Published on 2nd March 2015

Gottingen market place

Local residents are invited to an organised ‘Big Party’ visit to our German twin town of Göttingen.

- 24 July to 31 July 2015

The trip follows a successful visit in 2013 of over 120 Göttingen citizens to Cheltenham.

The visit, from 24 July to 31 July 2015, will be fully organised to ensure a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Visitors will be welcomed with a reception from the Mayor of Göttingen, Rolf-Georg Köhler. A full programme of events will include a guided tour through the historical old town of Göttingen, as well as day trips to Berlin, Hanover and Einbeck and a twinning party. As an added bonus Cheltenham’s Symphony Orchestra will be in Göttingen at the same time and will be doing two concerts during the duration of the stay, which visitors can attend if they wish.

Annette Wight, the council’s twinning officer, said: “The Big Party visit is open to all Cheltenham residents plus anyone interested in making contacts in Göttingen. The trip may be of particular interest to those who have been involved in twinning over the years. Göttingen is well known for its hospitality and I have no doubt that people of all ages will find this trip worthwhile and enjoyable.’’

Councillor Garth Barnes, chairman of the twinning association, added: ‘’Large scale trips such as these only happen every four years and they provide the perfect opportunity to get to know Cheltenham’s German twin town.

“Göttingen is a very pretty German town, full of character, charm and friendly people. Visitors will be able to learn about the German way of life, make new friends and develop cultural links between clubs, societies and various interest groups. The trip is also a great opportunity to develop business links and professional contacts.’’

The cost of the trip is £195 per person which includes: use of Marchants executive coach for the duration of the eight day visit; ferry/shuttle crossings; and one night’s accommodation in a four star hotel in Belgium on the outward journey. The council will make accommodation arrangements on behalf of those visiting. Guests are able to stay with host families in Göttingen free of charge, or if they’d rather stay in a hotel this can be arranged although costs will need to be settled by the guest.

For further details about the visit, please contact Annette Wight, 01242 264311, [email protected]
 


For press enquiries, contact: Kelly Carter, communications officer, telephone 01242 775050 or email: [email protected]

 

Notes: Cheltenham has been twinned with the town of Göttingen since 1951.