In-Person and Online Program: For the past 40 years, documentary photographer, filmmaker, and National Geographic Society Explorer Chris Rainier has been in search of the sacred and the very meaning of sacredness. Rainier shares his discoveries from that exploration as he leads a visual journey into a world of spiritual landscapes and sacred sites around the globe, combining powerful and haunting images with insights from leading authors, spiritual thinkers, indigenous elders, explorers, and religious scholars.
The 1,121 UNESCO World Heritage sites throughout the world provide fascinating glimpses into the evolution of complex civilizations, empires, and religions. In a lavishly illustrated series, historian Justin M. Jacobs offers an in-depth overview of two particularly intriguing UNESCO World Heritage sites. This session focuses on the Great Wall of China.
There’s no more iconic holiday performance in New York than Radio City Music Hall’s famed Christmas Spectacular. And there’s no better way to see the precision dancing of the Rockettes than from prime orchestra seats in the fabulous art deco theater where the show has been a tradition since 1933. A behind-the-scenes tour of the Music Hall adds to the experience.
The 1,121 UNESCO World Heritage sites throughout the world provide fascinating glimpses into the evolution of complex civilizations, empires, and religions. In a lavishly illustrated series, historian Justin M. Jacobs offers an in-depth overview two particularly intriguing UNESCO World Heritage sites. This session focuses on the Sacred Buddhist Landscape of Bagan.
Join geologist Kirt Kempter as he explores the geology of Western National Parks over the course of 2023, with an in-depth look at one location every month. He kicks off the series with a focus on parks in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. This program spotlights Big Bend National Park in Texas.
Imagine traveling the world passionately searching for the most exquisite and creatively designed gardens. Baltimore landscape architect Scott C. Scarfone was given just such an opportunity. Follow his garden globetrotting as he recounts memorable visits to fabulous garden sites across the globe.
It’s the perfect post-holiday treat for yourself: an art-filled weekend escape to Manhattan that gives you plenty of time to take in several of the most intriguing exhibits on view in three cultural powerhouses—and a night on the town to enjoy as you like. Art historian Ursula Rehn Wolfman leads the visit, which highlights early 20th-century artists and their works. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1 credit)
World-class wine, medieval villages, museums, and markets: The Bordeaux region of France is truly a feast for all the senses, with a history that unfolds around every scenic turn. Emmy Award–nominated PBS television host Darley Newman showcases the best that this area of Southwestern France has to offer and shares how to get the most out of your visit to France’s renowned wine region.
Italy and its superb cuisine draw hungry visitors from all over the world. European travel expert Rick Steves joins Fred Plotkin, a specialist in Italian cuisine and culture, for a deep dive into many of Italy’s secret culinary pleasures. Their shared insights about hidden gems ensure that your next trip to Italy is delizioso.
Indulge in a colorful midwinter escape as horticultural experts lead a series of virtual visits that highlight the beauty of notable botanical gardens. This program spotlights Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and the Eden Project.
Join geologist Kirt Kempter as he explores the geology of Western National Parks over the course of 2023, with an in-depth look at one location every month. He kicks off the series with a focus on parks in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. This program spotlights Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands, both in New Mexico.
Modern scientists are slowly unlocking Stonehenge’s secrets, but the stone circle remains a uniquely iconic enigma. Kelly Beatty, senior editor at Sky and Telescope magazine, discusses these new developments and the enduring mystery of Stonehenge.
Indulge in a colorful midwinter escape as horticultural experts lead a series of virtual visits that highlight the beauty of notable botanical gardens. This program spotlights the Singapore Botanic Garden and Norfolk Botanical Gardens.
The 1,154 UNESCO World Heritage sites throughout the world provide fascinating glimpses into the evolution of complex civilizations, empires, and religions. In a lavishly illustrated series, historian Justin M. Jacobs offers an in-depth overview of Samarra and the Abbasid Caliphate.
PBS television host Darley Newman shares great places to discover in Türkiye (the now-official name for Turkey) and how to get the most out of your travels, whether you’re visiting bustling bazaars in Istanbul or venturing off the beaten path. Discover the most intriguing places to experience food, culture, adventure, and history in Istanbul, Cappadocia, Anatolia, Antalya, and the Aegean Coast.
Indulge in a colorful midwinter escape as horticultural experts lead a series of virtual visits that highlight the beauty of notable botanical gardens. This program spotlights the Temple Gardens of Kyoto, Japan.
The 1,154 UNESCO World Heritage sites throughout the world provide fascinating glimpses into the evolution of complex civilizations, empires, and religions. In a lavishly illustrated series, historian Justin M. Jacobs offers an in-depth overview of Angor Wat.
The 1,154 UNESCO World Heritage sites throughout the world provide fascinating glimpses into the evolution of complex civilizations, empires, and religions. In a lavishly illustrated series, historian Justin M. Jacobs offers an in-depth overview of Philippine Rice Terraces of Ifugao.
Join geologist Kirt Kempter as he explores the geology of Western National Parks over the course of 2023, with an in-depth look at one location every month. He kicks off the series with a focus on parks in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. This program spotlights the Grand Canyon in Arizona.
The 1,154 UNESCO World Heritage sites throughout the world provide fascinating glimpses into the evolution of complex civilizations, empires, and religions. In a lavishly illustrated series, historian Justin M. Jacobs offers an in-depth overview of Sacred Sites of Tibet.
The 1,154 UNESCO World Heritage sites throughout the world provide fascinating glimpses into the evolution of complex civilizations, empires, and religions. In a lavishly illustrated series, historian Justin M. Jacobs offers an in-depth overview of Brasilia, the Utopian Capital of Brazil.
