W. FRANK ROBINSON, Ph.D.

is an Assistant Professor of History and the Associate Director of the Center for Latin American Studies at Vanderbilt University. He teaches courses in Latin American and Caribbean history that cover both the colonial and national periods, including the rise and decline of the Iberian Atlantic empires, modern Central America, and the contemporary Caribbean. With an interest in the Atlantic world, he has traveled extensively throughout Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, and Europe. His current research focuses on twentieth

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID OAKLAND, CA PERMIT #379

FACULTY LEADER

Vanderbilt Travel Program Office of Alumni Relations PMB 407735 2301 Vanderbilt Place Nashville, TN 37240-7735

RESERVATION FORM
Enclosed is my check or credit card authorization for $______ ($600 deposit per person) payable to ROYAL ADVENTURES to hold ______ place(s) on the tour Panama & Costa Rica, March 2 13, 2012. Final Payment is due December 2, 2011. Name*_________________________________________________ Vanderbilt Year____________ Name*_________________________________________________ Vanderbilt Year____________ *All names should be as on passport. Address__________________________________________________________________________ City_________________________________________ State__________ Zip__________________ Phones: (home) _____________________________ (work) ______________________________ E-mail ___________________________________________________________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ I will require single accommodations (supplemental fee of $1,075, limited availability) I will share accommodations with:______________________________________________ I/We will take care of our own international flight arrangements Please make round-trip flight arrangements from: ________________________________ Please charge my deposit of $600 per person to:
oMastercard oVisa oAmerican Express

PANAMA & COSTA RICA

century Panamanian history.

PANAMA & COSTA RICA

March 2 13, 2012
March 2 13, 2012

capuchin monkey

Dear Vanderbilt alumni, family and friends: Join other Vanderbilt travelers for an exciting blend of nature and culture in two of the worlds most ecologically diverse countries: Panama and Costa Rica. This program features a complete transit of the legendary Panama Canal and enriching lectures by Dr. W. Frank Robinson, Assistant Professor of History and the Associate Director of the Center for Latin American Studies at Vanderbilt. Begin in Panama, one of the best-kept travels secrets in Latin America. Todays Panama offers visitors a wealth of cultural and natural history in a stable and peaceful setting. As a land bridge between the two continents of the Western Hemisphere, the Panamanian biosphere is a fascinating intersection of the fauna and flora of both North and South America. Verdant forests teem with wildlife, including an incredible 940 species of birds, 1,500 species of trees, 10,000 species of plants and a colorful variety of insects. Journey the entire length of the Panama Canal from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean, a route that took ten years to complete and had a profound effect on international commerce and American foreign policy. Enter the Miraflores Lock and see the Canals engineering wonders up close. Continue on to Costa Rica, a democracy for over 100 years and a world model for national park development. With over 25 percent of its land protected, the country is renowned as an ecological wonderland. Delight in its varied landscapes: rushing waterfalls, beautiful beaches and lush jungles with a wide array of animals, from the whitefaced capuchin monkey to sloths and iguanas. This itinerary brings us to two distinctive habitats: the famed Monteverde Cloud Forest in the Tilarn Mountains and Costa Ricas sun-drenched Pacific Coast. Spot colorful wildlife on hikes through the forest and along suspended bridges in the rainforest canopy. Visit a butterfly farm, the immense crater of Pos Volcano and the Santa Elena Reserve. Local naturalist guides and lectures by Professor Robinson provide context and a privileged understanding of these valued natural treasures and the regions dynamic history. Come join Vanderbilt on this unforgettable trip and savor the unique flavors of these Central American nations! Sincerely,

HIGHLIGHTS
JOURNEY from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean through the Panama Canal, one of humankinds greatest engineering achievements EXPLORE the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest, one of the most outstanding sanctuaries in Central America ENHANCE your experience with talks by Vanderbilt faculty and local naturalist guides

I/We have carefully read the Costs and Conditions and Responsibility sections of this brochure and agree to their terms on behalf of myself and the members of my party named above. Signature ______________________________ Date __________________________________

______________________________________ Card Number ______________________________________ Expiration Date Please return this form with deposit check payable to Royal Adventures or credit card authorization to:
Vanderbilt Travel Program Office of Alumni Relations PMB 407735 2301 Vanderbilt Place Nashville, TN 37240-7735 Phone: (615) 322-3673 Fax: (615) 343-5730

John Hindle, BA68, PhD81 President Vanderbilt Alumni Association

Cover Photo: Panama Canal

PANAMA & COSTA RICA

March 2 13, 2012

Suspended walkway in Monteverde

red-eyed tree frog

swallowtail butterfly

Pos Volcano crater

toucan

Resplendent Quetzal

Panama City

Panama Canal

spider monkey

Pacific Coast

ITINERARY
March 2 13, 2012
Day 1 - Friday, March 2 USA / PANAMA CITY

Depart the U.S. on a flight for Panama City. This evening, we will celebrate the beginning of our trip with cocktails, dinner and an orientation. Gamboa Rainforest Resort (D)
Day 2 - Saturday, March 3 PANAMA CANAL CROSSING

forest, watch for Crested Guan, Sungrebe, Chestnut-mandibled Toucan, Howler and Capuchin Monkeys, American Crocodile and the splendid Morpho Butterfly. Continue on to Gigante Station for lunch and a short hike with our naturalist guide. Here, we spot Coatis, Collared Peccaries and Agoutis. Gamboa Rainforest Resort (B, L, D)
Day 4 - Monday, March 5 PANAMA CITY / SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA

fumaroles and simmering lake at the bottom of the immense crater, one of the largest in the world. Afterwards, visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens to stroll winding trails in beautiful primary and secondary forests and five majestic waterfalls. Delight in the largest enclosed butterfly observatory in the world, the hummingbird and orchid gardens and the Jungle Cat Exhibits pumas, jaguars and ocelots. Doubletree Hotel Cariari by Hilton (B, L, D)
Days 6 and 7 Wednesday and Thursday, March 7 and 8 MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST

Day 9 Saturday, March 10 MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK

This morning, embark the Pacific Queen, a 284-ton German-built cruiser with a capacity for 300 passengers, for a complete transit of the Panama Canal. The canal spans 48 miles to connect the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and remains one of the largest and most difficult engineering projects ever undertaken. We enter the Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks, which will elevate our ship 85 feet above sea level using fresh water from the Gatun Lake. Navigate through the Gaillard Cut, the narrowest part of the canal, known as the "spinal cord" of the Continental Divide. As we approach the Caribbean, the Gatun Locks lower our ship 26 meters to sea level in three steps, powered by the amazing Gatun Dam. Enjoy lunch during our unforgettable voyage. Gamboa Rainforest Resort (B, L)
Day 3 - Sunday, March 4 BARRO COLORADO

Visit Casco Viejo (the Old Compound), where Panama City was relocated in 1673 after the infamous pirate, Sir Henry Morgan, invaded and destroyed the original royal city. Panama's "second city" is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and a charming mix of colonial architecture, iron clad balconies, cobblestone streets and monuments. After lunch, transfer to the airport for our short flight to San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica. Sitting on a plateau in the Central Valley, the city is ringed by verdant mountains and home to over one third of the countrys population. Doubletree Hotel Cariari by Hilton (B, L, D)

Depart for a two-day visit to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, one of the most outstanding wildlife sanctuaries in Central America. Wind-battered elfin woods on its exposed ridges give way to more protected areas, where sheets of mist envelope the forest in a blanket of moisture. The trees are shrouded with moss, orchids and other epiphytes, lending a magical feeling to the forest. This private reserve is home to over 400 species of birds, including the Resplendent Quetzal, considered the most spectacular bird of the Americas. All six species of Costa Ricas big cats dwell here: jaguars, ocelots, pumas, margays, oncillas and jaguarundis. During our stay, enjoy a bird's eye view of the canopy from suspended bridges and platforms. El Establo Hotel (2B, 2L, 2D)
Day 8 - Friday, March 9 SANTA ELENA RESERVE

We depart Monteverde for a fascinating downhill drive to the scenic Pacific Coast. Along the way, board a safari touring boat to search the Taracoles River for crocodiles and a variety of water birds, including roseate spoonbills, herons and storks. Later, visit the Carara Biological Reserve, sheltering one of Costa Rica's largest populations of the endangered scarlet macaw. Continue on to the beautiful, seaside Parador Hotel near the Manuel Antonio National Park, our home for the next two nights. Parador Hotel (B, L)
Day 10 Sunday, March 11 MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK

WHAT TO EXPECT
On this expedition, it helps to be enthusiastic about outdoor adventure, intellectually curious and comfortable traveling as part of a group. Travel is during the dry season and at peak time for wildlife viewing. Typically, the weather is hot and humid in the lowlands (high 80s) and spring-like in the highlands. While at the national parks and reserves, there is a daily program of bird watching, nature exploration and guided rain forest walks. There will be ample interpretation in the field and animated discussions. Travel is by motor coach, jet plane, ship, motor launches and boats, with daily walks of approximately two miles in length (sometimes over uneven terrain) at a leisurely pace suitable for nature study and field observation. Binoculars are highly recommended. The prerequisites for this trip are a spirit of adventure, anticipation, and the desire to explore spectacular natural areas. Flexibility is essential, since local conditions may require alterations in schedule.

COSTS AND CONDITIONS

LAND PROGRAM COST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $5,745
(per person based on double occupancy)

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,075

(per person based on double occupancy)

SAMPLE AIRFARE FROM DULLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $789

*As of July 2011 and is subject to change.
PROGRAM COST INCLUDES: All accommodations as specified in the itinerary in deluxe hotels; the services of a tour director throughout the trip; professional English speaking local tour guides; meals as indicated in the itinerary; transportation by private motor coach; baggage handling, airport transfers for group flights; gratuities to local guides and drivers; entrance fees; pre-departure information; coordination and administration. PROGRAM COST DOES NOT INCLUDE: International, U.S. domestic and in-tour airfare Panama City/San Jose (quoted separately); departure taxes and airport fees; excess baggage charges; meals not specified in the itinerary; personal items such as laundry, email, fax or telephone calls; alcoholic beverages, dishes or beverages not included with meals; room service; passport and visa fees; individual transfers; medical expenses; travel insurance; optional extensions or deviations from the scheduled tour. Airport taxes, security, or fuel surcharges imposed after the initial pricing of this program are not included. Tip to tour director is at the passengers discretion. RESERVATIONS, DEPOSITS, AND FINAL PAYMENT: To reserve a space on this tour, please mail authorization of a credit card payment or a check made payable to Royal Adventures for $600 per person with a completed reservation form to: Vanderbilt Travel Program, Office of Alumni Relations, PMB 407735, 2301 Vanderbilt Place, Nashville, TN 37240-7735. Reservations are acknowledged in order of receipt. Final payment is due December 2, 2011 and must be paid by check. Royal Adventures CST #2009579-40 CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS: Refunds, less a cancellation fee of $350 per person, are made if we are notified in writing on or before December 2, 2011. No refunds are made after that date. All cancellations must be made in writing. There are no refunds for unused meals, accommodations, or other trip features. TRAVEL INSURANCE: We strongly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation insurance. An application for travel insurance will be available upon confirmation and with the final payment invoice. Neither the Alumni Relations Office of Vanderbilt University nor Royal Adventures accepts liability for any airline cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a non-refundable airline ticket or other expenses incurred by tour participants in preparing for the tour. QUESTIONS: Please contact Cary Allyn, Vanderbilt Travel Program, (615) 322-3673 or cary.allyn@vanderbilt.edu or Joanna Ciafone, Royal Adventures (925) 820-6260 or 1-800-453-4754. RESPONSIBILITY: Royal Adventures, its owners and employees act only as agents for the various independent suppliers and contractors providing transportation, hotel accommodations, restaurant and other services connected with this tour. Such travel and services are subject to the terms and conditions under which such accommodations, services and transportation are offered or provided, and Vanderbilt University and Royal Adventures and their respective, employees, agents, representatives, and assigns, accept no liability therefore. Vanderbilt University and Royal Adventures assume no liability for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or other irregularity which may be caused by the defect of any aircraft or vehicle or the negligence or default of any company or person engaged in carrying out or performing any of the services involved. Additionally, responsibility is not accepted for losses, injury, damages or expenses of any kind due to sickness, weather, strikes, local laws, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, and acts of nature or other such causes. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws of the country in which they are provided. Vanderbilt University and Royal Adventures reserve the right to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their sole judgment, conditions warrant, or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience or safety of the tour participants. They reserve the right to withdraw this tour without penalty. The right is also reserved to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of the tour, or to substitute another qualified leader or special guest. Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the owners at all times. The price of the program is given in good faith based on current tariffs and rates, and is subject to change. Any tariff, exchange rate, airfare, or fuel increases will be passed onto participants. Neither Vanderbilt University nor Royal Adventures accept the liability for any airline cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable airline ticket. The air ticket when issued shall constitute the sole contract between the passenger and the airline concerned. As part of the consideration and right to participate in this tour, each participant will be asked to sign a liability release.

Explore the scenic Manuel Antonio National Park, where white-sand beaches run into abundant tropical forest teeming with endangered squirrel monkeys, white-faced and howler monkeys, two-toed sloths, agoutis and iguanas. Experience the spectacular, jagged coastline, sheltered tide pools and abundant marine life that have given this park its popular reputation. The afternoon affords time to enjoy the beach, visit Quepos or simply relax by the pool at our hotel. Parador Hotel (B, L)
Day 11 Monday, March 12 PACIFIC COAST/SAN JOSE

THE CANAL'S HISTORY

The idea of cutting a course from the Atlantic to Pacific Ocean was first suggested in 1524 to Charles V, the King of Spain. A survey of the land was completed in 1529, but war in Europe forced the project into permanent delay. Interest returned in the 19th century. In 1878, a French company led by Ferdinand Marie de Lesseps proposed a sea level canal without locks based on his successful construction of the Suez Canal. The attempt was disastrous, both technically and financially unsound. Tropical disease also killed an estimated 22,000 workers between 1881 and signed the controversial Hay-Bunau-Varilla treaty with the new state of Panama. At the time, it was the most expensive construction project in U.S. history, costing 375 million dollars. The first official transit took place in 1914 and the U.S. administered the canal and surrounding Canal Zone until December 31, 1999, when it was handed over to Panamanian control. It continues to be of crucial importance to the international shipping economy and, in 2006, Panamanian citizens approved a referendum to expand it to double its current capacity.
Construction of the Gatun Lock Gate

Cross the Panama Canals waterway to explore Barro Colorado Island. Along with five adjacent peninsulas, the island is part of the 5,400-hectare Barro Colorado Nature Monument, a renowned research station established in 1923 and administered by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute since 1946. Within the lush inlets of tropical rain-

Day 5 - Tuesday, March 6 SAN JOSE / POS VOLCANO

Set out for Pos Volcano, one of the few active volcanoes on the continent. On a clear day, we will be able to observe the active

This morning, enjoy a nature walk in the community-managed Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, home to its own unique ecosystem, including the spider monkeys that are not found in Monteverde. This afternoon is unscheduled for further exploration of the Santa Elena town or the Cloud Forest. El Establo Hotel (B, L, D)

After breakfast, depart for San Jose and enjoy a short tour of the citys major sights. Later, visit the neighborhood of Moravia, where artisans create handicrafts out of precious tropical hardwoods. Tonight, we'll enjoy a festive farewell dinner. Doubletree Hotel Cariari by Hilton (B, L, D)
Day 12 Tuesday, March 13 SAN JOSE / USA

and 1889. In the wake of the Canal Scandal, the U.S. took over the companys assets

This morning, transfer to the international airport for your return flight home.

Reserve today! Call us at (615) 322-3673 or email cary.allyn@vanderbilt.edu