Apulia 2560x1493

Apulia – Undiscovered Italy

Enjoy ancient seaside villages, soul-stirring landmarks, and rustic traditional cuisine of Apulia.

Highlights

  • Stay in charming Polignano a Mare, exploring Apulia’s rolling plains, fishing villages, and medieval towns steeped in Roman history and heritage.
  • Discover Alberobello’s iconic trulli, Matera’s ancient stone Sassi, and Locorotondo’s breathtaking hilltop views of gleaming whitewashed buildings.
  • Wander through Ostuni’s Old Town, Lecce’s baroque wonders like the Basilica of Santa Croce, and the historic waterfronts of Trani and Bari.
  • Savor Apulia’s simple, flavorful cuisine, enjoy wine at a family-owned vineyard, and tour an olive oil mill to learn about heirloom recipes from land and sea.
This is an exclusive U-M departure operated by AHI.

Itinerary

Day 1: Depart U.S. for Bari, Italy
Day 2: Bari | Polignano e Mare
Day 3: Bari | Polignano e Mare
Day 4: Locorotondo | Alberobello
Day 5: Leccu | Ostuni
Day 6: Trani | Biscegli
Day 7: Matera
Day 8: Polignano e Mare
Day 9: Depart for U.S.

Host

Volk Ruti

Ruti Volk

Patient Education and Health Literacy Program Lead

Fun fact

Being a librarian is my second career. I was a radio reporter before I became a librarian.

U-M Role

I’m a proud U-M alum and retiree with an MSI degree from the School of Information. I spent most of my career at Michigan Medicine, where I held a variety of roles focused on consumer health, patient education, and health literacy. In my last role there, I led the Patient Education and Health Literacy Program. Before that, I managed two patient education resource centers — one at the U-M Cancer Center and another at the Cardiovascular Center. After retiring, I decided to take on a new challenge and switch careers. These days, I enjoy working as a substitute reference librarian at a public library. It’s been a fun and rewarding way to stay connected to the community and keep learning.

What Excites You About the Trip?

I’m excited about the Apulia – Undiscovered Italy trip because it’s a chance to explore a part of Italy that’s more authentic and under the radar compared to the usual tourist spots. As an art history major, I’m especially drawn to the unique architecture — those whimsical trulli houses are unlike anything else in the world, and I can’t wait to see them up close. I’m also looking forward to experiencing the stunning coastal landscapes, with their beautiful beaches and the turquoise sea that Apulia is known for. My interest in the region was sparked by a couple of segments on “CBS News Sunday Morning,” which highlighted the beauty and charm of Apulia. Watching them a few years ago piqued my curiosity and inspired me to want to experience it for myself. This trip feels like a perfect mix of history, art, nature, and genuine Italian culture.

Available to Book
Oct. 7-15, 2026

Starting price

$4,295
*No single supplement

Deposit per person

$750

Countries Visited

Italy

Activity Level

Low
Oct. 7-15, 2026

Starting price

$4,295

Deposit per person

$750

Countries Visited

Italy

Activity Level

Low

Michigan Alumni Travel is an exclusive member benefit. All travelers, regardless of alumni status, must be members to attend our trips. See our full membership options.

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