Meals Accommodations STORIED THULE · ICELAND Dear Alumni and Friends, If you’re searching for a...

IICCEELLAANNDD

Dear Alumni and Friends,If you’re searching for a unique adventure, we’re thrilled to

present our newest tour program—a secluded island escape.Come with us to Iceland! We invite you to explore a spectacularrealm of fire and ice during the “white nights” of summer.

Enjoy the convenience and camaraderie of traveling with a group of like-minded people. Our program is the perfect balance of planned events and free time for independentexploration. You’ll be treated to preferred access at popularattractions and specially arranged cultural experiences.

Exclusive educational content developed from a commit-ment to lifelong learning enhances your understanding andappreciation of this tiny nation in the North Atlantic, its epic history, geological diversity and breathtaking natural beauty. If a week amid the amazing environs of Iceland isn’t enough, you can even tailor your trip with add-ons and extensions through the assistance of AHI’s expert travel professionals.

This exciting journey based in picturesque seaside Reykjavíkcannot be beat for its itinerary and value. It’s sure to be one of our most popular trips and we expect reservations to fill upquickly. Space is limited for your ultimate comfort, so makeyour reservations today!

Sincerely,

Gretchen Bower Program CoordinatorThe University of Kentucky Alumni Association

d Savings!

Book by 2/20/09 &

Save$500 Per

Couple.

Promo Code: Sav

Top to bottom:

Breaching humpback whalePuffin and runic inscriptionsWhale watching

Cover photos (clockwise):

Reykjavík, Gullfoss and Icelandic horses

“Iceland, though it liesso far to the north thatit is partly within theArctic Circle, is, likeNorway, Scotland, and Ireland, affected by the Gulf Stream, so that considerableportions of it are quite habitable.”

~ Sir Henry (Harry)Johnston, British

Explorer, 1858-1927,Pioneers in Canada, 1912

“Charming and fair is the land, and snow-white the peaks of thejokuls [glaciers];Cloudless and blue is the sky....”

~ Jónas Hallgrímsson,Icelandic poet and author,

1807-1845, Iceland,Translated by Gudmund J.

Gislason Beck, 1930

“Don’t you find it odd that the greatestFrench writers shouldhave written booksabout Iceland thatmade them immortal?Victor Hugo wrote Hand’Islande, Pierre Lotiwrote Pécheursd’Islande, and JulesVerne crowned it withthat tremendous masterpiece aboutSnæfellsjökull (SnæfellsGlacier), Voyage auCentre de la Terre.”

~ Halldór KiljanLaxness, Icelandic authorand winner Nobel Prize inLiterature 1955, 1902-1998,

Under the Glacier, 1968

“Iceland is the bestland on which the sun shines.”

~ Icelandic proverb

A word about your Tour OperatorAHI Travel is the premier operator of deluxe travel programs sponsored by alumni associations. Their experienced, professionalstaff has offered the highest level of service in innovative travel programs since 1962.

In AHI Travel’s care, you can rely on:• An exceptional travel value. It would be impossible for an

independent traveler to arrange all these unique experiences,inclusions and services at a comparable price.

•Unique access to local sites. Take advantage of their 47years of travel experience to gain preferred entrance to popularsites and to uncover the region’s hidden treasures.

• Flexibility and customization. Free time during the trip allowsyou to pursue your own interests. They will also help you tailoryour dream trip with add-ons and extensions.

•Safety and security. In a country where you might not know the language or culture, their professionalstaff is on hand to ease your way and get you any help you need.

• Full endorsement by the USTOA. This professional association safeguards consumers’ deposits and payments with a $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program.

800-323-7373 www.ahitravel.com/uk 800-323-7373 www.ahitravel.com/uk

Icelanders relaxing in apark in downtownReykjavík

AIR PROGRAMJune 22-30, 2009

For your convenience, AHI offers aflexible Air Program featuring specialair fares available at an additionalcost in conjunction with the LandProgram.

AHI has designated specific Group AirSchedules for this departure utilizingscheduled jet service from NorthAmerica to Keflavík, Iceland. Thoseparticipating on these flights willenjoy motorcoach transfers betweenthe Keflavík airport and the hotel,including baggage handling. Pricesare dependent upon dates, air routesand class of service chosen and willbe reflected on your ReservationConfirmation, which will be sent toyou upon receipt of your reservation.Air schedules will be sent with yourFinal Invoice approximately 90 daysbefore departure. Prices quoted toyou will include all domestic and for-eign governmental airport departuretaxes and fees and any applicablefuel surcharges. AHI ticketed passen-gers will also receive Automatic$250,000 Flight Insurance, subjectto policy terms.

*All prices quoted are per person, based on double occupancy (unless otherwise stated). Single accommodations are an additional $550 (limited availability).

Calif. Seller of Travel Reg. No. 2028271-40, Fla. ST Reg. No. ST-36196, Iowa ST Reg. No. 520, Nevada ST Reg. No. 2003-0257, Ohio ST Reg. No. 8889139, Wash. State ST Reg. No. 601-820-781. PARTICIPATING AIRLINES-all IATA and ARC member carriers. ©2009 AHI Travel Printed in the USA.

LAND PROGRAMJune 23-30, 2009

Before 2/20/09 After 2/20/09 You Save$2,645* $2,895* $250

VAT is an additional $125 per person.

800-323-7373 www.ahitravel.com/uk

NEW ULTIMATE FLEXIBILITY- The AHI Travel PassengerProtection Plan now offers a low-cost Any ReasonCancellation feature. Book worry free!NOT INCLUDED-Fees for passports and, if applicable, visas; personal gratuities;laundry and dry cleaning; excursions, wines, liquors, mineral waters and meals notmentioned in this brochure under included features; travel insurance; all items of astrictly personal nature.MOBILITY AND FITNESS TO TRAVEL-The right is retained to decline toaccept or to retain any person as a member of this trip who, in the opinion of AHITravel is unfit for travel or whose physical or mental condition may constitute adanger to themselves or to others on the trip, subject only to the requirement thatthe portion of the total amount paid which corresponds to the unused services andaccommodations be refunded. Passengers requiring special assistance, includingwithout limitation those who permanently or periodically use a wheelchair, mustbe accompanied by someone who is fit and able to assist them, and who will betotally responsible for providing all required assistance.AIR TRANSPORTATION-The price of air transportation offered by AHI Travel isbased on Advance Purchase Excursion fares. After tickets are issued, penalties up to100% of the ticket price may be levied. If connecting flights are requested, specialpromotional fares may be used, in which case penalties of as much as 100% maybe assessed by the airlines if reservations are changed or cancelled after ticketing.After departure, if the reservations are changed, you will be charged the higher, allyear Economy class fare. VARIATIONS TO THE GROUP ITINERARY MUST BEREQUESTED NO LATER THAN 60 DAYS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE. Passengers whochoose to make their own airline reservations independently will be wholly respon-sible for any airline fees or penalties incurred as a result of program cancellationand/or change in travel dates, or airline schedule(s).CANCELLATION-In addition to airline cancellation penalties, all cancellationsfor any reason whatsoever will be subject to a $150 per person cancellation fee.Cancellation from 90-61 days prior to departure will result in forfeiture of 10% ofthe entire cost of the trip per person; 60-31 days, 30%; 30-15 days, 50%.Cancellation from 14 days up to the time of departure will result in forfeiture of theentire cost of the trip. TRIP CANCELLATION INSURANCE IS AVAILABLE. AN APPLI-CATION WILL BE SENT AFTER YOU RESERVE. All cancellations must be submittedin writing to AHI International Corporation.BAGGAGE-Baggage restrictions vary according to the airline policy and the classof service flown. Details will be provided with your pre-departure information.Baggage allowances are subject to change by the carrier without notice. Excessbaggage charges for additional or oversized/overweight pieces are expensive andnot included in your trip price; plan your wardrobe accordingly. Transport of bag-gage and personal effects is at the owner's risk throughout the travel program. RESPONSIBILITY- AHI Travel and the Sponsoring Association act only as agentsfor the suppliers of travel conveyance, transport, accommodations or other serviceand have no responsibility for any delays, delayed departure or arrival, missed car-rier connections, loss, death, damage or injury to person or property or accident,mechanical defect, failure or negligence of any nature howsoever caused in con-nection with any accommodations, transportation or other services or for any sub-stitution of hotels or of common carrier equipment, with or without notice, or forany additional expenses occasioned thereby. Dates, Program Details and Tour costs,although given in good faith and based on tariffs, exchange rates and other infor-mation current at the time of printing, are subject to change at or before the timeof departure. No revisions of the printed itinerary or its included features are antici-pated; however, the right is reserved to make any changes, with or without notice,that might become necessary, with the mutual understanding that any additionalexpenses will be paid by the individual passenger. Baggage and personal effects arethe sole responsibility of the owners at all times. If the entire program is cancelledfor any reason, participants shall have no claim other than for a full refund. Byforwarding the deposit, the passenger certifies that he/she has no physical, mentalor other condition of disability that would create a hazard for himself/herself orother passengers and accepts the terms of this contract. The airlines and othertransportation 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 betweenthe company(ies) and the passenger and/or purchaser of this trip.

Special UK Alumni Price

Send to: ACA IcelandThe University of Kentucky Alumni Associationc/o AHI Travel, 6400 Shafer Court, Rosemont, IL 60018

Please contact AHI Travel at 800-323-7373 with questions regarding this tour.

Legal Name (as it appears on passport)

(1) _____________________________________________________________

(2) _____________________________________________________________

Street Address ____________________________________________________

City_______________________________State________ ZIP _______________

Home: (____________)_____________________________________________

Office: (____________)_____________________________________________

E-mail:__________________________________________________________r Yes, please e-mail me information about special travel opportunities.

Sharing with_______________________________________. (Form sent separately.)

Name(s) you would like on your name badge(s):

(1) _____________________________________________________________

(2) _____________________________________________________________

I/we authorize you to make my/our reservations as follows:Land Programr I/we will make my/our own air arrangements and transfers.r Please call me/us to discuss my/our air options.r I prefer single accommodations at an additional $550 (limited availability).r I request assistance in securing a roommate but will accept a single, if one isavailable at this time, and pay the single supplement. Should a roommate befound, I understand the supplement will no longer apply.Land and Air Programr I/we reserve the Land Program and request the Air Program roundtrip toKeflavik, Iceland, to depart from:

_____________________________________________________________Departure City

r Please send me information on upgrading my flights.

Please note: Air prices will be sent to you with your Reservation Confirmationand air schedule sent at 90 days before departure. International flight arrange-ments can be canceled with no obligation up to 75 days before departure.

Reservations are subject to availability and processed on a first come, first servedbasis. Reservations to be paid in full by April 8, 2009 (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 or Visa. Makechecks payable to AHI International.

Eligibility: Membership in the UK Alumni Association is a requirement for partici-pation in this program. One membership is required for every family. Alumni,friends of the University and parents are welcome. Annual memberships are $45for single or $55 for joint. If you are not a current member of the UK AlumniAssociation, please enclose a separate check payable to the UK AlumniAssociation for the appropriate amount and please mail it with your deposit.

Enclosed is a deposit of ________ ($500 per person required) to reserve________ place(s).

r Accept my check made payable to AHI International.

r Charge my deposit to: r MasterCard r Visa Expires________/________

Card #___________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________(Signature as it appears on credit card)

Title First Middle Last Class Year

Reserve your tr ip to Iceland today!

For Office Use Only: B #: ______________ Date: ________________

PSR: ________________Trip #:3-18690

Need pre- or post-trip assistance? *If you are interested in making independent travel arrangements before and/or after thisprogram, please contact AHI Travel at 800-323-7373 no later than 60 days prior todeparture and they will be happy to assist you with your reservations.* A nonrefundable service fee and additional air/land charges based on reservations apply.

Other dates available upon request

800-323-7373www.ahitravel.com/uk

SPONSORED BY

THE UNIVERSITY OFKENTUCKYALUMNI ASSOCIATION

JUNE 22-30, 2009

A C C O M M O D A T I O N SLeft: Thingvellir National Park, site of Iceland’s first ParliamentBelow: Dance sculptures near Perlan hot water tanks, ReykjavíkSTORIED THULE

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Above: Hallgrimskirkja church

“A TALE IS BUT HALF TOLD,

WHEN ONLY ONE PERSON

TELLS IT.”– Unknown Icelandic Author,

Early 14th century

The Saga of Grettir the Strong,

BASKING IN THE BLUE LAGOONLocated 24 miles (39 km) southwest of Reykjavík, the legendary Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most popular touristattraction. This man-made spa is situated amid the lunar-likelandscape of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Temperatures in thegeothermally heated swimming area average about 104oF(40oC) and its soothing, mineral-rich water and white silicamud are reputed to have curative, revitalizing powers.

Transportation to/from the Blue Lagoon on Day Eight can bearranged on site and is at additional individual expense.

steam vents. Gaze atStrokkur, The Churn, one ofthe most active geysers inthe area which spouts a

60–100-ft. (18–30 m) jet every five-10 min-utes. Admire Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall,a breathtaking glacial cascade that drops 105 feet (32 m) into a narrow canyon. Next, visit an equestrian center and getacquainted with gentle, intelligent Icelandichorses. Finally, stroll through a geothermalgreenhouse where vegetables are grown. Local Flavor: Have lunch at a restaurant.

DAY SIXREYKJAVÍK

Educational Focus: Contemporary Iceland. In a country composed of a predominantly young demographic, learnhow the youth culture influences the national politics and policies. Excursion: Whale Watching. Embark onan unforgettable cruise in search of minkeand humpback whales, porpoise and dolphins. Scout the skies and shoreline for puffins, arctic terns, gannets and gull.Independent Exploration: The afternoonin Reykjavík is free for your own plans.

HOTELREYKJAVÍKCENTRUMREYKJAVÍK

Ideally set in the historicheart of the capital, theHotel Reykjavík Centrumwas opened in 2005.Occupying three charmingstructures on the oldeststreet in the city, its mid-dle, renovated buildingdates from 1764. On eitherside, two new reconstruc-tions designed in 1900-erastyle feature the Fjalakötturrestaurant, which offerstraditional Icelandic dishes,and the cozy Uppsalir barand café. All guestroomsare rendered in contempo-rary décor and furnishingscomplemented by subtleearth hues. Each is fittedwith private bathroom,telephone, satellite TV, Wi-Fi Internet access, hair dryer, safe, minibarand coffee/tea service.

Independent Exploration: The afternoonin Reykjavík is at your leisure. Educational Focus: Meet the People.Participate in a discussion with local resi-dents and learn about modern Icelandic life.

DAY FIVEISLAND ROUNDABOUT

Excursion: Iceland in a Nutshell.Travel to Thingvellir (pronounced THING-vod-lef) National Park. A monument toIceland’s independence and unity, tribalchieftains established the world’s first legislative body at the open-air Althing, a natural amphitheater, in A.D. 930 and continued to meet at the site until 1798.Then, explore a thermal field bubbling withhot springs, mud volcanoes and hissing

Europe’s westernmost country, Icelandencompasses an area of 39,768 square miles(103,000 square km)—almost the size ofKentucky. Within these relatively diminutiveenvirons lies a world of extraordinary contrasts. On this amazing journey fromglaciers to geysers, see surreal landscapeswhere river currents and volcanic fields are harnessed as environmental assets to generate hydroelectric and geothermal power.Admire highland plains where spirited horses run free, and scan the coastal watersfor fins and flukes on a whale watchingcruise. Chart a course for adventure!

DAY ONEDepart your gateway city for Keflavík,Iceland, aboard scheduled jet service.(Provided for Air Program participants only.)

DAY TWOREYKJAVÍK

Upon arrival, transfer to Reykjavík.* Local Flavor: Breakfast is served at a restaurant en route.* (*Provided for Air Program participants only.)Excursion: The Big Little City. Reykjavíkis the world’s northernmost capital. Theisland’s first settler, Ingolfur Arnarson,named the settlement Smoky Bay aftermisty steam he saw rising from the ground.At The Pearl, a glass-domed observatory atopthe city’s hot water reservoirs, admire apanoramic view. Then, visit Hallgrimskirkjachurch, the towering symbol of Reykjavík,visible from 12 miles (20 km) away. Check into the Hotel Reykjavík Centrum. Independent Exploration: The afternoonis at leisure so you may familiarize yourselfwith the hotel and environs.This evening, gather for a private WelcomeReception and Dinner at the hotel.

DAY THREEBORGARNES & REYKHOLT

Educational Focus: From Vikings toIcelandic Sagas. Discuss how ancientNorwegian sailors discovered the island,struggled to make it a homeland and wereinspired to record their daring escapades.

edieval maps labeled a distantplace set beyond the bordersof the known European world

with the Latin designation of Thule.Legend cites that the first Viking to discover the two islands in the NorthAtlantic Ocean wanted to keep one all to himself. So, he named the icier landmass Greenland and his smaller, greenercountry Iceland, hoping that future settlers would pass by to the northeast.Embark on this exciting odyssey thatunveils all the staging for a great saga—verdant wilderness, windswept tundra and the sea teeming with marine life.

EXCLUSIVE HIGHLIGHTS

•Explore Reykjavík, the world’s most northern national capital.

•Learn about Iceland’s history andsagas at the Settlement Center.

• Immerse yourself in the culturalhaven and research center ofSnorrastofa.

•Visit the Hellisheidi GeothermalPower Plant to observe hot waterbeing harnessed from the earth to produce “green” electricity.

•Marvel at the spectacular Gullfosswaterfall and Strokkur geyser.

•Travel through the wonderland of Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

•Enjoy a whale watching cruise.

Alumni Campus Abroad®

Advantages This program offers unique value-added features that promise you an outstanding educational experience in a very special environment:• Unpack only once. A stay of

seven nights allows you to immerseyourself in the local culture and lifestyles.

• A First-Class hotel with comfort-able accommodations provides theperfect base from which to explorethe region’s renowned landmarksand off-the-beaten-path treasures.

• An extensive meal plan is seasoned with traditional specialties.

• Meet the People during a panel discussion with area residents to gain personal insight into everyday life in their community.

• Informative educational programs are presented by localexperts and excursions led by knowledgeable guides.

• An experienced CampusDirector ensures attentive servicesfor the duration of your stay.

• All gratuities for excursion guides and drivers are included.

MExcursion: Settlers and Storytellers.In the town of Borgarnes, tour exhibits onthe colonization of Iceland and the Icelandicsagas showcased in the Settlement Center.Continue to Reykholt and its Snorrastofa.Named for the beloved 13th-century poetand politician Snorri Sturluson, it is a cultur-al center dedicated to medieval studies. Local Flavor: Enjoy lunch at a restaurant.

DAY FOURHELLISHEIDI

Educational Focus: Geothermal Power.Learn about Iceland’s renewable energysources and technology export. Excursion: Earth Energy. Visit theHellisheidi Geothermal Power Plant nearHengill for a fascinating guided tour and lec-ture in this cutting-edge, eco-friendly facility.

Accommodations•Spend seven nights in the heart

of Reykjavík at the First-Class Hotel Reykjavík Centrum.

Meals•Enjoy an extensive meal program,

including seven breakfasts, three lunches and five dinners, in addition toin-flight dining service. Tea or coffee isincluded with all meals. Take advantageof leisure time to try the local cuisineindependently.

•Sample authentic regional special-ties at featured local restaurants.

•Attend a special Welcome Receptionat the hotel.

•Gather for a Graduation Ceremonyand Farewell Reception at the hotel.

Your Exciting Travel Program (For full details please refer to the day-by-day itinerary.)

•Informative educational programs,presented by local experts, willenhance your insight into the region.

•All excursions:– See the highlights of Reykjavík. – Step back in time in Borgarnes. – Visit Reykholt and its revered

Snorrastofa cultural center. – Tour the state-of-the-art

Hellisheidi Geothermal Plant.– Journey along a scenic circle tour

through the heart of Iceland. – Explore the natural wonders of

Snæfellsnes Peninsula. – Embark on a thrilling

whale watching cruise.

Many Included Extras •Consultation services of a dedicated

Passenger Service Representativeprior to departure.

•Services of a professional CampusDirector and Expert English-speaking Local Guides throughoutyour stay.

•Tipping of all excursion guides and drivers.

•Detailed travel and destination informa-tion to assist you in your planning.

•Deluxe travel wallet.

INCLUDED FEATURES

DAY SEVENSNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA

Excursion: Journey to the Center of theEarth. In Snæfellsjökull National Park, seeits namesake conical, glacial-capped strato-volcano, the setting for Jules Verne’s famousnovel written in 1871. Walk along a black sandbeach and drive through a volcanic cone. Local Flavor: A restaurant in a quaint fishing village en route hosts you for lunch.

DAY EIGHTREYKJAVÍK

Independent Exploration: The day is atleisure to pursue individual interests. Youmay visit the Blue Lagoon on your own. Tonight, gather with fellow travelers for aFarewell Reception and Graduation Ceremonyfollowed by dinner at the hotel.

DAY NINEAfter breakfast, transfer to the Keflavík air-port for the return flight to your gateway city.(Provided for Air Program participants only.)NOTE: Itinerary and flight schedule(s) may change due tolocal conditions. Many excursions in this program involvean element of walking as some of the finest attractionsare located in areas not closely accessible by motorcoach.

Geyser, the word for an erupting hotspring, originated in Iceland. It was derivedfrom an Old Icelandic language verb thatmeant "to gush," and the name for theGreat Geysir. Iceland has more than 200geysers that reach temperatures over 194oF(90oC). It was the first country in the worldto utilize this geothermal power to warmhomes, buildings and greenhouses at aprice that is generally less than half of thecomparable cost of oil or electric heating.This renewable energy source contributesto Iceland’s status as one of the cleanestand “greenest” environments in Europe.

U N E S C OThingvellir National Park was designated byUNESCO as a World Heritage List site in 2004 andis featured in this program. This site is distin-guished due to universal scenic and historic value.

Although small in stature, Icelandichorses are strong, sure-footed and

intelligent. They are known forfive distinctive gaits—walk; trot;the smooth tölt (rack); canter;and the unique flying pace, a racing gait when both legs on one side move in the samedirection in unison. Brought to the island by Viking settlers

in the mid-800s, there are nowapproximately 75,000 horses in

Iceland. In the late fall, the horsesare allowed to run free in large,

unattended herds in the highlands ofNorthern Iceland on an annual “vacation.”