HSU Traveling Range Riders

2nd in our National Parks Series!

SOUTHWEST NATIONAL PARKS

May 10-18, 2023  •  from $4,695 plus airfare

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Join fellow travelers on a journey to the exceptional national parks and monuments of the Southwest. Travel to Grand Canyon National Park for awe-inspiring views from the park’s rim. Admire the beauty of light striking Antelope Canyon’s narrow sandstone walls. Share a peaceful evening with Navajo storytellers, and ponder cultures past and present at a petroglyph site during a river raft ride down Glen Canyon.

Continue to Utah where you’ll spend enjoyable time at Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks—viewing rock formations and otherworldly landscapes that must be seen to be believed.

With the guidance of an expert Orbridge Expedition Leader and the comforts of a private motor coach, there is no better way to visit our national parks.

PLUS: Kick off your adventure in the Southwest by joining the optional pre-tour, Denver to Moab aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. Enjoy nature’s wondrous scenery in comfort and style during two days of rail travel in premium SilverLeaf class. After arriving in Moab, delight in guided touring at Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park for two additional areas to explore.

Highlights:

• Stay at lodges inside Grand Canyon National Park and other properties carefully selected for their rich histories, beautiful locations, and superb service and accommodations.
• Spend additional time in Grand Canyon National Park or choose to join an optional helicopter flightseeing excursion over the Grand Canyon (additional fee).

• Discover the sunbaked natural structures and sacred lands of Monument Valley.
• Witness the towering red rock cliffs lining the Colorado River during a rafting excursion in Glen Canyon.
• Behold the radiant colors and fluid-like patterns inside the walls of Antelope Canyon.
• Visit a traditional Navajo hogan, and set out on a 4-wheel drive tour through Monument Valley.
• Observe the monolithic hoodoos in Bryce Canyon National Park.

• Follow the paths of Ancestral Puebloans and pioneers at Zion National Park.

Trip Flyer!

PLAN WITH CONFIDENCE! Receive a complete refund for cancellations made 90+ days before departure. Reserve today online, by calling 866-639-0079, or by contacting Britt Yates Jones ’84 at 325-670-1377 / travel@hsutx.edu.

IRISH INSPIRATION CRUISE

June 21-29, 2023  •  8 nights from $3,799 with airfare.

PLAN WITH CONFIDENCE! Receive a complete refund for cancellations made 121+ days before departure. Contact Britt Jones at (325) 670-1377 | travel@hsutx.edu, or call our tour operator Go Next Travel at (800) 842-9023.

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Join us as we explore the gorgeous green coasts of Ireland on an 8-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Riviera. Begin your journey in Belfast and set sail for Dublin (Dún Laoghaire), the birthplace to some of the world’s greatest literary figures. Stroll through Waterford, a 1,110-year-old Viking town and the oldest city in Ireland.

Explore storied castles outside of Cork and Bantry Bay, a region where fishing villages and Irish pubs uphold strong traditions. Venture to the countryside of Galway to take in the dramatic Cliffs of Moher. Explore the town history of Killybegs and see the world’s largest knotted loom. Before making your way back to Belfast, visit Derry, known for the intact 17th century walls surrounding the city center.

Itinerary

• June 20:Depart for Belfast, Northern Ireland
• June 21:Belfast, Northern Ireland
• June 22:Dublin (Dún Laoghaire), Ireland  
• June 23:Waterford, Ireland  
• June 24:Cork (Cobh), Ireland
• June 25:Bantry, Ireland  
• June 26:Galway, Ireland  
• June 27:Killybegs, Ireland
• June 28:Derry, Northern Ireland  
• June 29:Belfast, Northern Ireland

Anchor Port

*Cruise itinerary is subject to change.

KENYA SAFARI: THE BIG 5

August 16 to 26, 2023  •  From $4295 plus airfare

Spot for the “Big 5” during this 11-day journey featuring unparalleled access to Kenya’s national parks, reserves, and conservancies.

Along with the guidance of an Orbridge Expedition Leader and remarkable accommodations, this adventure provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the spectacular array of wildlife in this part of the world.

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FALL COLORS ON MARK TWAIN’S MISSISSIPPI

Sep. 24-Oct. 2, 2023  •  St. Louis to Red Wing  •  from $2,399 

Discover the beauty of the Mississippi River in autumn! Join us for this eight-night adventure on Mark Twain’s Mississippi.

PLAN WITH CONFIDENCE! Receive a complete refund for cancellations made 121+ days before departure. Contact Britt Jones at (325) 670-1377 | travel@hsutx.edu, or call our tour operator Go Next Travel at (800) 842-9023.

Grass, water and autumn trees surround the Gateway Arch in Saint Louis, Missouri.

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While the leaves turn yellows and reds, travel with HSU from St. Louis to Minneapolis.

Begin with a complimentary pre-cruise hotel stay in St. Louis, famous for its soaring arch. Your cruise begins in Alton, a city whose charming monuments dot the historic streets.

Embark the American Queen and cruise to Hannibal, the boyhood home of Mark Twain, famously known as the setting for many of his writings.

In Bettendorf, get a glimpse of Iowa— explore the history of this fascinating river town. Then head to Dubuque, where you can pay a visit to the Dubuque Museum of Art, Iowa’s oldest cultural institution.

In La Crosse, seek out a local brew pub to get a taste of the city’s long and storied history in the brewing industry. Before journey’s end, spend a day in Red Wing, a city whose pioneering story lives on in its many galleries and museums.

EXPERIENCE THE VICTORY 

November 5-8, 2023

$1,399 per person, double; $1,699 single; family rates available

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Join HSU Alumni and Friends at The National WWII Museum in New Orleans to explore, remember, and reflect on World War II through exclusive access to the #1 Attraction in New Orleans.

The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world—why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today—so that all generations will understand the price of freedom and be inspired by what they learn.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience a custom program at this world-class institution!

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INCLUDED WITH YOUR EXPERIENCE

National World War II Museum

• The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world—why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today—so that all generations will understand the price of freedom and be inspired by what they learn.

• Through exhibits, multimedia experiences, and thousands of personal accounts, the Museum takes visitors on an immersive tour of World War II in every theater of war. Explore our vast campus: the Louisiana Memorial Pavilion, Solomon Victory Theater, Campaigns Of Courage: European And Pacific Theaters, and more. For more information, visit https://www.nationalww2museum.org.

Early Access Tour of the Museum: Begin your immersive journey into World War II on the exclusive Early Access Tour! Join us for a preopening tour accompanied by an expert guide, who will provide an overview of each major pavilion you’ll tour later at your own pace. From the awesome macro-artifacts and warbirds on view in the STEM Innovation Gallery and US Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center, the Early Access Tour will give you a great jump-start on your day at the Museum—as well as insight into how we tell the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world.

Campaigns of Courage Guided Tour: Follow American citizen soldiers through World War II in this exclusive small-group guided tour of the immersive, interactive Campaigns of Courage: European and PacificTheaters pavilion. During the two-hour experience through the Museum’s signature exhibits, an official Museum guide will walk you through the chronological narrative of each theater of combat, bringing to life the drama, sacrifices, personal stories, and strategies of America’s campaign to defeat the Axis powers and preserve freedom. Your guide will also highlight several artifacts, displays, and exhibit panels during the tour, which explores how the Allies secured victory in the 20th century’s titanic struggle—a fight for civilization itself.

Final Mission: USS Tang Submarine Experience places visitors aboard the most successful submarine in World War II for its fifth and final war patrol on October 25, 1944. Guests relive the last epic battle of the USS Tang and feel a deeper appreciation for the bravery and sacrifice of those who served in the intense, confined world of underwater warfare.

Curator’s Collection Museum Experience: Step inside The National WWII Museum’s private Center for Collections & Archives and take an intimate two-hour journey into WWII history through rarely seen artifacts that give voice to the American experience in World War II. Through this unique opportunity, guests will get to see Museum artifacts currently not on display or seen by the public. A Museum curator will be your guide on this exclusive experience, which will include detailed descriptions of the processes used to preserve and store the Center’s priceless items, as well as backstage insight into the work that goes into developing the Museum’s exhibits and programs.

Beyond All Boundaries, showing exclusively in The National WWII Museum’s Solomon Victory Theater, is a 4D journey through the war that changed the world. This Museum-produced experience is narrated by executive producer Tom Hanks, with Phil Hettema serving as show producer and creative director. Beyond All Boundaries features dazzling effects, CGI animation, multilayered environments, and first-person accounts from the trenches to the Home Front read by Brad Pitt, Tobey Maguire, Gary Sinise, Patricia Clarkson, Wendell Pierce, and more.

3-day Hop-On Hop-Off double-decker bus tour access: City Sightseeing New Orleans is the most entertaining, informative, and fun City Tour you can find that offers transportation right from the campus of the National World War II Museum in an exhilarating open-top, double-decker bus. HOP-ON! and in a single 1-hour 45-minute loop, experience a complete City Tour — 3 centuries of history, architecture, and culture narrated live in English by your very own Tour Host – see the Garden District, French Quarter, and CBD. HOP-OFF! at any stop along the way and spend time in New Orleans’ most popular neighborhoods, attractions, and shopping districts. Explore the heart of New Orleans’ most beloved and historic neighborhoods – the French Quarter and the Garden District – with 45-minute escorted walking tours included in your ticket.

Higgins Hotel: Conveniently located directly across the street from The National WWII Museum, the Higgins Hotel offers era-inspired guest rooms and specialty suites, premium amenities, a full-service restaurant, lounge, and a rooftop bar. Located in the heart of the Arts & Warehouse District, it’s a home away from home replete with era-inspired guest rooms and suites, exceptional dining, and state-of-the-art meeting and event spaces. For more information, visit https://www.higginshotelnola.com.

NATIONAL PARKS & LODGES of the OLD WEST | July 14-22, 2022  •  8 nights from $4,995 plus airfare.

Free Expedition Library for all who reserve by December 17. RESERVE WITH CONFIDENCE! Full refunds for cancellations made at least 91 days before departure.

An acclaimed program, operating for more than 30 years and still selling out!

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Join fellow alumni and friends on a journey that celebrates the American West’s magnificent National Parks, tracing legends and storied monuments along the way.

From Mount Rushmore to Old Faithful and from Spearfish Canyon to the Snake River, you will see the best of the Old West, and traverse its beautiful vistas in style and comfort. Wonderfully historic hotels and lodges are a highlight of this program, including landmark lodging within the parks themselves.

Indulge in the geological phenomena of hot springs in South Dakota, and journey through Badlands National Park, known as nature’s surreal masterpiece, where impressive herds of bison roam, and dazzling, dramatic pinnacles rise over the largest undisturbed mixed-grass prairie in the United States.

BOOK TODAY WITH CONFIDENCE – full refunds are guaranteed for cancellations made at least 91 days before departure. Sign up online or by calling our tour partner at 866-639-0079 (Orbridge). Or contact trip host Britt (Yates) Jones ’84 at 325-670-1377 | travel@hsutx.edu.

More Information! 

Program Highlights:

Experience the diverse wonders of our national parks accompanied by an Orbridge Expedition Leader.

Overnight in landmark lodges that are national treasures themselves.

Enjoy a Jeep safari tour at Custer State Park—a wildlife reserve with scenic lakes, dramatic granite spires, and lush grasslands where bison herds roam.

Visit the world’s largest mammoth site, where scientists are excavating remains of Columbian and woolly mammoths from 26,000 years ago.

Marvel at the grandeur of Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial.

See the dramatic effects of Yellowstone’s volcanically active caldera and visit otherworldly geothermal sites, including Old Faithful Geyser.

Explore Grand Teton National Park—host to flora and fauna that date back to prehistoric times.

What’s included: 8 nights accommodations; 8 breakfasts and 7 dinners, including special welcome and farewell dinners.

GREEK & TURKISH SPLENDOR: Eastern Mediterranean Cruise | September 3-14, 2022  •  10 nights from $3,699 including airfare | •  BONUS $250 Shipboard Credit

Sign up today for this popular and captivating 10-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Riviera with HSU’s Traveling Range Riders and host Britt (Yates) Jones ’84.

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Tour the classic treasures of the eastern Mediterranean on this 10-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Riviera.

Voyage through terracotta-lined seashores and see St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta. Appreciate Byzantine icons, artifacts, and frescoes on display in Igoumenitsa, and in Argostoli see the sun-bleached ramparts of the St. George Castle ruins. Swim, snorkel, or stretch out in the sun in Chania.

Stop in Santorini, where the house-dotted cliffs are the perfect backdrop for a moment of reflection. In Athens and Ephesus, indulge your historic side as you make your way through ruins and relics. And take in the pleasures of Istanbul—meander the spice markets or make a stop at the Blue Mosque.

PLAN WITH CONFIDENCE! Receive a complete refund for cancellations made 121+ days before departure. Contact Britt Jones at (325) 670-1377 | travel@hsutx.edu, or call our tour operator Go Next Travel at (952) 918-8950.

Valletta pre-program option available.

Real ID Required for Travel Beginning May 3, 2023

On May 3, 2023, U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.  More Information.

U.S. Dept of State

Information for Travelers

U.S. Customs

Know Before You Go Video
Information for Returning Travelers
Travel Tips Ensure Smooth CBP Processing Experience
Global Entry vs TSA Pre-Check – what are the differences?

Insurance Coverage

Hardin-Simmons highly recommends each traveler consider travel insurance. Our tour operators have relationships with certain insurance providers, which they will share with travelers, and an internet search will reveal other possible providers.

Avoiding Jet Lag

There is no singular cure for jet lag. Before departure, get ample rest, as being well-rested when you depart will allow you to better ward off jet lag symptoms. During your flight(s), be certain to drink plenty of water to counteract the dehydrating effects of air travel.

The goal is to adjust to your new time zone as quickly as possible, so follow this simple rule of thumb: if you are arriving in the morning, sleep on the plane so you will have energy for the day; if you are arriving in the evening, stay awake during the flight so you can sleep soundly at your destination.