Wiener schnitzel in Wien

A common theme on this trip, the arrival in Vienna was very late. The people at the hostel thought we were crazy for showing up at 2:30 in the morning. That place was really nice, it had a bar, a cafeteria type place, and TV in the room. It was also a few blocks from an U-Bahn, very convenient. I watched a bit of CNN international before falling asleep, it was nice as I hadn't watched TV since the plane to Belgium.

The next day we spent sleeping in, which was much needed, and casually exploring Vienna. The city center is really cool, with historic buildings intermingled with newer architecture. The history in that city is pretty incredible, it was the capital of empires ruled by the Hapsburg Dynasty for many centuries. Today, a laid back atmosphere is the most notable thing about Vienna. Small bars and cafes are to be found all over the city, with staff that are more than happy to have you hang out there all day long. Austrians have the shortest work week in Europe and the longest lifespan, not a coincidence I'd say. The coolest thing I saw that day was the Mozart Wohnung(Mozart's apartment). I stood in the room where "The Marriage of Figaro" was written. For dinner I had an expensive Wiener Schnitzel, almost everything in Vienna is expensive though. I couldn't pass up having Wiener Schnitzel in Wien(the German name for Vienna), the dish is named after the city!

Yesterday was spent mostly in the Hapsburg Palace. The luxury and wealth the people had that lived there is mind blowing. The palace is huge, there was a concert in the "backyard" that night. It also has large garden, massive sculptures, and a labyrinth. The history in the building was impressive to me, one of the most powerful empires in Europe was governed from inside its walls.

I liked Vienna quite a bit. The relaxed pace of the city is very nice, and a change of pace from Prague and Berlin. The food is great, especially if you love meat like me. Cultural and history make up a big part of the city's character too. Oh, and they speak German so I could communicate a bit. That said, I don't think I could ever live there.