Julie Andrews sings in my head multiple times a day as I take in this new, beautiful city. No, it is not Salzburg where the movie The Sound of Music was set, but it?s equally beautiful and much larger sister to the east, Vienna. The home of musicians like Mozart, Beethoven and Strauss as well as painters like Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele, it is obvious why such influential artists would pick this beautiful corner of the world to serve as their muse. Vienna is an immaculate city that seems to be draped at every turn with Baroque era architecture, statues and paintings. From Saint Stephen’s Cathedral towering over the center of the city to Schonbrunn Palace resting amongst the hills and wineries on the far reaches of the region, this city is nothing short of picturesque.
After a rainy afternoon discussion with some other travelers, it became so apparent to me why Vienna is such a special location. Farther east than many other European attractions, few travelers ever make it to Vienna. They are at a loss. Those who dare to venture over here often remark that the city is reminiscent of Paris with far fewer tourists. The central location of the city makes traveling outside of its borders so easy. In under 4 hours you can make it to Prague, Bratislava, Budapest, Salzburg and so many other charming and underrated eastern European cities making it the ultimate central location for any student wishing to travel frequently.
Take note: though there are so many exciting destinations within reach of Vienna, I am convinced that you could spend a lifetime exploring the Austrian capital and never run out of things to do. With over 100 museums, 3 palaces, an amusement park, a cafe on every corner, and multiple sprawling parks and gardens you are really never at a loss for entertainment. My favorite place in the city is the Schottentor area that surrounds the University of Vienna with acres of cafe?s and parks. Founded in 1365 the university itself looks more like a castle than an institution of higher education. Just a short walk away lies the center of town which holds Stephansplatz, Museums Quarter and the immaculate Rathaus (city hall).
Though you may feel like you have taken a step back in time, the culture in Vienna is rather progressive. In recent years the city has taken steps to increase inclusivity and on a global stage is viewed as one of the most open-minded and accepting cities in Europe. One of the first things you will notice is the crosswalk symbols in the center of town show either two women or two men holding hands as they cross the street, most even have a little heart above the couple. I was very interested to discover that this was a small but visible attempt by the government to make equality and tolerance a priority not only in law but in the minds of citizens.
After my first month here, I am certain that Vienna was the best choice for me. I feel at home in the city of music, art, culture and coffee. Even as I sit here and look out at the large park that surrounds my apartment on a cold October day I can?t help but think how surreal this all seems. Though at times the experience is overwhelming and a bit scary, it has been nothing short of incredible.
Morgan Hampton
TAMU ’17