A Memorable Trip to Germany

I recently had the privilege of attending the Round Table Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Germany. It was an exhilarating journey filled with new experiences, cultural exploration, and meaningful connections. In this article, I will share the highlights of each day, from the moment I arrived in Frankfurt to the grand finale at the AGM in Dortmund.

Day 1: Frankfurt - A Warm Welcome and First German Beer: Upon landing in Frankfurt, I was warmly greeted by Asad Mirza from Round Table 40. He not only ensured my smooth arrival but also introduced me to the rich German beer culture, as we shared our first beer together. It set the tone for an exciting adventure ahead.

Day 2: Bad Homberg - Exploring Castles and Parks: The second day took us to Bad Homberg, where I marvelled at the beauty of a castle and its picturesque surroundings. Exploring the castle's history and wandering through the charming parks provided a delightful break from the bustling city life.

Day 3: Idstein - Unspoiled Beauty and a Table Meeting: Idstein welcomed me with its untouched beauty, preserved despite the ravages of war. Christoph Richter from Round Table 274 graciously hosted me in this charming town. Joining their table for a meeting allowed me to experience the camaraderie and shared goals that Round Table fosters.

Day 4: Cologne - Rich History and Vibrant Company: Cologne, a city steeped in history, embraced us with open arms. Martin Springfield from Round Table 11 guided us through the city, and as we indulged in more beer, we met some fascinating individuals, including South Africans who added a unique cultural dimension to the experience.

Day 5: Dusseldorf - Beer Contest and River Cruise: In Dusseldorf, the quest for the best beer took centre stage. We engaged in a friendly competition to determine whose beer reigned supreme. Later, we enjoyed a relaxing boat ride on the iconic Rhine River, immersing ourselves in the breath-taking scenery.

Day 6: Essen - A Glimpse into Mining History: Essen, a prominent mining town, allowed us to delve into its rich industrial heritage. We ventured into a coal mine, gaining a deeper appreciation for the region's history and its impact on the community. The day ended on a high note with a visit to a bar atop the shaft tower, offering panoramic views.

Day 7: Dortmund - The Real Work Begins: Dortmund marked the first day of significant Round Table work. Introduced by Moriya Philips, a past Indian President, I had the honour of meeting our International President and the dedicated team. The evening unfolded with a lively welcoming party, starting on the floor and culminating on the top floor of a 10-story building, where I reunited with the President of RT Southern Africa.

Day 8: Dortmund - AGM and Gala Dinner Back to the Future Style: The AGM took place in the morning, providing a platform for crucial discussions. Though conducted primarily in German, the atmosphere was electric, and the dedication of the attendees was palpable. In the evening, we exchanged banners and celebrated with a gala dinner, highlighted by the presence of a real DeLorean car, reminiscent of the beloved movie "Back to the Future."

My trip to Germany for the Round Table AGM was an incredible journey that combined business, pleasure, and cultural immersion. From forging new friendships to exploring historic sites and participating in Round Table activities, the experience left an indelible mark. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Matthias from RT Dortmund, all the hospitable hosts, and the friends I had the pleasure of meeting along the way