March 16–29, 2020 - Whitman College · SPEND three nights in the imperial city of Fes at the...

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Treasures of Morocco & Andalusia With Nicholas (Nico) Parmley Associate Professor of Hispanic Studies March 16–29, 2020

Transcript of March 16–29, 2020 - Whitman College · SPEND three nights in the imperial city of Fes at the...

Page 1: March 16–29, 2020 - Whitman College · SPEND three nights in the imperial city of Fes at the luxurious Palais Faraj, once the residence of the Grand Vizier of Jamaï, with its stunning

Treasures of Morocco & AndalusiaWith Nicholas (Nico) Parmley

Associate Professor of Hispanic StudiesMarch 16–29, 2020

Page 2: March 16–29, 2020 - Whitman College · SPEND three nights in the imperial city of Fes at the luxurious Palais Faraj, once the residence of the Grand Vizier of Jamaï, with its stunning

SPEND three nights in the imperial city of Fes at the luxurious Palais Faraj, once the residence of the Grand Vizier of Jamaï, with its stunning architectural details and hilltop location

EXPERIENCE the city’s fascinating old quarter, lush gardens, elaborately carved madrasas, and the mellah, once one of the largest Jewish quarters in Morocco

TOUR less-visited Meknes, a 17th-century rival to Versailles, with its grand buildings, intricate gates, and narrow streets

EXPLORE the archaeological site of Volubilis, one of the best-preserved Roman towns in North Africa, whose ruins include a forum, basilica, temples, and the Triumphal Arch of Caracalla

VISIT the seldom-visited gem of Tétouan to discover the UNESCO-listed medina and explore the Ethnographic Museum

ADMIRE the courtyards, fountains, and exquisite interiors of Granada’s Alhambra and the Generalife during an expert-led tour

SEE the iconic red-and-white arches of La Mezquita in Córdoba, and in Seville marvel at the imposing Alcázar, the palace built for King Peter I of Castile on the site of a Moorish fort

Dear Alumni and Friends of Whitman College, We are pleased to offer a unique opportunity for you to explore the Treasures of Morocco and Andalusia with Nico Parmley, Associate Professor of Hispanic Studies at Whitman College. Professor Parmley arrived at Whitman in 2016. He earned a Ph.D. in Hispanic Literatures and Cultures from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. At Whitman he teaches: Hispanic Poetry; Medieval and Early Modern Iberian literatures and Cultures; Mediterranean Studies; Andalusi Arabic and Hebrew poetry and rhymed prose; and Medieval Islamic philosophy. He has traveled extensively in these regions and is an enthusiastic educator. From Casablanca to Seville, you will experience the sights, sounds and aromas of Africa and Spain. During the eleven-day adventure, we will visit the Hassan II Mosque and the Archaeological Museum and Hassan Tower in Rabat; the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Meknes to see Bab Mansour gate and explore the Al Karaouine Mosque; our visit to Tangier includes a tour of St. Andrew’s Church and the Kasbah Museum. On day eight, we bid farewell to Morocco and ferry across the Strait of Gibraltar to Spain. Highlights in Spain include the Islamic masterpiece, the Alhambra; the Jewish Quarter in Córdoba’s UNESCO-registered historic center; and in Seville, where we will spend our final two days, we will visit the Real Alcázar, a royal palace originally developed by Moorish kings. Accommodations during most nights will be at four-star hotels; transportation will be by motor coach and ferry. Please join us as we discover Morocco and Andalusia with one of Whitman’s talented faculty members. Space is limited, so I urge you to sign up now to reserve your place for an insider’s view of these two countries.

Sincerely,

Nancy Mitchell Director of Alumni Relations Whitman College

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Nicholas (Nico) Parmley An Associate Professor of Hispanic Studies at Whitman College, Nicholas (Nico) Parmley teaches courses on topics including Hispanic Poetry; Medieval and Early Modern Iberian literatures and cultures; and Medieval Islamic philosophy. His current research investigates medieval tales of the sea and seafaring produced by the diverse

communities that inhabited the Iberian Peninsula in the 11th-13th centuries. Recent publications include “Alfonso X’s Imagined Mediterranean Empire: Shipwrecks, Storms and Pirates in the Cantigas de Santa María” (Hispanic Review, 2017).

TRAVELING WITH YOU

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SPAINPORTUGAL

MAURITANIAMALI

ALGERIA

MOROCCO

WESTERNSAHARA

Madeira Islands

Marrakesh

Strait ofGibraltar

AtlanticOcean

Rabat

Córdoba

Casablanca

Tangier

Seville Granada

TenerifeArrecife

Funchal

GomeraIsland

FesMeknes

Volubilis

An optional prelude in Marrakesh is offered from March 13 to17, 2020.

MONDAY, MARCH 16: DEPARTUREDepart on an overnight flight to Casablanca.

TUESDAY, MARCH 17: CASABLANCA, MOROCCO /RABAT Arrive in Casablanca and continue to the vast Hassan II Mosque to admire its dramatic architecture and interiors. Drive along the coast to the capital city of Rabat, then check in at the elegant Sofitel Jardin des Roses. Gather this evening for introductory remarks and a welcome dinner. D

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18: RABAT Today’s touring begins at the Archaeological Museum to admire its collection, which offers an overview of Morocco’s impressive history. Later, see the Hassan Tower and the white marble tomb of King Mohammed V and visit the ancient Chellah necropolis ruins. This afternoon, explore the Kasbah des Oudaïas, which occupies the oldest part of the city and has sweeping views of the river and ocean. Dinner is at leisure. B,L

THURSDAY, MARCH 19: RABAT/ FES Drive to Meknes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see the beautiful Bab Mansour gate. We plan to have access to the opulent mausoleum Sultan Moulay Ismail, currently under renovation. Afterwards, visit the Roman town of Volubilis, where houses are adorned with mosaics from the 2nd and 3rd centuries. Continue to Fes, the oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities. Upon arrival, check in at the luxurious Palais Faraj Hotel. B,L,DFRIDAY, MARCH 20: FES Today visit the Nejjarine Funduq, an 18th-century caravanserai (inn) that is now a museum of wooden arts and crafts. Explore the Al Karaouine Mosque, including the reopened library. In the afternoon, tour the Medersa Bou Inania, a great example of Islamic architecture, and explore the historic tannery quarter. Dinner is at leisure. B,L SATURDAY, MARCH 21: FES Begin the day with a glimpse into Morocco’s Jewish heritage on an exploration of the picturesque mellah, once one of the largest Jewish quarters in the country. Continue to the Fes Arabesque Ceramic Factory/Art Naji Studio to view ceramists at work and learn the history and secrets of Morocco’s famously beautiful pottery. Lunch and the afternoon are at leisure, perhaps to enjoy a mint tea or shop for local handicrafts. Tonight, dine at one of the city’s charming riads (traditional houses with interior courtyards). B,D

Treasures of Morocco & AndalusiaMarch 16–29, 2020

Arabesque Ceramic Factory, FesArabesque Ceramic Factory, FesArabesque Ceramic Factory, Fes

ACTIVITY LEVELWhat to Expect: We consider this program to be “Active,” as it requires engaged participants to stand and walk for long periods over rough terrain, such as dirt roads, inclines, gravel paths, or sand. This trip has a faster pace, and considerable distances are covered. Travelers should be comfortable participating in up to five hours of physical activity per day, as well as ascending and descending stairs without handrails.

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SUNDAY, MARCH 22: FES / TANGIERToday travel to cosmopolitan Tangier, the port city that attracted writers including Paul Bowles and William S. Burroughs. Upon arrival, check in to our hotel before an afternoon stroll. Discover the Nahon Synagogue, one of the most beautiful in Morocco, and visit the American Legation Museum, the only U.S. National Historic Landmark outside the United States. Dine together this evening at a local restaurant. B,L,DMONDAY, MARCH 23: TANGIER Spend the morning wandering through the medina, including the Grand Socco, once a large market, and the lively Avenue Pasteur. See St. Andrew’s Church and tour the Kasbah Museum, also known as the Museum of Moroccan Art and Antiquities. Alternatively, travel to Tétouan to discover its UNESCO-recognized medina. At the Ethnographic Museum, view traditional Moroccan costumes, jewelry, embroidery, weapons, and musical instruments. At Dar Sanaa, the school of traditional arts and crafts, see local artisans at work and learn about the different artistic expressions that have flourished for centuries in the city. Enjoy an evening at leisure in Tangier. B,L

TUESDAY, MARCH 24: TANGIER, MOROCCO /GRANADA, SPAIN Bid farewell to Morocco today and travel by ferry across the Strait of Gibraltar to Spain. After lunch, continue to Granada, the Andalusian city famous for its Islamic architecture, our home for the next two nights. The evening is at leisure. B,L

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25: GRANADAThe highlight of our visit to Granada is Spain’s Islamic masterpiece, the Alhambra. Accompanied by an expert, stroll through the courtyards of the palace and the gardens of the Generalife, with their watercourses and fountains, and tour the palace interiors to view its exquisite plaster and tiling. Conclude the tour with light refreshments before lunch at the parador. This afternoon, admire the impressive Renaissance-style cathedral built by Queen Isabella immediately after the conquest of Granada. Enjoy an evening stroll through the Albaicín, the ancient Moorish neighborhood, and a festive dinner featuring local specialties. B,L,D

Alhambra, Granada, photo by Phil Bywater

THURSDAY, MARCH 26: GRANADA / CÓRDOBA/SEVILLE Early this morning, depart for Córdoba. Tour the famed Mezquita, or Great Mosque, regarded as one of the finest achievements of Moorish architecture, and wander along the medieval streets of the Jewish Quarter in Córdoba’s UNESCO-registered historic center. Visit the synagogue, built in 1315, and see the Puerta de Almodóvar, which dates from the 14th century. Following lunch, continue to the romantic city of Seville. B,L,D

FRIDAY, MARCH 27: SEVILLE This morning, walk to Santa Cruz, the former Jewish quarter of the medieval city. Visit the Real Alcázar, a royal palace originally developed by Moorish kings. See the Cathedral of Seville, including the Giralda, the converted minaret of the old Moorish mosque. Following a typical tapas lunch, stroll in the nearby Jardines de Murillo, lined with gently swaying palms and featuring statues and fountains that integrate perfectly with the lush vegetation. Our walking tour concludes at the beautiful Plaza de España. This evening is at leisure, perhaps to experience a flamenco show or dine out. B,L SATURDAY, MARCH 28: SEVILLEToday discover the less-visited Barrio of San Luis, which hosts the Santa Paula Convent, an artistic treasure-house of astonishing richness. Afterwards, visit the Museum of Fine Arts of Seville, whose collection focuses on Spanish works from the medieval period to the early 20th century. Lunch and the afternoon are at leisure. This evening, gather for cocktails followed by a festive farewell dinner. B,R,D

SUNDAY, MARCH 29: RETURNDepart this morning for flights home. B

DISCLAIMER: The itinerary is subject to change at the discretion of Whitman College and Arrangements Abroad. For complete details, please carefully read the terms and

Córdoba

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ACCOMMODATIONS

SOFITEL JARDIN DES ROSES In the heart of Rabat, this luxurious hotel has three swimming pools, a mini-golf area, and stylish rooms with balconies.

PALAIS FARAJLocated in the heart of Fes in a former Arab-Moorish palace, Palais Faraj Suites & Spa has a view of the medina (historic quarter). It features two restaurants, an outdoor pool, spa, hammam, massage treatments, and beauty salon.

HILTON TANGER CITY CENTERThe five-star Hilton Tanger City Center Hotel offers guests a swimming pool and a sauna, fitness center, complimentary in-room Wi-Fi, and stunning views of the city.

NH COLLECTION GRANADA VICTORIALocated at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the NH Collection Granada Victoria has 70 modern guestrooms, which are decorated in warm, earthy colors.

HOSPES LAS CASAS DEL REY DE BAEZA This beautiful, traditional Andalusian house is located in Seville’s old town. Set around a charming interior courtyard, it offers a rooftop swimming pool, a restaurant serving Andalusian dishes, and stylish rooms with free Wi-Fi.

OPTIONAL PRELUDE IN MARRAKESH

FRIDAY, MARCH 13: DEPARTUREDepart on an overnight flight to Marrakesh.

SATURDAY, MARCH 14: MARRAKESH, MOROCCOArrive in Marrakesh and check in your hotel. This afternoon head to the soaring Kutubiyya minaret and take a stroll to the famous Djemaa el F’na Square, an ancient meeting place where dancers, storytellers, and snake charmers still practice their trades. Gather this evening for a festive welcome dinner. D

SUNDAY, MARCH 15: MARRAKESHThis morning start with a tour of the Ben Yousef Madrasa, a beautifully restored 16th-century Koranic school scheduled to reopen in 2020, and stop to see the graceful 12th-century Almoravid koubba (shrine). Enjoy a gourmet buffet lunch at La Mamounia and continue to Dar El Bacha Museum, housed in a beautiful palace formerly occupied by a governor of Marrakesh. After lunch, discover the mellah and conclude with a tour of the El Badii Palace to see the Koutoubia minbar (pulpit), a masterpiece of Islamic art. The evening is at leisure. B,L

MONDAY, MARCH 16: MARRAKESH / CASABLANCA Stroll in the lush Jardin Majorelle before a visit to the Berber Museum, with its rich collection of Berber objects. Enjoy a private visit to Villa Oasis, the home of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and discover the recently opened Yves Saint Laurent Museum, full of couture gowns and the history of the designer’s time living in Marrakesh. Following lunch, drive to Casablanca for a one-night stay. Gather this evening for dinner. B,L,D

TUESDAY, MARCH 17: CASABLANCA / RABATCasablanca is also famous for its Art Deco architecture, the theme of this morning’s panoramic city tour, including a visit to the thoughtfully curated Jewish Museum, which traces the 2000-year history of Jews in Morocco. Lunch is at Rick’s Café. In the afternoon, drive to Rabat for the main program. B,L

Optional prelude rate (per person): $3,199 double rate / $3,599 single rate

Rate includes: Two nights at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Marrakesh, one night at Hyatt Regency Hotel, Casablanca; three breakfasts, three lunches, and two dinners; sightseeing as noted.

PROGRAM RATE$8,999 per person, double rate

$10,999 single rate

RATE INCLUDES n Twelve nights accommodations as per itineraryn Meals as indicated in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch,

R=Reception, D=Dinner); bottled water and coffee/tea with all meals; house wine at welcome and farewell dinners

n Airport/hotel/airport group transfers for all participants on suggested flights

n Ferry from Morocco to Spainn Escorted sightseeing by private motor coach; entrance fees for

included visitsn Enrichment program of lectures and special eventsn Taxes, service, and porterage charges; gratuities to local guides

and drivers

NOT INCLUDED IN RATE International airfare; passport/visa fees; meals not specified; alcoholic beverages other than noted in inclusions; personal items and expenses; airport transfers other than for those on suggested flights; trip insurance; optional prelude in Marrakesh; any other items not specifically mentioned as included.

Sofitel Jardin des Roses

Villa Oasis, Marrakesh, photo by Matt KeifferVilla Oasis, Marrakesh, photo by Matt Keiffer

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Plaza de España, Seville

On the front cover: TBA B_20LNDCMN0316_WCA

To reserve a place, please call Arrangements Abroad at phone: 212-514-8921 or 800-221-1944, fax: 212-344-7493; or complete and return this form with your deposit of $1,000 per person (of which $500 is non-refundable for administrative fees) payable to Arrangements Abroad. Mail to: Arrangements Abroad, 1040 Avenue of the Americas, 23rd floor, New York, NY 10018-3721.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Name(s) in full as on passport(s). Please print. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Address___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________City State Zip ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Telephone (home) (business) ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Fax E-mail

ACCOMMODATIONS Hotel room preference p One bed p Two beds p SingleI wish to share a room with _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

OPTIONAL PRELUDEq I/We would like to join the optional prelude in MarrakeshHotel Room Preference p One bed p Two beds p Single

FORM OF PAYMENT q Enclosed is my check (payable to Arrangements Abroad) q Debit card q Credit card ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Name on debit/credit card

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Debit/credit card number

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________3- or 4-digit security code Expiration date

I/We confirm that I/we have carefully read and agree to the Terms & Conditions of this Program (see www.arrangementsabroad.com/terms to review or call for a copy). I/We agree to full payment 120 days prior to departure. Each participant must sign below.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Signature (required) Date

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WHITMAN COLLEGE TREASURES OF MOROCCO & ANDALUSIA n MARCH 16–29, 2020

RESERVATION FORM