It’s only day one and the 2019 Member Appreciation Trip is already shaping up to be a trip of a lifetime. This year’s trip is a river cruise aboard Uniworld’s S.S. Antoinette along the Rhine River in Europe. Getting to Europe always takes time and even with smooth flights many travelers arrived at the cruise terminal looking a little weary, but Uniworld’s crew was ready and waiting to pamper them!

As guests boarded the beautiful ship, they were encouraged to relax in the lounge with a refreshing beverage before enjoying lunch in the dining room as the housekeeping staff put final touches on their staterooms.

When checking into their rooms, guests found special AAA gift bags with a letter from AAA Western and Central New York President and CEO Tony Spada. “I’m excited to experience this luxurious cruise with each of you as we journey along the scenic Rhine River taking in history, charm and beauty of some of Europe’s most picturesque cities and villages,” said Spada. “We have lots of unique and exciting surprises in store this week so sit back, relax and enjoy this incredible cruise adventure throughout Switzerland, Germany, France and the Netherlands.”

Along with a handy travel bag, travelers received a Rhine River travel journal to document their entire cruise vacation. What a wonderful memento that will be.

After settling in, guests attended a safety briefing and captain’s welcome where Spada also addressed the group, which consists of 150 travelers from Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse. That’s one of the many features that make the Member Appreciation Trip so unique – AAA WCNY chartered the entire Uniworld ship allowing local travelers to enjoy this unique experience together. After being on the ship only a few hours you could easily see new friendships and bonds being formed.

The entire group enjoyed a wonderful dinner with delicious cuisine and world class wines before resting their heads. The ship set sail overnight and it’s certain the travelers will wake up in awe surrounded by beautiful scenery along the Rhine River between France and Germany. As Uniworld puts it, the ship will travel right along the border of the two countries so travelers on one side of the ship will be in France, while the other side is in Germany – so one side can toast a cold German beer while the others can sip refreshing French wine! Everyone got a chuckle when that was announced and it’s simply marvelous to hear laughter along the Rhine.

Writer’s note: I’m Elizabeth Carey, the Public Relations Director for AAA WCNY, and I hope you’ll follow along on our journey and consider 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. You can find more information at: https://westerncentralny.aaa.com/travel/trips/paris-normandy.

Read Day 2