In this course, we’ll explore a variety of approaches to writing about travel and place (e.g., destination articles, journey pieces, travel narratives, outdoor recreation, historical pieces, etc.). Through in-class and out-of-class writing assignments, travel journals, and assigned readings about destinations around the world, you'll learn about contemporary travel writing and explore its many forms, techniques and styles. You’ll get hands-on practice in journalistic writing skills, learning how to incorporate observation, in-depth research, and informal interviews into your writing. Plus, you'll practice the fine art of “being there”!

You’ll learn about Iceland prior to the travel component of the course through readings, discussions, presentations, and visits from class guests. We’ll explore Iceland’s culture, history, natural wonders, folklore, language, politics and people as we prepare for our end-of-semester trip. Finally, you'll have an opportunity to research a particular aspect of Icelandic culture that deeply interests you, and share what you’ve learned. 

Students who are selected and then commit to enrolling in the class will have a program fee placed on their fall 2026 tuition bill that will cover the group costs of the study tour. All students selected for this study tour will receive a grant from the University Honors Program and a grant from UC International. Once you subtract these grant amounts from the program fee, you will be responsible for the remaining out-of-pocket costs. In the previous offering of this course, the combined grants covered $800–$1200 of the $4900 sticker price; this year's initial cost and grant availability are still being determined at this time.

Traveling with a group through a university is the most affordable way to go abroad! The program fee covers all flights and on-ground transportation, as well as all lodging and some group meals. Students are responsible for individual meals and any souvenirs they may wish to bring home. You may discuss an ideal budget with the instructor, as they will have information specific to your travel locations and activities.

Please note that this itinerary is still tentative, and may change prior to the start of the semester!

Day 1 – Friday, December 11: Travel

Day 2 – Saturday, December 12: Arrive in Iceland; Blue Lagoon, Reykjanes Peninsula

Day 3 – Sunday, December 13: Explore Reykjavik; northern lights tour

Day 4 – Monday, December 14: Golden Circle tour

Day 5 – Tuesday, December 15: South coast waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers

Day 6 - Wednesday, December 16: Ice cave tour; Lava Center

Day 7 - Thursday, December 17: Horseback riding / horse farm tour

Day 8 - Friday, December 18: Free day in Reykjavik!

Day 9 - Saturday, December 19: Travel

Be prepared for plenty of walking! All activities are optional, but highly encouraged. Iceland sees about 4 hours of daylight in the winter, with long sunrises and sunsets. Temperatures on the 2024 trip were between 15-40º F.

This course was offered in Fall 2022 under the same name. Read about previous student experiences in this UC news article!