So, it’s been a month. A month of exploring a new country, attempting to understand a new language and learning to love fried foods.
While this hasn’t been the easiest thing I have ever done, it also hasn’t been the hardest.
Here are a few things I have learnt along the way…
There is a drink for all occasions
Yes, living in wine country does make it easier to come by a drink. But it’s not just wine. For starters, schnapps goes with everything. No matter the situation, there is a schnapps that matches it. And, you can buy it in the supermarket.
What about a Radler, a beer and lemonade mix that comes in it’s own bottle. Or an Aperol, a mixer that goes into your white wine or champagne. Something lighter? Just have a spritzer – wine and soda water.
And of course there is no shortage of fabulous wine.
(Yes, all the green parts of this photo are vineyards)
The food
If you like bread, then this is the country for you. There is literally bread with EVERY meal. Or potatoes. Bread and potatoes goes with schnitzel. And so does schnapps.
Goulash is also quite common. Basically anything with meat.
(Goulash, bread and beer)
Punctuality is key
Everyone here is on time. All the time. Even the trains run perfectly on time. It is quite hilarious to watch the train commuters stare at their watches if a train is a mere 1 minute late.
Hosting visitors is a whole new experience. You can guarantee that at exactly the appointed time the doorbell will ring. I am usually still running around just out of the shower and deciding what to wear.
Hosting visitors is a whole new experience. You can guarantee that at exactly the appointed time the doorbell will ring. I am usually still running around just out of the shower and deciding what to wear.
History and culture are cool
Things here are old. I mean really old. Just the other day I went to a castle (a REAL LIFE castle!) and saw a book that was almost 1,000 years old.
And here’s the castle…
.
(Every castle needs a cafe)
Inside Melk church
People here play the piano, go to operas and they can DANCE – and I don’t mean move drunkenly on the dance floor, I mean waltz.
Steinway House (for the music lovers)
This country is FULL of beautiful historical buildings that people are proud of.
There is a national dress that people actual wear – lederhosen. Real LEDERHOSEN. It’s an actual thing!
Summer is coming
I have learnt to always bring an umbrella, jumper and wear sensible shoes. This last requirement does cause me some concern as I have so many pretty shoes that have yet to see the light of day in Austria. I have been promised sun! Everyone keeps telling me that summer is coming…soon, soon…..
(Summer is finally here!)
It really is beautiful
You hear the stories and see photos online, but the countryside really is stunning. Incredible mountains, lakes and countryside. When the sun is out there is colour everywhere and it is even prettier. Austria, you are stunning.
I'm so excited!
Me too Biz! Not long to go now 🙂