The first stop on the 2019 AAA Western and Central New York Member Appreciation Trip took travelers to Colmar in the Alsace region of France. Envision a picturesque village with cobblestone streets and buildings that look more like a quaint German town. That’s because this area of France borders Germany and both cultures are apparent.

With this type of all-inclusive river cruise, excursions are included and many times there are choices so travelers can pick what suits them best – plus some are divided by activity level ranging from slow or moderate walking tours to hikes or cycling.

Colmar is a great place to stroll the streets and admire delicacies like cheeses and wines, but this type of window shopping doesn’t seem to last long – I saw many travelers taking a break to sit at a bistro and enjoy a glass of wine or a cup of fine French pressed coffee. The area also claims to be the true birthplace of the pretzel (not Bavaria) and you’ll see many shops selling them out windows, which makes it even easier and more tempting to enjoy a taste!

There is an American connection Colmar as well. The sculptor who designed the Statue of Liberty, Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, was from the area and you can go see his home. What a great selfie spot!

One of the most unique aspects of the annual AAA Member Appreciation Trip is that AAA WCNY chartered the entire ship, the S.S. Antoinette, on Uniworld, an upscale river cruise company. All of the travelers on board are from Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse so as you visit various villages in Europe, you run into many familiar smiling faces with many travelers wearing their AAA nametags that are handed out with their cruise documents. It’s a wonderful taste of home even though we are on the other side of the globe!

After a fun-filled day exploring Colmar, travelers boarded the ship and had time to relax before the Welcome Gala Dinner. Following dinner, guests enjoyed another treat from home. Teagan Ward, a popular Rochester musician performed live music in the lounge. Many Western and Central New Yorkers know her band, Teagan and the Tweeds, but did you know she also works for AAA WCNY by day? Travelers are simply thrilled to have her on board as a tour director and also as a performer. This trip is truly music to the ears of all on board!

Next year’s 2020 Member Appreciation trip, which will also be a river cruise with a special focus on history as it explores Paris and Normandy following the 75th anniversary of D-Day. 

Read Day 3