Since 2002, the Renaissance Academy has sponsored more than 18 high-end, intimately sized, concierge-style excursions abroad.  Through unique, custom itineraries, participants have the opportunity to learn outside the classroom, to visit historic and cultural sites with outstanding local guides, to experience another culture – its customs, cuisine, language and history – and to delight in conversation and laughter with fellow travelers who share a love of learning and a sense of adventure.  Our excursions generally include accommodations in four/five star hotels; most meals and gratuities; private English-speaking guides; deluxe motor coach transportation; and all entrance fees.  Register onlineat https://RegisterRA.fgcu.edu to receive complete itineraries, cost information and registration forms or call 239-425-3272.  Reserve early!  Our exclusive excursionsare each limited to the 24 travelers.

 

Invitation to Tuscany

September 7-15, 2013
8 days - Land Only, from $3,295 Per Person

Tuscany's vineyards, olive groves and soaring cypress trees provide a setting that soothes the soul, delights the eye and raises the spirit. Medieval towns and villages, hilltop castles and ancient farmsteads dotting the landscape await discovery in the most welcoming of climates. The cultural, artistic and architectural treasures of Florence, Siena, Lucca, Pisa, Certaldo, Bologna, Fiesole and San Gimignano will all be explored. This Tuscany excursion includes seven nights in a four-star Tuscan villa; most meals (lunches and dinners with wine); private English speaking tour guides; art history and wine lessons; deluxe motor coach transportation; all entrance fees, and a farewell feast at the private castle of Santa Maria Novella set amidst the Tuscan countryside. To view and print brochure click here or call 239-425-3272 for a detailed itinerary, cost information, and registration form.

Legendary Turkey and the Turquoise Coast

September 5-19, 2013
15 days - Land, air & Cruise Inclusive, from $4,392 Per Person

Turkey, where Europe and Asia meet to form "the cradle of civilization" is yours to discover. Begin in Istanbul, Turkey's cultural and spiritual heart. The city astonishes with its legendary Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, and Topkapi Palace, one of the world's richest museums. Travel south to the WWI battlefield of Gallipoli, ferry across the Dardanelles to Troy, and explore the wealth of Greco-Roman ruins at ancient Pergamum. Spend a day at Turkey's classical city of Ephesus. Among its treasures are the grand Library of Celsus and a 25,000-seat amphitheater. Enjoy lunch in a local village before boarding a privately chartered gulet yacht. For four splendid days cruise the exquisite Turquoise Coast, relaxing and discovering hidden sights, quaint fishing villages, and remote ruins. End your journey in the seaside resort Antalya, with a side trip to ancient Perge. There is an optional 5-day/4-night post-tour extension to Cappadocia and Ankara, Turkey's capital. This excursion is limited to the first 24 travelers. To view and print brochure click here or call 239-425-3272 for a detailed itinerary, cost information, and registration form.

Portugal & Spain: Paradores & Pousadas

September 16-30, 2013
15 days - Land & Air, from $4,834 Per Person

Stay in distinctive lodgings and experience the rich history of Portugal and Spain during this Iberian sojourn. Beginning in Lisbon, tour the capital city and take an excursion to the National Palace of Queluz. Travel through picturesque Alentejo, a region of olive groves, vineyards, and wheat fields, to one of Portugal's finest pousadas set in a former 15th-century convent. Cross into Spain and see the ancient, ruin-filled city of Merida, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cordoba, and Seville with its marvelous Moorish architecture. Visit Toledo, capital of medieval Spain. In Madrid, tour the Palacio Royal, the Plaza Mayor, and the world-famous Prado. Extend your tour with an optional stay in Barcelona. This excursion is limited to the first 24 travelers. To view and print brochure click here or call 239-425-3272 for a detailed itinerary, cost information, and registration form.