Auburn University
Auburn University
Auburn Alumni Association Calendar Stay Connected Shop
Auburn University
 

Passage to Panama

January 28-February 13, 2009

One of the largest and most difficult engineering projects ever undertaken, the Panama Canal is a marvel of locks and water levels as ships make their way between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. On this 16-day voyage, we’ll not only enjoy the drama of passing through the canal on the sleek and elegant Regatta, the flagship of the Oceania Cruises fleet, but will enjoy a variety of ports of call on both sides of the crossing. Our ports of call will include the following—shore excursions are an additional cost: Cabo San Lucas. One of Mexico’s premier resorts, Cabo is also known as the “Marlin Capital of the World” for interested fishermen. There is also wonderful golf and excellent dining available. Tour the Church of San Lucas, a Spanish mission completed in 1746, and a towering lighthouse built at the end of the U.S. Civil War. From January to March, migrating gray whales can be seen from shore or the ship. For some unforgettable scenery, little compares to the famed, rugged rock formations at Land’s End.

Optional shore excursions include a Whale-Watching Cruise, Cabo Sportsfishing, Coastal Highlights Tour and Beach Horseback Ride. Acapulco. With almost 360 days of sunshine, this glamorous resort situated around a beautiful horseshoe bay was quite isolated until the 1920s. Visit the 19th-century cathedral and shop for antiques and other treasures at the Indian market. Be sure to see the daredevil cliff divers at La Quebrada who pray at a nearby chapel before plunging 130 feet into the Pacific. The bay is one of the most beautiful in the world. Recommended tours include the City Tour with Cliff Diving, the Historical, Traditional and Picturesque Acapulco excursion, and the Shotover Jetboat Tour. Huatulco. In addition to excellent snorkeling, Huatulco offers several ecotourism attractions such as river rafting, rappelling and jungle-trail hiking. The town boasts an 18-hole golf course and some of the best resorts on the southern Mexican coast. Shop for local crafts, jewelry and clothes. Popular activities include snorkeling, fishing, hiking and biking. The local golf course is one of the best on the entire western coast. Puerto Chiapas. Your gateway to the Mayan world in the Pacific, this seaside town is shrouded in mystery. Among the most well-preserved archaeological sites is the sprawling complex and Palenque, dating back to 100 B.C. Nearby, explore San Christobal de Las Casa cathedral, which combines baroque and colonial styles. Another great option is to take a guided tour through a rainforest. Puntarenas. Explore the country’s incredible natural wonders. Be awed by the spectacular rainforest canopy, whether by foot, horse or aerial tram. Discover breathtaking waterfalls, butterfly gardens and a cloud forest. Watch for curious monkeys and brilliantly colored butterflies. Visit a rare, virgin tropical dry forest. You may also enjoy a scenic drive through San Jose, a charming city with many interesting sights. Available excursions include the La Paz Waterfalls, a tour through Manuel Antonio National Park, a tour through a coffee plantation, and the Tropical Forest Sky Way Tour. Cartagena. Take a scenic drive through the residential area of Manga, and admire beautiful mansions that were built in Republican-style architecture at the end of the 19th century. Explore the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a fort that was once the most important military structure in Latin America. For a real treat, board the beautiful Spanish Galleon, a replica of a 17th-century sailing ship, for a cruise through the Bay of Cartagena. Consider taking one of the following excursions: the Rosario Islands tour, Spanish galleon day cruise or the historic walking tour. Key West. A tropical blend of exotic foliage, beautiful water and history-rich attractions, Key West has undergone many changes since its founding in 1822. Over the years, pirates, smugglers, writers and revolutionaries have made the Conch Republic their home. Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, Robert Frost and Thornton Wilder are among the most noted to come here to enjoy the idyllic setting and relaxed, casual atmosphere. The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is an excellence excursion, as is the Key West Aquarium. Also visit the historic home of Ernest Hemingway, who wrote many novels and short stories in Key West.

View pdf for more information.

If you have traveled with the Auburn Alumni Association War Eagle Travelers Program in the past, you will receive information on upcoming trips. If you have not traveled with us in the past and would like to receive trip information, please contact Miriam Sanders.

For More Information
Contact Miriam Sanders 334-844-1143 e-mail
Or Tanja Matthews '92 334-844-1113 e-mail