Adventures abroad: Tulane alums share their travel stories

Catherine (NC ’72) and David (A&S ’71, L *72) Edwards have discovered a world of adventure and camaraderie through Tulane Alumni Travel, embarking on four international trips that have left them with unforgettable memories. 

David and Catherine have been exemplary volunteers and dedicated supporters of Tulane, giving back generously with both their time and resources. They have also been great friends and ambassadors for the travel program, actively encouraging their friends and family to join them on these adventures. 

Their first trip in May 2018 took them to Belgium and Amsterdam. In 2019, they sailed the Danube River, starting in Sofia, Bulgaria, and journeying through Budapest to Prague. David recalls the 11 days on the water: “The Danube is so beautiful; it was one of the nicest trips I’ve been on.” 

Catherine praises the organization that put together the Dutch waterways and Danube trips, saying, “AHI does a really good job with their local guides and planning out a comprehensive itinerary, giving you so much information about where you are at any given time, what you’re seeing and the people who live there.” 

In 2023, they visited the Greek Islands, traveling with more than a dozen Tulanians. Notably, the group was large enough to warrant the presence of a staff member, Jered Bocage (TC ’00, G *02, B *20), the managing director of alumni relations, who was a wonderful addition to the trip. 

Their fourth trip, led by the tour company Orbridge, included two weeks in Egypt and one week in Jordan. David reflects, “The accommodations were world-class, and the guides were incredibly knowledgeable.” 

Catherine shares, “That trip, because of our guides, really changed our view of the world. We were in an area we didn’t know much about, and it was very illuminating.” 

Their guide in Egypt was an Egyptologist who studied the intersections of biblical and Egyptian history. David says, “Standing in places mentioned in the Old Testament and having our guide bring it alive was extraordinary.” 

Reflecting on the overall quality of the trips they’ve taken, David adds, “These are not off-the-shelf trips. They’re very nicely done.” 

Adding to the appeal of these well-curated experiences, Catherine notes, “The people who sign up for these trips are so congenial, curious, smart and fun to be with. We really enjoy meeting people from all over.” 

David highlights the connections they’ve made on the trips, including bonding with fellow Tulanians on the Greece trip whom they didn’t know beforehand. “We’ve become friends and even go to football games together,” he says.

David and Catherine both commend the level of service from the company organizing each tour. Catherine appreciates the advanced planning by the tour representatives. “If anything went wrong, they took care of it. Our suitcase got locked, and the representative figured out how to open it. He was amazing.” 

Additionally, they praise Gaby Cannon, Tulane Alumni associate director for programmatic initiatives. Catherine says, “She smooths out any wrinkles or issues.” 

David adds, “If there’s any particular place in the world that you’d like to see, call Gaby and suggest it, and she’ll look into arranging a tour. I’m really interested in a circumnavigation of New Zealand on a small ship, and she’s exploring the possibilities for us.” 

For potential travelers with concerns, Catherine assures, “The activity level is always well described ahead of time, so it would be very hard to get in over your head.” 

The Edwards’ journeys underscore the exceptional quality and enriching experiences offered by the Tulane Alumni Travel program. Their adventures, featuring luxurious accommodations, knowledgeable guides and meaningful connections, showcase why these trips are so beloved by alumni. 

Looking ahead, they are eagerly planning for their fifth trip, where they will explore Apulia, the heel of Italy’s boot. Over the course of about 10 days, they will stay in one central location and take excursions to discover the surrounding areas. 

Catherine and David wholeheartedly encourage others to join the Tulane Alumni Travel program. David emphasizes, “If you haven’t, you’re really missing something.”