This year, the 16 Federal States group traveled to Bavaria visiting the beautiful city of Regensburg on the Danube. Thanks to the excellent cooperation with Bayern Tourist and an almost trouble-free train journey, the 21 group members departed right on schedule and in high spirits. The first item on the tour program was a delightful lunch at “Salzstadl,” the historic tavern located beside Germany’s oldest stone bridge. The next activity on the itinerary was a visit to the Old Town Hall, where the Mayor welcomed the members warmly and H.E. Alice Maishingaidze was invited to sign the city’s Golden Book. This was followed by a guided tour of the medieval building, which was greatly enjoyed.

The fun continued in the evening with a lively beer seminar, where the members learned interesting facts about the art of brewing beer, including the famous German Purity Law. The festive Bavarian spirit came to life through traditional drinking toasts and a cheerful sing-along together.

The next morning, the members boarded a rented bus with an experienced guide and headed to the Walhalla, an impressive memorial dedicated to German-speaking artists, politicians, and researchers. A scenic boat trip through the so-called Danube Gorge ended at Weltenburg Abbey, where a hearty lunch was served in the courtyard of the abbey tavern. This was followed by a visit to the church of the Benedictine Abbey, one of the most important baroque religious buildings in Europe. The excursion continued to the impressive Liberation Hall, majestically situated on a hill above the Danube to commemorate the victorious battles against Napoleon.

On the last day of the trip, the members rounded off the program with a city tour and a visit to the castle of the House of Thurn and Taxis (pioneers of the postal service in Europe). They set off for home in the afternoon, carrying many wonderful impressions after truly special days in Bavaria.