Academic Travel Plan for OLu: 2025-26
Summer 2026:
England, Ireland, and Scotland (June) --- Pete Lark, lead --- peter.lark@lhsoc.org
Summer 2026:
NYC Arts and Metro (June) --- Jennifer Blomquist, lead --- jennifer.blomquist@lhsoc.org
Our Recent Adventures
The Parthenon as seen from atop the acropolis.
We enjoyed many breathtaking sunsets on our cruise!
Our whole group on the steps of the ancient Ephesian library!
Our 10-day journey through Greece was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived in Athens, we were immersed in history, culture, and unforgettable beauty. Exploring the Acropolis and standing in awe before the Parthenon was a powerful start, setting the tone for a trip filled with inspiration and discovery.
Our time in Delphi offered breathtaking views and a deeper appreciation for ancient wisdom, while the lively streets of Plaka brought us closer to the heart of Greek culture through music, food, and local hospitality. Cruising through the Aegean was a dream come true. Each island stop added a unique layer to our adventure: the vibrant charm of Mykonos, the rich traditions of Crete, and the awe-inspiring views from the cliffs of Santorini were among the most memorable.
One of the trip’s highlights was our visit to Delphi, where ancient ruins and natural beauty merged to offer a captivating glimpse into Ancient Greek civilization. Nevertheless, whether we were swimming in the clear waters of the Aegean, enjoying traditional Greek cuisine, or simply soaking in the sunset from a ferry deck, each moment felt like a gift.
This trip offered more than just sightseeing—it was a journey of connection, reflection, and shared joy. Greece came alive through every laugh, every step, and every story told. We return home with hearts full of gratitude and memories that will last a lifetime.
Berlin Cathedral under the beautiful skies of the German Capital:)
Our crew in front of a large remaining section of the Berlin Wall. Below sits the exhibition of the Topography of Terror Museum.
Our expert guide led us throughout the city of Berlin for an entire day! Taking us to the Soviet War Memorial, Checkpoint Charlie and to the Posh and Beautiful city of Potsdam, home to the Prussian ruling elite and the palace of Frederick the Great!
Our last stop brought us to the incredibly beautiful city of Budapest, Hungary! Home to Stephen's Basilica, wonderful chimney cakes (Kurtsocolacs) and the most beautiful Parliament in world. A city split by the Danube with stately Buda on one side and exciting Pest on the other.
The arboreal peace in this photo masks the horror of the murder of 1.1 million people at Auschwitz-Birkenau.
Our group talked about ways to deal with the emotions of visiting a Nazi death camp. One idea we discussed was to wash our hands after leaving.
A magical evening as we concluded a day in the Eternal City of Rome
Link to trip video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-kLuT-fyFA
Traversing the busy "highways" of Venice's gondola system.
One of the ancient bronze sculptures unearthed in Pompeii's ruins.
Authentic Italian pizza in Florence
Our large & happy "Italian family" of Olu travelers
The iconic facade of the Florence Duomo ---- all marble in pink, green, and white stone
Celebrating Rachel's birthday in Italy!
Dinnertime at one of the cool restaurants in a local town
Coming home! Flying into LAX exhausted but smiling!