of the schooner The Margaret Todd as we view Acadia National Park from the water and try to spot some of the three lighthouses in Frenchman Bay. Alternatively, you can opt for a leisurely start to the day and join the group for our afternoon guided tour of the beautiful Acadia National Park. We will see nine mountains over 1,000 feet high, stone bridges,
lakes, trails and carriage roads, and travel the entire Park Loop Road with stops at Cadillac Mountain, Thunder Hole on Ocean Drive and Sieur De Mont Springs Wild Gardens of Acadia. Dinner is on your own one more time in tranquil Bar Harbor. (B)
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 23: We pack up one last time and get an early start to head to the easternmost point of the U.S. and the most iconic lighthouse in Maine: West Quoddy Head. The only red and white striped lighthouse in Maine, it faces New Brunswick, Canada. From West Quoddy, we will return to Portland and settle back into the Doubletree for two more nights. (B,L,D)
THURSDAY, SEPT. 24: After breakfast, we will travel a few miles south to the famous Kennebunkport, home of the Bush Compound. Another optional boat tour is available for those seeking adventure: a lobster tour on Kylie’s Chance, where guests may see native wildlife including seals and sea birds, as well as experience the lobster harvesting process. Alternatively, you can choose to spend the morning exploring Kennebunkport's quaint shops and harbor. Our day will end with a dinner to celebrate our time together. (B,D)
FRIDAY, SEPT. 25: Breakfast will be at your leisure as you pack up and depart for home, renewed and refreshed by the beauty of Maine and the fellowship of your Christian brothers and sisters.
(B)
*Meals included with the tour fare are shown in parentheses (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
INCLUDED: The tour fare includes airport transfers, seven nights accommodation, meals listed on the itinerary, all entrance and activity fees for scheduled tours, luxury coach travel and guide service. Worship and communion will be offered on Sunday.
TRANSPORTATION FOR TOUR START/END: Individuals are to make their own travel arrangements to Portland International Jetport (PWM). Airport transfers will be provided from/to PWM. If you prefer to drive, you may leave your car parked at our first/last hotel, the Portland Doubletree, for a small fee payable to the hotel upon arrival.
IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU?: Harding University and Abundant Living tours are planned and hosted by University faculty and staff for the purpose of building community among participants and enjoying the comfort and safety of traveling with like-minded people. Guests are expected to participate in a manner consistent with Harding’s deeply held religious beliefs and in a way as to encourage and uplift the other tour participants.
MOBILITY CONCERNS: Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate wheelchairs on this tour. Participants must be able to step in and out of kneeling coach (3-4 steps). Hotels have elevators – accessible rooms may be available upon request.
MENUS: At least two options will be available at each meal. Menu selections for some of the catered meals will be requested prior to departure. If you have special dietary needs, please communicate those at time of reservation. At “on-your-own” mealtimes, participants will be provided with a variety of nearby dining options.
PAYMENT SCHEDULE: The tour fare is $2,500 per person based on double occupancy. Single occupancy reservation fare is $3,400 per person. A deposit of $750 per person is due at time of booking. The final payment is due by July 1, 2026.
CANCELLATION: All cancellations must be received by email at AlumniTravel@harding.edu or by phone at 501-279-4276. The following cancellation charges will be assessed for all cancellations:
Cancellation by March 30, 2026: full refund. Cancellation between April 1 - June 30, 2026: full refund less a fee of $300 per person. Cancellation after July 1, 2026: no refund is available, but your fare can be transferred to another person.
LIMITATIONS: It is possible that the daily itinerary may be adjusted because of unforeseen circumstances such as weather. All efforts will be made to stick to the advertised itinerary. Space is limited. Travel insurance is not provided but is recommended.
Harding University in Greece (HUG) is housed in the Artemis, a former hotel (named after a nearby ancient temple to Artemis) in the Mediterranean beach town of Porto Rafti, located just outside of Athens. Tour participants will have the chance to live the life of a HUG student, enjoying meals prepared by a Greek cook before heading out to enjoy the beach, taking a swim in the backyard pool, hiking “HUG Mountain,” meandering through the small town or heading into Athens. In addition to sites in Athens, such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon, Mars Hill, the Agora of Athens and more, the group will visit some of Greece’s most well-known and historic locations. In ancient Corinth, you’ll explore one of the best excavated Biblical cities which even includes the temple to Apollo and the judgment seat (bema) that Paul would have been brought to when he spoke to Gallio (Acts 18). The group will also visit Cape Sounion where a Temple to Poseidon rests perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. A trip to Delphi and Meteora will introduce you to more of the natural beauty of Greece as well as the historical and architectural wonders of the oracle at Delphi and the monasteries of Meteora. Participants will also experience the Greek islands of Crete and Santorini, discovering their unique landscapes, rich histories, and vibrant cultures.
Friday, September 25 (USA - Athens, Greece): Participants need to plan their own air travel to depart the US today in order to arrive in Athens on the 26th.
Saturday, September 26 (Porto Rafti): Welcome to Greece! Guests will check in to the Artemis, a former hotel named after a nearby temple to Artemis, that now serves as the Harding University in Greece (HUG) campus. Airport transportation will be provided to campus from the Athens airport. We’ll take a walking tour of Porto Rafti and then enjoy our first group dinner at the Artemis.
Included: Dinner
Sunday, September 27 (Corinth): The Peloponnese region is our destination today. We'll begin by visiting the Corinth Canal and then proceed to ancient Corinth, where the apostle Paul spent 18 months. After lunch, we'll drive to Athens for some free time for shopping before attending a worship service with the church of Christ in Athens. Following the service, we'll return to the Artemis for dinner.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Monday, September 28 (Athens): Today, we will explore Athens! Our first stop will be the Acropolis, where we will witness the magnificence of the Parthenon and visit the nearby Acropolis Museum. After that, we will sit on Mars Hill where we will read Paul's famous Mars Hill sermon. During the tour, we will stop for a delicious lunch at a local taverna. There will be some free time for shopping before returning to the Artemis for dinner.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tuesday, September 29 (Delphi): We embark on our overnight trip to central Greece today. Our day begins with an early breakfast, after which we will take a bus ride to ancient Delphi - the center of the ancient world. This is where Apollo's oracle provided guidance to many people who came seeking her counsel. Later, we will have a group lunch before continuing our journey northward to Meteora, where we will spend the night.
Wednesday, September 30 (Meteora): Our day starts in beautiful Meteora, where we'll visit some of the famous monasteries that sit atop the unique, pillar-like rock formations that the area is known for. We'll return to the Artemis in Porto Rafti after our tour.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Thursday, October 1 (Crete): We’ll begin the day flying to Crete for two nights. After arrival, we’ll have lunch and tour the Palace of Knossos as a group and then you’ll be free to explore Crete on your own for the evening.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Friday, October 2 (Santorini): We will travel by ferry to Santorini for the day. You’ll have the option to enjoy the beautiful views, shopping and restaurants before returning to Crete by ferry late in the day.
Included: Breakfast
Saturday, October 3 (Athens and Sounion): Wake up and enjoy a final breakfast in Crete before returning to Athens. We'll stop and visit a temple to Poseidon perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea before returning to the Artemis for lunch. After lunch at the campus, you'll have the afternoon free to explore the beach or return to Athens on your own. Finally, we will share a final dinner together at the Artemis, complete with Greek musical entertainment.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sunday, October 4 (Fly Home): Guests can depart at the time of their choice today. Airport transportation will be provided from the Artemis to the Athens airport.
Included: Breakfast
Double occupancy: $2,850 per person
Single occupancy: $3,250 per person
Payment Schedule: $500 non-refundable deposit per person due when you sign up. The remaining balance is due by June 1, 2026.
This tour is now open for ALL!
Pack your festive sweaters, brush up on your Christmas carol lyrics and prepare for a crash course in holiday market magic. Sail along the Rhine with us from Nuremburg to Frankfurt aboard Uniworld's brand new ship, the S.S. Emilie. Enjoy the tastes of Christmas and shop for unique handcrafted gifts.
Not insterested in shopping? Uniworld Cruise Line also includes daily excursions to historical sites along our route. Explore ancient cities and Gothic cathedrals, sample local delicacies and as much cider as you can drink, and enjoy the countryside with guided tours.
Harding alumni, faculty, staff and friends — including friends of Abundant Living — are invited to join this special holiday tour.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 7: Depart in the evening from your home airport.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8: Arrive at Nuremberg International Airport. Catch a taxi or Uniworld transfer to the ship. Settle into your cabin and then join your fellow travelers for dinner.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9: For a holiday extravaganza, look no further than Nuremberg, which boasts the largest and grandest Christmas Market in all of Germany. The “Gingerbread Capital of the World” pulls out all the stops during the holidays, as you’ll see for yourself on a panoramic tour guaranteed to put you in a festive mood. Stroll through castle gardens and enjoy breathtaking views of the city, then walk through a maze of cobblestone lanes down to the Market Square. There, spread out before the Church of Our Lady, is the largest Christmas Market in Germany. A special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared onboard the ship this evening as we prepare to set sail!
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10: After breakfast on the ship, we will disembark in Bamberg, a superb example of medieval Germany. The entire heart of historic Bamberg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is yours to explore today. Visit the splendid late-Romanesque Imperial Cathedral, two magnificent palaces and the old Town Hall. Legend has it that the bishop refused to give the town land for their town hall, so they built an artificial island for it, right in the middle of the Regnitz River. You’ll also see parts of Bamberg’s famous Nativity Walk, which links 35 churches, museums and public spaces that display Nativity scenes; some from hundreds of years ago. When the tour concludes, you’ll have time to explore Bamberg’s four Christmas Markets: the traditional one on the Market Square, one featuring medieval cultural programs and two markets that focus on local arts and crafts. Shuttles will be provided throughout the afternoon to take you between the ship and town.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11: Wake up this morning in port in Rothenburg. Rothenburg looks like something straight out of the pages of a storybook, with its medieval walls, cobbled streets, Gothic churches and Hansel-and-Gretel houses. Join a local expert for an insightful walking tour and then wander amongst the stalls at one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets. Just before dinner, join your fellow travelers for a stroll to Würzburg’s glorious Christmas Market. Beautifully decorated wooden booths are illuminated by the soft glow of Christmas lighting, and the air is filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and the sound of Christmas carols. As you roam among the booths, you can watch glassblowers and wood carvers at work and buy their handiwork. Today’s lunch will be on your own. Dinner and a good night’s sleep await on board our ship.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12: This morning, you’ll head off to see the Würzburg Residence. This 300-room UNESCO World Heritage–designated residence was constructed over a period of 60 years in the 18th century. An extraordinarily lavish palace, the magnificent grand staircase boasts the world’s largest ceiling fresco, painted by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, a spectacular Hall of Mirrors and an imposing Imperial Hall, which boasts a large oval dome and 20 half-columns. Later in the day, travel through Franconia’s rolling hills and farms to the picture-perfect village of Aschfeld, which features a historic church with a defensive wall that protected residents throughout the Middle Ages. After your visit to the Heimatmuseum at the Fortified Church, sample some homemade Christmas goodies such as cookies, stollen, and gingerbread, along with coffee and tea. Dinner will be served onboard.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13: Enjoy a slow start to your day after you awake in Wertheim, a lovely village dating back over a thousand years. While you’re still onboard, enjoy a warm drink and join a stollen (traditional German fruitcake) baking demonstration by a master baker. Then venture into town where you’ll see the dramatic ruins of Wertheim Castle standing high above the village as you ramble through the narrow streets, passing small bakeries and butcher shops. In the Market Square, you’ll see St. Mary’s Chapel, which was erected in 1447, and several other landmarks. After the tour you can stay in town to shop or visit the Glass Museum before making your way back to the ship. Our group will share worship and communion together in the evening onboard.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 14: Our last full day in Germany will be spent together in Frankfurt. While also a modern European city, Frankfurt’s charming old town, the Altstadt, has hosted some of the best Christmas markets on the continent for centuries. Opt to stay in town today for a “Taste of Christmas” walking tour featuring all sorts of sugary and savory treats, or alternatively, head out of town on an excursion to the Christmas market in Wiesbaden. A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening onboard the S.S. Emilie as we share one last night together.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15: After breakfast, we bid adieu to the S.S. Emilie with full suitcases and fuller hearts, warmed by the camaraderie of our week together, and head to the Frankfurt International Airport for our flights home.
INCLUDED: The tour fare includes: 7 nights onboard Uniworld’s S.S. Emilie, gourmet meals (7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners), unlimited beverages, 6 days of excursions hosted by English-speaking local experts and Captain’s Welcome and Farewell receptions. Worship and communion will be offered on Sunday.
TRANSPORTATION FOR TOUR START/END: Individuals can make their own travel arrangements to Nuremberg (NUE) and home from Frankfurt (FRA) or airfare can be booked by Sharon Carr Travel through Uniworld. Airport transfers are provided by Uniworld if airfare is booked through Uniworld.
PASSPORT: A valid passport is required for travel and should be valid for six months after the trip ends. In addition, an ETIA (minimal charge, online application) may be required – additional information provided at booking
IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU?: Harding University and Abundant Living tours are planned and hosted by university faculty and staff for the purpose of building community among participants and enjoying the comfort and safety of traveling with like-minded people. Guests are expected to participate in a manner consistent with Harding’s deeply held religious beliefs and in a way as to encourage and uplift the other tour participants.
MOBILITY CONCERNS: Uniworld cruises do not accommodate wheelchairs. Discuss mobility concerns at time of booking.
RESERVATION DEADLINE: Reservations and cruise cabin options are available on a first-come-first-served basis and availability is not guaranteed. Capacity on the ship is a maximum of 154 guests and this cruise will fill up quickly.
CRUISE FARE:
Classic (window) $3,709 per person (based on double occupancy) - CLASSIC CABINS SOLD OUT
French Balcony $4,909 per person (based on double occupancy)
Deluxe French Balcony $5,409 per person (based on double occupancy)
Suites pricing on request
PAYMENT SCHEDULE: 10% of cruise fare required at booking. Final balance due before 8-1-2026. Payments may be made by, check, Zelle or credit card (Amex, MC and VISA only).
CRUISE FARE CANCELLATION FEES:
120 days or more before departure $250 cancellation fee per person
119–90 days before departure cancellation fee + 25% of the fare
89-60 days before departure cancellation fee + 50% of the fare
59-30 days before departure cancellation fee + 75% of the fare
Less than 30 days before departure no refund
LIMITATIONS: Space is limited. Travel insurance is not provided but is recommended. Full list of terms and conditions provided at time of booking.
Step into the story of America on an unforgettable journey through some of the nation’s most historic and scenic coastal destinations. Explore Virginia’s famed Historic Triangle with visits to Colonial Williamsburg, the Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown, where the foundations of our country were laid and the Revolutionary War was won. Then travel to the breathtaking Outer Banks, where windswept dunes, wild seascapes and the beauty of Cape Hatteras National Seashore create a uniquely peaceful coastal experience. This tour concludes in Norfolk, Virginia, where maritime heritage and military tradition come to life, highlighted by the spectacular International Military Tattoo, a world-class celebration of music, ceremony and military pageantry. This brand new tour blends American history, coastal beauty and unforgettable cultural experiences into one inspiring adventure for Harding alumni and friends.
SATURDAY, APRIL 17: Arrive at Norfolk International Airport (ORF) by 3pm. Meet the group for a transfer to the Woodland Hotel in Colonial Williamsburg. After settling in, join the group for a welcome banquet. Enjoy the first of three nights in Williamsburg. (D)
SUNDAY, APRIL 18: After breakfast at the hotel, we will travel to the historic Jamestown Settlement where immersive exhibits and living history bring the story of the first permanent English colony to life. After lunch in Jamestown, we return to Colonial Williamsburg for an orientation to the living history museum and historic district that recreates life in 18th-century America. The afternoon will be on your own to explore at your own pace and then we close our day with worship and communion. (B,L)
MONDAY, APRIL 19: Our day begins with breakfast and a short drive to Yorktown, the third point in the Historic Triangle. In Yorktown, we will explore the final chapter of the American Revolution, where visits to the Yorktown Battlefield and the American Revolution Museum bring the dramatic story of America’s fight for independence to life. Lunch will be on your own at the Riverwalk Landing and then the afternoon is free to explore more of Colonial Williamsburg. Our time in Williamsburg will wrap up with a group dinner in an iconic local restaurant. (B,D)
TUESDAY, APRIL 20: After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll check-out and depart for the Outer Banks. Our first stop in North Carolina will be at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, a surreal landscape that is home to the tallest sand dunes on the east coast. Lunch will be downtown the charming coastal town of Manteo, where quaint shops and scenic harbor views capture the relaxed spirit of the Outer Banks. In the afternoon, guests can choose between two options: a tour of Fort Raleigh, one of America’s earliest mysteries where the story of the Lost Colony unfolds, or a wander through the tranquil beauty of the Elizabethan Gardens, where lush blooms, stately oaks and elegant pathways create a peaceful tribute to England’s first settlers in the New World. Our day concludes with check-in at the Hilton Garden Inn in Kitty Hawk and a group dinner, before settling in for two nights in NC. (B,D)
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21: Today will be all about the stunning Outer Banks. After breakfast at the hotel, we will drive the length of the Hatteras National Seashore. This guided tour will stop along the way at key points, including the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and Bodie Island Lighthouse. A popular passtime in this region is birdwatching, so we will be on the lookout for unique native species. We will enjoy lunch together on the way. Dinner is on your own and the evening will be perfect for a sunset stroll on the beach. (B,L)
THURSDAY, APRIL 22: Today will be a very memorable day! Breakfast at the hotel will get us started, followed by hotel check-out. Before we begin to head back north, we will stand where flight began at the Wright Brothers National Memorial, honoring the pioneering achievement of powered flight and the enduring spirit of innovation. After lunch on the road, we will check into the beautiful Founders Inn in Virginia Beach and enjoy an early dinner together. The day wraps up with the Virginia International Tattoo, a large-scale annual performance that features military bands, drill teams, bagpipers, dancers and ceremonial units from around the world. With hundreds of performers on one stage, the event celebrates military tradition, international culture and the spirit of service, making it one of the most unique and memorable experiences in Norfolk. (B,D)
FRIDAY, APRIL 23: Our last full day of the tour will focus on military history. After breakfast at the hotel, we will tour the Battleship Wisconsin and then board a boat tour of the Norfolk Naval Base. Cruising the smooth waters of the Elizabeth River and Chesapeake Bay, we will see one of the world’s busiest seaports including the world’s largest naval base, home of the Atlantic Fleet, made up of destroyers, guided missile cruisers, submarines, aircraft carriers and more. Lunch will be served on the boat. The afternoon features an optional visit to the Military Aviation Museum or you can choose a relaxing afternoon at our beautiful hotel. Our tour concludes with a farewell banquet this evening. (B,L,D)
SATURDAY, APRIL 24: After breakfast at the hotel, a complimentary shuttle will take you to the Norfolk International Airport (ORF) for your flight home. (B)
*Meals included with the tour fare are shown in parentheses (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
INCLUDED: The tour fare includes: seven nights accommodation in comfortable, well-appointed hotels (three nights in Williamsburg, two nights in Kitty Hawk, two nights in Virginia Beach/Norfolk), meals listed in itinerary (B,L,D), admission fees for scheduled tours, deluxe motorcoach transportation, gratuities and airport transfers. Worship and communion service will be offered on Sunday evening.
TRANSPORTATION FOR TOUR START/END: Individuals are responsible for their own travel arrangements to and from Norfolk International Airport (ORF). Flights must arrive by 3pm on April 17 for transfer to first hotel. Departure flights on April 23 are flexible.
IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU?: Harding University Alumni and Friends Tours are planned and hosted by university faculty and staff for the purpose of building community among participants and enjoying the comfort and safety of traveling with like-minded people. Guests are expected to participate in a manner consistent with Harding’s deeply held religious beliefs and in a way as to encourage and uplift the other tour participants.
MOBILITY CONCERNS: Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate wheelchairs on this tour. Participants must be able to step in and out of kneeling coach (3-4 steps) and move comfortably down the coach aisle. All hotels are equipped with elevators.
MENUS: At least two options will be available at each meal. Menu selections for some of the catered meals may be requested prior to departure. If you have special dietary needs, please communicate those at time of reservation.
PAYMENT SCHEDULE: The tour fare is $2,750 per person based on double or triple occupancy. Single occupancy reservation fare is $3,500 per person. A deposit of $750 per person is due at time of reservation. Final payment is due January 15, 2027. We can accept credit cards by phone - 501-279-4276 - and checks (made out to Harding University) mailed to: Alumni Travel, 915 E. Market Ave., Box 10768, Searcy, AR 72149
CANCELLATION: All cancellations must be received by email at AlumniTravel@harding.edu or by phone at 501-279-4276. The following cancellation charges will be assessed for all cancellations:
Cancellation by Nov. 17, 2026: full refund.
Cancellation between Nov. 17, 2026 - Jan. 15, 2027: full refund less a fee of $300 per person.
Cancellation after Jan. 15, 2027: no refund is available, but your fare can be transferred to another person.
LIMITATIONS: It is possible that the daily itinerary may be adjusted because of unforeseen circumstances such as weather. All efforts will be made to stick to the advertised itinerary. Space is limited. Travel insurance is not provided but is recommended.
Join Harding alumni and friends in 2027 to explore Scotland on a tour curated by Harding in Europe program directors Tyler and Lauren Knight. This all-new itinerary visits the quaint cities of Edinburgh, Inverness, Fort William, Glasgow and Loch Lomond. Highlights include iconic sites like Holyrood, St. Andrews, Balmoral Castle, the Jacobite Steam Train and Loch Ness, and the fellowship of a local congregation for Sunday worship. Enjoy the comfort, convenience and safety of group travel with Harding Alumni and Friends tours.
FRIDAY, MAY 14: Depart the United States on overnight flights to Scotland. Rest up and get excited – a remarkable journey through the land of castles, highlands and deep faith awaits.
SATURDAY, MAY 15: Welcome to Scotland! Upon arrival at the Edinburgh airport in late morning, we’ll enjoy private transfers to our hotel. After settling in, our tour officially begins with a welcome and orientation before heading out for a guided walking introduction to Edinburgh. Get your first glimpse of cobbled streets, historic structures and the dramatic skyline of this storied capital city. In the evening, we’ll gather for dinner together in central Edinburgh and have an early night to recover from our overnight flights. (D)
SUNDAY, MAY 16: After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll worship with brothers and sisters at a local congregation – a meaningful reminder of the global body of Christ. Following worship, we travel to Stirling for lunch together and a visit to Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s grandest historic sites. We’ll also stop at the Wallace Monument, a 67m tower commemorating Sir William Wallace, a 13th- and 14th-century patriot and martyr who became Scotland’s National Hero. Late in the afternoon we return to Edinburgh for dinner on your own and perhaps a quiet stroll along the Royal Mile. (B,L)
MONDAY, MAY 17: Today we journey north into some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes. After breakfast and hotel check-out, we depart Edinburgh and travel to St. Andrews where you’ll have time to explore this charming seaside town at your leisure. Enjoy lunch on your own before we continue through the breathtaking Cairngorms region, a mountain range in the eastern highlands of Scotland, en route to Balmoral Castle, the beloved highland residence of the royal family. By early evening, we’ll arrive in Inverness, the capital of the highlands, and settle into our next hotel. We’ll gather for dinner together and then rest in the cool, highland breeze after a full and scenic day. (B,D)
TUESDAY, MAY 18: Following breakfast at the hotel, we set out for the Isle of Skye, crossing through some of Scotland’s most dramatic scenery. We’ll stop at picturesque Eilean Donan Castle before continuing on to Skye itself. After lunch together on the island, we’ll explore the rugged landscapes that make Skye famous – windswept cliffs, sweeping valleys and unforgettable coastal views. We return to Inverness in late afternoon and the evening is free for dinner on your own or with new friends. (B,L)
WEDNESDAY, MAY 19: After breakfast and hotel check-out, we explore the legendary shores of Loch Ness, visiting Urquhart Castle and taking in the beauty of this mysterious loch (lake). Lunch will be on your own before we continue south, with a stop at Neptune’s Staircase, a fascinating series of canal locks. On arrival in Fort William, we will check in to our home for the next two night and gather for a devotional time before sharing dinner together. The remainder of the evening is free to enjoy the town and settle into our Fort William hotel. (B,D)
THURSDAY, MAY 20: Today brings one of Scotland’s most memorable experiences – a journey aboard the Jacobite Steam Train. After breakfast at the hotel, we board the historic train made famous in the Harry Potter films for a scenic ride across the 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct and through stunning Scottish countryside. We’ll enjoy lunch on your own in the coastal village of Mallaig before returning to Fort William on the afternoon train. Dinner will be together this evening, followed by free time to relax. (B,D)
FRIDAY, MAY 21: After breakfast and hotel check-out, we depart Fort William and enjoy a scenic drive south toward Loch Lomond, soaking in sweeping vistas along the way. We’ll share lunch together en route before arriving at Loch Lomond for free time to explore or simply enjoy the peaceful setting. The evening is free for dinner on your own. (B,L)
SATURDAY, MAY 22: This morning after breakfast, we travel to Glasgow to visit Glasgow Cathedral and a local museum, offering insight into Scotland’s religious and cultural heritage. Lunch will be on your own in historic Glasgow before we return to Edinburgh for free time to enjoy the city one final afternoon. This evening we’ll celebrate our journey with a closing dinner together – a time to reflect on friendships formed and memories made. (B,D)
SUNDAY, MAY 23: Before departing Scotland, we will gather early for a communion service – a beautiful way to close our time together. After breakfast at the hotel, private transfers will take us to the airport for return flights home, carrying with us the beauty, history and shared experiences of Scotland. (B)
Double occupancy: $4,250 per person
Single occupancy: $5,700 per person
Payment Schedule: $1000 non-refundable deposit per person due when you sign up. The remaining balance is due by February 1, 2027.
We can accept credit cards by phone - 501-279-4276 - and checks (made out to Harding University) mailed to:
Alumni Travel
915 E. Market Ave., Box 10768
Searcy, AR 72149
INCLUDED: The tour fare includes: 8 nights accommodation, meals listed in itinerary (B,L,D), all entrance and activity fees for scheduled tours, luxury coach travel, gratuities and airport transfers. We will worship with a local congragation on Sunday, May 16 and offer communion service at the hotel on Sunday, May 23.
TRANSPORTATION FOR TOUR START/END: Individuals are responsible for their own travel arrangements to and from Edinburgh International Airport (EDI). Airport transfers will be provided.
PASSPORT: A valid passport is required for this tour. Please ensure that your passport will not expire within 6 months of the date of the tour.
IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU?: Harding University Alumni and Friends tours are planned and hosted by university faculty and staff for the purpose of building community among participants and enjoying the comfort and safety of traveling with like-minded people. Guests are expected to participate in a manner consistent with Harding’s deeply held religious beliefs and in a way as to encourage and uplift the other tour participants.
MOBILITY CONCERNS: Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate wheelchairs on this tour. Participants must be able to step in and out of kneeling coach (3-4 steps) and move comfortably down the coach aisle. All hotels are equipped with elevators or ground-level rooms. Longest required walking distance is approx. 1,000m.
MENUS: If you have special dietary needs, please communicate those at time of reservation.
RESERVATION DEADLINE: Reservations must be made by November 1, 2026 to ensure availability. Reservation availability is not guaranteed after November 1, 2026.
PAYMENT: The tour fare is $4,250 per person based on double occupancy. Single occupancy reservation fare is $5,700 per person. A deposit of $1,000 per person is due at time of reservation. The final payment is due February 1, 2027. We can accept credit cards by phone - 501-279-4276 - and checks (made out to Harding University) mailed to:
Alumni Travel
915 E. Market Ave., Box 10768
Searcy, AR 72149
CANCELLATIONS: All cancellations must be received by email at AlumniTravel@harding.edu or by phone at 501-279-4276. The following cancellation charges will be assessed for all cancellations:
Cancellation by November 1, 2026: full refund of payments less a fee of $450 per person.
Cancellation between November 2, 2026 - February 1, 2027: 50% refund on all payments made.
Cancellation after February 1: no refund is available, but your fare can be transferred to another person until
April 1, 2027.
LIMITATIONS: It is possible that the daily itinerary may be adjusted because of unforeseen circumstances such as weather. All efforts will be made to stick to the advertised itinerary. Space is limited. Travel insurance is not provided but is recommended.
Harding University’s International Programs Department is excited to offer a once-in-a-lifetime travel program to Egypt, culminating in the spectacular viewing of the total solar eclipse in Luxor on August 2, 2027. This exclusive trip is more than just an eclipse viewing; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of Egypt’s ancient history and culture. From the majestic Pyramids of Giza to the mystical Valley of the Kings, our guests will explore the wonders of Egypt, guided by experts, and enjoy a blend of adventure, education and leisure.
This special program is a chance for alumni to rekindle the spirit of exploration and witness the grandeur of a total solar eclipse against the backdrop of Egypt's ancient monuments. Space is limited, ensuring a personal and profound experience for all. Don’t miss this opportunity to join fellow Harding alumni and friends in creating new memories under the shadow of the moon.
Tour schedule is subject to change as preparations are made for the eclipse in Egypt.
Tuesday, July 27 (USA - Cairo, Egypt ): Participants need to plan their own air travel
to depart the US today in order to arrive in Cairo, Egypt, on July 28. Late arrivals
cannot be accommodated.
Wednesday, July 28 (Cairo): Arrive at Cairo International Airport where a
representative from Goshen Travel will provide assistance through entry visas, passport
immigration and customs formalities. Check in to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Thursday, July 29 (Cairo): The tour kicks off with the only remaining “wonder” of
the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World – the Giza Pyramids. We will enter King Khefren’s
Pyramid and visit the Sphinx. Afterward, we'll enjoy lunch by the Pyramids and a visit
to an Egyptian cotton store. The afternoon will be spent visiting the Grand Egyptian
Museum before returning to the hotel for dinner.
Friday, July 30 (Aswan & Nubian Village): A flight to Aswan in the morning will
take us to the High Dam, the island temple of Philae and the Al Fayed Perfumery.
Lunch will be served on our Nile cruise boat after checking in. In the afternoon, we will
take a motor boat ride to visit a Nubian village where guests will have the option to ride
a camel. We'll return to the cruise boat for dinner and overnight.
Saturday, July 31 (Nile Cruise- Kom Ombo): A morning tour will take us to sites in
Aswan. We will return to the cruise boat around 2 pm for lunch and begin sailing. The
evening will be spent touring the Temple of Kom Ombo and the Crocodile Museum.
We'll return to the cruise boat for dinner and overnight.
Sunday, August 1 (Nile Cruise- Edfu, Karnak & Luxor): Participants will start the
day with a horse-drawn carriage ride to visit the Temple of Edfu. We'll return to the
boat for breakfast and worship as we set sail for Luxor via Esna Lock. We will tour the
famous temples of Karnak and Luxor in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight on board
the ship.
Monday, August 2 (Eclipse): We will have opportunity to witness the longest total solar eclipse for the next 87 years from Luxor.
Tuesday, August 3 (Valley of the Kings & other sites): Guests have the option to start the day with a sunrise balloon ride. After breakfast, we'll check out from the boat and then visit the Colossi of Memnon, the Valley of the Kings, an alabaster factory, and the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. We'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and then drive to the Red Sea city of Hurghada where we'll be for two nights.
Wednesday, August 4 (Hurghada- Red Sea yacht day): The day will be spent enjoying a yacht trip on the Red Sea, which will include an island visit where snorkeling gear will be provided. (Participants can pay extra to dive if they can also provide open-water diving certification). We'll return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Thursday, August 5 (Hurghada to Cairo): We depart Hurghada to drive back to Cairo for a visit to the first monastery in the world, St. Anthony of the Desert.
Friday, August 6 (Cairo, Memphis & Saqqara): We begin the day at a papyrus shop followed by a visit to the Old City of Cairo to visit the Hanging Church and St. Sergius. Our final stops of the day will be to the ancient city of Memphis and its funerary complex, Saqqara.
Saturday, August 7 (Cairo): The tour ends in Cairo where guests may depart at any time today.
Double occupancy: $4,350 per person
Single occupancy: $5,350 per person
Payment Schedule: $500 non-refundable deposit per person due when you sign up. The remaining balance is due by March 1, 2027.
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Experience the very best of fall in upstate New York on an eight-day journey filled with iconic scenery, rich history and joyful fellowship. Beginning at majestic Niagara Falls, the itinerary weaves east with highlights like the world-renowned Corning Museum of Glass, the storybook village of Cooperstown – birthplace of baseball – and the rolling beauty of the Allegheny Plateau. Guests will enjoy time in worship, shared meals and relaxed exploration before heading into the heart of the Adirondacks, where Lake Placid, Olympic landmarks, mountain gorges and peak fall foliage awaits. The tour concludes with a Hudson River cruise through glowing autumn landscapes and a farewell celebration, sending travelers home with lasting memories, new friendships and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of God’s creation. Space is limited so reserve your seat today.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 1: Arrive at Buffalo-Niagara International Airport (BUF) by 4pm. Meet the group for a transfer to the Hyatt Niagara Falls. After settling in, savor a welcome banquet and get to know your travel group. Enjoy fireworks over Niagara Falls before tucking in for bed. (D)
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2: After breakfast at the hotel, choose your own adventure! You can choose to board the iconic Maid of the Mist for an unforgettable boat ride to the very base of Niagara Falls – expect mist (you decide how much by where you stand on the boat), laughter and plenty of photo-worthy moments – or choose to take to the skies on a tethered hot air balloon ride, soaring up to 500 feet for breathtaking panoramic views of Niagara Falls, Ontario, and the surrounding countryside. Following your chosen activity, we’ll regroup at Niagara Falls State Park to enjoy a hop-on, hop-off trolley tour, the perfect way to experience the park’s highlights at your own pace. Lunch is on your own, with plenty of nearby options to suit every taste. Later in the afternoon, travelers with passports can cross into Canada to view the falls from the Table Rock Centre where you’ll experience a completely different perspective of this natural wonder. We’ll share dinner together at a local restaurant, and afterward you may choose to join others for relaxed evening activities or turn in early to rest before tomorrow’s journey to Cooperstown. (B,D)
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3: Our day begins with breakfast followed by a time of worship and communion together – a meaningful way to start the morning before we check out of our Niagara Falls hotel and board the coach to head east. Our first destination is the world-renowned Corning Museum of Glass, where creativity and craftsmanship come together in dazzling displays of art and innovation. You’ll have time to explore the fascinating exhibits, watch live glass-blowing demonstrations and enjoy lunch at your leisure in the museum café. Later in the afternoon, we continue our scenic drive through the Allegheny Plateau, making our way to the charming village of Cooperstown. Upon arrival, we’ll share dinner at a local restaurant before checking into the Hampton Inn Cooperstown, our home for the next two nights. (B,D)
MONDAY, OCTOBER 4: After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll set out to explore Fenimore Farm, an interactive museum that brings 19th-century rural New York to life. Wander among more than two dozen authentic historic buildings, visit the working farm and watch traditional skills like blacksmithing in action. We’ll enjoy lunch together on the farm, surrounded by the charm of simpler times. The afternoon is yours to discover the many delights of Cooperstown, a town with something for everyone. You might visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame or Doubleday Field, considered the birthplace of baseball; sample local flavors at Fly Creek Cider Mill; play a round at the Leatherstocking Golf Course; or take a boat tour on Otsego Lake. After dinner on your own, join us back at the hotel for baseball-themed snacks and games, or turn in early to rest up for tomorrow’s adventure to the Adirondacks. (B,L)
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 5: If we haven’t seen a brilliant show of leaves yet, today will likely be the day! After breakfast and check out, we head northeast to Saratoga Springs, known for “Health, History and Horses,” reflecting its mineral springs, its crucial role in the American Revolution and its historic horse racing track. After a guided tour of town, we will turn north to Fort Ticonderoga, arriving in time for a cannon firing at this iconic symbol of U.S. military history! Significant in both the French and Indian War and the American Revolution, this fort overlooks Lake George, Lake Champlain and Vermont, and features dynamic exhibits, demonstrations and grounds to explore. Our final driving stretch of the day will take us into the center of the Adirondack Mountains to Lake Placid where we will check into the High Peaks Resort on Main Street of this historic town. Dinner is on your own in the hotel restaurant or at one of the many local restaurants just steps from our hotel. Enjoy good sleep in clean mountain air. (B,L)
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 6: Start the day with coffee on your balcony before joining the group for breakfast in the hotel. Our first adventure of the day is a visit to the Olympic Jumping Complex, home of the 1980 Olympic Games. Watch athletes training (year round!) and ride a gondola up to the base of the ski jumps, or relax on the observation deck. If that’s not high enough, you can choose to ride a glass-enclosed elevator to the top deck of one of the ski jumps for a panoramic view of the area. Our next stop is the High Falls Gorge, a spectacular park at the base of Whiteface Mountain on the AuSable River with four waterfalls and groomed walking trails to access them. We will enjoy lunch at the gorge before returning to Lake Placid for free time and dinner on your own. In the evening, engage your creativity with an art lesson followed by a devotional at the hotel and enjoy one last night in the Adirondacks. (B,L)
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7: Our last full day in New York will begin with breakfast and farewell to lovely Lake Placid. We will drive south to Kingston for lunch on the water in the stunning Hudson River Valley. A cruise on the river will fill us to the brim with fall foliage and our day will end with a farewell banquet at our final hotel in Albany, NY. (B,L,D)
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 8: After breakfast at the hotel, a complimentary shuttle will take you to the Albany International Airport (ALB) for your flight home, “leaf-ing” upstate New York behind but sending you off with “piles” of memories and new friends. (B)
INCLUDED: The tour fare includes: 7 nights accommodation (two nights in Niagara Falls, two nights in Cooperstown, two nights in Lake Placid and one night in Albany), meals listed in itinerary (B,L,D), all entrance and activity fees for scheduled tours, luxury coach travel, gratuities and airport transfers. Worship and communion service will be offered on Sunday morning at the hotel.
TRANSPORTATION FOR TOUR START/END: Individuals are responsible for their own travel arrangements to Buffalo-Niagara International Airport (BUF) and home from Albany International Airport (ALB).
PASSPORT: A valid passport is not required for this tour. However, guests wishing to cross the Canadian border at Niagara Falls will have to show a passport.
IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU?: Harding University Alumni and Abundant Living tours are planned and hosted by university faculty and staff for the purpose of building community among participants and enjoying the comfort and safety of traveling with like-minded people. Guests are expected to participate in a manner consistent with Harding’s deeply held religious beliefs and in a way as to encourage and uplift the other tour participants.
MOBILITY CONCERNS: Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate wheelchairs on this tour. Participants must be able to step in and out of kneeling coach (3-4 steps) and move comfortably down the coach aisle. All hotels are equipped with elevators. Longest required walking distance is approx. 1,000m.
MENUS: At least two options will be available at each meal. Menu selections for some of the catered meals may be requested prior to departure. If you have special dietary needs, please communicate those at time of reservation.
PAYMENT: The tour fare is $2,600 per person based on double or triple occupancy. Single occupancy reservation fare is $3,200 per person. A deposit of $750 per person is due at time of reservation. The final payment is due July 1, 2027. We can accept credit cards by phone - 501-279-4276 - and checks (made out to Harding University) mailed to:
Alumni Travel
915 E. Market Ave., Box 10768
Searcy, AR 72149
CANCELLATIONS: All cancellations must be received by email at AlumniTravel@harding.edu or by phone at 501-279-4276. The following cancellation charges will be assessed for all cancellations:
Cancellation by May 3, 2027: full refund.
Cancellation between May 3 - July 1, 2027: full refund less a fee of $300 per person.
Cancellation after July 1, 2027: no refund is available, but your fare can be transferred to another person.
LIMITATIONS: It is possible that the daily itinerary may be adjusted because of unforeseen circumstances such as weather. All efforts will be made to stick to the advertised itinerary. Space is limited. Travel insurance is not provided but is recommended.
RESERVATIONS: To reserve your seat, call Alumni and Friends Travel: 501-279-4276.
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