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 26 (USA - Athens, Greece): Participants need to plan their own air travel to depart the US today in order to arrive in Athens on the 27th.
Saturday, September 27 (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 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. In the evening, we will attend a worship service with the church of Christ in Athens and then return to the Artemis for dinner.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Monday, September 29 (Corinth & Epidaurus): 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 head to Epidaurus, a well-known healing center in the ancient world that features one of the most acoustically impressive theaters. We'll return to the Artemis for dinner.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tuesday, September 30 (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, October 1 (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 2 (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 3 (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 4 (Athens and Sounion): Wake up and enjoy a final breakfast in Crete before returning to Athens. After lunch at the campus, we will head into Athens where you can visit an additional museum of your choice or have a free afternoon for shopping. Later, we will drive to Cape
Sounion for sunset. Here, a temple to Poseidon sits perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Finally, we will return to the Artemis for our final dinner together, complete with Greek musical entertainment.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sunday, October 5 (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
Explore Dublin, Kilkenny, Waterford, the Ring of Kerry, Limerick and the Cliffs of Moher, for a perfect blend of adventure, history and scenic wonders in a tour curated by Harding's European program directors Tyler and Lauren Knight.
All Harding alumni, faculty, staff and friends — including friends of Abundant Living — are invited to join us on The Emerald Isle.
FRIDAY, APRIL 17: Depart in the evening from your home airport.
SATURDAY, APRIL 18: Arrive in Dublin, Ireland, after an overnight flight. Leave your bags with our host at the airport and explore Dublin on your own until hotel check-in. Join your fellow travelers
for a welcome dinner and get ready to explore Ireland together! (D)*
SUNDAY, APRIL 19: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel at your leisure and then depart for a tour to Wicklow County. Lunch will be together near Glendalough followed by an Irish sheep farm’s sheepdog demonstration. We will share worship and communion back in Dublin and then dismiss the group for dinner and the evening on your own. (B,L)
MONDAY, APRIL 20: After breakfast at the hotel, we will pack up and load the coach for a drive through the Irish countryside towards Kilkenney Castle, a medieval castle built in the 13th century. After lunch in Kilkenney, we resume our drive south, ending for the day in Waterford, home of Waterford crystal. After checking into our hotel, the evening is yours to explore Waterford. (B,L)
TUESDAY, APRIL 21: After breakfast at the hotel, we will pack up and head toward the iconic Blarney Castle to kiss the infamous Blarney Stone. After lunch together in Killarney, we will experience a one-of-a-kind Jaunting Car Ride (which doesn’t involve a car!) and boat tour of Killarney Lake. We will check into our hotel, home for the next two nights, and enjoy dinner on your own.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22: After breakfast at the hotel, we embark on the majestic Ring of Kerry, a breathtaking 111-mile scenic route in County Kerry, renowned for its stunning landscapes and
rich cultural heritage. The loop will take us through picturesque villages, along rugged coastlines, by lush green hills, and to historic sites, including ancient stone forts and medieval castles. Highlights include Killarney National Park, the Gap of Dunloe and the Skellig Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dinner and the evening will be on your own when we return to Killarney. (B,L)
THURSDAY, APRIL 23: After breakfast at the hotel, we will pack up and head north toward Limerick where you’ll have time for lunch and some shopping before we set sail on a river cruise on the River Shannon. We will check into our hotel and freshen up before setting off for a fun medieval banquet and show at Bunratty Castle. (B,D)
FRIDAY, APRIL 24: Our last full day in Ireland will begin with breakfast at the hotel and packing up for a short drive to the stunning Cliffs of Moher. The Cliffs of Moher, located in County Clare, are one of the country’s most iconic natural landmarks. Rising dramatically to heights of up to 702 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, they stretch for miles along the rugged coastline. Renowned for their breathtaking views, the cliffs offer glimpses of the Aran Islands, Galway Bay and the Twelve Bens mountains on a clear day. Home to a diverse range of seabirds, including puffins and razorbills, the cliffs are a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers and adventurers. Lunch will be on-your-own in the quaint town of Doolin before we return to Dublin. After hotel check in, we will celebrate our last night in Ireland with farewell dinner in Dublin. (B,D)
SATURDAY, APRIL 25: Breakfast will be at your leisure as you pack up and depart for home, renewed and refreshed by the beauty of Ireland 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, 7 nights accommodation, 2 meals per day, 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 Dublin, Ireland (DUB). Once your flight reservation is made, please forward a copy of the itinerary to AlumniTravel@harding.edu. Airport transfers will be provided from/to the Dublin airport (DUB).
PASSPORT: A valid passport is required for travel and should be valid for six months after the trip ends.
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). Many walking surfaces will be uneven - walking poles are recommended for anyone with stability concerns.
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” meal times, participants will be provided with a variety of nearby dining options
RESERVATION DEADLINE: Reservations must be made by October 18, 2025 to ensure availability. Reservation availability is not guaranteed after October 18.
PAYMENT SCHEDULE: The tour fare is $3,200 per person based on double occupancy. Single occupancy reservation fare is $4,200 per person. A deposit of $1,000 per person is due at time of booking. The final payment is due by January 18, 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 October 18, 2025: full refund less a $450 per person fee. Cancellation between October 19, 2025 and January 18, 2026: 50% refund on all payments made. Cancellation after January 18, 2026: no refunds are available but tour reservation can be transferred to another person
until April 1, 2026.
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.
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.
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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