I am so grateful that the Club offers travel opportunities as part of its mission to educate and inform!
Nanette Stringer, Commonwealth Club Traveler

Past Trips

Ancient Sites, Cultural Wonders, and a Modern Democracy Movement

This unique tour of Tunisia provides an opportunity to learn of the country's vast historical sites and Mediterranean culture, and also provides an insider’s look at what has transpired since the Arab Spring. We meet with political activists representing a variety of the parties, and leaders from an NGO (non-governmental organization) and attend a briefing from the U.S. Embassy staff. Speak with one of Tunisia’s media personalities and learn about the changes resulting in a free and burgeoning media.

Havana and the Vinales Valley

Through a series of meetings and guest speakers we learn about art, dance, medicine, history, education, religion and the economy. This is an extensive and intense learning experience built on the foundation of meeting Cubans and creating a meaningful exchange of ideas and information. Explore the old city as we learn about Havana's history and architecture. Meet with farmers and visit an artist community project in the Vinales Valley. See how small private enterprises are growing throughout the island. Converse with students during a visit to the premier art school in the country.

Wildlife and Culture Safari

Commonwealth Club is excited to offer an exclusive safari to northern Tanzania. During this 10-day adventure, you will be immersed in the unspoiled landscapes of East Africa and meet some of these areas’ most celebrated residents, including lion, elephant, cheetah, giraffe, rhino, and more. Our Study Leader for the trip is Dr. Landry Signé. (Bio below) In addition, meetings have been specially arranged to talk with community members to gain a better understanding about challenges facing the people today.

Optional Excursion to Cambodia

Discover Vietnam’s captivating beauty, enduring traditions, and profound hospitality on this comprehensive 16-day journey.  Tour the highlights of the French-accented capital Hanoi and take a full-day excursion to scenic Ha Long Bay.  See Da Nang’s acclaimed Cham Museum, explore the nearby colorful village of Hoi An, where many traditions hold sway, and relax at a lovely resort on China Beach. Visit the imperial capital Hue, once home to emperors and mandarins.

Havana, Vinales, Trinidad, Cienfuegos

Journey to Cuba and discover this fascinating island nation in Commonwealth Club fashion. Through a series of meetings, discussions, and guest speakers we learn about art, dance, history, education, religion and the economy. This is an extensive and intense learning experience built on the foundation of meeting Cubans and creating a meaningful exchange of ideas and information. 

Argentina and Chile by Land & Sea

Discover the majestic fjords and glaciers of Southern Patagonia and the dramatic scenery of Torres del Paine. After three nights in Buenos Aires, set sail on a three-night cruise aboard a 64-cabin expedition ship built specifically for sailing the Patagonian Channels. Cruise through the Strait of Magellan and the Beagle and Murray channels to Cape Horn, followed by a call at Magdalena Island, home to more than 120,000 Magellanic penguins.

A People-to-People Exchange

Through a series of meetings and guest speakers we learn about art, dance, medicine, history, education, religion and the economy. This is an extensive and intense learning experience built on the foundation of meeting Cubans and creating a meaningful exchange of ideas and information. Explore the old city as we learn about Havana's history and architecture. Meet with farmers and visit an artist community project in the Vinales Valley. See how small private enterprises are growing throughout the island. Converse with students during a visit to the premier art school in the country.

Santiago, Baracoa & Havana

This trip to the island is perfect for those that want to experience a longer more comprehensive trip, and who like to go a bit off the beaten path.

Experience Santiago, Cuba's second largest city, with its revolutionary history and Carribean influences in music, art and food. Meet artists and musicians, and speak with members of a children's choir. Experience the Moncada Barracks, where the first armed assault of the Revolution took place, and visit the residence of Diego Velazquez. In seaside Baracoa learn about small towns in Cuba.

Exploring Landmark Cities, Stately Homes & Civil War Sites

In 2011 the United States began a four-year commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. Sail from Alexandria, down the Potomac River for an excursion to historic Fredericksburg, site of the infamous Battle of Fredericksburg, one of the largest of the Civil War. Explore Petersburg National Battlefield, and Richmond, the capital of the Confederacy, renowned today for its monuments to Confederate heroes. Along the North Carolina coast, discover the historic towns of New Bern, Morehead City, and Wilmington, each of which played crucial roles in Union battle victories.

Diwali and the Festival of Lights

India exists at a remarkable crossroads of the modern world intersecting with life as it has been lived for millennia. It is a place like none other, and one that travelers never forget.

From the capital city of New Delhi to the breathtaking vistas of Rajasthan, take in this colorful and mind-boggling country. Admire the magnificent work of Mughal architecture at the Taj Mahal; take an elephant ride at Amber Fort; discover the opulent forts and palaces of Jaipur; and visit the "Blue City" of Jodhpur on the edge of the Thar Desert.