Ancient ruins. Gilded sculpture. Riverboat cruises. Sound exotic? That’s because it is, and you may have the chance to experience it.
Members of LBCC’s Democracy Club are inviting students and community members to join them this spring in embarking upon a once in a lifetime trip abroad to explore the ancient civilization of Egypt.
Hosted by EF Tours, the 10-day tour is scheduled to depart March 18 and return March 28. The trip includes visits to Egypt’s first capital, Memphis, the Pyramids of Giza, and the Sphinx, just to name a few.
The tour also incorporates a 4-day Nile Cruise with stops at the famed Temple of Luxor and the Valley of the Kings, where over 64 Egyptian tombs have been discovered, including the tomb of Egypt’s most well-known ruler, King Tutankhamen.
The fee for trip $3,367. A three day extension is also available for an additional $495.
Students interested in receiving academic credits while traveling may do so by registering for the prerequisite Independent Study course winter term. Tuition for the credits must be paid in addition to basic fees for the trip.
“Although this sounds expensive, it’s definitely worth the money,” said Democracy Club advisor Dr. Robert Harrison.
Airfare, lodging and some food will be included, but the real value he said, is in the guided tour itself.
Entrance fees to all of the sites are inclusive, along with historical interpreters and regionally trained guides for each site. Harrison emphasized that the expert knowledge of guides and comprehensive historical context of each site is not something one would get as a self-guided tourist.
Students interested in group fundraising are encouraged to join the Democracy Club. Club members will work together through fall and winter terms to raise money for the trip. The club currently has activities in the works including a fall term silent auction and a Zombie Prom that will be held Oct. 30 in the Commons. Monies collected by the club will be divided evenly among those who participate in each fundraiser.
“I’m hoping that fundraising can cover about one-quarter of the cost of the trip for our students,” Harrison said in an email.
Club member Amber Self is a little more optimistic.
“I know that I’ll have to put in some of my own money, but I’m hoping to raise about half,” said Self.
Since the age of seven, Self has been interested in Egypt. After reading “Return of the Mummy,” from the popular children’s book series “Goosebumps,” she fantasized about becoming an Egyptologist.
“For me to have the chance to go to Egypt now, and with help through the school, it’s a great opportunity. Nobody should pass this up,” said Self.
For more information contact Dr. Robert Harrison at harrisr@linnbenton.edu
* Photo courtesy of egypt.union.edu