AWAY TRIP REVIEW: VIENNA, AUSTRIA, NOVEMBER 2017
THE CITY
Vienna is of course one of the great tourist destinations of Europe. Freezing cold in November, but very elegant and clean. With a mega efficient public transport system, including a metro that runs all night on weekends.
THE SIGHTS
St. Stephen’s Cathedral is a must, tour groups notwithstanding. Also took in Mozart’s House nearby, exhaustive on the life of Wolfgang Amadeus. Went up the 252m-high Danube Tower, panoramic views of Vienna but for the poor weather. Didn’t have time for Belvedere, sadly.
THE FOOD
Brilliant Wiener Schnitzel to be found all over Vienna. Also tried the Kalbsbutterschnitzerl (minced veal patties with fried onion mashed potatoes) and Geröstete Knödel (dumplings pan-fried with egg) both excellent. Had Sacher Torte, the Viennese chocolate cake at Café Sacher, where it originates. Schnitzel Kebabs for a post-pub bite was great too.
THE STADIUM
Considering that it is a UEFA Grade A ground that has hosted European Championship and Champions League finals, the Ernst Happel Stadium was a distinctly unlovely looking ground. The exterior design resembles stacked porta cabins, and inside there is a running track separating the stands from the action. At least the match programme were free. And the Austrian fans put on something of a pre-match show of support to the tune of some Strauss waltzes.
MISCELLANEOUS
Somewhere between the Ernst Happel Stadium and Mozart’s All Night Diner, I unknowingly dropped my wallet, but I when I got back to my hotel at 2am, it was there waiting for me at reception. Lesson; always carry a card from your hotel in your wallet. Not only can you show it to a taxi driver to get you back. But also if you lose your wallet, there is a possibility that it may be returned to you.
Cathal Chu