A trip of a life time full of memories
Written: Jul 26 '06
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Product Rating:
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Pros: You learn so much more history that the textbooks teach you
Cons: with a weaker U.S. dollar it will cost you a bit more.
The Bottom Line: Go! you won't be sorry. It is a beautiful place.
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| ovni68's Full Review: Vienna |
We recently visited Vienna in June of 2006 and I found this city to be as magical as the Johan Strauss waltzes describe it. It is full of culture and it is a “must” destination for art and opera lovers. It is very cosmopolitan as many nationalities make Vienna home.
Where to stay:
We rented an apartment instead of choosing the pricy hotel options. We have a small child and I recommend you rent an apartment if you have small children. This will allow you to do emergency laundry as many apartments offer washers and some dryers. If you kid is as picky as mine about food… then the kitchen in the apartment will be very helpful as you can cook a quick easy meal. All the markets are within walking distance of many apartment complexes. If you choose to eat out then you will find that in some instances the food is cheaper than in some of the U.S. restaurants (at least compared to the Los Angeles area where we live).
If you prefer a hotel then Vienna offers you everything from mom and pa’s bed and breakfast to the big chain hotels.
You can see some of our pictures and experience some of the beautiful sites we visited.
http://mamuco.com/gallery/Europe2006Vienna
Culture/Transportation:
Most people in Vienna speak English but I recommend you at least try to learn some German words before you head out there. This will show that you are at least trying and the Viennese will appreciate your effort. They have a very inexpensive and punctual public transportation system. Take advantage of it and don’t rent a car. It can run you about 30 Euros a day to park your car! Traffic is very heavy and the street signs are not very clear or visible.
What to see
I definitely recommend you see the Schönbrunn Palace. The palace has beautiful gardens which are said to rival Versailles in Paris. This was the summer residence of the Hapsburgs (the longest reigning Austrian royal family).
City Park – located in downtown – you will experience the local culture and it is a great place for people watching.
Naschmarkt – Vienna’s produce market where you will also find an array of international cuisine restaurants that were very good.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral – Located in the middle of the “old city” is surrounded by one of the biggest pedestrian shopping areas in Vienna. The cathedral has an impressive multicolored roof that can’t be missed.
The Hofburg and the Treasury. You will see the most exquisite jewelry once owned by royalty and you can aw at their extravagant tastes.
I recommend you spend at least 4 days in Vienna as there are many things and places to see. We bought Rick Steve’s Germany and Austria 2006 book before we went and it was very helpful. We read it beforehand and we had an idea of the things that were worth seeing in our 4 day stay.
Recommended:
Yes
Best Suited For: Families
Best Time to Travel Here: Jun - Aug
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Epinions.com ID:
ovni68
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Reviews written: 7
Trusted by: 0 members
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