Commencement Information

Find out more about Commencement 2025: https://cottey.edu/cottey-commencement/

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Big Ben clock in London, UK.

2027 Destination: London

Experience the best of London on a thoughtfully paced journey that blends iconic landmarks, cultural treasures, and time to explore at your own rhythm. From guided sightseeing past royal palaces, historic squares, and soaring cathedrals to moments of discovery in world-class museums, bustling neighborhoods, and charming markets, this trip captures both London’s storied past and vibrant present. Enjoy a show in the celebrated West End, stand face-to-face with the Crown Jewels, and venture beyond the city to witness the timeless mystery of Stonehenge alongside the elegance of Bath. This trip is a blend of engaging experiences and meaningful time with fellow travelers, offering the perfect balance of enrichment, ease, and unforgettable memories.

Register Here

Itinerary

Day 1, Saturday June 19: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2, Sunday June 20: London

Arrive in the bustling city of London. Meet your ACIS Tour Manager, relax, unpack and begin to become acquainted with your surroundings. Tonight enjoy a traditional fish and chips dinner. (D)

Day 3, Monday June 21: London

This morning, learn about London’s majestic past and fast-paced present on your guided sightseeing tour. See Trafalgar Square, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. Along the way, our guide will point out more landmark sites like the Gherkin, the Shard, and the Cheese Grater—all new buildings changing the London skyline. Another highlight of the day is a tour inside St. Paul’s Cathedral. Sir Christopher Wren’s architectural masterpiece is an enduring symbol of London, the seat of the Church of England and famed for its dome and Whispering Gallery. Your ticket includes access to climb to the top of the dome. (B)

Day 4, Tuesday June 22: London

The morning and afternoon are open to allow you to explore the city at your own pace. Cottey will provide a curated list of optional activities provided if you prefer not to plan ahead. This evening, experience a world-class theater performance in London’s famous West End. (B)

Day 5, Wednesday June 23: London

Enjoy a visit to the Tower of London this morning. Since its construction the castle has been used as a treasury, palace and prison. Today it houses the Crown Jewels. Marvel at the extraordinary array of diamonds, rubies, sapphires and other precious stones that adorn the crown. Enjoy a free afternoon. (B)

Day 6, Thursday June 24: London

Travel back in time on a full-day excursion to Bath, Stonehenge and Salisbury. See the Roman Baths and pump rooms, the mysterious stone circle of Stonehenge and enjoy free time in Salisbury before returning to London (B)

Day 7, Friday June 25: London

Today is a free day. Tonight, join our group for a special farewell dinner. (B,D)

Day 8, Saturday June 26: Departure

Transfer to the airport for return flight to the United States. (B)

(Included meals are indicated in parentheses: B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner)

The streets of London, including traffic and stately buildings.

Pricing and Additional Information

Pricing:

$6,700 including flights (must depart from Kansas City)

$5,100 book flights on your own and meet the group in London

Payment:

$1,000 refundable deposit is required to hold your spot. Refunds must be requested by September 1, 2026.

All final payments are due by December 1, 2026.

Pricing Includes:

  • Double/twin room accommodations in centrally located luxurious 3-star hotels
    • Single rooms are available for a $450 additional fee.
  • All activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • Full-time bilingual Tour Manager to manage travel logistics and provide educational commentary
  • Breakfast included daily
  • Farewell Dinner
  • Ultimate Protection Plan for each passenger (Plan Information)
  • 24/7 emergency support with ACIS’ worldwide network
  • Tipping
  • Public Transportation

Register Here

Frequently Asked Questions

You can book your flight to arrive in London on Sunday, June 20. Typically we won’t know the exact flight our tour company is booking until a few months before departure. We will then let you know the hotel we are staying at and you will plan to meet us there. You will be responsible for the transfer from the airport to the hotel. For departure you will plan your flight to leave from London on Saturday, June 26 unless you are staying for the cruise.

Seats are booked in Economy. Passengers can request upgrades. In order to request an upgrade, the passenger will email: accounts@acis.com with their name, trip id, and will need to be very specific if they want first class, business, premium, or just main cabin extra.

It is not a guarantee that it will be available on the flight, and won’t be confirmed until flights are all locked in and confirmed, but usually they able to be accommodated. The additional charge will be billed to the passenger.

Registration will close on December 1, 2026 or when the trip is full.

Yes, all participants must be at least 21 years old before the date of departure.

This trip is for everyone! Friends and spouses of alumnae, P.E.O. members, and supporters of Cottey are welcome to come with us!

A moderate amount of walking will occur on a few of the days. Some of the experience will be walking through the streets of London or using the metro system. Some portions of the tour will be enjoyed from a bus.

If you have additional questions please email: marketing@cottey.edu.