Travel Advantage Program

Council members participate in international travel opportunities provided through the WACC Travel Advantage Program that include sightseeing, special briefings and “behind the scene” tours presented by political leaders and local experts. Since 2007, the Council has organized trips to:

  • Spain
  • Cuba
  • Morocco
  • Italy
  • Greece
  • India
  • China
  • Ireland
  • Croatia
  • Brazil / Argentina
  • Portugal
  • Vietnam/Cambodia/Thailand
  • Mittel Europa
  • Japan
  • Turkey
  • Peru
  • Basque Region (Spain & France)
  • Chile
  • Egypt

Journey to Where the Land Ends – Chile & Easter Island (Rapa Nui)

October 24 – November 3, 2024 (11-days)
Optional 3-day extension to the Atacama Desert (November 2 – November 5, 2024)

October 24 – November 3, 2024  (11-days)
Optional 3-day extension to the Atacama Desert (November 2 – November 5, 2024)

Please email info@worldaffairscharlotte.org or call 704-687-7758 for trip inquiries. 

Discover the vibrant cities, witness the breathtaking landscapes of Chile and magnificent deserts, and delve into the mystical allure of Easter Island. Immerse yourself in the heart of Chile’s diverse ecosystems, from the stunning Atacama Desert to the lush vineyards of the Central Valley. Marvel at the enigmatic moai statues on Easter Island, standing as silent sentinels of a bygone era. Cruise along the pristine coastline, where turquoise waters meet golden sands, and the sunsets paint the sky with hues of orange and pink. It’s the perfect opportunity to unwind and soak in the tranquility of nature.

Engage with local communities, explore traditional villages, and savor authentic Chilean cuisine. Our journey is not just about witnessing the beauty of the land but also about connecting with its people and their rich heritage. You will be able to rest your feet in luxurious lodges and accommodations that offer a perfect blend of comfort and charm. Each location has been carefully chosen to enhance your overall experience. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to indulge your taste buds with a diverse array of local flavors as our culinary experiences promise to be a feast for your senses.

As a hallmark of WACC trips, you will also have the opportunity to meet with local leaders and top U.S. diplomats.

 

Discover the Beauty of the Amalfi Coast: A Unique Blend of Natural and Cultural Wonders

April 26 – May 5, 2024  (10-days)
Optional 2-day extension to Rome (May 5 -March 7, 2024)

April 26 – May 5, 2024  (10-days)
Optional 2-day extension to Rome (May 5 – May 7, 2024)

Please email info@worldaffairscharlotte.org or call 704-687-7758 for trip inquiries. 

Enjoy a breathtaking tour of the dramatic coastline, pastel-colored villages, and mountainous terrain that overlooks the pearls of the Mediterranean Sea together! Explore the spiritual home of mozzarella in the fields of Paestum, discover the spectacular strip of coastline and turquoise waters in Positano, the most famous and iconic village on the Amalfi Coast, and take a boat tour around the isle of Capri and experience its sublime beauty.

Delight your taste buds with the exquisitely unique coastal Italian-Mediterranean food. Hike legendary Mt. Vesuvius and experience its unique terroir. Tour the panoramic gardens of the Augustus Gardens overlooking the Faraglioni on one side and the Bay of Marina Piccola on the other. Visit the vibrant city of Naples and unearth its natural beauties, and gaze upon its diverse architecture.

As a hallmark of WACC trips, you will also have the opportunity to meet with local leaders and top U.S. diplomats.

 

A Journey Through The History of Egypt

March 2 – March 13, 2023  (13-days)
Optional 3-day extension to Jordan (March 13-March 16, 2023)

March 2 – March 13, 2023  (13-days)
Optional 3-day extension to Jordan (March 13-March 16, 2023)

Please email info@worldaffairscharlotte.org or call 704-687-7762 for trip inquiries. 

Walk in the footsteps of Pharaohs and take in breathtaking experiences of wonderfully preserved sand-covered tombs, austere pyramids, elaborate burial chambers, and towering temples through an exquisitely historical tour of Egypt. You will have the opportunity to unearth the history behind the iconic Valley of the Kings, cruise down the Nile River, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of a bustling Cairo during your time in-country.
Defined by ancient monuments, nature reserves, and seaside resorts, this country is big on hospitality, culture, and numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites. Home to the famed archaeological site of Petra, the Nabatean capital dating to around 300 B.C. Petra earns its nickname, the “Rose City,” because of its setting in a narrow valley with tombs, temples, and monuments carved through pink sandstone cliffs.
As a hallmark of WACC trips, you will also have the opportunity to meet with local leaders and top U.S. diplomats.

Breathtaking Argentina and Chile

March 8th – March 20th, 2020 (13-days)

We will explore magnificent glaciers, classic and eclectic neighborhoods, and possibly catch a glimpse of the Aurora Australis in Patagonia, while learning about the vibrant and captivating cultures of the two southern-most countries in Latin America.

This captivating tour begins in the Argentinian capital city of Buenos Aires, where you will explore its most famous sites and glamorous neighborhoods. Get a taste of the “Paris of South America,” by sampling street foods in the Recoleta neighborhood and enjoying lunch at a legendary steakhouse.

From Buenos Aires, catch a flight to Ushuaia, the southern-most city in the world, and board an all inclusive state-of-the-art expedition vessel from Cruceros Australis. On your first night on the boat, you will traverse the Beagle Channel, a strait known for its stunning glaciers, and cross into Chilean territory waters.

Aboard the expedition vessel, catch a glimpse of the legendary Aurora Australis, also known as “southern lights.” Continue on to the famous Cape Horn, commonly known as the “End of the Earth,” which looks over the historic Drake Passage.

Overnight, the cruise tours around the western end of Tierra del Fuego and by morning enters the magnificently stunning Pia Fjord. Take a shore excursion to the Pia Glacier in a smaller boat and disembark to gain a panoramic view of the spectacular glacier. End the day with a tour of the Garibaldi Glacier and hike through a virgin Magellanic forest to a glacial waterfall, before returning for a delicious dinner. For your final day on the expedition vessel, anchor at Magdalena Channel and visit the native penguins, before disembarking and spending the night in the beautiful maritime village of Punta Arenas.

Following your cruise of the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the region, board a flight from Punta Arenas to Santiago de Chile and head to the offbeat Chilean city of Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a full day tour of Valparaíso and the neighboring city of Viña del Mar, often called the Ciudad Jardín (Garden City). Explore the unique neighborhoods of each city (some by classic funicular), while visiting museums, parks, and famous statues. Over the next few days, enjoy an included private tour of Viña Matetic Vineyard, a city tour of Santiago de Chile, and the famous San Cristóbal Hill, which is home to Santiago’s largest park.

If you opt for the 3-day extension, you’ll also visit Easter Island, known to the locals as Rapa Nui, which is home to the world famous giant stone figures. Choose from a diverse menu of excursions on the island, which will allow you to witness a still breathing ancient culture. Excursions include a bike tour around parts of the island, a sunrise tour, and exploring the island via 4×4 motorcycles.

A Panhellenic Exploration: Journey across Mythical Greece

September 27 – October 8, 2019 (12 days)

Experience the most unforgettable moments in Greece with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte! We will explore authentic culture, vibrant history, captivating landscapes, and delectable food – all infused with the mythos of ancient Greek culture.

On this 12-day tour of quintessential Greek sites, you will visit Athens, the heart of both ancient and modern day Greece, Olympia, the iconic host of the Olympic games for centuries, and the idyllic island of Hydra. An optional 3-day extension to Mykonos, the “Jewel of the Aegean Sea” will be available.

Magnificent Peru: Discover the Mysteries of the Incas

May 7 – 15, 2019 (9 days)

Travel with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte to Peru where we will explore authentic Peruvian culture, vibrant history, captivating landscapes, and delectable food- all infused with the mysteries of the ancient Incas who have long left their footprints on this magnificent country. An optional 3-day extension to Puno where the iconic Lake Titicaca is located will be available.

Discover the Land of the Rising Sun: From the Sakura to the Samurai

October 12 – 23, 2018 (12 Days)

Travel with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte for an immersion into Japan’s unique culture of rich traditions and dazzling modernity. With towering skyscrapers, quaint towns, natural splendor, spiritual wisdom, and a bit of history around every corner, Japan has something to offer for travelers of all kinds. An optional 3-day extension to the historic cities of Osaka and Hiroshima will be available.

Discover the Vivid Majesty of India

September 30 – October 13, 2017 (14 Days)

*International Airfare from Charlotte (and back) included

Travel with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte for a breathtaking tour through India as we explore and discover its vibrant culture, lush landscape, intricate history, exotic architecture, and diverse heritage. The bold colors, smells, tastes, and sounds of India make this majestic country a must-see for the avid globetrotter. An optional 3-day extension to Kathmandu, Nepal is also available.

Travel on a Magical Journey Through Mittel Europa

May 5 – 17 (13 Days)

*International Airfare from Charlotte (and back) included

Travel with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte through Central Europe to explore its old-world charm, classic vistas, and poignant history. Travel will include stops in Warsaw, Krakow, Budapest, and Prague, as well as visits to Auschwitz and Karlovy Vary. We have focused on finding beautiful, exquisite locations that include deluxe accommodations, authentic local cuisine, and unparalleled cultural and historical landmarks. A two-day extension to Vienna is available and would be a wonderful end to a fantastic European journey.

Travel to the Magical Lakes of Northern Italy

September 18th – 27th (10 Days)

*International Airfare from Charlotte (and back) included

Travel with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte to the Magical Lakes of Northern Italy and explore beautiful, exquisite locations that are considered local gems of the area, while discovering access to world-class hotels, authentic local cuisine, cultural and historical landmarks and unparalleled artwork.

thailand_vietnam_trip

A Trip of a Lifetime through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand

April 23 – May 8, 2016 (16-Days)

*International Airfare from Charlotte (and back) included
*Airfare travel between Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand included

Travel with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte through Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand and discover the enchantment of the region, its fascinating ancient civilization, extraordinary natural beauty, colorful culture and unique architecture.

Journey to Turkey

Journey to Enchanted Turkey: Where the East Meets the West

Travel with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte

April 24 – May 4, 2015 (11-Days)
2-night optional extension to Istanbul

*International Airfare from Charlotte (and back) included
*Domestic Airfare within Turkey is included

“Walk in the footsteps of Roman emperors and Ottoman sultans. Explore some of the world’s greatest monuments. Bargain-hunt your way through a twisted warren of marketplace stalls, pausing to sip tea with a merchant. Inhale the apple-flavored smoke from a water pipe as you listen to the strains of exotic music. And enjoy meeting some of the planet’s friendliest people, whether you’re chatting with a fisherman on a bustling bridge, haggling for a carpet, learning about Islam from a peace-loving Muslim, or playing backgammon with a grizzled old Turk.” – Rick Steve’s Europe

Spain Trip

Spain: Journey through Historic Moorish Andalusia and Classical Barcelona*

Travel with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte

October 10-20th (10-Days)
2-night optional extension to Barcelona

Join us for this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich local culture and rhythms of daily life in Moorish Andalusia and classical Barcelona while exploring local landmarks that are significant to Spain’s heritage.

This unique travel tour has been designed to unravel the richness of Andalusian culture while interacting with local residents and professionals to gain a new, in-depth perception of this historical region in Spain.

Cuba Trip

Cuba: Discover the Jewel of the West Indies

Travel with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte

May 23-30, 2014

Join us for this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich local culture and rhythms of daily life in Cuba while exploring local landmarks that are significant to Cuba’s heritage. This trip is coordinated in conjunction with the Center for the Study of Cuban Culture and the Economy.

This program has been designed to unravel the richness of Cuban culture while interacting with local residents and professionals to gain a new, in-depth perception of Cuban life. Spend two days exploring Cienfuegos and Trinidad, one of Cuba’s oldest colonial cities. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered by many as the crown jewel of Cuba. Drive west to spend five days exploring Havana which has the reputation of being the most splendid and the finest example of a Spanish colonial city in the Americas.

Accompanying the trip will be Ljubomir (L.J.) Stambuk, President and CEO of the World Affairs Council of Charlotte as well as Dr. Joseph Scarpaci, Director of the Center for the Study of Cuban Culture and the Economy, who has led multiple “behind-the-scene” and personalized tours to Cuba. In addition, our very own Jeff Knight of “Knight Travel,” and a full time Cuban travel guide will be joining us throughout the trip. You will be well cared for!

Morrocco trip

The Art of Discovery: The Four Imperial Cities of Morocco

Travel with the World Affairs Council of Charlott

October 3 – 13, 2013
Thursday, October 3, 2013 – Charlotte / Cincinnati / Paris / Rabat
Depart Charlotte at 1:50 p.m. via Delta Airlines arriving in Cincinnati at 3:16 p.m. Travelers will depart from Cincinnati at 5:55 p.m. and arrive in Paris at 8 a.m. the following morning.

Time appropriate meals and in-flight entertainment offered on board.

Friday, October 4, 2013 – Paris/Rabat

October is the most ideal time to travel to Morocco due to milder weather that time of year.

Italy Trip

Kingdom of Sicily and the Knights of Malta

Travel with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte

April 26 – May 6, 2013 (11 Days)
Additional Two Day Optional Trip to Rome also Available

The spring 2013 World Affairs Council of Charlotte trip is a uniquely crafted journey touching all parts of beautiful Sicily, followed by a tour of the fascinating island nation of Malta and ending in the Eternal City of Rome.

  • A full-time English-speaking experienced travel guide will be accompanying us throughout the trip
  • Travelers will enjoy local Sicilian culture and participate in political and educational discussions that are part of the Council’s program during this tour
  • Enjoy local delicacies that are only available in April and May (and not other times of the year)
  • The weather in Sicily and Malta will be in the mid to high-60s in April and May

Discover the history of one of Europe’s oldest cultures spanning from ancient Greek, Roman, Vandal, Byzantine, Arab, Norman, Hohenstaufen, Catalan and Spaniard civilization to today’s modern Italy.

Brazil

From Samba to Tango
A South America Classic: Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires

Travel with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte

January 12 – 20, 2012
With option to visit Iguassu Falls and depart on January 21st – Additional Details Below

Portugal trip

Traditional Portugal: The Face of Old Europe

Travel with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte

Sept. 28, 2012 – Oct. 7, 2012 (10-days)

Enjoy this wonderful travel experience led by the World Affairs Council of Charlotte with a personal narrative from Kurt Waldthausen, Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany to North Carolina who was born and raised in Lisbon, Portugal.

Medieval castles, cobblestone villages, captivating cities and golden-sand beaches: the Portugal experience can mean many things. History, great food and wine, idyllic scenery, sad fado songs and traditional pousadas are just the beginning. – Lonely Planet

Croatia

Dubrovnik – The Pearl of the Adriatic: A Look at the Rich Heritage, Bright Future, and Scenic Beauty of Dalmatia (Croatia)

Travel with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte

April 30 – May 8, 2010

The World Affairs Council invites you to join us on a personalized touch of the most culturally rich and beautiful areas along the Dalmatian coastline in Croatia.

The tour will be led by Ljubomir (L.J.) Stambuk, Executive Director of the World Affairs Council of Charlotte who has deep roots in the area. Having grown up in the region, L.J. Stambuk is perfectly suited to guide your adventures in Croatia based on his extensive knowledge of the country and his skillful ability to provide cultural and historical background and perspectives on current developments.

L.J. will personally guide you through the rich heritage of the Dalmatian region and provide context to what you see and experience. The itinerary is specially developed for WACC travelers and is focused towards providing a deep understanding and insight into the history, culture, politics and people of this beautiful country.

Ireland Trip

Magical Island: A Look at Ireland’s Rich Heritage and Bright Future with Ambassador Ed Brynn

The World Affairs Council of Charlotte is proud to present a Once-In-A-Lifetime Education Tour:

September 26 – October 4, 2010

Take advantage of this very special opportunity to see Ireland as an informed world traveler, not just a tourist! The World Affairs Council has partnered with Ambassador Ed Brynn and Knight Travel to offer you a personalized tour of all the major areas in and around Dublin. Because of the years he spent at Trinity College completing his PhD in Irish History & Politics, Ambassador Brynn is perfectly suited to guide your adventures in Ireland. With his skillful ability to provide historical background and updates on current developments, you will be able to understand what you see in those contexts and really gain an insight into the complexity and beauty of Ireland and its people.