Faculty-Led Educational Seminars and Immersion Programs
Academic Seminars and Panel Discussions on the Educational and Cultural Parallels
Between Morocco and Moorish Andalusia (Spain)
May 16 to May 26, 2026
Academic Seminars and Panel Discussions on the Educational and Cultural Parallels
Between Morocco and Moorish Andalusia (Spain)
May 16 to May 26, 2026
 Dr. Emily Sims Emily.Sims@aramfo.org Academic Associate Dean |  Dr. Brenda Mendiola Brenda.Mendiola@aramfo.org Clinical Professor, Educational Administration |
Trip# 1057-2026-Morocco-Spain
Overview
This journey bridges two worlds: Morocco and Southern Spain. Participants will experience first-hand the deep historical, cultural, and intellectual connections between North Africa and Andalusia. From academic seminars with Moroccan and Spanish scholars to guided explorations of legendary cities, the trip offers a unique blend of intellectual growth and cultural immersion.
Highlights in Morocco
Casablanca introduces travelers to Morocco’s modern pulse with a balance of rest, orientation, and academic exchange. In Fes, participants will step back into one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited medieval cities, exploring vibrant artisan quarters, historic madrasas, and the famed tanneries. Tangier, a city of legends and global crossroads, adds another dimension with visits to the Kasbah, the Caves of Hercules, and sweeping views of the Mediterranean.
Highlights in Spain
Seville serves as the central hub for the Spain portion of the program. With its Gothic cathedrals, Moorish palaces, and rich academic community, it provides an ideal backdrop for learning and reflection. Day trips to Córdoba and Granada feature the Mezquita and the Alhambra—two of the most iconic monuments of Islamic civilization in Europe—offering participants unparalleled exposure to Andalusian history and architecture.
Academic Engagement
Beyond sightseeing, this program integrates meaningful academic experiences. Students and faculty will engage with leading Moroccan and Spanish experts in seminars and panel discussions. Themes include cultural exchange, historical intersections, and the intellectual legacy of the Moors in Europe. These interactive sessions ensure participants gain both scholarly insights and cultural context.
Memorable Experiences
The itinerary balances structured programming with personal exploration. Whether wandering through the winding alleys of the Fes Medina, reflecting in the gardens of the Alhambra, or enjoying evenings in Seville’s historic quarters, participants will create memories that blend travel, learning, and cultural appreciation.
Benefits for Your University
This program is designed not only to enrich participants’ experiences but also to bring long-term value to partner institutions. By integrating authentic case studies, preservation methodologies, and architectural analysis, universities can strengthen their art history, cultural heritage, and related programs. Faculty and students alike benefit from direct engagement with experts, curators, and restoration professionals, fostering skill-building and professional development. The trip also creates opportunities for international networking by building connections with universities, museums, and cultural organizations in Morocco and Spain. Beyond the classroom, immersive field experiences offer applied learning opportunities that deepen understanding of global heritage management. Collectively, these elements contribute to enhancing the institution’s prestige and visibility in the fields of arts, humanities, and cultural preservation.
* Initial Itinerary (Subject to Change)
Day 1 – Saturday, May 16, 2026
Departure day
Depart from JFK to Casablanca, Morocco.
Day 2 – Sunday, May 17, 2026
Arrival in Casablanca
Arrival in Casablanca.
Hotel check-in and rest.
Half-day city tour.
Overnight in Casablanca.
No Meals
Day 3 – Monday, May 18, 2026
Seminar at University of Casablanca
Full-day academic program at University of Casablanca:
Seminars and panel discussions on cultural and historical parallels and differences between Morocco and Southern Spain.
Interactive sessions with Moroccan scholars.
Overnight in Casablanca.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 4 – Tuesday, May 19, 2026
Casablanca → Fes
Morning travel to Fes.
Guided walking tour of Fes Medina: Bou Inania Madrasa and Jewish Quarter.
Overnight in Fes.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 5 – Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Fes – Cultural Exploration
Full-day guided exploration of Fes:
Visit traditional artisan workshops, tanneries, and historic madrasas.
Academic discussion on Morocco’s intellectual and cultural history.
Overnight in Fes.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 6 – Thursday, May 21, 2026
Fes → Tangier
Morning departure to Tangier.
Visit the Kasbah Museum, Caves of Hercules, and Tangier Medina.
Overnight in Tangier.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 7 – Friday, May 22, 2026
Tangier → Seville (Flight)
Morning flight from Tangier to Seville.
Afternoon walking orientation of Seville’s historic quarter.
Overnight in Seville.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 8 – Saturday, May 23, 2026
Seville → Córdoba → Seville
Day trip to Córdoba:
Visit the Mezquita, Jewish Quarter, and Roman Bridge.
Return to Seville in the evening.
Overnight in Seville.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 9 – Sunday, May 24, 2026
Seville → Granada → Seville
Full-day trip to Granada.
Guided tour of the Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens.
Explore the Albaicín district before returning to Seville.
Overnight in Seville.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 10 – Monday, May 25, 2026
Seville – Academic Program
Morning academic sessions with Spanish historians and cultural experts:
Panel discussions on the Moorish influence in Andalusian culture and its lasting legacy.
Free afternoon for independent exploration.
Overnight in Seville.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 11 – Tuesday, May 26, 2026
Seville → Departure
Morning check-out from the hotel.
Transportation to the airport.
Program Cost Covers:
Cost Does Not Include
- Travel and health insurance.
(can be purchased from our partners here (International Travel Insurance) - Checked baggage fees on any flights.
- Airport transfers for arrivals or departures outside the main group schedule (available for an additional fee).
- Activities or meals that are not specifically listed in the itinerary.
- Tips and gratuities.
The Program Cost is $4,700
Single Room Policy:
Single rooms are available for an additional $600, subject to hotel availability. Payment is due 90 days before departure.
The Program Cost is $4,700
Single rooms are available for an additional $600, subject to hotel availability. Payment is due 90 days before departure.
Funding Your Participation
We encourage you to seek travel and professional development funding from your institution. Many faculty members receive support through internal programs and offices listed below.
- Offices of international programs or global engagement
- Academic affairs or faculty development
- Teaching and learning centers
- Research and travel grants
- Official invitation letter and program details
- Confirmation of invited role such as presenter, panelist, session participant, or workshop contributor
- Itemized cost overview to support internal funding requests
This educational trip may be funded out of pocket or through institutional support. Schools and universities may cover the full cost or offer partial sponsorship for faculty participation.
ARAMFO Payment Plan Options
We believe every participant should be able to travel without financial stress. The plans below provide flexible options to fit different budgets.
Option 1: Pay in Full at Enrollment (No Fee)
- Pay the entire program balance at the time of enrollment.
- Accepted methods: credit card, debit card, ACH, personal checks, and bank transfers.
Option 2: Automatic Payment Plan (No Fee)
Set up automatic monthly or bi-weekly payments with no additional fees. Payments are scheduled until 30 days before departure.
How it works
- No enrollment or plan fees.
- First payment of $300 due within 30 days of registration; credited toward your total balance.
- Choose monthly or bi-weekly automatic payments.
- At least $1,500 paid no later than 90 days before departure.
- Final balance paid no later than 55 days before departure.
- You may pay off your balance early at any time without fees.
- Accepted methods: credit card, debit card, ACH, personal checks, and bank transfers.
Cancellation Policy
- 50% of the paid amount refunded between 100 and 91 days prior to departure.
- 40% of the paid amount refunded between 90 and 61 days prior to departure.
- 30% of the paid amount refunded between 60 and 51 days prior to departure.
- No refund within 50 days of departure.
| Dr. Emily Sims Emily.Sims@aramfo.org Academic Associate Dean | Dr. Brenda Mendiola Brenda.Mendiola@aramfo.org Clinical Professor, Educational Administration |
Trip# 1057-2026-Morocco-Spain
