Virginia Tech Magazine
Alumni Association
Fall 2009

Virginia Tech's international presence
VIRGINIA TECH ALUMNI can be found working and living around the world. The university fosters an international presence by sponsoring formal educational programs for its students. Two study abroad destinations, Riva San Vitale in Switzerland and Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, provide opportunities for students to participate in full semesters or shorter, concentrated courses, all taught by Virginia Tech faculty. Students from Cairo, Egypt, and Mumbai, India, also participate in Virginia Tech graduate programs.
Alumni tours for 2010

Each year the Virginia Tech Alumni Association puts together a calendar of exceptional alumni tours to several destinations around the world. Many tours are value priced, with ground expenses and most meals included. One recent traveler observed, "The Alumni Association's AHI tour to the Tuscany region of Italy was expertly organized with a comfortable hotel, daily excursions, delicious meals, several speakers on art, culture, and politics of the region, and an opportunity to meet local residents. It was a turn-key traveler experience."

Our well-designed vacation packages encompass active itineraries for the young and young-at-heart, including luxury, classic, and educational trips that everyone will enjoy. Every detail is arranged, from hotels to sightseeing. Join us in 2010 for a Hokie travel experience to remember for years to come.

Cruise the Panama Canal . Feb. 3-14 ($2,895*)
Experience gorgeous views of tropical paradise, including Antigua and the calm waters of Costa Rica. Admire the verdant rain forests and impressive architecture of St. Lucia and the white beaches of the British Virgin Islands. Explore the sun-soaked islands of the Caribbean Sea before traversing the incredible Panama Canal.
Legends of the Nile

Legends of the Nile . Feb. 16–27 ($3,995*)
See the best of the ancient land of the pharaohs on this magical tour of Egypt that includes a 4-night Nile cruise and trips to the Great Pyramids at Giza, the hidden hieroglyphic tombs in the Valleys of the Kings and Queens, the Temple of Ramses II, and the capital city of Cairo.

Treasures of Morocco . April 2–11 ($2,995*)
Embark on an exciting tour of a vibrant culture shaped by the influence of Phoenicians, Romans, Spanish, and French. Enjoy the sites of the famous city of Casablanca, the capital city of Rabat, and the cultural capital of Fez. Dine at a Marrakech restaurant and learn about the traditions of Moroccan cuisine.

Masters golf tournament
The Masters . April 7–9 ($2,585*)
Come experience golf's most historic event, the Masters Tournament in Augusta, Ga., with a group of Hokies. This comprehensive tour includes admission for two days to the Masters, a special Masters viewing social, two night's deluxe hotel accommodations, and much more.

Provence: Aix-en-Provence . June 1–9 ($2,595*)
Provence is where the sun-drenched French beaches and undulating hills tie the Mediterranean to the Alps. Enjoy the historic Aix-en-Provence and a private tour of Chateau d' Arnajon, and be a guest at a special wine and olive oil tasting. Take in the majestic sites as the Roman Empire comes alive during a visit to the historic monuments of Arles and Pont du Gard.

Tuscany: Cortona . June 23–July 1 ($2,395*)
In her book Under the Tuscan Sun, Frances Mayes captures the charm and romance of Italian living. Experience her idyllic world firsthand on this travel program that combines guided sightseeing tours with total immersion in community life. Walk the cobbled streets of Etruscan Cortona and discover the art, architecture, cuisine, and culture of one of Italy's most beloved regions.

Canadian maritimes
Canadian Maritimes . July 14–23 ($3,195*)
Immerse yourself in the culture and history of the Canadian Maritimes as you visit Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. Enjoy the rugged coastal scenery, beautiful lighthouses, charming fishing villages, and a whale-watching cruise on the Bay of Fundy.

Scotland: Oban and Stirling . Aug. 15–23 ($2,695*)
From deep glacial lakes to rugged, heather-covered Highland hills, Scotland's landscape sets a scenic stage. Travel through the cities of Edinburgh, Oban, and Stirling, and explore Scotland's most famous lakes and castles, including the mysterious Loch Ness. Attend a folkloric performance that showcases traditional Scottish music and dance. Visit St. Andrews, internationally renowned as the home of golf. Experience the famed Tatoo Military Festival in Edinburgh, which is held only once a year.

Saxony on the Magnificent Elbe River . Sept. 24–Oct. 2 ($2,795*)
Sail through the breathtaking scenery of the Saxon Alps to Prague. Visit some of Germany's most picturesque cities, including Potsdam, Wittenberg, and Torgau. Delight in the charming cities of Meissen and Dresden. A city once divided, Berlin is the perfect prelude for a journey into one of Europe's most majestic and historic regions.

China
China and the Yangtze River . Oct. 31–Nov. 13 ($3,195*)
Cruise the scenic Yangtze River aboard the Viking Century Sky and marvel at the Three Gorges. See such legendary wonders as Beijing's Imperial Palaces, the Great Wall, Xi'an's Terra Cotta Warriors, and the Bund in Shanghai. Experience Chinese culture and watch a traditional Peking Opera performance and a show by the Shanghai Acrobatic Theater.

Germany's Legendary Holiday . Market Cruise Nov. 26 – Dec. 4 (from $2,195)
Recapture the magic of the holidays, and step into scenes that glitter with fairy-tale charm in Germany. The smell of warm glühwein, roasted chestnuts, and spicy gingerbread will fill the air and tickle your senses as you shop in the best of Germany's famed Christkindlmarkts. Marvel at picture postcard towns, stately castles, medieval villages, and awe-inspiring churches. Enjoy first-class accommodations as you discover the charming towns along the rivers. All excursions are included.

*Prices may vary per person and are based on double occupancy. Airfare and V.A.T. tax are not included, unless otherwise noted. Special airfare available from most major cities.

Dates and prices are subject to change. If you have questions, please contact Gwen Harrington, Alumni Travel Coordinator, at 540/231-6285 or by e-mail at alumnitravel@vt.edu. Visit us online for complete details at www.alumni.vt.edu/travel.

IN THIS EDITION
. Commentary

. Alumni Association Annual Report

. University and Alumni Association awards

. Hokie Nation serves

. Chapter awards


Virginia Tech