Explore the Eifel: A traveler's opportunity Published June 22, 2009 By Senior Airman Kali L. Gradishar 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Approximately 30 to 40 exhibitors will flock to the base fitness center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 26 to present Eifel-region events and information to Saber Airmen and their families. Explore the Eifel, an annual event organized by Bernie Schaefer and Connie Pitsch, both from the 52nd Fighter Wing Community Relations Office, and Iris Reiff, 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office, provides an opportunity for Airmen to get out of their shop and see what the region has to offer. The ability for Airmen to attend, however, depends on mission requirements within their duty section. "The exhibitors and vendors will come from all over the region such as the Eifel, the Mosel, Luxembourg and Belgium," Mr. Schaefer said. Among the exhibitors attending are tourist agencies and local Eifel mayors to share information about Explore the Eifel travel packages and basic information about the areas they represent. "Many of the vendors will offer special deals for that day. Some may include tours with explanations in English - something they may not always do," Mrs. Pitsch said. "They are presenting deals specially cut for American guests. There will be some deals specifically for the Explore the Eifel travel days, but they also provide good ideas for things to do other days." "This is information that you can keep around for your entire tour. Many people tell me, 'Whenever we have company, we get out the information from Explore the Eifel to see what we can do,'" she said. Sabers who are able to participate in Explore the Eifel may attend the fair to sign up for one or more trips held July 2-5, designated as the Explore the Eifel travel days this year. "When people visit here, they look at going to Paris or other popular places. This shows what can be done and what is worth seeing in the local area," Mr. Schaefer said. "You can get on a Mosel (River) cruise, walk the mountain area or go wine (tasting)." Both the fair and travel days provide servicemembers and their families the option to experience the local region's culture, scenery and events. Additional information for Explore the Eifel and travel days are as follows: Fair Date: June 26 Time: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Place: Base fitness center At the fair: Pick up information about the Eifel area from tourist agencies and local Eifel mayors offering special Explore the Eifel excursion packages and general travel information. Policy: The fair is an alternate duty location and military members are allowed to attend during the following times: Medical Group and Fighter Wing Staff: 9-11 a.m. Mission Support Group: 11 a.m. - 1p.m. Maintenance Group: 1-3 p.m. Operations Group: 3-5 p.m. Family members: 9 a.m. - 5p.m. Travel Days Dates: July 2-5 About the travel days: Sabers explore the Eifel area to learn about the local culture and spend time with their German neighbors. Policy: Travel days are not days off. Servicemembers must either be participating in an Explore the Eifel event, on leave or at work. Note: Various agencies are encouraged to venture off-site together for team building and visit one or more of the many Eifel locations. Host Nation Courtesy: Servicemembers may sign up for events at the fair. Once commited, either attend the event or cancel ahead of time. No-shows are impolite and may harm relations with German neighbors.