Round Table clubs, take part each year in what is termed a Euromeeting. Same districts, located in a range of countries take turns to host the event, this year, for our club, this was Round Table 16, Solothurn. Round Table Euromeetings are all about meeting like minded Round Table club members in different European clubs, and extending our friendship overseas. Since different countries host the event each year, it is a wonderful experience to also meet those new friends at the next year’s events. Because a Euromeeting for any one club is limited to international clubs of the same district number, the amount of attendees are small enough to keep things small and friendly.
This year, we were treated to a wonderful weekend, hosted in Switzerland, in the charming old town of Solothurn. A series of events were laid on for us over three three days, with the added good fortune of fantastic weather.
Five representatives from Ryde Round Table attended Solothurn, flying out on Friday morning and arriving in Solothurn from Zurich by train (having flown from Gatwick that morning.) A choice of accommodation was offered, ranging from Hotel, to home hosting (ideal for married couples attending) but we opted for hostel accommodation, which happened to be a great choice. Located alongside the river Aar. With beautiful views of the river from the room (seen in our gallery) the modern hostel, was perfectly situated a mere stroll from bars and restaurants.
From the point of arrival, we were greeted with beer (much welcomed after our long journey) and warm hospitality. An evening of music, food and drink was arranged, followed by a choice of activities the following day (shopping, a river trip or Swiss sports) and a Gala black tie dinner on the Saturday evening, with live music (again plenty of beer) and dinner. Each member of the various Round Table clubs were as welcoming as any UK member, and the chance to make new friends overseas, shows what Round Table is all about. Members of Solothurn round table, who hosted this year’s Euromeeting put in a phenomenal amount of time to organise the event, and their members looked after visiting clubs, (our own guide Chris, was on hand to answer any questions and show us around – even managing to find us somewhere to eat at 3.30am on the Saturday morning, following our night out.
We are already very much looking forward to next year’s Euromeeting hosted by our friends in Holland, Round Table 16, Den Helder.