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Alumni & Friends Travel

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Explore the World with Georgia Southwestern

Experience the joy of travel with Georgia Southwestern, providing GSW Alumni and friends the opportunity to experience multiple destinations around the world while making life-long friendships.

All trips are posted online here. GSW promotes 2-3 group trips per year and the website is updated with the reservation and information link as soon as dates are booked.

Benefits of Traveling with GSW

Traveling with GSW Alumni provides additional opportunities for guests such as:

Memorable Experiences - Travelers have the opportunity to explore new destinations with current and new friends. The tours vary by destination and length, but all include itineraries that detail the history of the area, introduce new local cuisine, and offer breathtaking views.
Build Lasting Relationships - GSW travelers are able to make connections and meaningful relationships with fellow Hurricane alumni, family, and friends while creating lasting memories.
Save Time and Money - Travelers are able to save valuable time on trips by having pre-planned itineraries that detail the history and uniqueness of the area, introduce new local cuisine and offer breathtaking views, while allowing travelers time to explore on their own. Traveling as a group takes the stress out of planning and also allows guests to receive better rates, group discounts and more.

FAQs

Do I have to be an alumnus of Georgia Southwestern to participate in these travel opportunities?

No, the trips are for GSW Alumni & Friends and are open to anyone wishing to see the world. If you aren’t a friend now, you will be after traveling with us!

Who leads the tours?

A GSW representative travels with you to ensure you are comfortable and have the information you need. Also, each trip is assigned an incredibly knowledgeable Tour Manager, giving you the benefit of a highly trained expert (many of them have been with us for over 20 years) right by your side every step of the way.

Why does GSW use Collette as its travel partner?

Collette is a family owned company that has been in business for over 100 years and has an excellent reputation. The inclusive tours provide you more value for your money and more of what makes travel special. Additionally, Collette is very generous with its commission, a large percentage of which is donated to GSW to support student scholarships.

What is included in the price?

Most all of our trips include round trip airfare, air taxes and fees/surcharges, hotel transfers, accommodations, excursions/tours included in package, transportation and a number of meals (# varies with each trip). There are optional excursions/tours associated with each destination that can be purchased at the discretion of traveler. All information and daily itineraries are included in each trip link.

Transportation is provided from Georgia Southwestern to the airport on the day of departure at no extra cost. Guests are encouraged to budget for additional meals, optional add-ons, tips, and souvenirs.

If I live out of state, do I have to fly out of Atlanta’s Hartsfield International Airport?

Travel can be coordinated out of any Gateway airport, of which most major airports are included.

If I want to travel, but the trip I want isn’t one being offered through GSW, is there another option?

Anyone wishing to participate in group travel can select any tour through Collette World Connect. If interested, call 800-437-0235 and mention GSW promotions code U001.AX1.910 and Group (Georgia Southwestern State University).

How can I stay informed about upcoming trips and information sessions?

Complete the Travel Interest Form to receive updates on upcoming trips, be notified about future information sessions, and share where you'd like to travel with GSW Alumni & Friends in the future.

Start Your Next Adventure

The GSW Alumni & Friends Travel program offers curated, hassle-free international and domestic travel designed for alumni and supporters to explore the world while building community. Participants receive a concierge experience from start to finish. If you are interested in traveling the world with us or wish to receive alerts for upcoming adventures, please fill out the following form.

Travel Interest Form

2026 Trips

14 Apr

Holland and Belgium Springtime River Cruise

April 14-22, 2026 Holland and Belgium Savor springtime in Holland and Belgium with a river cruise that features blooming tulip fields and iconic windmills. Enjoy a canal cruise in the heart of Amsterdam. Stop in Arnhem, the favorite summer retreat of the Dutch royal family. Step into medieval times during a Bruges walking tour. Explore Kinderdijk and see Holland’s iconic windmills. Relax as you make your way along picturesque scenery and visit beloved cities such as Amsterdam and Bruges. Visit Keukenhof Gardens, home to more than 7 million tulips. Limited space on each cabin category with all cabins and singles on a first come first served basis. (Double rates from $4,549-$7,749 and single rates from $6,249-$12,649) Prices include round trip air and hotel transfers.

Cowboy country card with sold out overlay

18 Aug

Discover America's Cowboy Country

August 18-25, 2026 South Dakota & Wyoming Enjoy stunning views of the American West as you make your way through Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Badlands National Parks. Enjoy overnight stays in the cowboy towns of Jackson Hole and Cody. Experience the Wild West as it once was with a visit to Deadwood, a town built on gold and gunpowder. Experience Yellowstone National Park, search for free-ranging herds of buffalo in Custer State Park. Marvel at Grand Teton National Park’s towering peaks, marked with mountain glaciers. Soak in stunning views of Mt. Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorials. Enjoy a traditional chuck wagon dinner and saddle up for an adventure as you discover natural wonders and cultural treasures. (Double: $3,999 – Single: $5,099 – Triple: $3,949) Price Includes airfare, transportation, accommodations, admissions and tours, and 10 meals.

5 Dec

Magical Christmas Markets

December 5-12, 2026 Austria and Germany Experience the holiday spirit in Austria and Germany, where the tradition of the Christkindlesmarkt began over 600 years ago. Uncover the history and tastes of these incredible regions spending five relaxing nights in Innsbruck. Venture to the Alpine village of Seefeld via train; partake in the traditional taste of schnapps before you’re whisked away on a horse-drawn Christmas sleigh. Head to Salzburg for an expert-guided walking tour and delight in dinner at the centuries-old St. Peter’s restaurant. Visits to Oberammergau and Munich rounds out the journey of a lifetime in this winter wonderland, where twinkling lights illuminate entire regions, and the spirit of Christmas is alive and well. (Double: $3,999 – Single: $4,599) Includes transportation to and from airport (from Americus), round trip air and accommodations, 10 meals and included on-tour excursions.

2027 Trips

11 Mar

Venice

March 11-19, 2027 Venice, Verona & the Dolomites Unpack once and take in the vineyards, villas, peaks, and prosecco of Veneto. Settle into a centrally located hotel in Treviso, the historic mainland outpost for the island-city of Venice. Savor the Venetian inspiration on terrafirma, solid ground, so you have the flexibility to explore on land and by water, with time to dive into Venice, Verona, and the Dolomites. Take in the artist haven of Asolo and get a taste of Italy’s Prosecco region. Explore Verona, the romantic city of Romeo & Juliet. Immerse yourself in local culture at a historic villa near Bassano del Grappa, retracing the history of a noble family of Venice. Option on tour includes a Venetian Serenaded Gondola Cruise on day 5. This is your opportunity to dive in and truly experience Northern Italy. (Double: $4,029 – Single: $4,629 – Triple: $3,979) Price Includes round-trip airfare, transportation, accommodations, admissions, tours and more!

1 Aug

Discover Scotland

Coming August, 2027! Scotland From its rugged sea-sprayed islands to its stately castles layered in history, Scotland awaits. Learn how the bagpipes are played and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Take a cruise on famed Loch Ness. Visit a local family on their farm and meet their sheepdogs. Marvel at the stunning scenery of the Isle of Skye. Explore the Orkney Islands’ ancient Skara Brae. Visit Dunrobin Castle. Explore the regal city of Edinburgh. Put a modern twist on Scottish cuisine during an interactive cooking demonstration. Take in the spectacle of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, one of Scotland's greatest events. Discover a land of rolling green Highlands, friendly sheepdogs, and historic castles. Exact dates and prices TBA soon!

11 Oct

A New England Fall

Coming October, 2027! New England Follow the foliage and be charmed by the colors of New England from the heart of historic Boston to the farms, mountains, and coast of the North. You will begin your journey in historic Boston but will also travel to Vermont and New Hampshire. Relax as you cruise along Lake Winnipesaukee and admire the splendid views. Travel up the winding Auto Road to see the stunning views from the summit of Mount Washington. Marvel at Maine’s dramatic coast and discover the seaside communities of Portland and Kennebunkport. This is New England at its finest! Exact dates and prices are TBA but placeholder set for second week of October.

2028 Trips

1 Apr

Tuscany and the Italian Riviera

Coming Spring, 2028! Italy From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sun-soaked coast of the Italian Riviera, a romantic rendezvous with Italia awaits. Discover regal Turin, surrounded by alpine peaks. Spend a day exploring Cinque Terre’s rugged coastline. Relax with a 3-night stay in a Tuscan village and savor the sprawling vineyards and charming medieval hill towns of the region. Enjoy an interactive pasta-making demonstration. Visit Lucca, encircled by a stunning set of 16th century walls. Explore the iconic sites of Florence and the medieval charm of Greve in Chianti. Throughout your journey, discover a land rich in history, culture, and cuisine. More information TBA!

14 Jun

Croatia: Small Ship Cruising on the Adriatic Coast

Jun 14 – 25, 2028 Croatia & Its Islands From medieval architecture to ethereal waterfalls, coast along the sparkling Adriatic Sea and experience the very best of Croatia. Begin your journey in Zagreb, the country’s illustrious capital. Stand in awe before the cascading waterfalls of Krka National Park. Discover the ancient palace of Emperor Diocletian in Split. Enjoy a memorable 7-night cruise along the Adriatic coast aboard a privately chartered ship. Visit Brač Island and take in the famous “Golden Cape” of Bol. Explore the island of Biševo, home to the mystical Blue Cave. Tour Dubrovnik’s Old City and stroll along its picturesque cobblestone streets. Relax as you take in breathtaking scenery, vibrant waters, and Croatia’s rich history at every stop. Limited space available in each cabin category with all cabins on a first come, first served basis. *Rates per person are as follows (based on double occupancy): Lower Outside ($7,999), Main Deck ($8,599), Upper Deck ($9,199), Sun Deck ($9,799). More information TBA!

1 Sep

Canadian Rockies featuring Rocky Mountaineer

Coming Fall, 2028! Canada From scenic mountains and valleys to the stunning Lake Louise, explore the best of Western Canada via the famous Rocky Mountaineer luxury train. See the sights by day, sleep in a hotel at night. Visit beautiful Stanley Park and the famed Granville Island Public Market. Travel among the fields of Fraser Valley and the picturesque Fraser River. Admire the postcard-worthy landscapes as you journey alongside Kicking Horse River. Journey along the unforgettable Icefields Parkway and stop at Athabasca Glacier. Admire stunning Bow Falls in Banff. Set off on a mesmerizing voyage from Vancouver, British Columbia to Calgary, Alberta, on this eastbound, elevated and unforgettable adventure. More information TBA!

Featured Past Trips

Recent trips have included Alaska, Greece, and Iceland.

“

We took our first trip with GSW Alumni to Ireland and then to Tuscany. We have had so much fun experiencing the different cultures, sights, food and wine. But most precious and dear to our hearts are the forever friends we have made!

Pam and Rusty Autry Tifton, Georgia

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