The Chamber Takes On The Danube River

​Chamber Travelers Explore Europe: A Journey Through Culture, Connection, and Reflection
For the third consecutive year, the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce has taken a group of community members abroad on an international journey—an opportunity to experience the world, deepen relationships, and return home with a broader perspective. What began in 2023 with a trip to Italy grew in 2024 into a multi-country experience through London, Ireland, and Scotland. This year, in 2025, travelers journeyed through several countries along the Danube River, with optional pre-trip stops in either Prague, Czech Republic or Munich, Germany.
Each trip has reinforced the powerful impact of shared travel. These Chamber adventures allow Wayne County residents to visit destinations they may not otherwise see—overcoming language barriers, travel anxieties, or unfamiliar logistics. They create space for cultural awareness, greater empathy, and lasting friendships among a diverse mix of travelers including business leaders, community members, Chamber partners, and retirees. Many participants return home inspired to deepen their engagement in local initiatives.

Prague: Art, Architecture, and the Power of Story
The pre-trip adventure in Prague (July 3–6) welcomed travelers to a city that felt both intimate and enchanting. From the moment we arrived—after a long 17-hour journey—we were charmed by our boutique Hyatt hotel, filled with quirky design touches like bronze curtain-holding hands and claw-footed nightstands. It set the tone for a whimsical and surprising start to our European exploration.
Prague is a city built for wandering. Cobblestone streets led us to cafés spilling out onto wide sidewalks, where locals and tourists alike sipped espresso and savored pastries. One irresistible treat—called trdelník (or more formally větrník)—is a rotisserie-baked pastry rolled in cinnamon sugar, sometimes dipped in chocolate and filled with ice cream. Naturally, we had to try it!
But what stood out most wasn't just the beauty of Prague's Gothic spires or its romantic river views—it was the people and their stories. Travel has a way of revealing how important storytelling is to a place’s soul. As Wayne County residents, becoming better at telling our own stories can help attract visitors—and maybe even new neighbors—to our community.

Munich: Surprises, Surfing, and Shrines
Contributed by Angela Locke, IU East
Those who chose the Munich pre-trip (July 4–6) were in for some unexpected delights. Tucked within the English Garden in the heart of the city, we found river surfing—yes, surfing! On the Eisbach River, surfers took turns riding a stationary wave beneath a bridge, moving with grace and camaraderie. Locals lined the banks to watch and cheer them on.
Our hotel, the historic Bayerischer Hof, held another surprise: just steps away was a statue of Renaissance composer Orlando di Lasso, now adorned with tributes to pop icon Michael Jackson. Since Jackson stayed at the hotel in 1997, fans have transformed the statue’s base into an unofficial shrine, complete with photos and candles—an odd yet touching blend of tradition and pop culture.
Munich offers a compelling mix of old and new. From ancient cathedrals to modern quirks, it's a place where every corner tells a story. And of course, no visit would be complete without a hearty German beer and pretzel.

Terezín: A Sobering Encounter with the Past
Reflections by Beth Van Der Burgt
Among the most profound experiences of the trip was a visit to the concentration camp at Terezín, just 30 miles north of Prague. Originally a resort for Czech nobility and later a fortress built by Emperor Joseph II, the site was transformed by the Nazis into a concentration camp during World War II. Unlike extermination camps, Terezín was used for transit and propaganda—but death, cruelty, and terror still permeated its walls.
Upon entering, we were greeted by the chilling phrase “Arbeit Macht Frei”—“Work sets you free.” For many Jewish prisoners, work merely postponed inevitable deportation or death. Visiting Terezín in person was far more intense than reading about it in history books. Standing in cramped cells, walking past the cemetery, and seeing the silent markers of suffering brought a new gravity to the Holocaust’s horrors.
One powerful moment came during our visit to the Benedictine Abbey in Melk, Austria. There, we saw frescos of the cardinal virtues—prudence, temperance, courage, and justice. Our young guide reminded us that justice means giving both God and man their due. That message resonated deeply after witnessing the injustice of the Holocaust. The contrast was haunting.
This visit was a reminder that history must be felt, not just read. As the world marks 80 years since the end of WWII, we are reminded never to forget the atrocities endured by millions. We must honor their memory by striving for justice and compassion in our own lives.
Read Beth's Full Reflection

Budapest: A City of Light, Legacy, and Freedom
Reflections by Beth Van Der Burgt
Nearly 20 years after first visiting Budapest in 2006, my husband Marty and I returned—and it’s safe to say, the city remains my favorite in the world. Its nighttime glow, revitalized cathedrals, and thriving streets made the magic feel even more alive than before.
Back then, we wandered freely into iconic churches like St. Stephen’s Basilica without tickets or crowds. Now, the buildings have been lovingly restored, and visitors come from all over the world to experience their beauty.
In Heroes’ Square, we came across statues of U.S. Presidents George H.W. Bush and Ronald Reagan. Though Reagan never visited Hungary, he’s remembered here for his role in helping liberate Eastern Europe from Soviet rule. His famous 1987 Berlin Wall speech echoed in my mind: “Freedom leads to prosperity… Freedom is the victor.”
Walking through today’s Budapest, that prosperity is visible everywhere—from bustling markets to joyful locals and thriving businesses. The spirit of freedom has taken root, and it’s a reminder to all of us: freedom should never be taken for granted.
Read Beth's Full Reflection

More Than a Trip: A Shared Journey
This year’s Chamber travel experience was more than a vacation. It was an opportunity to reflect on history, celebrate cultural connections, and strengthen bonds within our community. From the quiet reflection at Terezín to the vibrant streets of Budapest, each destination left its mark.
As our group returned to Wayne County, many brought home more than souvenirs—they brought stories, insights, and a renewed appreciation for the world and one another. With every trip, we see our travelers become more engaged citizens, curious learners, and passionate storytellers. And in doing so, they help shape a more vibrant and connected Wayne County.