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Rochester’s Federation of German American Societies

members and friends cruise the Danube River

Written by Heidi Kozireski, hon- Evangelischer St. Lukas Kreis, and during the nightly entertainment.
orary president, Federation of Ger- friends. We really enjoyed it and hope that
man American Societies of The cruise fare included three the other guests did, too. We really
Rochester, NY, who takes great meals per day, at least one land do.
pleasure in eating her way through excursion each day, and evening Each shore excursion is led by a
Europe. entertainment. This ship also has a local, English-speaking, guide who
ineteen Rochesterians boarded small workout center, spa, gift shop, provides detailed information and
NAMA Waterways’ AMA Mora and outdoor swimming pool. Cab- history about the current location.
for an eight-day cruise on the Dan- ins are smaller than those on large For example, there are walking
ube River from Budapest, Hungary cruise ships, but are comfortable tours, wine and beer tastings, musi-
to Vilshofen, Germany on March and have plenty of storage, seating, cal events such as a classical music
28. The other ports/stops included and a small refrigerator. While on
Bratislava (Slovakia), Salzburg board guests spend most of their Continued on page 7
(Austria), Czesky Krumlov (Cze- time in the spacious, window-filled
chia). Vienna (Austria), Weissen- lounges or in one of the dining
kirchen (Austria), Grein (Austria), rooms. These spaces encourage in-
Linz (Austria), and Passau (Germa- teraction between and amongst the
ny). guests. We met people from all over
The idea for a group cruise was the US (including Hawaii!), Cana-
conceived by Heidi Kozireski, long da, and Brazil.
term president (2008-2024) of the To a person, the on-board staff
Federation, and planning began in were pleasant, accommodating, and
early 2025. Working with AAA hard working. Our cruise director,
Travel Agent Linda Alexander, they Juraj, is an absolute delight. The
decided on an itinerary and cruise food and service are outstanding.
line that would be enjoyable for During happy hour before dinner, a
first-time and seasoned cruisers. daily cocktail and mocktail are free
The group included members of of charge from the full bar. The
Rochester’s Germania Singers, Sch- happy hours allow guests to decom-
uplattler Verein Heidengold, Tour- press and socialize. As quite a few
isten Verein, Rochester Schwaben in our group belong to the Germania
Verein, Catholic Kolping Society, Singers, we eagerly sang along with
the pianist during happy hour and

Cesky Krumlov/

July - August 2026 • THE GERMAN CITIZEN • 5